I have had horses for 51 years and can provide a very experienced and loving home. I have managed ponies with laminitis and weight issues.

Dream Horse:

I am looking for a first pony for my 5 year old granddaughter to learn to ride and her 3 year old sister to have a sit on. The pony can be any breed or colour, temperament is the key, the pony can be older but I would prefer a pony under 20 if possible.

Riding Ambitions:

I would like to be able to lead the pony at the walk and trot for the 5 year old and eventually for her to learn to ride independently. I have a fenced Menage so this can be done safely. I would like the girls to be able to brush the pony and to be safe around the pony while learning all the rules and correct handling.

Bombproof, safe with children
Notes:

Currently getting one vetted.
Oct 13 – Also sent a clients little paint shetland Jelly – an absolute ripper. $5000 inc all gear. Not advertised yet.
Oct 13 – Checking out a Welsh via FaceTime viewing onSaturday I sent through off Horsedeals. Looks a ripper hope they’re not too slow! Nikki

Spent time searching through shetland sales aus, pony sites, no luck.

Sent her one nikki sent through but in tamworth NSW so no interest.

5/10 jane declined black pony and limited her search to Vic only

4/10 sent jane black shetland pony.

Quiet paddock pony wanted , super safe, lead rein shetland

Spoke to Jane. Really nice and experienced horse owner. Pony for 2 yr old and 5yr old, to walk and trot around on , on and off lead.
Happy to look at ponies 2 hrs radius of Doreen (your place included). Also happy to buy sight unseen with FaceTime viewing.
Flexible on size but no super wide shetlands. $3000-$4000 ideally but a little more for something perfect. She would like something with 5-6yrs left in it or very gentle, occasional riding. Nothing that needs cushings medication. Would go to 21-22yrs if young 21-22.
Not looking for a show pony or competition pony. Just a good quiet pull out the paddock pony.
Searching on and off for a year , COVID been an issue for her. Ready to buy now.

I have a 12yr old confident beginner/novice and a 15yr old novice/intermediate both have done long trail rides lots of holiday programs and we have a 12h pony that we are leasing as a short term who is a bit tricky to ride so they are gaining lots of experience my 15yr old also has ridden friends horses but we have moved to a 65acre property and are looking for our first horse

Dream Horse:

14h-15.3h standard breed, stock horse quiet but will do 3paces easily, responsive but not go, easy to catch,shoe etc just nice manners good around dogs,cows, sheep

Riding Ambitions:

We would like a horse just for a leisure, ride on the farm, occasionally trail riding and on roads something that u can pull out of paddock and jump on

Quiet first horse
Notes:

Nikki spoken to , viewing one today on nikkis reccomendation

Rode my quarterhorse as a pleasure horse until I retired him after 4 years due to arthritis. I was sold a thoroughbred mare by a friend as suitable for a novice – she bolted and broke my collar bone 2 years ago. Now I’m riding a friends Welshie on loan to build my confidence and trust I horses

Dream Horse:

Sane sensible sound
Doesn’t need to be a school master but an all rounder and not ‘quirky’

Riding Ambitions:

To have fun – I’m not interested in serious competitions

Sane sensible chilled
Notes:

16/10 messaged kay to let her know nothing has coming up as yet but we are searching our hardest, also informed her the video she was sending me by email has not come through as yet.

After ringing sunny is unsuitable. Kay has decided that temperament is the only thing that matter, height, breed, age, sex are irrelevant.

Sent kay Sunny the QLD horse from horse deals to ask her her opinion. Sent ad and video.

Called kay sat 2nd october just to say hi and remind her to send some photos and they havent found anything suitable as yet.
Kay- lovely old lady. Looking for a best friend for low level ARC. Maybe a few poles, 60cm. Lessons in a group and trail riding, navigation rides. Got sold a mare that bolted with her in an arena and broke her collarbone. Has ridden since, probably a bit nervous. Slightly flexible on all her requirements for the right horse. Happy to buy sight unseen if all due diligence has been done. Must have been to ARC or similar and be proven out and about. Doesn’t need to be flash or high level anything, think she been put off the OTT’s, STB ok. Her favourite horse ever was a quarter horse gelding who responded to voice commands and was just her friend, he’s retired at her place with arthritis. Going to send me a photo, she doesn’t have any video.

We are looking for a family horse and best friend

I am in my mid 40s and rode for many years – as a child to late teens, I rode competively in the ring/dressage. I am getting back into riding and having lessons to get me ride fit. I am a confident rider.

My 8 year old daughter is a beginner and currently in lessons, she is being taught properly in a round yard, no reigns, then no saddle for her balance etc she can now rise and sit trot off the lunge comfortably, stop, start and turn. She will be proceeding to canter after the holidays.

Dream Horse:

See below – A mare that we could later breed would be a bonus, so good bloodlines. Although gelding also fine.

Riding Ambitions:

Looking for a patient “been there and done that” pony my daughter is quite tall and is growing like grass so that is why we are looking for pony around 15hh ( a touch smaller could be ok)

Clearly needs to be safe/sound and something that she may use for interschools when she begins high school – she has showed some interest in dressage.

Please note this will not be a competitive home per say, we are simply looking for a horse that has plenty of experience/education as I enjoy an educated ride, due to my show days and a pony can help my daughter continue to gain confidence and skill – maybe ex show/dressage that maybe ready for an easier life, with weekly rides in the arena/trail, tonnes of love & attention.

Notes:

oct 13 – vet check delayed until next week as horse hit its head. Still keen. Hopefully next Tuesday
oct 5 – called buckskin show pony for her – proved unsuitable
oct 3 – sent her three horses for consideration.

Oct 8- Vet checking one next week. Tuesday onwards in QLD

My daughter has been riding on and off since was was 4 . She is 10 now and very tall .
We need a fist pony for her . A confidence builder and a safe all rounder pony club horse

Dream Horse:

A pretty kind horse that loves aeration and people. Back with a blaze and 4 white socks ( the dream ) then bay then chestnut . A horse I can trust to teach me and keep me safe . 14.3 -15 .2? I am a tall 10 and a half year old.
A vert smooth canter and early to do anything with and enjoys jumping . He/ she can help me with that ! Dressing them up with outfits and bling and loves pretty ribbons in his or her hair .
Must be good with dogs and my cat .. and also other horses .
He will be a pet and loved a lot !

Riding Ambitions:

( from Ruby who is 11 in April )

First horse to begin pony club with for the first time , trial ride with my mum and new horsey friends out side our house in Main Ridge Start shows and learn to canter properly with out a lung group in a large steam and to canter over jumps! I want to do a water jump one day .
…enjoy learning properly on an educated horse who is sensible and fun and easy to do any everything with and loves attention form me !

