Orana Equestrian Club Dubbo was the scene of much precise and exacting dressage competition on Sunday, November 2.

Riders and supporters from as far as Mudgee and Parkes, gathered for this highly-anticipated Club Championships Dressage event hosted at Dubbo Showground.

Competitors ranging from junior enthusiasts to seasoned campaigners were all on hand keen to showcase their skills, temperament, and horsemanship in this most refined of equine events.

The championship featured a full day of dressage tests, with competitors tackling everything from Preparatory through to FEI classes.

The arena had been immaculately-prepared beforehand to ensure the perfect setting for riders and their mounts partners to demonstrate the precision, poise, and partnership that embodies dressage.

Spectators enjoyed the display of elegant movements, accurate transitions, and the clear bond between horse and rider that is the hallmark of success in this sport.

Several members also participated in “HC” (hors concours), enjoying the event and feedback from judge Ross Green, who travelled from Gloucester.

In the junior division, local favourite Sophie Lew and her pony, “Bamborough Kodak” took-out the Junior Champion with a fine score of 62.321.

Preparatory Champion, Debbie Blaxland from Parkes, riding “Kildari Champagne” and “Ice” (Monte) was also thrilled with her win against a very strong field.

Preliminary Champion, Jac Benn riding “Maxwell Smart”, beat a strong field of contenders for her win, impressing the judges with her horse’s consistent rhythm and calm, focused test. Her well-earned victory, highlighted the depth of talent present in the division and set a high-standard for future competitions.

Novice Champion, club regular Natasha Larsen riding “Stockleigh Dark Angel”, claimed the rug, with a score of 68.286.

Petrina Cox and “Wundebar Rosarina” also continued to impress, claiming the rug for the Medium class, combining expressive paces with accurate figures to earn a well-deserved victory.

Club regular, Diana Tremain, put on an impressive display with her two horses, “Bridgford Smokey” in the Medium Tour section and “Bridgford Oopsie” in the Small Tour, both of which trained by Diana to FEI level, to claim the FEI-level rug.

In addition, the Sharon Kirby Memorial Encouragement Award was presented to Jacqueline Benn and her horse, “Maxwell Smart”, recognising Jacqueline’s remarkable improvement and unwavering dedication to the club throughout the season.

“I am honoured to have received such an award, and a huge ‘thank-you’ to the whole of OEC; such a warm and friendly club!” Jacqueline said.

Orana Equestrian Club President, Nadine Russell, also praised the dedication of competitors and volunteers alike.

“It’s fantastic to see so many riders out here giving it their all,” Ms Russell said.

“The standard of riding improves every year, and we’re proud to be fostering such a supportive and enthusiastic equestrian community in Dubbo,” she added.

This year’s event was particularly special, with the club providing a complimentary lunch for members as part of an end-of-year celebration.

Members enjoyed a delicious spread, sharing laughs and stories in the festive atmosphere, which added a warm and communal touch to the day’s proceedings.

With temperatures forecast to rise, the event was thoughtfully scheduled to finish by early afternoon, allowing riders, horses, and supporters to beat the heat and enjoy the rest of their Sunday in comfort.

The event also attracted a healthy crowd of supporters, with friends and family watching from the side of the arena to cheer on the riders.

With the club championships dressage event now wrapped-up, attention turns to the upcoming calendar of training days and regional competitions for 2026. Many of Sunday’s riders are already looking ahead to the next challenge, buoyed by their performances and the camaraderie of the Orana Equestrian Club community.

For more information on joining the club or upcoming events, visit the Orana Equestrian Club Dubbo’s social media page.