Nicole Tough | Public figure
Nicole Tough
Phone: +61 404 324 608
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24.01.2022 2020 Wrap Up and Merry Christmas 2020 certainly was a roller coaster year for everyone, with its heartache and difficult times, and some truly joyous and triumphant memories. With the resilience and wonderful work ethics that come with owning and training horses, we trotted on, starting each day with a look forward mentality. ... We had many new horses come into our lives with Bellaphina, Cardi B, Davrol Mowgli, Leopold, Nintendo, Jeffrey, Rudy, Cadillac, Alexis Rose, Flynn and most recently, Bianko. We had many riders step up to new levels, including Tilly Foster, Madi Clarke, Zali Young, and Abby Weel. We welcome new students, Tyler Harris-Buchanan, Gabby Jones, Rebecca Thompson and Charlee Hammal. And we welcomed photographer extraordinaire, Christy Baker into our lives, as well as new farrier, Sam Buchanan; new grooms, James Kelly, Issie Forsyth and Tia McKelland; and Wendy Bannerot from Equine Edge Rehabilitation, into our horses lives. My long timers, Kristen McAuslan, Karin Gordon and Macada Roebig, chipped away at getting better, whilst Daisy Fielding learnt where it all begins with a 3 year old breaker; And Kirsten McAree is expecting a baby. We fell in love with protocol days, and continued to enjoy the clinics with Matthew Dowsley. We continue to thank my long time coach, Traci Baldwin, Kathryn Sullivan-Butt The Saddlefitter and RIDERSxoxo for their support. And we did actually manage to get to a few competitions, where we made memories with joy, success and triumph. On a personal note, my boy, Mitch, moved out, but I’m so happy to see him independent, house proud and so happy with Georgia Maguire. Here’s to 2020 - a year to remember! and may 2021 be a better year for all. Dressage Queensland
24.01.2022 Florenz scored a 9 for this medium trot up the centre line, and a 9 for this medium canter at the State Championships. Between Covid-19 and now out of action from knee surgery, Florenz and I only got to 3 competitions in 2020; but I am So happy for his owners, Paul and Emma Weel , and very proud of his achievements - Medium Champion at the Fraser Coast Championships Elementary Champion QDR ** Championships... Qld State Medium Champion and State Reserve Elementary Champion We don’t need medals to be successful, but feeling triumphant about achieving the scores you trained for, is ok. It doesn’t always happen. Florenz (Foundation/St Moritz), a member of the Rivermead Estate Qld State Talent Squad, is special and I’m lucky to have him in my life. Thankyou to my coaches, Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley for your attention to detail and pushing me beyond my limits. Thankyou to Emma and Paul Weel for the opportunity to produce a horse like Florenz; and Thankyou to my sponsors, Kathryn Sullivan-Butt (aka The Saddlefitter) for ensuring the most suitable and perfect saddle fit; to RIDERSxoxo for your innovative designs and outfits and Christy Baker Photography for capturing so many special moments of our team. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland These photos by Averil Crebbin Picture the Moment Photography
23.01.2022 Yesterday, on a peaceful post Christmas Day, one of my dear students, Macada Roebig , lost her steadfast equine friend, Leadburn Rockin Rio, in a freak accident on her family property. Rio was your classic ‘council worker’ to train, but he was a gentleman and he brought Macada back to the saddle, giving her confidence, passion and determination again, after many years of illness. Macada was devoted to Rio, as he was to her. I’m so sorry for your loss Macada. One day in the... future, ‘don’t cry because it’s over; smile because it happened.’ Whilst beautiful Rio found his angel wings, I hope you can find solace in your memories. Rest In Peace beautiful boy. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
22.01.2022 Half-passing in xmas colours into Xmas week. Pictured here on Florenz, owned by Emma and Paul Weel, shod by Sam Buchanan, in outfit details from RIDERSxoxo . Riding in the Equipe Viktoria from The Saddlefitter and coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley. Happy Xmas week everyone.... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
22.01.2022 If the horse does not enjoy his work, his rider will have no joy ~ H. Isenbart Here on 5 year old Leopold, owned by Tim and Karin Gordon, shod by Sam Buchanan, and coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley. Another moment captured by Christy Baker Photography . ... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia See more
21.01.2022 ‘The pain of discipline, is nothing like the pain of disappointment’. Pictured here on Faberge, owned by Paul and @emma_weel . Thankyou to Christy Baker Photography for this captured moment in time. Outfitted by RIDERSxoxo and riding in the Equipe Viktoria from The Saddlefitter . Coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland... Dressage Australia See more
21.01.2022 The horses here at NTDT love their visits with Wendy Bannerot, from Equine Edge Rehabilitation. Wendy specialises in all sorts of rehabilitation, from acupuncture, remedial massage and shockwave therapy, to housing them at her lodge, for swimming and/or flat trails exercise to strengthen soft tissues. Wendy loves what she does and the horses love her. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
21.01.2022 When this is all you have left of your 2nd favourite toy..... #neverletgo
21.01.2022 Check out my website to see these 3 stunning Dressage horses sadly offered for sale; * FEI schoolmaster Jaybee Angelina, 14 years old, 16.3 hands * FEI schoolmaster Siriano, 14 years old, 17.2 hands * Lovely OTT Tuxedo, 14 years old, 16 hands... Dressage Australia Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
21.01.2022 Ho, ho,ho! Do you know about the #blackfriday sale at RIDERSxoxo ? Up to 70% off Riding Wear! Just in time for Christmas. Go to the RIDERSxoxo sale page for online purchases only. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
