"Khonke's Own" VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR NOMINEES 

*Last Years Winner not Eligible*

2025 Elizabeth Duncan

Each club and sub committee has had the opportunity to nominate a volunteer for this award.

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AND the nominees are.....

DI PRITCHARD

Di has given countless hours both for our club and DSA over the past two years, quite apart from supporting the championships with free embroidery worth many hundreds of dollars as a major sponsor. Di manages in house scoring for both our shows and the State Champs, and despite an incredibly busy work life travels to the shows reliably, never wanting to be reimbursed in any way. We are so very grateful and tell her so, but to be formally recognised within the sport would be very special to her.

JENISHA CARTER

Jenisha has made an exceptional contribution to SADA through her ongoing dedication, hard work, and willingness to step into increasingly demanding volunteer roles. Much of her effort takes place behind the scenes, where she consistently gives her time and energy to help ensure SADA events and activities run smoothly and successfully. Her reliability, commitment, and readiness to support wherever needed have become an invaluable asset to the association.

Jenisha is also deeply passionate about encouraging participation within the dressage community, supporting and motivating riders of all levels to feel welcomed, included, and confident. Her positive attitude and genuine encouragement help foster a supportive environment that reflects the values of SADA and strengthens the wider dressage community.

JENNY BROOKS

Jenny is SVDC Computing co-ordinator for the last 20 years. 

Dedicated horsewoman to the sport of dressage and has always helped with the running of events. A front of knowledge and extremely capable lady who keeps the score board running.

JULIE KERSHAW

Julie is the Penciller extrodinare who is always supportive of club's needs. Always available and a true volunteer of her energy and time to promote the sport.

JUDITH SONNEFELD

Judith has continuously supported Para Equestrian events in SA. In her role as Para Steward regularly attending SA based events, treasurer for DSA and Steward Coordinator she brings knowledge, support and passion to our sport.Judith brings with her a kind and inclusive approach when working with riders, and para and virtus athletes.Jude is an exceptional volunteer whose dedicastion, professionalism, and passion for dressage make an enormous contribution to the sport in South Australia. She consistently goes above and beyond in every role she undertakes, often working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure competitions and events run smoothly.

As a valued member of Dressage SA Committee, Jude manages the Treasurer portfolilio with reliability and care, while also coordinating and supporting stewards across numerous events. Most weekends, she can be found at competitions assisting wherever needed - stewarding, managing arenas, mentoring others, and ensuring riders, officials, and organisers are supported throughour the day.Jude holds an impressive range of officiating accreditations, including EA Dressage Steward Level 2, EA Eventing Steward Level 2, EA Para Dressage Steward Level 2, EA Medcaation Control Swabbing Steward, and FEI Eventing Steward Level 1. Her commitment to continual involvement across mutiple disciplines demonstrates her unwavering support for equestrian sport at every level. In addition to volunteering her time, Jude is also an active rider and a generous sponsor of the sport through her busisness, regularly supporting events and classes with sponsorship and vouchers. Her willingness to give back to the equestrian community in so many ways makes her a truly deserving recipient of Volunteer of the Year.

LORRAINE WOHLING

Lorraine has tirelessly performed an enormous amount of work over many months and has secured a generous grant application from the Office of Sport and Recreation. The power of Her grant has given AHDC a total of $83,100, which is now being used to construct three sand arenas at our Strathalbyn home.

AHDC couldn't have done it without her!

MARGARET SEXTON

Margaret has worked tirelesly and given her time freely for Mount Crawford Dressage Club despite her health not always being 100%, at times using her own equipment for grounds maintenance before a groundsman was engaged. Margaret was instrumental in improving the WIFI at the grounds.

REBECCA COX  is an exceptionally dedicated, enthusiastic, and passionate President who has become the backbone of the Clare Valley Dressage Club. Over the past four years, Rebecca has provided outstanding leadership, ensuring the smooth running and continued success of our club and its events.

Rebecca contributes countless hours behind the scenes, organising judges and pencillers, setting up competitions on Nominate, preparing draws, and overseeing competition days from start to finish. Her willingness to step in wherever needed, troubleshoot issues calmly, and ensure everything runs smoothly is invaluable to our club.

Rebecca is always welcoming, encouraging, and friendly to all competitiors. She is approachable and generous with her tie, continually supporting members and happily answering questions to help riders feel confident and included within our dressage community. 

