Local innovative business up for two awards

THE Australian Baroque Riding Academy has advanced to Stage 3 of the 2025 Telstra Best of Business Awards – the Limestone Coast based business vying for glory in two categories – Championing Health and Building Communities.

The milestone highlights the academy’s innovative approach to promoting mental health, emotional regulation and personal development through the unique combination of classical horsemanship, neuroscience and equine-assisted learning.

Australian Baroque Riding Academy founder Marie Matter said they were honoured to be recognised by Telstra for the life changing work they do.

“After my husband sustained a brain injury, I left the corporate world and built ABRA from the ground up,” Marie said. “It’s now a sanctuary for healing, learning and connection. To be acknowledged for both our health impact and our community contribution is deeply meaningful.”

The academy was selected for the Championing Health category for its groundbreaking integration of classical equestrian training with neuroscience and mental wellbeing practices.

Through its specialised program, the academy supports neurodivergent riders, trauma survivors and clients using neuro feedback and mindfulness techniques.

The Building Communities category nomination arose out of the academy’s stand out efforts as a cornerstone of regional connection and inclusion-hosting inclusive lessons, birthday events, workshops and supporting families, schools and NDIS clients.

Advancing to Stage 3 in both categories now means the academy needs to put together a Pitch Pack – producing a compelling case to the judges through a tailored presentation showcasing their story, outcomes and future vision.

State-based interviews will follow in August before the September announcement of finalists ahead of the national gala event in October.