Safe ,friendly ,pony club ,pretty , been there done that !
Notes:

Grown up and ridden all my life. Grandfather used to breed. Spent some time living in city where there was little activity but living on acreage again for last 3 years and currently own 2 horses for pleasure. One OTT and one Cob cross which was purchased for pleasure harness but proving to be unsuitable.

Dream Horse:

Feel like I’m searching for the impossible ! Looking for a horse for pleasure harness driving. If broken to saddle that would be a bonus but not a deal breaker. Something between 14.3 and 15h needed to fit my Jinker and Buggy. Not fussed on Breed as long as ready to drive and good ground manners and suitable to paddock with my OTT mare who is friendly but can be bossy/nippy at feed time. Have post an rail fencing so no windsuckers either. If we are talking dream horse I would describe a good looking Black gelding at requested height. But have been looking for quite some time so as long as ready to go, friendly and good manners I am flexible.

Riding Ambitions:

I only ride for pleasure so something suitable to drive every week and if broken to saddle then will be ridden on average once a week as well.

Harness
Notes:

Have sent leah a text message each week. Sent her an ad from utopia performance horses just to keep in the loop, but the horse was to big.

Called 2 nd october to say still looking, no match ther than the black gelding as yet.

82 year old man just up to plodding around now.

Dream Horse:

Very quiet, no spook no shy and will stand still while dad clambers on.
Gelding 15-16hands any breed.

Riding Ambitions:

Dad just wants a quiet horse to walk around the paddocks and walk out in the bush

Quiet
Notes:

21/10 sent melia a stockhorse ad from horse deals – grey with stifle lock.

Sent melia aus stock horse but was too small. Really needs 15hh to help her dad get off with his hip.
REstrictied search to VIC only

Called 2nd October. Told her Tiz is back at shory park and that he is having his first ride on Monday and either myself or nikki will be in touch

I’ve been riding since I was 12, I’m now 22, I did pony club for 5 years before getting my first Mare.

Dream Horse:

I’m really wanting a OTT, a pleasure horse that I can use on the weekend and go back to a riding club to compete in comps

Riding Ambitions:

I would love to eventually be able to do dressage

Notes:

Called 4th Oct – sent text message.
Need to clarify paypal payment for this one.
Called 2 nd October and left a message

Looking for my husband Paul. He has done some trail riding and a bit of riding around the farm. He is soft and gentle with all animals and, while tall and fairly athletic, is not heavy.
We have a 4 acre property where the new horse will share paddocks with my gelding, Espy (who Nikki knows quite well :)).

Dream Horse:

Paul needs a friendly, no fuss, safe mount that will become his friend. Experienced, bom-proof, horse that enjoys a trail ride, cuddles and treats. Something that will be happy to bum around a paddock a lot of the time, and then be pulled out and go for a (low speed) adventure somewhere. Must be easy to catch, float, rug, do feet and teeth. Does not need to be super pretty or athletic or classically educated, just needs to be easy, level headed and happy to plod along.

Riding Ambitions:

Paul’s main goal is to be able to feel safe around his new furry friend. And to be able to take him to cool places and ride on the trails.

Notes:

15/10 Nikki spoke to Olga, happy to go down to 15.2hh and stretch budget a touch if needed.

5/10 touched base with olga, she has been in difficult signal. any type suitable for beginner trail riding and multiple riders
4/10 tried calling and left a text messsage.
tried calling olga again 2nd october, still no contact

I started riding at age 9, got my own horse at age 12. I was very competitive at Pony Club in everything (games to showing to grade 3 eventing). At 18, I got an OTT and evented level 2. then stopped riding. I returned to riding in my early 30s and had an OTT and a 16.3hh WB who I evented HRCV grade 3 on. I sold him 7 years ago. This year, I have started riding again under instruction on my friend’s WB doing mainly dressage. This has stopped in lockdown though as I live in Melbourne.

Dream Horse:

15.2-16hh – nice movement and a love of jumping. Must be good out on trails and rarely refuse jumps. Bonus points for brown or black horses and ones that are a bit smoochy! The dream is the horse has had some exposure or success at events but I am beginning to give up hope of that.

Riding Ambitions:

I am looking to do a bit of everything. I will be under instruction and will be able to get a trainer to help if the horse is a little green. My ambition is to do ARC, trail riding, low level eventing and straight dressage. I am not a nervous rider but I don’t want a horse that bucks or bolts. The odd pigroot is ok. Bad ground manners ok. Horse must load on the float well.

Notes:

9/10 lucys horse passed vet and is being transported to victoria on tuesday 12th. Nikki to call/message and discuss a potential partial refund
3/10 – lucy informed has found a horse in SA sight unseen she is getting vetted next week.
Chatted to Lucy. Really easy going lady. In lockdown and wants to test ride so probably leave till restrictions are lifted.
She tried Alfie with Keely and didn’t feel that it was quite educated enough or responsive enough to the aids. She has tried 3 so far and regretted not buying one on advice from the vet, which is now sold.
Her last own horse was 7 years ago. Flexible on everything but definitely no taller than 16.1 as she has short legs.
Point and shoot jumper. Comp exp to grade 3, maybe higher in dressage.
Must not wind suck
Will be kept at Agistment which is all organised.
Must load. Doesn’t have to be super quiet, just not nasty

Been riding since I was a kid. Currently level 2 hrcav dressage and 65cm jumping. I’m nervous rider since having my kids.

Dream Horse:

Something quiet enough that doesn’t need to be ridden every day. Happy to trail ride down the road one day quietly, go to riding club the next and then do a comp the next 🙂 no fuss, quiet. Not fussed on age breed gender as long as it’s quiet , sensible.
Must be forward thinking. If small, prefer chunky as I’m 5”5. Sensible to jump as nervous jumping. Uncomplicated on the flat.

Riding Ambitions:

Hrcav dressage, low level eventing, trail ride. Don’t want to go to the Olympic – want to feel safe and have fun with something super safe and sensible.

Quiet
Notes:

oct 13 – I’ve been sending horses to Lisa daily. Nearly bought a haffy in SA but missed out. Still keen to buy if right one comes along.
9/10 lisa has first option on a free lease horse. 22 yr old mare, being brought back into work. Open to looking a thorses to buy in the meantime incase the horse isnt a fit.

Nikki has a horse coming up she sold 5 years ago. Lisa keen to wait for this one and not really hear about any others.
16 and under in age. Located in pakenham so currently in lockdown.
must have competed 2/3 jumping and 1/2 dressage. Educated and must be in front of the leg. Maybe share with daughter eventually.. $12,000 ideal spend but can stretch to $15,000. Nervous rider. Bought Regan from SP

I rode when I was little (PC) and then a significant break. I had a standy that I rescued as my first horse back. I have since had a Welsh x ARP and ride quite often on my property (covid) I have been to several ARC rallies and a few shows.