In addition to her role as President, Rebecca is always the first to volunteer for subcommittees, assist wirh sourcing sponsors, work in the canteen, and help with both setup and pack-up on competition days. Her tireless work ethic and commitment to the success of the club are truly inspiring.

Rebecca's passion for dressage, outstanding leadership, and unwavering dedication have had an enormous impact on our club. She is a highly deserving reciepient of the Volunteer of the Year Award.

TRUDI LUTT

Trudi has been the secretary of MSEDC for a number of years. She returned to the position again last year when the current secretary resigned and no one else would take the role on.

Trudi keeps the coommiitt on track, records all  the minutes, sets agendas and generally looks after all questions raised by members.

Trudi always helps with set up even though it is a 3 hour trip for her to do so. Trudi organises catering for competitions and also helps to run clinics. Trudi puts her own riding on hold at times to enable her to help at competitions.

"Lumiere" DRESSAGE SA SERVICE TO THE SPORT AWARD

*Last Years Winner not Eligible*

2025 Sue Brown

The purpose of this award is to provide a platform for us to acknowledge a person that has contributed selflessly to the sport of dressage, those people behind the scenes that put in a whole lot of work that we might not recognise as riders!

Club & Committee (JSC & PESC) have been invited to nominate 1 candidate each.

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....... AND the nominees are.....

Cheryl Hatswell

Cheryl is a truly deserving recipient of the Service to the Sport Award in recognition of her many years of experience, outstanding leadership, and unwavering commitment to dressage across the state. Over a long period of time, she has consistently contributed her knowledge, guidance, and hands-on support to help clubs operate effectively and to ensure the continued growth and strength of the sport.

Like a true leader, Cheryl regularly steps in to assit wherever needed, supporting mutiple clubs and events with reliability and professionalism. Her depth of experience has made her a trusted and respected figure within the community, and her contribution has had a lasting impact on the development of the sport at grassroots and competitive levels alike.

Remarkable, she achieves all of this while still actively competing as a rider, demonstrating an exceptional balance of dedication both in and out of the arena. Cheryl's long-standing service, commitment to helping others, and contiinued involvement as a competitor make her an outstanding and highly fitting recipient of this award.

Helen Whittle

Helen gives her time freely to mentor judge candidates, to encourage those who are considering becoming judges and always encouraging those who have commenced their judging journey. This is in addition to her judging commitments where she is much in demand. Helen is always ready to share her knowledge.

Rai Walla

Rai has been a judge and mentor for nearly 20 years.

His calm, kind considerate way of dealing with all situation and his professionalism, integrity and knowledge has defined his career. He has helped Mentor many candidate judges, trained Pencillers and supported all aspects of the Sport.

A Life Member of SVDC he has worked tirelessly to support the club over the years working with EA SA the clubs and even Council to keep providing opportunities for riders to compete. Behind the scenes he kept SVDC grounds well maintained and the arenas groomed before every competition.

Often while juggling competitng or judging whenever he could. He has a genuine commitment to the sport and to keeping it alive in this ever-changing environment. He has bounced back and is still out there Judging and helping the Sport.

Ryan Fletcher

Ryan has been a sponsor of the MSEDC Classic for a number of years. As a rider he is always happy to help in anyway he can at competitions. Ryan has previously been a member of the EASA Dressage Committee where he helped to introduce initiatives to promote Dressage and recognise the people and clubs that make the sport happen. While on the Committee Ryan would always respond to any questions the committee had in relation to running competitions in a promtp and thoughtful way.

The dressage scene in South Australia has undergone some transformational and game changing improvements over the past few years, and a common denominator stands out as one Ryan FLetcher. His dedication to supporting and motivating riders, particularly his fellow AOR riders, is phenomenal and along the way he inspires a group of like-minded people to help bring events to life. He spends countless hours planning and executing shows that the riders and supporters love. Events sucha s the Celebration of Dressage, the SA Dressage Spectacular and the influx of new and enthusiastic squad riders, are all part of Ryan's vision for the sport. Definately an entrepreneur, Ryan pushed the boundaries of ideas for these events, aided by a small team of like-minded people, and along with a very refreshed look for the SA State Dressage Championships, things look exciting for the future. His genuine passion for supposting and motivating riders shines through in everything he does, and his encouragement makes a real difference in our dressage community. The care, energy and commitment he brings to rider development and to the sport as a whole is something very special.

