Pony club course upgraded

By Helen Tatchell

Earthworks and a redevelopment of the grounds at the BMRRR has seen some big changes, but for the better.
The local pony club has virtually had their whole operation moved and upgraded. The cross-country course now takes in more land at the southern end of the reserve, and the show-jumping and dressage arenas will be transformed at a new part of the development, they will also be granted new clubrooms.
General Manager Infrastructure Phil Jeffrey said Council has so far spent $180,000 on the cross-country course and earthworks, this includes new jumps for all levels of the discipline.
“The Pony Club has committed a $20,000 contribution to the overall development, that also includes the sand arenas and pavilion which are yet to be constructed,” he said.
“The next stages haven’t gone to tender yet.”
President BMPC Simon Karp said the new course has 120 new jumps.
“We had a slight setback a month ago, where upon arrival of our new jumps, unidentified persons have stolen a park bench jump and the transport contractor’s trailer to cart it away. To date this very large jump has not been recovered,” he said.
“With that aside, the Pony Club is extremely excited they now have one of the best equestrian facilities in the state, that will be able to be utilised by all of the community,” he said.
There is no State Government funding to date for the equestrian facilities.
The BMPC will hold a PCAV and Open Horse Trials event this Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March at the BMRRR, showcasing their newly constructed cross-country course.