Dream Horse:

Not too tall. About 15.2 Max. Does not have to be the best looking horse on the lot, but its a MUST, that he/she be able to go on a trail ride and low level ARC. A good confidence builder…

Riding Ambitions:

Eventually be confident enough to go to more comps, but firstly just enjoy the company of myself and my horse. Bring the joy back to riding again….

Notes:

Sent melissa nice paint. Nikki called. She bought it!!
10/10 sent melissa, haflinger from mildura. Melissa is firm on 14.2 hh and upwards.
Horse she was going to see was cancalled on her.
5/10 going to try the horse on thursday night
4/10 spoke to melissa going to ring about the qh x tb, 11 yr old.
Oct 3rd sent her qh x tb mare for her opinion
Oct 2nd Melissa expanded search to include
16 hands
Melissa law. Bought teddy from you, last year ,14 months ago. She adores him but just too spooky and sensitive. She’s broken her wrist off him in an indoor arena and had another major fall. Daughter has moved onto to OTT they love. They will keep teddy and lease him.
This horse is just for Melissa. Flexible on all points listed. She has definitely lost her confidence and was quite emotional to talk to. Horse will be used for trail riding and dressage. She is graded level 5 dressage and showing. Wants something with tested competition experience.
Warrandyte is metro but once out happy to travel around Vic and borders. Would be open to sight unseen but I’m not sure that this is right for her judging by how emotional she got.

Ridding on and off until 11 joined pony club at 13 and compete in all aspects. Age 18 left pony club and compete in grade 5 open eventing at age 23 sadly had to retire my horse I had since I was 17 and haven’t ridden since

Dream Horse:

A quiet sensible horse that is straight forward to saddle up and easy to get on that is established and brave willing jumper doesn’t have to be show quality or the prettiest horse understanding as I’m not the most balanced rider

Riding Ambitions:

To mainly ride at home and go to the odd eventing competition at grade 5 level but I don’t care if I don’t place just so long as I can get around the cross country course safely I have enough ribbons for a life time from my old horse budget will grow the longer it takes don’t care about waiting

Ring between 8:00 and 8:15 in the morning and 5.10 and 5:30 at night due to work hours can email during the day
Notes:

20/11
Sent claire stunning bay gelding in QLD for her opinion.Spoke to claire. Best way to communicate with her is text message. Grade 4 is her ambition with the horse. Something that can go out a t grade 5 now. She says she is a confident rider on a quiet and easy horse. Not happy to go under 10years old, but happy to go older. Prefer to stay in VIC, but at the same time open to options. Not able to increase budget at this point in time.
Called 5.18pm 11/10 – left text message.
Called 8.05 this morning and left a voice message 11/10 saying I will call back at 5.10 this afternoon.

Hi Claire,

Thanks so much for enlisting the help to find your new mount! We are thrilled to be able to assist you.

We will start the hunt immediately and you will be started to send options that may suit! With your budget obviously being a touch lower, I think more the older style with plenty of experience and calm nature but slightly winding down may suit? Hopefully similar to what you were thinking.

Please shoot through or feel free to call anytime – we will text / email options as we discover them.

You will hear from either myself, Nikki or my co-worker an Match maker extraordinaire Heleni (H) will be in contact soon,

Many thanks,
Nikki Cook
Match My Ride
0421 506 215 ​

Weekly lessons last 4-5 years. No regular last two years due to Covid-19.
Trail riding
Fallen off x2 on my new horse- broke my sternum
Loss of confidence now in riding.

Dream Horse:

Bombproof
Older
Been there done that
Taught beginners
Calm
Able to carry my weight 80kgs
Gelding but not a deal breaker
Clyde x or Standy not a deal breaker
Gentle
Good ground manners
Very limited spookiness and if he does- does not throw me

Riding Ambitions:

Weekly lessons
Ride out alone on agistment property x2 weekly
Trail riding – float to different places
Build my confidence back up so I can do small jumps and canter again

Bombproof
Notes:

oct 13 – have sent Luisa 2 or 3 to consider. She wants very comprehensive videos if she cannot view in person (fair enough). Happy to buy sight unseen but video must be clear.
Oct 8 – spoke to Luisa. Had a terrible fall so looking for completely bombproof ideally.

Budget – would look up to $20k if it was perfect!

Doesn’t like Appy eyes (worried about blindness).

Ideally just pleasure riding, may expand to ARC if she finds a proper no fuss unicorn.

– She’s in metro and would like to ride (Can only go 15km from home). But has friends in regional or would be happy if we could view too. So VIC only. But happy for sight unseen if friend could possibly ride.

Lovely lady but has had quite the spook so proper unicorns only, realistically a beginner who is scared to canter.

Rode as a teen for a couple of years, then rode again in my early 30s for a couple of years. Mostly trail riding and pleasure.
I have not ridden for about 15 years

Dream Horse:

Confidence builder
height 14.2- 16hh
breed not important
unflappable temperament
experience with trails, ARC, doesn’t mid motor bikes (we have a few go through the bush)

Riding Ambitions:

I am a mature age rider looking to regain my confidence in trail riding and some ARC, pleasure riding and natural horsemanship. I am also interested in endurance rides.

Confidence builder
Notes:

oct 12 – sent Sue a lovely QH but she was worried about soundness. Would have been perfect but alas the hunt continues. Would prefer to view in person.
Spoke to Sue 11/10 Located in Bendigo, happy to look anywhere in vic. Not so much other states as important she rides the horse before purchase.
Preference would be gelding. Flat and jumping level grade 5. Doesnt matter if no jumping. Used for trailriding and potentially endurance. Needs to be ridden in company and on its own. Safe around kangaroos and motorbikes. Not spooky.
Been looking for 6 months. Ready to purchase now. Horse will be kept on agistment so no windsuckers.

“Was a experienced rider “
Have not ridden for around 20 years

Dream Horse:

easy to handle
not flighty
has some go

Riding Ambitions:

Moving from Melbourne to farm at Terang in December
General farm work
trial rides etc

Notes:

Chatted to Anthony- he has a dream horse in his mind!! Decided to delay search and call him first nov as he’s in Melbourne and wants to try his future purchase. He hasn’t ridden at all in 20 years and believes it’s just like riding a bike. He’s just bought 150 acres in terang so he wants either a stock horse or thoroughbred to canter round his 150 acres on checking the stock. Although he wrote no preference with breed he is not keen on a standardbred. He’s 6 foot 3 and 100 kilos so 16h upwards. Not keen to go past 12 yrs old at a maximum. Horse just for farm riding so dressage/jump not important. I think he wants the horse to arrive the day after he moves in!!! He has no where to keep a horse so if purchased before the move it would need to agist (maybe with you). Will look at horses for the rest of the family at a later date.