Stuart Platt

Stuart is an FEI Dressage Steward and a FEI Para Dressage Steward. Stuart brings professionalism to the sport as well as a supportive and approachable demeanor at events.

Stuart has made a significant and sustained contribution to dressage and the wider equestrian community in South Australia through his leadership, expertise, and unwavering willingness to help wherever needed. Over many years, Stuart has dedicated countless hours to a wid range of official and volunteer roles, including service on the ESA Board, involvement with the FARM committee, and training. His commitment to the sport was formally recognised when he was awarded Life Membership of ESA, acknowledging his outstanding contribution to equestrian sport in South Australia. Stuart holds an extensive range of qualifications across multiple disciplines, including EA Dressage Steward Level 2, EA Dressage Technical Delegate National, EA Eventing Steward Level 2, EA Nedication Control Swabbing Steward, FEI Jumping Steward Level 2, and FEI Testing Technician.

What truly sets Stuart apart is his visibility, accessibility, and genuine support of the dressage community. He is highly approachable and always willing to make time for members, particularly when concerns or issues are raised. Regularly seen at events across the state, Stuart willingly steps into any role required - from stewarding and officiating to even scribing for judges when needed. His dedication, reliability, and ongoing service continue to strengthen and support dressage in South Australia, making him an extremely deserving recipient of this award.

Wendy Brown

Wendy has been AHDC President for many years and wears numerous hats behind the scenes. 

Wendy puts in an enomous amount of work in so many varied roles to ensure the Club runs as smoothly as possible, from arena setting up to ensuring that we never run out of ribbons.

"Shield Insurance" SPONSOR OF THE YEAR

*Last years Winner not Eligible*

2025 Mighty Farm Equine

The purpose of this award is to provide a platform our clubs/events to acknowledge their sponsors.

This is not necessarily a sponsor who has supported one event largely but may be a sponsor that has supported multiple events throughout the year.

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....... AND the nominees are.....

APK Helmets Judith Sonnefeld and Judy Clutterbuck have been outstanding supporters of our sport, demonstrating unwavering commitment to both competitors and events throughout the year. Their generous sponsorship of DSA events and South Australian club activities through the donation of quality helmets and vouchers has provided valuable support and encouragement to riders across all levels of competition.

In addition to their ongoing sponsorship, Judith and Judy have continued to invest in the sport by expanding their product range.

Arena Pro Service Shane is unstoppable - he volunteers his time and equipment and Sponsors events wherever he can. His eternal cheerfulness and optimism to get a job done is refreshing.

Bounce Arena Surface Alyssa works tirelessly to support Horse activities and is very generous with her sponsorship and her time to share her product and knowledge. Bounce gave us a substantial discount by way of sponsorship enabling us to resurface all arenas and warm up areas benefitting not only the club but the wider dressage community. 

Cool and Complete 30kg Horse Pellets I know Cheryl will pull this again, but her tireless dedication to the sport and her endless behind the scenes support of all clubs whether sponsorship or volunteering should be acknowledged.

Elite Equine Bedding company is seen at so many events here in SA, with very generous sponsorship packages awarded to clubs. The SA EEB Manager Sue Brown delivers products to shows and winners alike and is always available to support equestrians in the care of their horses. Sponsors like EEB are incredibly valuable to the sport and we acknowledge the wonderful contribution to the equestrian scene.

Eldredge Wines The Clare Valley Dressage Club has greatly benefited from the unwavering support and generosity of Eldredge Wines since 2017. As our principal sponsor, Eldridge Wines has become an integral part of our club community, supporting competitions, clinics, fundraising events, and rider celebrations throughout the year. THeir contributions extend beyond financial assistance, with generous donations of  wine for judges, championship prizes, raffles, and social events, including our annual awards night. Eldredge Wines' ongoing involvement, enthusiasm, and commitment have played a significant role in the growth and success of our club, making them truly deserving of the Sponsor of the Year Award.

Equitread @ The Patch has donated vouchers to the DSA State Championships silent auction in addition to the Para State Festival. THeir contribution enables riders to improve their horse's general health and fitness providing a unique therapeutic experience.