20.01.2022 The first of the summer boot camps have finished, and we had a wonderful 4 days with our intrepid campers, Brooke Flesser and her lovely new warmblood - Rudy; Zali Young with her young warmblood - Cardi B; Abby Weel and her ever trustworthy - Buzz Lightyear; and Sienna White and her beautiful new horse - Cadi. All the girls undertook their tasks with great diligence, and are bandaging like professionals. None seemed to mind their 4:45am alarm clocks going off, and were re...ady at 5:30 to start work with the horses. All the girls improved in their riding over the 4 days, with Brooke nailing her counter canter on the ‘change happy’ Rudy; Zali finally starting her sessions where she finished the last session on Cardi B; Abby making great advancements in her dressage posture, and Sienna learning the half pass on Cadi. All the girls pitched in to make barn life, with all its chores, immense fun; and were a wonderful help to each other as well. We loved our movie night, ice cream eating competition, and make your own pizza night. Twister challenges were interesting and the planking competition seemed to be painful..... A highlight was favourite outfit day, and we were lucky to have professional photographer, Christy Baker Photography, here to capture some awesome riding moments. Stay tuned - evidence of great progress coming. Thankyou Brooke, Zali, Abby and Sienna for being wonderful campers. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
20.01.2022 Introducing the newest member to the equine family that reside here at the Nicole Tough Dressage stables - Bianko. With an added health condition to manage, and after much discussion, it was decided our beautiful Marian Hutchings, age 64, needed a smaller horse to manage. Thanks to our dear and trusted friend in Germany, Viola Abrahams, who went on the hunt, found and trialled Bianko, we got lucky. With daily videos and reports from the trial coming in, we decided that BIank...Continue reading
20.01.2022 Having fun with free dress at the Caboolture Dressage Group’s Gala Equine Summer Series. Riding Paul and Emma Weel’s lovely horse, Florenz (Foundation/St Moritz), in the Equipe Viktoria, fitted by The Saddlefitter . Thankyou RowanW Photo. Always thanks to farrier, Sam Buchanan and RIDERSxoxo ; and Thankyou Issie Forsyth for being Florenz’s groom and helping me exponentially over the weekend. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
20.01.2022 Just another Thankyou post from a technical dinosaur, to students Abby and Emma Weel, Madaca Roebig and Daisy Fielding, who often help me navigate social media, and have (many times) talked me through making an Instagram story, explaining the ‘bio’ and ‘profile’, showing me how to redo my photo captions on Facebook every time it is updated, explaining the mystery of ‘tagging’ and the #’s, and making intelligible all the icons, dots and codes that other people just seem to know. This new world of technology would be overwhelming without their patience and help. I’m very grateful.
19.01.2022 Let us not wish it were easier; but instead wish we were better. This moment on Ferragamo captured by Christy Baker Photography . Outfitted in the RIDERSxoxo ‘coffee’ look, and riding in the Equipe Oracle, professionally fitted by The Saddlefitter . Coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley . Dressage Queensland... Equestrian Queensland See more
18.01.2022 Doing what you like is freedom. Liking what you do is happiness. ~ Frank Tyger Photo by Christy Baker Photography , and riding in a RIDERSxoxo designed outfit, in the Equipe Oracle, professionally fitted by The Saddlefitter . Ferragamo and I, Coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley . Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
18.01.2022 Just a thankyou to Matthew Lord for keeping young Leopold (Livaldon/Fidertanz) in training for us while I was out of action from knee surgery. He is going beautifully. Thankyou for having him. His owner, Karin Gordon and I are grateful. Thankyou also to Christy Baker Photography for this image; and to our farrier, Sam Buchanan for travelling the the extra miles to keep his feet in tip top shape. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
17.01.2022 2021 NTDT Summer boot camp is over, and I have to thank my last campers, Hannah Ross, Olivia Middleton, Zali Young and Abby Weel for being such troopers through some hot weather. Olivia is a talented and driven eventer, and with her horse, Lachie, they improved out of sight, developing a more consistent contact, and more balance to the haunches, especially in counter canter. Olivia is a delightful young lady and I enjoyed adjusting her posture and watching Olivia discover w...hat more is possible with just a few adjustments. Hannah Ross has an enormous project re training her stockhorse/thoroughbred gelding, Patrick, from polocrosse to dressage, and with her ‘never give up’ attitude, I know she will succeed. Already she has transformed him, and we chipped away at improving the transition to canter and developing more straightness. Hannah also got a ride on Ferragamo to help understand how we can move the horse around in canter. Abby Weel returned from a family getaway to get her pony Buzz Lightyear back in the gym and ready for her hardest test to date, at the Gala Equine Summer Series this Saturday. Zali Young attended with 2 horses, Alter Ego and Cardi B. It was great to get 4 days straight with both horses, and we definitely made progress with 4 year old CardI B, even starting some counter canter, as well as making headway with the simple changes and understanding walk pirouettes on Alter Ego. The girls enjoyed watching mine as well as each other’s training sessions, and Hannah enjoyed putting her photography skills to the test. Our off horse exercises were..... interesting, and games, make your own pizza and movie nights were enormous fun. Thankyou girls for being most excellent boot campers, and keep up the good work. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
17.01.2022 #throwbackthursday to my tremendous time with Dante. Robert Harrison-Schmerglatt found Dante in Germany 2008, for us to try; and over the world to Australia he came, where I had the opportunity to train him for 4 wonderful years, and with the help of my coach, Traci Baldwin, we took him from Elementary to Grand Prix. Dante was by Depardieu, out of an Inschullah mare. He holds a special place in my heart and taught me SO much. I will always be indebted to Linda and Beau Dowsett for the many glorious memories. A well travelled horse, in 2013 Dante went to @dan_iela_s in Switzerland, where he enjoys retirement . Dressage Queensland Dressage Australia Equestrian Queensland
17.01.2022 Christmas Day with family .... a holiday when we all come together and catchup on the year, with all its changes, ebbs and flows. We were lucky to be able to spend it together. Many were not so lucky. It is also the day when your heart aches a bit more for lost loved ones, and just wishing they were still with us. They are always in our heart. Hope everyone made beautiful memories to hold onto for 2020 Christmas.