We are looking for a new pony for our 12 year old granddaughter who has been riding since she was 7.
She regularly attends our local Pony Club and has weekly lessons with a very good instructor.
She is not a hugely competitive child but enjoys Pony Club competitions and has done a couple of dressage comps.
She is currently jumping 50cms in competition and training over 60cms and has done Prelim dressage 1A in a few competitions.

Dream Horse:

We are looking for an experienced, reliable, kind and safe Pony Club mount who has been to plenty of shows and competitions. Ideally we would like something that could take our granddaughter up to about 70-80cms in showjumping and is also well schooled enough to do a bit of dressage and some Pony Club ODEs.
Minimum height would be 13.2hh although 13.3 to 14hh would be preferable. We would prefer a gelding but it’s not a deal breaker if the right pony is a mare.
We would prefer something in the age range of about 8 to 16 years but again would consider an older pony if everything else was right. Nothing over 19 though as it will eventually be handed down to the younger granddaughter.

Riding Ambitions:

To continue attending Pony Club rallys and competitions – show jumping, dressage and ODEs.
To increase show jumping and eventing heights to around 70 – 80cms.
Be able to go for pleasant outrides to the beach and forest and to build on the confidence her current pony has given her.
To have fun!

Experienced Pony Club mount
Notes:

21/10 spoke with Alison – she was a bit bust today ad would like me to call her the same time tomorrow.

We have owned our own stock horse gelding that my daughter rode for over 10 years and he has now semi-retired. In that time I had the some lessons on him, but not consistently. He is not a beginners horse and is very sensitive to aids with a very soft mouth, so I am not a complete beginner in the sense that I know how to be a quiet and gentle rider without hanging on the mouth or flapping my legs about, but I have not done much out of the walk so am definitely still a beginner.

In the lessons we worked mainly in the walk to establish good seat and leg aids, good riding position, gentle hands/aids, and how to get the horse listening and working calmly. I do not have a lot of riding experience outside of these lessons.

I have been handling him and caring for him the whole time we have owned him, so am at an intermediate level for handling and experienced in caring. He is generally a quiet and easy horse to be around (hence intermediate rather than experienced), although can get pushy when food is involved, and also can get nervy when not in work.

Dream Horse:

I am looking for a unicorn and would love a horse that will take care of me in the saddle and enjoys interacting with people. This horse will be a member of the family and we will be a forever home for the right fit.

It must have trail experience, both alone and in company, as I plan on doing a lot of trails. The alone part is very important, as I will often be trail riding alone, and need a horse who is comfortable doing that. As I am a beginner, more woah-than-go would be preferred, and must not be known to bolt on trails (even if the other horses take off), or be spooky.

I will also be having flat lessons to improve my riding, so the horse must have a good basic education. While the more education the better, I have no plans on climbing the dressage levels so it’s not necessary to have high level dressage education or anything like that. As long as the horse is more educated than me, I will be happy.

One more thing that is very important for me, is that the horse will not be in work 5 days a week. I need a horse who will be okay without consistent work, and who’s temperament doesn’t change if they haven’t been ridden in a week. I need to be able to hope on for a plod down the road, or a little work in the arena without the horse being too hot.

Ideally, we would be paddocking the new horse without our gelding. So a horse that is sensible when paddocked together would be great, but we do have room to paddock separately if we had to, so not a deal breaker.

No OTT or green horses as I don’t have the experience. Must be good to catch/shoe/float/teeth, and no bite, buck, kick or bolt. Must be sound. I would prefer no windsuckers. Must be good around farm machinery/dogs/traffic.

I have put 14.2hh-15.2hh, if closer to 14hh would prefer a stockier breed as I am tall (5 7 but light).
Age isn’t a big concern, experience and temperament is more important. While 15yo isn’t a hard max, I do want something that I can ride for a number of years to come, so must be sound/no arthritis.

I would prefer a gelding, but am definitely open to a mare if she ticks all the boxes. As for breed, I am not set on anything in particular, but would love something with the temperament of a QH or clydie. I would prefer no TBs, arabs or breed that are known to be a bit hotter/require more consistent work.

Little managable quirks and personality is welcome, as long as the horse is safe. Safety is my biggest priority.

Overall, I need a horse that has been there, done that. Already had the miles put in and exposure. I don’t want a dressage superstar, or anything flashy, just a good honest horse who is happy to have a beginner learn on it.

Riding Ambitions:

I am a mature woman rider who is a beginner so my ambitions are quite low. I want to do a lot of trail riding, as there are some great places from my front door, and I want to have flat lessons.

I will be having lessons to improve my riding abilities, so the horse must have a solid basic education as I do not have the experience to further this myself.
I have no plans to jump, if the horse knows how it is a bonus but not required.

I want a pleasure riding horse, where I can enjoy the trails and improve my own abilities, while also having a great companion. I have no plans to compete, to jump, or to show. On average, I will probably be riding 1-2 times a week.

We have recently purchased our own property, and the horse we end up finding will be very loved and cared for.

I am located in Kyneton/regional VIC, and am willing to travel anywhere in VIC, COVID restrictions allowing, to view a horse. I am not comfortable buying sight unseen.

beginner; trail riding
Notes:

21/10 called sue and left a voice mail and a text message.

My 10yo son is a confident beginner/novice coming off a small pony (11.3hh). He has been riding for about 4 years, attended Seville Pony Club for 3.5 years (Grade 5), taken part in low level Dressage and CT comps (in the ribbons) and has attended Brenda Mitton Eventing Clinics. Has a growing interest in jumping and also enjoys trail riding. Has had limited experience riding larger mounts, so will be supported by private instruction to help him make the transition.

Dream Horse:

Looking for a partner in crime – 13.3hh (stocky) – 14.3 hh mare or gelding, 8 – 16 years old. Allrounder type with a bit of exposure/experience to support a junior rider. Confidence builder (probably more whoa than go). Don’t mind a little aged as long as sound and free moving. No vices, no wind suckers, no laminitic ponies (very grass-rich region). Should enjoy jumping (Grade 5/4). Should be happy to receive love and attention from kids. Would love a Welsh-type, but not fussy. Prefer 12k budget unless tack included – can stretch a bit for special candidate.

Riding Ambitions:

Mount to be suitable for PC, low level comps including XC, the odd show and trails. Rider likes to have fun but is ready for more technical instruction.

Confidence builder, children’s mount.
Notes:

sent text 21/10 to acknowledge reciept of videos
Called 20/10. True second pony for a 10 yr old boy coming off a lazy well schooled pony. 14 hh is ideal but room to move.
Confident little rider but when they have tried a few that have locked onto the jump and gone, the boy has been a bit worried. They are located in Yarra Valley metro, and ready to buy now. Within vic only please. They are a horsey family and ride together. Seems knowledgeable and easy to deal with.