Holden Hill Veterinary Clinic has sponsored the PEDC Committee for the current financial year. A total of $2400 has been invested into our sport as well as contribution towards the Para Equestrian Festival. This vital grassroots funding has enabled the PEDC Committee to implement performance medals including Para & VIrtus Club & Official of the Year Awards.

Ibn-Ky Dressage ponies was naming rights sponsor for the club championships by way of a generous cassh donation.

International Horse Breeders Pty Ltd, through the generous support of Glynis Dyson, has made a significant contribution to the development of young dressage horses through sponsorship of the State Young Dressage Horse Championships. This prestigious event plays an important role in identifying, encouraging, and showcasing the future talent of our sport, and Glynis’ sponsorship has helped ensure its continued success and profile. As a respected breeder and long-standing supporter of the equestrian community, Glynis understands the importance of investing in the next generation of dressage horses and riders.

Johnsons Natural Formula Feed has been a valued and generous sponsor of the Clare Valley Dressage CLub, consistently supporting our riders and events with enthusiasm and dedication. They regularly provide prizes for our Club Championships and Horse of the Year competition, along with sample packs for rider bags appreciated by competitors. In addition, Johnson's Natural Formulae Feed shares valuable educational information and feeding programs to support the health and performance of our dressage horses. Their reliable service, ongoing encouragment and commitment to our club and the wider equestrian community make them highly deserving of the Sponsor of the Year Award.

Kentucky Equine Research KER Ashley Copping. In recognition of their ongoing generosity and valued support of the dressage community. KER generously provides rider gift bags for participants at Judges Seminars, recognising and thanking riders for donating their time and horses to assist with judge education and accreditation. Ashley is always generous with KER products and merchandise, helping create a welcoming professional experience at these events. KER also sponsors dressage competitions, classes, while supporting many other equestrian disciplines across the wider horse community. Their continued commitment and investment in equestrian plays an important role in the successful growth of dressage in SA.

Leader Equine has been a highly valued and generous supporter of Dressage South Australia, providing prestigious trophy rugs for major events, including the State Dressage Championships. Their contribution is greatly appreciated by competitors, officials, and event organisers alike.

Lyrical Acres In a critical time of need for the club, Lyrical Acres stepped up with incredible generosity and support, offering the use of their beautiful grounds to help ensure the ongoing future of the club. Their willingness to open their facility and support the continuation of club activities demaonstrated not only thier commitment to the sport, but also their dedication to the wider dressage community. Lyrical Acres has consistently providing outstanding facitlities that allow events and training opportunities to thrive. Lyrical Acres also generously donates prizes for club events, further supporting and encouraging participation across all levels of the community.

MC Equine were the naming right sponsor for the SA Country Dressage Classic held at Naracoorte in March. They were very generous providing Prize Vouchers, Championship Rugs and Caps. They also came to the competition with their extensive trade stand. THis enabled riders to redeem their vouchers during the event if they wished. THe MC Equine team also helped with presentations and packing up of arenas at the end of the weekend. Always very willing to suppor the committee in anyway needed.

PBT Embroidery provide wonderfully executed embroidery on all of the State Championship rugs, thereby not only saving hundred of dollars, but making the sponsors branding look beautiful, which does not go unnoticed! THey have also supplied and embroidered the DSA garments at below cost, which in the current economic climate is an incredibly important factor to success!

Sanders Fodder has been a consistant supporter of SADA, distinguished by their ongoing generosity at every event. THey regularly provide prizes, adding real value to our competitions and helping to recognise the efforts and achievements of participants throughout the day. THeir support foes beyond simple sponsorship, contributing in a praticle and meaningful way tht enhances the overall experience for riders, volunteers, and officials alike. By continually showing up for the club in this way, Sanders FOdder has become a trusted and appreciated partner whose contribution is both noticeable and sincerely valued within our community.

Towler Mechanical has been an outstanding sponsor and valued supporter of the club for many years now, consintently demonstrating generosity and community spirit. THeir contribution has helped the club continue to provide quality opportunities for members and participants. Through their sponsorship, Towler Mechanics has shown a genuine commitment to supporting local sport and encouraging participation at all levels. THeir reliability, generosity, and willingness to give back to the community are greatly appreciated, and their support plays as important role in the continued success and growth of SADA.

Williamstown Hotel not only hosts our committee meetings but have generously sponsored the Club Championships by way of a cash donation.