16.01.2022 There really is nothing like waking up early with purpose. Photo by Christy Baker Photography Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
16.01.2022 To all those who served, and sacrificed their lives in horrific, unacceptable conditions; who had to commit unthinkable acts on fellow human beings, just to try to protect the man standing next to him and try to go home. Too many didn’t come home. I am blessed, so far, to enjoy life time without experiencing the horror of war, and we, who have not experienced it, owe all those who were lost to life, to watch and learn from the many resources now gifted to us, so that their sacrifices are known and will not be forgotten. #lestweforget
16.01.2022 Just an extra Thankyou to The Saddlefitter for your generous sponsorship of the 2020 Brisbane CDN/Qld State Championships. We were sad you were outside ‘the bubble’ and couldn’t attend in person, so we had the wonderful Christy Baker Photography here to capture some special moments to thank you for all you do for the sport. I was so stoked with Emma and Paul Weel’s horses. Such a miraculous and joyous comeback for 7 year old Faberge, who won the Hanoverian Horse Society of ...Australia Qld State Preliminary Championship with 78% and 75% on Day 1; and topped this with winning the Qld State Novice Championship with 76% and 75%. Florenz, member of the Rivermead Estate Qld State Talent Squad, won QLD State Reserve Elementary Champion with 75% and 69%; and topped this with very brave performances, winning the Kohnke's Own Qld State Medium Championship with 72% and 69%. I have to thank all my competitors and rivals.... their talent, determination and skill are what inspires me to keep getting better, and giving it my all. I have to thank my coaches, Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley, for their attention to detail and pushing me out of my comfort zones. I have to thank my wonderful team at home, from my grooms, Sophie Greatz and Bec Thompson, farrier - Sam Buchanan, physio/chiro - Grant Harris and vets - Nathan Anthony WestVETS Animal Hospital and Rhian Partridge Gold Coast Equine . Thankyou also and always to my hubby, the wind beneath my wings. I’m so honoured to call Emma and Paul Weel, our friends; and I only want to make them proud of their beautiful horses. Just Thankyou..... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
16.01.2022 2021 Here we go! Happy, healthy and joyful new year to all. Hoping everyone feels protected and blessed. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
15.01.2022 Holy moly.... who put the hole in the ozone layer?! That’s right - humans did...... Thank goodness for EquiCool Equestrian and my humans for caring. Photo by Christy Baker Photography... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
15.01.2022 Merry Xmas to each and all. Where ever you are in our world, may you have the best day possible. Minding Miley for the Weel family for Xmas. Not hard.
14.01.2022 After 18 months working here as Stable/Horse Manager, we bid farewell to Sophie Greatz , who starts full time at Saddleworld Ipswich. Over the past 18 months, I’ve seen Sophie develop as a rider/trainer, as well as gain more confidence, both in herselfand with horses. She loved each horse here, like they were her own, and was of great assistance to everyone who came and went. We shall miss her sunny disposition, and wish her all the best in her new adventure. Many photos by Christy Baker Photography . Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
14.01.2022 ‘If you climb into the saddle, be ready to ride.’ Privileged to train Leopold (Livaldon/Fidertanz) for Karin and Tim Gordon. We thank Christy Baker Photography for capturing this moment, Sam Buchanan for his farriery , and The Saddlefitter for his Equipe Viktoria. Coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley. Style your ride with RIDERSxoxo ; they are offering gift vouchers for Xmas. Dressage Queensland... Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia See more
13.01.2022 Thankyou to Tarni Woodhead for organising, and Fig Tree Pocket Equestrian Club , for hosting yesterday’s Dressage clinic. Despite the November heat, I got the opportunity to share some training tips with some lovely riders and horses. Thankyou to all the riders for giving me your best effort, and allowing me to open some doors and close others. Here are some photos from the day. So disappointed I didn’t get photos of everyone. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
13.01.2022 On the December NTDT Boot Camp, attendees, Brooke Flesser, Abby Weel, Zali Young and Sienna White excelled. Our days started with a 5am alarm, and included feeding up, mucking out, tacking up, cleaning gear and their own dressage lesson. Preparing the NTDT team of horses for their training sessions and looking after them, post session, is also inclusive. The girls also got the opportunity to watch my training sessions with running commentary. Brooke, Zali, Abby and Sienna... were a pleasure to have and all improved greatly over the 4 days. We were lucky to have Christy Baker Photography , here on one of the days to capture their improvement and the bond they each have with their horses. The next NTDT Summer Boot Camp starts tomorrow. Stay tuned. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
13.01.2022 Over the last year, it has been my pleasure to coach young rider, Brooke Flesser and her beautiful Medallion mare, Madison. In that year, Brooke went from passenger to pilot, achieving not only personal triumph, but also personal best scores, and had a lot of fun along the way. Whilst Madi starts a journey with her new owner/rider; Brooke will also look for a new (taller) equine partner to begin the next chapter of her riding career on. Thankyou to Christy Baker Photography for these moments in time. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
12.01.2022 ‘Choose a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life.’ Worked this out when I was 13, and my pop passed away at 63. I realised that he had spent 20 and a bit years sleeping, 20 years working, a few years driving to and from work, and only 20 years doing what he wanted. I resolved to sleep as little as possible, and find a job I love. If you love your work, you are lucky . And if you don’t, then work to live. Find a different purpose. ... Other than being a wife and mum, my purpose is simply horses . Training them, becoming as good a rider as I can be, and helping others do the same. Thankyou to my hubby for making the dream possible and making our life wonderful; And Thankyou to all the people who have entrusted me to guide them. Credit to Christy Baker Photography ; And there’s nothing wrong with a bit of #matchymatchy . If you need some stocking fillers, then my tips are Haukeschmidt gloves, Makebe stirrups, and C4 Belts from the pre Christmas-Boxing Day sale at RIDERSxoxo ! Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
12.01.2022 Do what you love, and you’ll never have a problem with Monday. Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for capturing this moment on Faberge, owned by Emma and Paul Weel. Outfitted by RIDERSxoxo , and riding in the Equipe Viktoria, fitted by The Saddlefitter . Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
