01/06/2026
Wow - what a fantastic first DEMG Camp! The weekend was a great success with over 40 riders benefitting from our wonderful local coaches. We were lucky with the weather until Sunday lunchtime, and the overnight rain didn't seem to dampen spirits!
It was fantastic to see such a variety of lessons, from Angilley Equine's groundwork / green horse, through to & Co Equestrian, Emily Pagan and Johnson's leadline / first ridden and adult riders / polework / jumping. We are so lucky to have these coaches on our doorstep. Thank you all for sharing your time and knowledge with us.
This fundraiser couldn't have happened without the powerhouse that is Meranda Toner. From the very start, Meranda kept up the momentum, and turned what started as an idea into a reality. From advertising, to collecting forms, organising coaches, working with the Shire and trying to meet everyone's requests, Meranda managed it all, (as well as facilitating all 3 of her children riding, and riding herself! With a little help from Jeff!). Thank you so much Meranda. We really appreciate the time you spent working on this.
There are many other people to thank - Karen for supporting Meranda and keeping us stocked up with cleaning supplies (and loo rolls!) and making sure the coaches were looked after; Suzanne and Alex for the morning / afternoon teas for the coaches, and Holly for the delicious lunches. Thank you to our First Aid volunteers Shannon Hawks and E Dusenberg for giving us your time (luckily we didn't need your skills!). Thanks to those that were able to come and help with Friday afternoon set-up, Elise, Frida, Erika, Emily, Devin and Chloe (and anyone else I missed) and those that packed down on Sunday. And thank you to all of those that helped out each day.
Most of all thank you and congratulations to all of the riders and their families. I heard many stories of success and achievements throughout the whole weekend. There was so much support and encouragement from fellow riders and spectators. The atmosphere was phenomenal!
After the success of this first camp, we are looking towards organising the next! We have a few improvements to make (i.e. number of campers allowed, timing for best weather) but it's already on the agenda for the next DEMG committee meeting!
The money raised will go towards the development of the Denmark Equestrian Grounds in line with the Concept Plan (on display in the club rooms).