I have had horses for 51 years and can provide a very experienced and loving home. I have managed ponies with laminitis and weight issues.

Dream Horse:

I am looking for a first pony for my 5 year old granddaughter to learn to ride and her 3 year old sister to have a sit on. The pony can be any breed or colour, temperament is the key, the pony can be older but I would prefer a pony under 20 if possible.

Riding Ambitions:

I would like to be able to lead the pony at the walk and trot for the 5 year old and eventually for her to learn to ride independently. I have a fenced Menage so this can be done safely. I would like the girls to be able to brush the pony and to be safe around the pony while learning all the rules and correct handling.

Bombproof, safe with children
Notes:

Currently getting one vetted.
Oct 13 – Also sent a clients little paint shetland Jelly – an absolute ripper. $5000 inc all gear. Not advertised yet.
Oct 13 – Checking out a Welsh via FaceTime viewing onSaturday I sent through off Horsedeals. Looks a ripper hope they’re not too slow! Nikki

Spent time searching through shetland sales aus, pony sites, no luck.

Sent her one nikki sent through but in tamworth NSW so no interest.

5/10 jane declined black pony and limited her search to Vic only

4/10 sent jane black shetland pony.

Quiet paddock pony wanted , super safe, lead rein shetland

Spoke to Jane. Really nice and experienced horse owner. Pony for 2 yr old and 5yr old, to walk and trot around on , on and off lead.
Happy to look at ponies 2 hrs radius of Doreen (your place included). Also happy to buy sight unseen with FaceTime viewing.
Flexible on size but no super wide shetlands. $3000-$4000 ideally but a little more for something perfect. She would like something with 5-6yrs left in it or very gentle, occasional riding. Nothing that needs cushings medication. Would go to 21-22yrs if young 21-22.
Not looking for a show pony or competition pony. Just a good quiet pull out the paddock pony.
Searching on and off for a year , COVID been an issue for her. Ready to buy now.

I have a 12yr old confident beginner/novice and a 15yr old novice/intermediate both have done long trail rides lots of holiday programs and we have a 12h pony that we are leasing as a short term who is a bit tricky to ride so they are gaining lots of experience my 15yr old also has ridden friends horses but we have moved to a 65acre property and are looking for our first horse

Dream Horse:

14h-15.3h standard breed, stock horse quiet but will do 3paces easily, responsive but not go, easy to catch,shoe etc just nice manners good around dogs,cows, sheep

Riding Ambitions:

We would like a horse just for a leisure, ride on the farm, occasionally trail riding and on roads something that u can pull out of paddock and jump on

Quiet first horse
Notes:

Nikki spoken to , viewing one today on nikkis reccomendation

Rode my quarterhorse as a pleasure horse until I retired him after 4 years due to arthritis. I was sold a thoroughbred mare by a friend as suitable for a novice – she bolted and broke my collar bone 2 years ago. Now I’m riding a friends Welshie on loan to build my confidence and trust I horses

Dream Horse:

Sane sensible sound
Doesn’t need to be a school master but an all rounder and not ‘quirky’

Riding Ambitions:

To have fun – I’m not interested in serious competitions

Sane sensible chilled
Notes:

16/10 messaged kay to let her know nothing has coming up as yet but we are searching our hardest, also informed her the video she was sending me by email has not come through as yet.

After ringing sunny is unsuitable. Kay has decided that temperament is the only thing that matter, height, breed, age, sex are irrelevant.

Sent kay Sunny the QLD horse from horse deals to ask her her opinion. Sent ad and video.

Called kay sat 2nd october just to say hi and remind her to send some photos and they havent found anything suitable as yet.
Kay- lovely old lady. Looking for a best friend for low level ARC. Maybe a few poles, 60cm. Lessons in a group and trail riding, navigation rides. Got sold a mare that bolted with her in an arena and broke her collarbone. Has ridden since, probably a bit nervous. Slightly flexible on all her requirements for the right horse. Happy to buy sight unseen if all due diligence has been done. Must have been to ARC or similar and be proven out and about. Doesn’t need to be flash or high level anything, think she been put off the OTT’s, STB ok. Her favourite horse ever was a quarter horse gelding who responded to voice commands and was just her friend, he’s retired at her place with arthritis. Going to send me a photo, she doesn’t have any video.

We are looking for a family horse and best friend

I am in my mid 40s and rode for many years – as a child to late teens, I rode competively in the ring/dressage. I am getting back into riding and having lessons to get me ride fit. I am a confident rider.

My 8 year old daughter is a beginner and currently in lessons, she is being taught properly in a round yard, no reigns, then no saddle for her balance etc she can now rise and sit trot off the lunge comfortably, stop, start and turn. She will be proceeding to canter after the holidays.

Dream Horse:

See below – A mare that we could later breed would be a bonus, so good bloodlines. Although gelding also fine.

Riding Ambitions:

Looking for a patient “been there and done that” pony my daughter is quite tall and is growing like grass so that is why we are looking for pony around 15hh ( a touch smaller could be ok)

Clearly needs to be safe/sound and something that she may use for interschools when she begins high school – she has showed some interest in dressage.

Please note this will not be a competitive home per say, we are simply looking for a horse that has plenty of experience/education as I enjoy an educated ride, due to my show days and a pony can help my daughter continue to gain confidence and skill – maybe ex show/dressage that maybe ready for an easier life, with weekly rides in the arena/trail, tonnes of love & attention.

Notes:

oct 13 – vet check delayed until next week as horse hit its head. Still keen. Hopefully next Tuesday
oct 5 – called buckskin show pony for her – proved unsuitable
oct 3 – sent her three horses for consideration.

Oct 8- Vet checking one next week. Tuesday onwards in QLD

My daughter has been riding on and off since was was 4 . She is 10 now and very tall .
We need a fist pony for her . A confidence builder and a safe all rounder pony club horse

Dream Horse:

A pretty kind horse that loves aeration and people. Back with a blaze and 4 white socks ( the dream ) then bay then chestnut . A horse I can trust to teach me and keep me safe . 14.3 -15 .2? I am a tall 10 and a half year old.
A vert smooth canter and early to do anything with and enjoys jumping . He/ she can help me with that ! Dressing them up with outfits and bling and loves pretty ribbons in his or her hair .
Must be good with dogs and my cat .. and also other horses .
He will be a pet and loved a lot !

Riding Ambitions:

( from Ruby who is 11 in April )

First horse to begin pony club with for the first time , trial ride with my mum and new horsey friends out side our house in Main Ridge Start shows and learn to canter properly with out a lung group in a large steam and to canter over jumps! I want to do a water jump one day .
…enjoy learning properly on an educated horse who is sensible and fun and easy to do any everything with and loves attention form me !