11.01.2022 This week’s Tuesday Training Tip with NTDT, reposted from Instagram during COVID-19 restrictions, is all about the Half-Halt. The half-halt is perhaps the most misunderstood term in dressage. First and foremost - It is NOT a rein aid. It IS a technique requiring the co-ordinated action of the seat, leg and hand to improve, or correct, the balance of the horse, from its forehand more to the haunches. It is a building block of riding, a technique that will improve every year i...n the saddle, IF you work on it. The balancing effect on the horse of an effective half-halt, evolves as the horse becomes stronger. On a young or ‘green’ horse, the effect of a half-halt should steady a loss of rhythm or balance. You can begin to teach this by walking, and using a balance between engaging your core and enough leg, almost halt... and before the horse actually halts, release your half-halt and walk on. Ie: half of a halt. Repeat this a few times, then try it in trot. Once trotting, engage your half-halt technique and almost walk, and before the horse actually walks, trot on and reward the horse. Same in canter, but note, you will need more leg than you think to stop them trotting. On a more established horse, the effect of the half-halt should increase the activity and uphill tendency; and on an advanced horse, the effect should increase expression (air time) and elasticity (joint articulation). At these stages, the half-halt can be a little bit different each time you use it. Sometimes, it’s 90% leg and 10% seat; sometimes 60% seat, 40% leg. The horse will tell you when you get the balance right, because it will work (And they will tell you when you get it wrong, because it won’t work). The better the rider gets at developing their half-halt technique, the better they can transform the horse. ‘Beautiful moments are only possible when the horse accepts the half-halt’. When I look back at my riding career, the understanding and continual development of the half-halt has been, and still is, a triumph. Mastering it at each stage, on each horse I’ve had the pleasure of training, is sheer jubilation. I look forward to getting better at it, and the better I get, the better the horses will go. Better Never Stops. I’ve attempted to find photos to show the different stages of the half-halt. Thankyou Christy Baker Photography . Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
11.01.2022 The final day of The Saddlefitter Qld State Dressage Championships, included the Kohnke's Own Medium Championship being contested, with both tests in Indoor 2 (aka ‘Mordor’). Florenz is a scardey cat, but after 3 opportunities at arena familiarisation, he put his big boy pants on and gave me 2 super rides. Winning the 4b with 72% and placing 2nd in the 4c, we were thrilled to win the Qld State Medium Championship. The best part was that after 18 months working on the... flying changes, I was stoked to get 4 out of 4 clean changes in the tests. My thanks to his owners, Emma and Paul Weel, to my coaches, Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley, and to my sponsors, The Saddlefitter, RIDERSxoxo and Christy Baker Photography . For my students, I was both proud and disappointed..... Disappointed for Kristen McAuslan and her beautiful horse, Crystalbrook Platinum, who have worked so hard, improved so much and achieved 2 mistake free, accurate tests, for very safe marks and not the scores we trained for. Our sport is indeed a difficult one.... and can be soul crushing; but hopefully these disappointments just inspire us to keep training, keep riding solid tests, and one day we will be rewarded and get the marks we earn. Proud of you Kristen, you are a winner for pushing yourself out of comfort zones, riding up the centre line and putting your training out there. It is easy to stay at home...... I was very proud of new student, Charlee Hammel and her horse, Directors Cut, who placed 3rd and 4th in the Young Rider divisions. So.... after 5 days away with beautiful weather, our bellies hurting from shared laughter, our fridges empty, 2 baskets of washing (not including horse gear), and hundreds of thousands of steps, we travel home from the 2020 Saddlefitter Qld State Dressage Championships. The event that went ahead, despite all the odds. I must thank Zali Young, who stood in to groom for the last day and a half, and made the mission that much more possible; and my hubby, Col, my stalwart, my wingman. My thanks to all the stewards, volunteers and officials who gave up a week in their lives, for the event and the sport. You are all legends. Thankyou to the sponsors of the Event, for their support during this unprecedented time. Thankyou to Equestrian Queensland CEO, Briston Toft for everything he did to save our dogs from a week in a pet motel. And a monumental Thankyou to Event Director, Anita Barton, for everything she has done to make this event happen. I know all she wanted to do, was ride in it herself. Such a selfless and graceful person..... we are so lucky to call her Chair of Dressage Queensland and Event Director of the Brisbane CDN/Qld State Championships. Thankyou Anita, and Thankyou to her hubby, Toby, and her 2 beautiful little girls, for sharing her with us - the dressage enthusiasts of Qld. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
11.01.2022 So privileged to work with this boy. Thank you Paul and Emma Weel, and Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for capturing these moments in time. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
10.01.2022 Time for another student brag. Macada Roebig is an inspiring young lady. Faced with health challenges, she soldiers on, accepting and defying the obstacles life throws at her. Studying to be a vet , Macada doesn’t get the opportunity to compete much, but she trains diligently at advanced level, loving every moment on her beautiful mare, Vrai Ami; and gives voluntary time to the sport whenever she can. Not only is Macada a talented and determined young lady who refuses to ...give up in the face of adversity, but if you have the privelige to call her a friend , you are a lucky person. Looking forward to being involved in and watching this bright future unfold, filled with the love of horses. Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for these images. Thankyou Macada for everything you are and do. Macada rides in a Black Country saddle, professionally fitted by The Saddlefitter Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
10.01.2022 This is a precautionary post, to look out for a common post surgery complication.... DVT. Being slightly paranoid about living, I try to err on the side of ‘check everything’. I do not want to be that person who says.... I should have gone to the doctor and got that checked, when it’s too late to do something about it. 3 weeks after knee surgery, my ankle started hurting and I had less movement in it. Off to the GP I went, who took off my compression stocking, where we were ...both surprised by the look of my leg; and promptly booked me in for Ultra-sound. Numerous lower leg DVT’s were found, and off to hospital I went. Lucky again I suppose. Onto medication and wearing a compression stocking for 2 years, I go. My right leg really will glow in the dark, but as long as I can be back in the saddle on November 10th, it’s all good! But please, the purpose of this post is - Don’t delay checking out suspicious changes in your body. Be proactive. Life is too precious to not make time for dreaded appointments. See more
10.01.2022 So proud of student, Madi Clarke’s progress with her beautiful Dutch warmblood mare, Fiesta. A member of the 2020/21 Horseland Gold Coast Qld State Young Rider Squad, Madi and Fiesta have again won Qld State Young Rider Elementary Champion and made the difficult step up to Medium level in this crazy year. With summer goals in place, and covid-19 willing, we hope to have a season competing medium/advanced in 2021. These beautiful photos taken by Christy Baker Photography Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
09.01.2022 3,2,1 Countdown .... this is my last day on crutches! 3 months later, my knee still stiff and weak, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Maybe I’ll be running , and snow skiing again in 2021. I guess if you have to be out of action , 2020 was the year to do it. But I can say with good authority - crutches suck! Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for your brilliance behind the . #thankyou to my hubby for your help and patience through this period.; and Thankyou to my grooms, Rebecca Thomson and Tia McLelland for all the extra shifts you pulled. #forevergrateful Dressage Queensland Equestrian QueenslandDressage Australia
