ABOUT W.E.L.D

Working Equitation Lancefield Districts Inc. (W.E.L.D.) is a club of likeminded adults who foster an environment of camaraderie, support and fun. The club is built around the principles of classical horsemanship, developing the partnership between horse and rider, and building partnerships between members.

W.E.L.D. is a new club that was founded in July 2021. 

W.E.L.D. hold our club training days on the 3rd Saturday of each month, and the occasional 1st Saturday.

W.E.L.D. is affiliated with Australian National Working Equitation Limited (ANWE) who is the official governing body for working equitation in Australia having signed a Protocol Agreement with the World Association of Working Equitation in 2016.

The discipline of working equitation was created to celebrate the partnership between horse and rider with a focus on versatility, agility, athleticism and training. Open to all breeds of horse and levels of rider, Australian National Working Equitation upholds the principles of classical dressage.

Working equitation was pioneered by four countries: Italy, Portugal, Spain, and France, with the first International competition being held in 1996. In 2004, the World Association for Working Equitation was established to govern the sport internationally. Since that time, the sport has continued to grow around the world.

Working Equitation competitions have four phases. 

· Phase 1: Working Dressage: Riders showcase the partnership and their level of training in a working dressage test conducted on a 40 x 20 metre dressage arena. 

· Phase 2: Maneability: Riders negotiate a course of obstacles which replicate what they would encounter doing farm or stock work, or out on a ride. This phase is judged on style and accuracy.

· Phase 3: Maneability Speed: This is an obstacle course that is judged on speed and accuracy.

· Phase 4: Team Cattle Yarding: (optional phase)  Working Equitation features a unique cattle event which is something of a cross between cutting, drafting and team yarding. Riders work as a team of 4 to showcase the versatility of their working horse. 

Some clubs are just beginning to introduce cattle and not all competitions include the Cattle Phase yet and it is still optional depending on the level you choose to compete.

At W.E.L.D. we have a great group of friendly members and a strict code of conduct which we believe will guide our club to become a strong social club. On club days we ask members to bring a shared lunch and we take the time to sit together and connect. We like to support each other during rallies and at competitions.