The Challenge has caught the attention of horsewomen across the country, with entrants travelling from as far as the Channel Country in western Queensland to compete in the girls-only event.

The two-day competition is organised by the Goondiwindi Working Horse Club and will take place alongside a packed schedule of clinics in Horsemanship, Cutting and Roping during the club’s inaugural ‘Working Horse Weekend’.

Vice-President of the GWHC Damien Scanlan said the competition has brought in entrants from all walks of life. The competitor line-up includes women working as station hands and farriers as well as those working in the racing industry and equine nursing students.

‘The Challenge is for girls that have experience in starting young horses but who have not competed in colt-starting before,’ Mr Scanlan said.

‘I think so many girls in our rural community often have all this horse experience and ability that often goes unacknowledged, so this competition is an opportunity to showcase their skills and individual philosophies on starting young horses,’ he said.

‘It’s a great opportunity for entrants to get more experience under their belt and to get a taste of the competitive world.’

Slots for the challenge filled up quickly, but there will be plenty of opportunities for others to gain some knowledge and new skills throughout the weekend and spectators are encouraged. The girls will be fielding questions while they work and explaining their diverse range of techniques and horsemanship skills.

There will also be the opportunity to learn from some of the best clinicians in the region and surrounds during the two days of clinics that will run alongside the competition. Clinicians working at the weekend include Sean O’Hanlon, Tony Lillyman (Australasian Team Roping Association president) and Bobby Fairbanks.

‘We have some amazing local talent and untapped resources in our community,’ Mr Scanlan said. ‘This weekend will be a great chance for people to put some polish on a green horse or to learn some new skills themselves.’

The clinics are open to anyone and limited spots are still available. Beginners and fence-sitters welcome.

The event takes place at the Goondiwindi Showgrounds from November 17-18. Limited clinic spots are still available. Participation is at $150 per person plus insurance. Call 0427 063 780 for more information. 

More info on the Working Horse Weekend page on Facebook.