09.01.2022 So today we say goodbye to the strangest year in our time, 2020. We thought the fires would be the worst of it, but then the world was brought to its knees by a virus ‘Made in China’..... Suddenly we were told to stay at home, stay away from others, like this was what the world needed, with all the new technology already encouraging social distancing. (I urge all to watch The Social Dilemma on Netflix) Nevertheless, babies were still born, people still graduated and/or ...started new careers, and equestrian enthusiasts around the world discovered we have the best gym. I do hope our planes will be back in the air and tourism can start to recover in 2021. I do hope Zoom meetings are not the way of the future. I do hope people will re connect in person, and I do hope our Governments see that we have given China too much power. It is time to look within to use our own resources, our own labour force, and if this means we have to pay more for our toilet paper - so be it. Bring on 2021. (Thankyou Christy Baker Photography)
09.01.2022 Success is finding satisfaction in giving more than you take. Here are some brag photos of students during their summer training. Empowering riders to draw more from their horses and being involved in their triumphs is a source of great joy. Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for these moments .... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
08.01.2022 Welcome to another Tuesday Training Tip with NTDT, reposted from Instagram during covid-19 restrictions. This week is devoted to the development of the ‘independent seat’. As a rider, we have rein aids, leg aids and seat aids. If we want to be a good rider, then we must work to develop these aids independently from each other, AND then they must work as a team. The seat aids are the most difficult to master, and the rein aids like to take over its job, simply because it is ...Continue reading
08.01.2022 There really is something special about horses..... They just make a landscape beautiful.... Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for capturing these moments in time of student and friend, Marian Hutchings with new German Riding Pony, Bianko. Intro coming soon. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
08.01.2022 Is there anything more rewarding than when your horse tries for you.... Photo by Christy Baker Photography on Florenz, owned by Emma and Paul Weel. Thankyou RIDERSxoxo for styling my ride, to The Saddlefitter and Sam Buchanan for looking after his dancing shoes . Dressage Queensland... Equestrian Queensland See more
08.01.2022 Day 3 of The Saddlefitter Qld State Dressage Championships, and we scored a groom! Zali Young stayed on, after she finished competing, to lend a hand, and what a tremendous help she has been. It was finally Florenz’s turn for the Elementary classes, generously sponsored again by the Hanoverian Horse Society, and he gave me a wonderfully energetic first test, scoring 75% for 1st place. He followed this with an even better test, scoring 69%; and finished with the State Rese...rve Elementary Championship. My thanks to his owners, Emma and Paul Weel, for entrusting his care and training to me. The medium tests in Indoor 2 (aka Mordor) will be more than a test of his training. I have done 3 days of arena familiarisation, so I have done my homework..... but not sure it will make a difference. Fingers crossed he puts his big boy pants on. After some arena familiarisation (including a picnic of peppermints at the table at C ), and some discussion, Ferragamo tried to redeem himself in the Intermediate 1. Although a disappointing way to finish his ‘season’, with his best work in the arena at home; with all that has happened this year, I’ll take the redemption. Was proud of students, Brooke Flesser, Gabby Jones, Kirsten McAree and Madison Clarke who all came up to put their training to the test in these incredibly strong fields. Madi and Fiesta won both elementary classes in the Young Rider division. Thankyou to Christy Baker Photography, The Saddlefitter and RIDERSxoxo for your support. Thankyou always to my coaches, Matthew Dowsley and Traci Baldwin, to the multi talented super groom, Zali Young, to Florenz’s owners, Emma and Paul Weel, and especially to my hubby. Let’s go Day 4. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
08.01.2022 There is something uplifting about coaching when the road helps take a lady in her 60’s, above and beyond her goals. Marian Hutchings is one inspiring person. With more devastation, setbacks, obstacles and physical limitations that you can possibly imagine, she is living proof that if you never give up and never wish anyone harm, you can achieve your dreams. Marian Hutchings is sunshine on a cloudyday - every day. After the devastating loss of dream horse, Carlos, Marian pi...cked herself up, yet again, and started a new journey with FEI schoolmaster, Jaybee Angelina. A schoolmaster - yes; but there is no such thing as an easy horse, and this big girl, by Jaybee Alabaster, makes Marian work for everything. She was so happy to achieve her goal of competing at medium level this year. With her motto, if it’s meant to be; it’s up to me, deeply entrenched in her being, I know Marian will always give her goal, her all. She inspires me to be a better coach and a better person. So lucky to also call her a friend. Thankyou to Christy Baker Photography for these beautiful photos. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland See more
07.01.2022 Welcome to Tuesday’s Training Tip with NTDT, re posted from Instagram during Covid-19 restrictions. This week Is Part 2 of last week’s Training Tip about On The Forehand, dedicated to explaining HOW to achieve a more uphill way of going. Transitions are the easiest way to develop and improve your horse’s balance. Your horse can give an impression of being off the forehand, but any instability in self-carriage, or unevenness in the contact, will be highlighted when you ask for... a change of, or within, the pace. If the rider inadvertently allows a transition where the horse tipped, or lost balance onto the forehand, it will take 2-3 corrections to over-ride the one they allowed to go downhill. In all transitions, it should feel like the horse achieves them bum-first with no weight change in the hand, rather than nose-first, when more weight comes onto the hand. The goal is - never accept or finish a transition where the balance changes ie: goes on the forehand. Eventually, and with lots of practise and dedication, a rider can re balance a horse to the haunches with an effective half-halt. Ie: With their core fully switched on, a rider can give a quick kick to produce a quick reaction in the hind leg (but not a faster step), creating an upward adjustment. Imagine riding your horse, and someone throwing a witches hat 12 m in front of your current position.... (if your horse doesn’t stop and spin), what you should feel, is a sudden growth; and that is the feeling you get in the saddle, from an effective half-halt. That your horse suddenly becomes a hand taller at the wither, with an engaged hind leg. In short..... The rein is not there for the horse to lean on; and the horse should carry their own head and neck. And a big tip is, because the horse is very good at training the rider into accepting how they want to go ie: on the forehand, it is essential to find good eyes on the ground to help tell you when the horse starts to lose balance in the transition, so you do not finish it, or so you can make a correction. It is also important to remember that asking the horse to engage, exercise and develop its topline is Hard Work, and they will whinge about it. Let’s face it - most horses would prefer to be couch potatoes, and not go to the gym. Sound familiar.... but no one gets better on the couch. Happy training. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
07.01.2022 Happy 1st Birthday to our little Billie Jean, the little heartbeat at our feet. She filled a hole in our hearts, we didn’t even know was there.
