This is the September issue of the newsletter from the Ranch Horse Association of Australia (RHAA). It is written for members and anyone interested in ranch horse competitions in Australia. The issue opens with the president's report and a calendar of upcoming ranch shows across the country.
This is the September newsletter of the Ranch Horse Association of Australia, a membership organisation for riders and breeders. It is written for RHAA members and anyone interested in ranch horse competitions, judging, and the community around them. The issue opens with a report from new president Scott Dunbier, who thanks the outgoing committee and looks ahead to the 2026/2027 show season.
The newsletter includes a calendar of upcoming ranch shows for September and October, listing events in New South Wales, Western Australia, and Queensland. A judges profile introduces Susan Laws, an RHAA-accredited judge who shares what she looks for in the arena, common rider mistakes, and advice on how to improve a run. She emphasises knowing the pattern, riding with confidence, and keeping a good connection with the horse.
A members profile features Samara Belz, a Bendigo tattoo artist who returned to horses with her Drum gelding Tyko. The story covers how she found her way back to riding through a local club, her first competition in 2025, and her progress to Reserve Champion and High Point finishes in Victoria. It also describes Tyko's background and temperament.
The issue reports on recent state shows, including the Queensland versatility ranch show, the Victorian state show at Tatura, and the New South Wales state show at Tamworth. It also includes a section on ranch horse conformation, a guide to ranch dressing, the 2026 high point awards, and a divisional gear guide.
Around the arenas, there is club news from RHAA affiliates, and a profile of Jody Wellington, the 2026 High Point Amateur Owner. The newsletter also welcomes new affiliates SCWHA and BRHA to the RHAA family and includes a report from the RHAA affiliate committee.