Safe ,friendly ,pony club ,pretty , been there done that !
Notes:

Grown up and ridden all my life. Grandfather used to breed. Spent some time living in city where there was little activity but living on acreage again for last 3 years and currently own 2 horses for pleasure. One OTT and one Cob cross which was purchased for pleasure harness but proving to be unsuitable.

Dream Horse:

Feel like I’m searching for the impossible ! Looking for a horse for pleasure harness driving. If broken to saddle that would be a bonus but not a deal breaker. Something between 14.3 and 15h needed to fit my Jinker and Buggy. Not fussed on Breed as long as ready to drive and good ground manners and suitable to paddock with my OTT mare who is friendly but can be bossy/nippy at feed time. Have post an rail fencing so no windsuckers either. If we are talking dream horse I would describe a good looking Black gelding at requested height. But have been looking for quite some time so as long as ready to go, friendly and good manners I am flexible.

Riding Ambitions:

I only ride for pleasure so something suitable to drive every week and if broken to saddle then will be ridden on average once a week as well.

Harness
Notes:

Have sent leah a text message each week. Sent her an ad from utopia performance horses just to keep in the loop, but the horse was to big.

Called 2 nd october to say still looking, no match ther than the black gelding as yet.

82 year old man just up to plodding around now.

Dream Horse:

Very quiet, no spook no shy and will stand still while dad clambers on.
Gelding 15-16hands any breed.

Riding Ambitions:

Dad just wants a quiet horse to walk around the paddocks and walk out in the bush

Quiet
Notes:

21/10 sent melia a stockhorse ad from horse deals – grey with stifle lock.

Sent melia aus stock horse but was too small. Really needs 15hh to help her dad get off with his hip.
REstrictied search to VIC only

Called 2nd October. Told her Tiz is back at shory park and that he is having his first ride on Monday and either myself or nikki will be in touch

I’ve been riding since I was 12, I’m now 22, I did pony club for 5 years before getting my first Mare.

Dream Horse:

I’m really wanting a OTT, a pleasure horse that I can use on the weekend and go back to a riding club to compete in comps

Riding Ambitions:

I would love to eventually be able to do dressage

Notes:

Called 4th Oct – sent text message.
Need to clarify paypal payment for this one.
Called 2 nd October and left a message

Looking for my husband Paul. He has done some trail riding and a bit of riding around the farm. He is soft and gentle with all animals and, while tall and fairly athletic, is not heavy.
We have a 4 acre property where the new horse will share paddocks with my gelding, Espy (who Nikki knows quite well :)).

Dream Horse:

Paul needs a friendly, no fuss, safe mount that will become his friend. Experienced, bom-proof, horse that enjoys a trail ride, cuddles and treats. Something that will be happy to bum around a paddock a lot of the time, and then be pulled out and go for a (low speed) adventure somewhere. Must be easy to catch, float, rug, do feet and teeth. Does not need to be super pretty or athletic or classically educated, just needs to be easy, level headed and happy to plod along.

Riding Ambitions:

Paul’s main goal is to be able to feel safe around his new furry friend. And to be able to take him to cool places and ride on the trails.

Notes:

15/10 Nikki spoke to Olga, happy to go down to 15.2hh and stretch budget a touch if needed.

5/10 touched base with olga, she has been in difficult signal. any type suitable for beginner trail riding and multiple riders
4/10 tried calling and left a text messsage.
tried calling olga again 2nd october, still no contact

I started riding at age 9, got my own horse at age 12. I was very competitive at Pony Club in everything (games to showing to grade 3 eventing). At 18, I got an OTT and evented level 2. then stopped riding. I returned to riding in my early 30s and had an OTT and a 16.3hh WB who I evented HRCV grade 3 on. I sold him 7 years ago. This year, I have started riding again under instruction on my friend’s WB doing mainly dressage. This has stopped in lockdown though as I live in Melbourne.

Dream Horse:

15.2-16hh – nice movement and a love of jumping. Must be good out on trails and rarely refuse jumps. Bonus points for brown or black horses and ones that are a bit smoochy! The dream is the horse has had some exposure or success at events but I am beginning to give up hope of that.

Riding Ambitions:

I am looking to do a bit of everything. I will be under instruction and will be able to get a trainer to help if the horse is a little green. My ambition is to do ARC, trail riding, low level eventing and straight dressage. I am not a nervous rider but I don’t want a horse that bucks or bolts. The odd pigroot is ok. Bad ground manners ok. Horse must load on the float well.

Notes:

9/10 lucys horse passed vet and is being transported to victoria on tuesday 12th. Nikki to call/message and discuss a potential partial refund
3/10 – lucy informed has found a horse in SA sight unseen she is getting vetted next week.
Chatted to Lucy. Really easy going lady. In lockdown and wants to test ride so probably leave till restrictions are lifted.
She tried Alfie with Keely and didn’t feel that it was quite educated enough or responsive enough to the aids. She has tried 3 so far and regretted not buying one on advice from the vet, which is now sold.
Her last own horse was 7 years ago. Flexible on everything but definitely no taller than 16.1 as she has short legs.
Point and shoot jumper. Comp exp to grade 3, maybe higher in dressage.
Must not wind suck
Will be kept at Agistment which is all organised.
Must load. Doesn’t have to be super quiet, just not nasty

Been riding since I was a kid. Currently level 2 hrcav dressage and 65cm jumping. I’m nervous rider since having my kids.

Dream Horse:

Something quiet enough that doesn’t need to be ridden every day. Happy to trail ride down the road one day quietly, go to riding club the next and then do a comp the next 🙂 no fuss, quiet. Not fussed on age breed gender as long as it’s quiet , sensible.
Must be forward thinking. If small, prefer chunky as I’m 5”5. Sensible to jump as nervous jumping. Uncomplicated on the flat.

Riding Ambitions:

Hrcav dressage, low level eventing, trail ride. Don’t want to go to the Olympic – want to feel safe and have fun with something super safe and sensible.

Quiet
Notes:

oct 13 – I’ve been sending horses to Lisa daily. Nearly bought a haffy in SA but missed out. Still keen to buy if right one comes along.
9/10 lisa has first option on a free lease horse. 22 yr old mare, being brought back into work. Open to looking a thorses to buy in the meantime incase the horse isnt a fit.

Nikki has a horse coming up she sold 5 years ago. Lisa keen to wait for this one and not really hear about any others.
16 and under in age. Located in pakenham so currently in lockdown.
must have competed 2/3 jumping and 1/2 dressage. Educated and must be in front of the leg. Maybe share with daughter eventually.. $12,000 ideal spend but can stretch to $15,000. Nervous rider. Bought Regan from SP

I rode when I was little (PC) and then a significant break. I had a standy that I rescued as my first horse back. I have since had a Welsh x ARP and ride quite often on my property (covid) I have been to several ARC rallies and a few shows.