07.01.2022 Last year, a little girl who loved horses and loved jumping, started having dressage lessons to be more competitive in Combined Training on her 5 year old Warmblood, Alter Ego. Zali Young may be shy, but she is dynamic in the saddle. With a love of riding, and dedicated to her weekly homework, the improvement has been incredible, culminating in 2 State titles at the recent QLD Interschool Championships. With thanks to her devoted mum, Bec Morrissey, it has been no looking back with the purchase of a dressage saddle and new addition, 4 year old Cardi B, from Charlie and Petea Adamson. You could say, Zali has the Dressage bug. Love being part of Zali’s journey. Photos by Christy Baker Photography Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
06.01.2022 Looking forward to coaching at Fig Tree Pocket in November, AND I will be off crutches! Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
06.01.2022 So very proud of students this weekend at the combined Aitken's Saddlery Qld State Youth and Pony Dressage Championships, professionally run by the Toowoomba Dressage Group. Madison Clarke won the State Youth Elementary Championship, with 1st and 2nd placings; and in her debut at Medium level, scored 66% in both the 4b and 4c for 2nd and 4th placings on her lovely mare, Fiesta. So chuffed for Daisy Fielding, scoring over 70% 3 times, and winning the Novice Youth and Re...serve Preliminary Youth State titles on her new youngster, Davrol Mowgli. The youngest rider here all weekend was 10 year Abby Weel, who placed 5th and 6th in her Preliminary classes with a 66% score on her pony, Buzz Lightyear. Zali Young placed 4th and 5th in the full Novice classes on her young warmblood, Alter Ego. New student, Charlee Hammel was thrilled with her 4c, and then with her score of 66% and 3rd place on her beautiful boy, Directors Cut. And in the Pony Preliminary Championship, Emma Weel was thrilled to ride a new PB of 71% for the win in the 1c. It was a fun filled weekend of small and large achievements, and so wonderful seeing these young ladies enjoying their sport and their horses. Congratulations to all of you, and indeed to all the riders. Their was great sportsmanship and comraderie all round. Thankyou to the Toowoomba Dressage Group for organising and hosting the Championships at short notice. It was a pleasure to be an Officiating Judge. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
06.01.2022 Although I’ll never be as good a rider as I want to be, the horses are happy, and I’m having a hell of a great time trying. Dream it. Wish it. Do it. Thankyou to a wonderful team for making the clock run, and keeping the horses well. Sam Buchanan - farrier Gold Coast Equine and Westvets - vets... RIDERSxoxo - stylist The Saddlefitter - the name says it all Christy Baker Photography - for our special moments Equine Edge Rehabilitation- for acupuncture, deep tissue massage and shockwave Coaches - Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley Col Tough - for everything Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
06.01.2022 Talk about the ups and downs of sport.... Day 2 of The Saddlefitter Qld State Dressage Championships was indeed, a roller coaster. From flying high on Faberge in the Novice classes, sponsored again by the Hanoverian Horse Society, to wanting to retire on Ferragamo in the Prix St George, there is nothing quite as humbling and character building as sport. Faberge’s focus and effort were rewarded again in the Novice classes, winning both tests with 76% and 75%, in an incredibl...y tough field, to win the Qld State Novice Championship. It’s like he’s making up for lost time, and putting his best foot forward, and we love having him at the shows with us. Poor Ferragamo lost his mind before we went in the terrifying main arena, with a scary test sheet (aka the boogeyman) flying across the judges table at C as we were navigating our way past. From that moment, the entire C end of the arena became a ‘no go’ zone. What a wipeout.... I’m reminded how amazing it is that these majestic creatures of flight, allow us to do what we do with them; and remember that ‘smooth seas don’t make skillful sailors’; and hope tomorrow is better. It was another big day without a groom, and I must thank Abby and Emma Weel, and my hubby for their tremendous help. Was also super proud of students, Brooke Flesser, Zali Young and Daisy Fielding; who each rode lovely tests in these incredibly strong fields. All winning a novice class in the Young Rider divisions. Beautiful Emma Weel didn’t have the best show on Deveron Nintendo, and he thought we needed reminding that he is indeed, a 4 year old pony. Thankyou to Christy Baker Photography, The Saddlefitter and RIDERSxoxo for your support. Thankyou to my coaches, Matthew Dowsley and Traci Baldwin, for never letting me off the hook, and Thankyou to Faberge’s owners, Emma and Paul Weel, for the joy of Faberge. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
05.01.2022 Day 1 of The Saddlefitter Qld State Dressage Championships included the Preliminary classes, sponsored by the Hanoverian Horse Society ; and I was so thrilled with how much better Faberge coped with life away from home. Against all odds, we are competing him, and what a bonus when the judges are rewarding the training. In an exceptionally talented and strong field, Faberge placed 1st and 2nd with 78% and 76%, winning the Qld State Preliminary Championship, with good friend a...nd student, Dean Izzard winning the Reserve Championship title, on his beautiful new youngster, Bottega Gold. With 3 horses here and no groom for this event, I have to thank both Marian Hutchings and Emma Weel for lending me a hand yesterday. A surprise visit from dear friends, Alyssa and Rosie Webb, meant a little additional help, which was most unexpected and appreciated. Hubby, Col, may also have been an enormous help. I thank Paul and Emma Weel for the joy of this amazing horse. I hope only to do him justice, and keep him happy and sound. Thankyou to Nathan Anthony at WestVETS Animal Hospital, farrier, Sam Buchanan, Be-Breeding and Viola Abrahams in Germany, for all being part of Faberge’s story. There is a saying - ‘Make your comebacks greater than your setbacks’; and yesterday, we did it. Was also super proud of long time student, Daisy Fielding, who rode 2 lovely tests in this incredibly strong field, on her new youngster, Davrol Mowgli, winning the Young Rider division in the 1c test. A great start to their journey. Very lucky to have super Christy Baker Photography , at the show today and she managed to catch these lovely moments. Today’s program involves the Novice classes on Faberge, and Ferragamo’s last Prix St George. Just hoping Ferragamo doesn’t get stage fright in the dressed up, different looking main arena. Here we go. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
