Riders across the state are getting ready to pull out their best boots and prettiest saddle pads and saddle up for a week of “dancing in the sand” during Western Dressage week at the Maryborough Showgrounds this October.
The Fraser Coast is lucky to be one of the major hubs in Australia of the rapidly growing sport of Western Dressage, where horse and rider come together to display their connection and showmanship. Western Dressage takes the foundations of classical dressage and uses them to highlight the willingness, grace and versatility of the western horse and rider.
Though a young sport when compared to some more established equestrian events, Western Dressage has already proven itself to be a popular option for riders of all ages and skill levels. Catering to both youth and adult riders, and horses of all breeds, it is a sport where community and connection are just as important as skill and athleticism. The bond between horse and rider is the heart of the sport; every movement in every test is designed to highlight a horse’s willingness and a rider’s effectiveness. This focus on connection and versatility means the sport appeals to a diverse range of riders, bringing both competition and community for those involved.
The Fraser Coast Western Dressage association runs a variety of shows and clinics throughout the year, culminating in their Championship Show at the Maryborough Showgrounds & Equestrian Park. This year’s event will be held from Tuesday, 14th through Thursday, 16th October, followed by the Western Dressage Association of Qld’s State Show from Friday, 17th through Sunday, 19th October. The event is free for spectators, and the days normally run from approximately 8am to 4pm, depending on the number of entries.
Last year’s event saw horses and riders from all around Queensland, and even interstate, come together to showcase their skills. The week was filled with a sense of community and camaraderie, of shared learning and growth, with riders supporting each other through the whole event, the arena filling with cheers and congratulations after every single test. The 2025 event promises to be more of the same – a chance for those who love the sport to not just perform at their best but also share the joy of Western Dressage with each other and welcome new faces to the community.
For those wanting to learn more about the sport, Western Dressage Week provides a wonderful opportunity to see horse and rider pairs compete in a variety of levels, with around 200 tests to be ridden over the course of the week.
To learn more about the Fraser Coast Western Dressage Association and Western Dressage Week, visit our Facebook page. To find out more about the sport of Western Dressage in Australia, see the WDA-AUS website: www.westerndressage.com.au.
Cover image: Photo credit – Van Der Stoep Photography