Dream Horse:

Not too tall. About 15.2 Max. Does not have to be the best looking horse on the lot, but its a MUST, that he/she be able to go on a trail ride and low level ARC. A good confidence builder…

Riding Ambitions:

Eventually be confident enough to go to more comps, but firstly just enjoy the company of myself and my horse. Bring the joy back to riding again….

Notes:

Sent melissa nice paint. Nikki called. She bought it!!
10/10 sent melissa, haflinger from mildura. Melissa is firm on 14.2 hh and upwards.
Horse she was going to see was cancalled on her.
5/10 going to try the horse on thursday night
4/10 spoke to melissa going to ring about the qh x tb, 11 yr old.
Oct 3rd sent her qh x tb mare for her opinion
Oct 2nd Melissa expanded search to include
16 hands
Melissa law. Bought teddy from you, last year ,14 months ago. She adores him but just too spooky and sensitive. She’s broken her wrist off him in an indoor arena and had another major fall. Daughter has moved onto to OTT they love. They will keep teddy and lease him.
This horse is just for Melissa. Flexible on all points listed. She has definitely lost her confidence and was quite emotional to talk to. Horse will be used for trail riding and dressage. She is graded level 5 dressage and showing. Wants something with tested competition experience.
Warrandyte is metro but once out happy to travel around Vic and borders. Would be open to sight unseen but I’m not sure that this is right for her judging by how emotional she got.

Ridding on and off until 11 joined pony club at 13 and compete in all aspects. Age 18 left pony club and compete in grade 5 open eventing at age 23 sadly had to retire my horse I had since I was 17 and haven’t ridden since

Dream Horse:

A quiet sensible horse that is straight forward to saddle up and easy to get on that is established and brave willing jumper doesn’t have to be show quality or the prettiest horse understanding as I’m not the most balanced rider

Riding Ambitions:

To mainly ride at home and go to the odd eventing competition at grade 5 level but I don’t care if I don’t place just so long as I can get around the cross country course safely I have enough ribbons for a life time from my old horse budget will grow the longer it takes don’t care about waiting

Ring between 8:00 and 8:15 in the morning and 5.10 and 5:30 at night due to work hours can email during the day
Notes:

20/11
Sent claire stunning bay gelding in QLD for her opinion.Spoke to claire. Best way to communicate with her is text message. Grade 4 is her ambition with the horse. Something that can go out a t grade 5 now. She says she is a confident rider on a quiet and easy horse. Not happy to go under 10years old, but happy to go older. Prefer to stay in VIC, but at the same time open to options. Not able to increase budget at this point in time.
Called 5.18pm 11/10 – left text message.
Called 8.05 this morning and left a voice message 11/10 saying I will call back at 5.10 this afternoon.

Hi Claire,

Thanks so much for enlisting the help to find your new mount! We are thrilled to be able to assist you.

We will start the hunt immediately and you will be started to send options that may suit! With your budget obviously being a touch lower, I think more the older style with plenty of experience and calm nature but slightly winding down may suit? Hopefully similar to what you were thinking.

Please shoot through or feel free to call anytime – we will text / email options as we discover them.

You will hear from either myself, Nikki or my co-worker an Match maker extraordinaire Heleni (H) will be in contact soon,

Many thanks,
Nikki Cook
Match My Ride
0421 506 215 ​

Weekly lessons last 4-5 years. No regular last two years due to Covid-19.
Trail riding
Fallen off x2 on my new horse- broke my sternum
Loss of confidence now in riding.

Dream Horse:

Bombproof
Older
Been there done that
Taught beginners
Calm
Able to carry my weight 80kgs
Gelding but not a deal breaker
Clyde x or Standy not a deal breaker
Gentle
Good ground manners
Very limited spookiness and if he does- does not throw me

Riding Ambitions:

Weekly lessons
Ride out alone on agistment property x2 weekly
Trail riding – float to different places
Build my confidence back up so I can do small jumps and canter again

Bombproof
Notes:

oct 13 – have sent Luisa 2 or 3 to consider. She wants very comprehensive videos if she cannot view in person (fair enough). Happy to buy sight unseen but video must be clear.
Oct 8 – spoke to Luisa. Had a terrible fall so looking for completely bombproof ideally.

Budget – would look up to $20k if it was perfect!

Doesn’t like Appy eyes (worried about blindness).

Ideally just pleasure riding, may expand to ARC if she finds a proper no fuss unicorn.

– She’s in metro and would like to ride (Can only go 15km from home). But has friends in regional or would be happy if we could view too. So VIC only. But happy for sight unseen if friend could possibly ride.

Lovely lady but has had quite the spook so proper unicorns only, realistically a beginner who is scared to canter.

Rode as a teen for a couple of years, then rode again in my early 30s for a couple of years. Mostly trail riding and pleasure.
I have not ridden for about 15 years

Dream Horse:

Confidence builder
height 14.2- 16hh
breed not important
unflappable temperament
experience with trails, ARC, doesn’t mid motor bikes (we have a few go through the bush)

Riding Ambitions:

I am a mature age rider looking to regain my confidence in trail riding and some ARC, pleasure riding and natural horsemanship. I am also interested in endurance rides.

Confidence builder
Notes:

oct 12 – sent Sue a lovely QH but she was worried about soundness. Would have been perfect but alas the hunt continues. Would prefer to view in person.
Spoke to Sue 11/10 Located in Bendigo, happy to look anywhere in vic. Not so much other states as important she rides the horse before purchase.
Preference would be gelding. Flat and jumping level grade 5. Doesnt matter if no jumping. Used for trailriding and potentially endurance. Needs to be ridden in company and on its own. Safe around kangaroos and motorbikes. Not spooky.
Been looking for 6 months. Ready to purchase now. Horse will be kept on agistment so no windsuckers.

“Was a experienced rider “
Have not ridden for around 20 years

Dream Horse:

easy to handle
not flighty
has some go

Riding Ambitions:

Moving from Melbourne to farm at Terang in December
General farm work
trial rides etc

Notes:

Chatted to Anthony- he has a dream horse in his mind!! Decided to delay search and call him first nov as he’s in Melbourne and wants to try his future purchase. He hasn’t ridden at all in 20 years and believes it’s just like riding a bike. He’s just bought 150 acres in terang so he wants either a stock horse or thoroughbred to canter round his 150 acres on checking the stock. Although he wrote no preference with breed he is not keen on a standardbred. He’s 6 foot 3 and 100 kilos so 16h upwards. Not keen to go past 12 yrs old at a maximum. Horse just for farm riding so dressage/jump not important. I think he wants the horse to arrive the day after he moves in!!! He has no where to keep a horse so if purchased before the move it would need to agist (maybe with you). Will look at horses for the rest of the family at a later date.