05.01.2022 Had our last clinic for 2020 with the fabulous Matthew Dowsley. Thankyou Matthew for leaving your wonderful barn at home in Bowral, to share your time, experience and knowledge with us. We have enough homework to tick away at over the summer. And Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for these snaps. Florenz, owned by Emma and Paul Weel, and Leopold, owned by Karin and Tim Gordon, both enjoy their Equipe Viktoria’s, professionally fitted by The Saddlefitter and both horses ...shod by super farrier, Sam Buchanan. Outfit details from RIDERSxoxo . Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland See more
05.01.2022 Arena familiarisation at Toowoomba for the Qld State Youth and Pony Championships, Daisy Fielding and I dressed in red, in memory of #danielmorcombe on Daniel Morcombe Day. Daniel Morcombe Foundation Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
04.01.2022 Continuing our introductions of the equine family that reside here at NTDT, this is Deveron Nintendo, a 14.1 hand, 5 year old, German Riding Pony, by Noble Dancer. This little guy is an old soul. He broke out of his yard on his first night here, and explored all the nooks and crannies of the property without causing any chaos. His is Mr Independant. Owned and ridden by Emma Weel, Teddy, as he is affectionately known, is Emma’s first young horse, and she is soaking up the cha...llenge of starting with a ‘blank canvas’. Within 2 weeks of arriving, we took him to a protocol day at CDG, and he didn’t put a foot wrong. Since then, he has done preliminary tests at the QDR Championships, Park Ridge and the State Championships, with his best score (and personal best for Emma) of 71%. He has the Qld State Pony Championships coming up and we’re just very excited to see where this little guy can take Emma, and I know she will enjoy every step. Fitted with an Equipe Oracle by Kathryn Sullivan-Butt, and with a wonderful team to look after him including, grooms - Rebecca Thompson and Tia McLelland, Farrier - Sam Buchanan, and the vets at Gold Coast Equine Clinic, Teddy is in the best of hands. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
04.01.2022 It’s only 8 days til Xmas, but never fear because RIDERSxoxo are having a massive Pre Christmas-Boxing Day Sale! From NOW to 27th December 10-70% off ALL Brands, including - * Celeris Boots! * BR Equestrian Equipment (aka best girth’s and work boots) ... * Makebe Stirrups (my fav) * C4 Belts * Haukeschmidt Gloves (long lasting and gorgeous) * Marta Morgan clothes and horse wear! Plus heaps more! Sale is online only. If you can’t see what you want or have any questions, call them on 07 3206 3952 or message them via social media platforms. Get On The Line, Christmas in coming. RIDERSxoxo - your One Stop Shop for Christmas. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Equestrian Australia Dressage Australia
04.01.2022 Good luck to my younger riders putting their horses to their tests at the Aitken's Saddlery Qld State Young Rider Championships this weekend at Toowoomba. New student, Charlie Hammel, is competing in the Medium classes on her beautiful Robbie; Daisy Fielding competing in the Preliminary and Novice classes on her young horse, Davrol Mowgli; Abby Weel competing on Buzz Lightyear at her first Youth Championships; Zali Young on Alter Ego in the Novice classes, and Madison Clarke competing in the Elementary and debuting in the Medium classes on the lovely Fiesta. Also best of luck to Emma Weel who is competing her young pony, Deveron Nintendo, in the Qld State Pony Championships. So proud of all of you and the progress you’ve made in this tumultuous year. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
04.01.2022 Very grateful for the support of the passionate and generous Kathryn Sullivan-Butt, aka The Saddlefitter . We especially love the Equipe range; with the technical functionality of the Emporio and Olympia, and the Bocelli, with its adjustable knee blocks are a favourite for many students. Ferragamo loves the Oracle, with its elastic tree, (giving me maximum precision in posture); and for Faberge and Florenz, I can’t go past the carbon fibre tree of the unique Viktoria, with ...its innovative shock absorbing system, which improves comfort and performance, giving me that extra special tuning I need for the horses. Dressage is easy; unless you want to do it well! And then it’s really really hard. Riders are astounded by how much the right saddle can help to master this frustrating and breathtaking sport. Don’t think you can’t sit trot, until you are in a professionally fitted saddle that helps you sit in the right spot, and helps you absorb the movements of the horse. Never give up. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
