A BALDIVIS institution celebrated its 40th anniversary on Saturday.
Opening in April 1977, Baldivis Equestrian & Pony Club was founded by hardworking and dedicated people bound by a love of ponies and horses.
Led by Ron Thomas (deceased) the club still presides at its original premises on Lugg Road in Baldivis.
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READ NOWThose early riders worked hard to clear areas for riding arenas, clubhouse, fencing, bore and utilities.
Fundraising by members over the years was the main source of finance for the club for many years and without them the club would not be the success it is today.
Times have changed from the days of riding your bush horse or pony to the club with everyone now arriving in horse floats, but the ethos of the club has remained with the spirit of friendship alive and well, albeit amid a little friendly competitiveness.
One of the club’s highlights has been its musical ride where in 2000 a Phantom of the Opera-theme featured 12 riders aged eight to 19 years on ponies and horses.
After placing second, the club was invited to ride its musical number at the State Equestrian Centre the same year.
Today the club has many of its riders competing in outside events but still dedicated to the club.
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