1974

The first rally was held in the paddock at the back of our home in Capel situated on the Western Titanium mine site. Mary Wilson was the instigator and those of us with children and horses hoped we could start a Pony Club. On that day Jenny Daley who later achieved her "A" certificate in Pony Club, rode her little round grey pony “Clydie" with dad local veterinarian Dr Peter Daley, an accomplished rider and breeder of stock horses, assisting her.

1975

A considerable area of land on the Goodwood Rd, which had been a racecourse in 1878, was made available for lease by the Capel Shire for equestrian use. Polocrosse established itself at the grounds. Yards, an enclosed arena, fencing and gates were built and a very substantial club house and toilet and shower block were erected.

1977

The Capel Horse and Pony Club was formed and registered with the Pony Club Association of W.A. We made our home the equestrian area on the Goodwood Rd. Rallies commenced with input from people who had some knowledge of Pony Club. Pat Sharp came to help and Ruth McPherson became the Chief instructor. Some of us went to York for our first instructor‘s school, one of several, under the watchful eye of Miss K lrving. At Capel we were able to present lots of activities because of the safe enclosed area, tent pegging, camp drafting, training for cross—country speeds and galloping are some lr recall. A cross country course now enhances the area. As part of the South West Zone we travelled many kilometres attending meetings, training schools and competitions. Zone Assistant and K " Co-ordinator were roles l undertook at Zone.

1981

The State Championship was held in Capel and presented by the South West Zone and Pony Club Horse Trials Sub-Committee. The course was built on Mr John Tucker’s property, just a short distance from the Equestrian grounds. Being involved resulted in a lasting connection which gave me immense pleasure. lt enabled me to see the young riders achieve the considerable skills required for eventing. I became a member of the Pony Club Horse Trials Sub-Committee and remained a member for many years, extending my knowledge to become a Horse/T rials Steward. I travelled the State meeting Pony Club Members and evaluating X country courses. During this time l joined the EFA Horse Trials Committee, later taking on the position of the horse Trials Stewards co-ordinator, now Technical Delegates. At this time we rewrote the Pony Club Horse Trials Rule Book to make it easier for young riders to understand. Also we submitted to a PCAWA meeting the possibility of making the pony club event courses the same heights and spreads as EFA up to RN level. This was accepted.

1993

It was then felt to encourage our more mature riders we should introduce courses at novice level, this was to be called A Plus. l had great pleasure in providing the trophy for this competition. Joining the Coaching Panel and spending time at clubs as a Visiting Commissioner to assess Coaches and he helped present coaching schools was a tremendous learning curve. Domini Morgan, international dressage rider and coach, visited W.A. between 1982 and 1999 as part of the Alcoa Coaches in Residence scheme. She was an inspiration for many coaches and young riders.

1997

I was elected as State President of the PCAWA, a role which l considered an honour and gave me great pleasure. Support was given by many people especially the Executive Officer Heather Appleby.

Receiving life membership of the Capel Horse and Pony Club at this time was a further honour.

Always mindful of The Aims and Objectives of Pony Club and The Code of Conduct for everyone, I enjoyed the wonderful years spent with young riders, horses and other people who made up the PCAWA movement.