03.01.2022 In the wonderful organisations of Pony Club and Interschool competition, there are many riders who are lucky enough to have a few horses, one which they can use for dressage, one for showjumping, one for showing etc.... My younger sister and I went to Mudgeeraba Pony and Hack Club and represented Somerset College in Interschool Equestrian, and we had a very special horse, called Trystan Kahal (aka Trystan). He was a 14.3 hand Anglo-Arab gelding that we each did everything ...on. And I mean everything! Interschool and Pony Club Dressage, EA and Pony Club Eventing, Interschool and Pony Club Combined Training and Showjumping. And Trystan won each of us Interschool and Pony Club State Championship titles in every discipline year after year. After 6 blessed years with us, we sold him to Angela Unsworth, who enjoyed many special years and much success with this real life unicorn. Angela then sold him to our good friends, the Blay family; and I had the wonderful opportunity to coach little Laura Blay and Trystan to tremendous success, winning State Pony Club titles in Showjumping, Combined Training, Eventing and Dressage for many wonderful years. Col and I decided to sponsor a Perpetual Trophy at Mudgeeraba Pony and Hack Club in his memory and honour, calling it the Trystan Kahal Memorial Award, for a special horse, who showed prowess and success in all the disciplines. This year, the award was won by a pony called, Fliss Floss - ridden by Tihana North. Congratulations Tihana. What a very special pony you must have. Thankyou to our friend, Emma Weel, for presenting the award on our behalf. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
03.01.2022 ‘Perseverance is more important than talent.’ I am the perfect example of this; and I haven’t stopped yet. Thankyou Christy Baker Photography for this little captured moment. Thankyou RIDERSxoxo for my outfit details and The Saddlefitter for the Equipe Viktoria for beautiful Florenz (Foundation, St Moritz), owned by Emma and Paul Weel. Shod by Sam Buchanan, and coached by Traci Baldwin and Matthew Dowsley.... Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland Dressage Australia
03.01.2022 @caboolturedressagegroup ran the first leg of the Gala Equine Series, and it was a day of ‘firsts’ for many of the NTDT team. It was Zali Young’s first elementary on Alter Ego and her first competition ever on young Cardi B. Zali had a safe ride on Cardi B, and left the arena, wishing she went for more! A great feeling on your first test at your first competition! Zali and Alter Ego’s elementary test went to plan, and they are off and running in a new level. It was Daisy... Fielding’s first elementary on Davrol Mowgli, her first ever competition on 4 year old Remi Lanikai, and it was a comeback for Fairbanks DaVinchi after a long break. Whilst 6 year old Mowgli suffered with stage fright in the main arena at QSEC, young Lanikai ate up the atmosphere and earned a 72% in his first ever test; and DaVinchi loved being back in the arena, earning a 72% in the Prix St George. Awesome work Daisy! It was Abby and Emma Weel’s first novice test on their ponies, Buzz Lightyear and Deveron Nintendo. Emma and Nintendo put together a lovely test for 67% and young Abby and Buzz loved riding in the main arena for 66%, and scored 7’s for her lengthened trot. It was also Emma’s first competition on her beloved Bellaphina, and despite attempting her own freestyle, earned a 67% in the 4a. It was also my first competition with Karin Gordon’s lovely young boy, Leopold, and despite being rather scared of the judge, he scored 76% in the 2a. I also took the opportunity to compete Florenz in the 4a. He has had minimal exposure, and being scared of the world, he needs to keep going out, surviving shows, and maybe by the time he goes up the centre line in a Grand Prix, he won’t be terrified of - the judges, the tables, the fire extinguishers, the corner, or the letters! Thankyou to my competition groom, Issie Forsyth, for being my wingman. Still on crutches, she had a bigger than normal job on her hands. Can we please congratulate and thank the team at CDG for thinking of this free dress Gala Equine Summer Series. It was such a great opportunity to get the horses out, such fun to ride the youngsters in the main arena at QSEC, and such an innovative idea for free dress. We had so much fun with it. We are looking forward to seeing the professional photos from Rowan W. Photography. I also thank my hubby, for always having my back and helping me through the weekend. We look forward to the 2nd leg in January. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland @caboolturedressagegroup
03.01.2022 Thankyou to my multi talented student and fellow coach, Kristen McAuslan, who designed and continually updates my website. Kristen, whom I’ve been honoured to coach for over decade, and together have produced 2 FEI horses, with her 3rd one well on the way, is a generous, warm-hearted and treasured friend, and a dedicated coach and rider. On my website, you can find Dressage Horses for sale, information about our Boot Camps, Seminars, Clinics and Dressage Stays, and find ...out more about the NTDT Team, our sponsors and the riders I’m fortunate enough to guide and develop. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland See more
02.01.2022 So excited for Brooke Flesser and her new horse, Kinnordy GR Rudy, by Riverdance. After just a few lessons, this new partnership is starting to take beautiful shape. I’m looking forward to being part of this wonderful new journey. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland
01.01.2022 Well.... my competition season is over. With a tear in my meniscus cartilage (coming off a horse, of course, 17 months ago), I was hoping my surgeon, the amazing Dr Michael Tong, could cut the tear off, to be back in the saddle in 2 weeks (or less)..... but when he ‘went in’, the tear was significant and repairable. Which I’m trying to tell myself is a good thing, as less chance of pain and arthritis as the years go by; but it also means 6 weeks of no weight bearing, drivi...ng, definitely no riding and no snow skiing for 6 months. To say I’m feeling sorry for myself is an under statement. I have never been good at ‘resting’. But, for goodness sake, I haven’t lost a limb or broken my back..... so bloody hell..... snap out of it nicole and count your lucky stars - right..... 42 days and counting! I can still coach - so I can stay sane. Watch out everyone - I’ll be living vicariously. Dressage Queensland Equestrian Queensland See more