We are looking for a new pony for our 12 year old granddaughter who has been riding since she was 7.
She regularly attends our local Pony Club and has weekly lessons with a very good instructor.
She is not a hugely competitive child but enjoys Pony Club competitions and has done a couple of dressage comps.
She is currently jumping 50cms in competition and training over 60cms and has done Prelim dressage 1A in a few competitions.

Dream Horse:

We are looking for an experienced, reliable, kind and safe Pony Club mount who has been to plenty of shows and competitions. Ideally we would like something that could take our granddaughter up to about 70-80cms in showjumping and is also well schooled enough to do a bit of dressage and some Pony Club ODEs.
Minimum height would be 13.2hh although 13.3 to 14hh would be preferable. We would prefer a gelding but it’s not a deal breaker if the right pony is a mare.
We would prefer something in the age range of about 8 to 16 years but again would consider an older pony if everything else was right. Nothing over 19 though as it will eventually be handed down to the younger granddaughter.

Riding Ambitions:

To continue attending Pony Club rallys and competitions – show jumping, dressage and ODEs.
To increase show jumping and eventing heights to around 70 – 80cms.
Be able to go for pleasant outrides to the beach and forest and to build on the confidence her current pony has given her.
To have fun!

Experienced Pony Club mount
Notes:

21/10 spoke with Alison – she was a bit bust today ad would like me to call her the same time tomorrow.

We have owned our own stock horse gelding that my daughter rode for over 10 years and he has now semi-retired. In that time I had the some lessons on him, but not consistently. He is not a beginners horse and is very sensitive to aids with a very soft mouth, so I am not a complete beginner in the sense that I know how to be a quiet and gentle rider without hanging on the mouth or flapping my legs about, but I have not done much out of the walk so am definitely still a beginner.

In the lessons we worked mainly in the walk to establish good seat and leg aids, good riding position, gentle hands/aids, and how to get the horse listening and working calmly. I do not have a lot of riding experience outside of these lessons.

I have been handling him and caring for him the whole time we have owned him, so am at an intermediate level for handling and experienced in caring. He is generally a quiet and easy horse to be around (hence intermediate rather than experienced), although can get pushy when food is involved, and also can get nervy when not in work.

Dream Horse:

I am looking for a unicorn and would love a horse that will take care of me in the saddle and enjoys interacting with people. This horse will be a member of the family and we will be a forever home for the right fit.

It must have trail experience, both alone and in company, as I plan on doing a lot of trails. The alone part is very important, as I will often be trail riding alone, and need a horse who is comfortable doing that. As I am a beginner, more woah-than-go would be preferred, and must not be known to bolt on trails (even if the other horses take off), or be spooky.

I will also be having flat lessons to improve my riding, so the horse must have a good basic education. While the more education the better, I have no plans on climbing the dressage levels so it’s not necessary to have high level dressage education or anything like that. As long as the horse is more educated than me, I will be happy.

One more thing that is very important for me, is that the horse will not be in work 5 days a week. I need a horse who will be okay without consistent work, and who’s temperament doesn’t change if they haven’t been ridden in a week. I need to be able to hope on for a plod down the road, or a little work in the arena without the horse being too hot.

Ideally, we would be paddocking the new horse without our gelding. So a horse that is sensible when paddocked together would be great, but we do have room to paddock separately if we had to, so not a deal breaker.

No OTT or green horses as I don’t have the experience. Must be good to catch/shoe/float/teeth, and no bite, buck, kick or bolt. Must be sound. I would prefer no windsuckers. Must be good around farm machinery/dogs/traffic.

I have put 14.2hh-15.2hh, if closer to 14hh would prefer a stockier breed as I am tall (5 7 but light).
Age isn’t a big concern, experience and temperament is more important. While 15yo isn’t a hard max, I do want something that I can ride for a number of years to come, so must be sound/no arthritis.

I would prefer a gelding, but am definitely open to a mare if she ticks all the boxes. As for breed, I am not set on anything in particular, but would love something with the temperament of a QH or clydie. I would prefer no TBs, arabs or breed that are known to be a bit hotter/require more consistent work.

Little managable quirks and personality is welcome, as long as the horse is safe. Safety is my biggest priority.

Overall, I need a horse that has been there, done that. Already had the miles put in and exposure. I don’t want a dressage superstar, or anything flashy, just a good honest horse who is happy to have a beginner learn on it.

Riding Ambitions:

I am a mature woman rider who is a beginner so my ambitions are quite low. I want to do a lot of trail riding, as there are some great places from my front door, and I want to have flat lessons.

I will be having lessons to improve my riding abilities, so the horse must have a solid basic education as I do not have the experience to further this myself.
I have no plans to jump, if the horse knows how it is a bonus but not required.

I want a pleasure riding horse, where I can enjoy the trails and improve my own abilities, while also having a great companion. I have no plans to compete, to jump, or to show. On average, I will probably be riding 1-2 times a week.

We have recently purchased our own property, and the horse we end up finding will be very loved and cared for.

I am located in Kyneton/regional VIC, and am willing to travel anywhere in VIC, COVID restrictions allowing, to view a horse. I am not comfortable buying sight unseen.

beginner; trail riding
Notes:

21/10 called sue and left a voice mail and a text message.

My 10yo son is a confident beginner/novice coming off a small pony (11.3hh). He has been riding for about 4 years, attended Seville Pony Club for 3.5 years (Grade 5), taken part in low level Dressage and CT comps (in the ribbons) and has attended Brenda Mitton Eventing Clinics. Has a growing interest in jumping and also enjoys trail riding. Has had limited experience riding larger mounts, so will be supported by private instruction to help him make the transition.

Dream Horse:

Looking for a partner in crime – 13.3hh (stocky) – 14.3 hh mare or gelding, 8 – 16 years old. Allrounder type with a bit of exposure/experience to support a junior rider. Confidence builder (probably more whoa than go). Don’t mind a little aged as long as sound and free moving. No vices, no wind suckers, no laminitic ponies (very grass-rich region). Should enjoy jumping (Grade 5/4). Should be happy to receive love and attention from kids. Would love a Welsh-type, but not fussy. Prefer 12k budget unless tack included – can stretch a bit for special candidate.

Riding Ambitions:

Mount to be suitable for PC, low level comps including XC, the odd show and trails. Rider likes to have fun but is ready for more technical instruction.

Confidence builder, children’s mount.
Notes:

sent text 21/10 to acknowledge reciept of videos
Called 20/10. True second pony for a 10 yr old boy coming off a lazy well schooled pony. 14 hh is ideal but room to move.
Confident little rider but when they have tried a few that have locked onto the jump and gone, the boy has been a bit worried. They are located in Yarra Valley metro, and ready to buy now. Within vic only please. They are a horsey family and ride together. Seems knowledgeable and easy to deal with.