| The Willing Horse - School of Horsemanship provides a range of horse related courses and services to meet the needs of individuals and organisations of all skill levels and experience.
We provide our services in a natural environment set in the beautiful lakes region of the Esk Shire near Fernvale.
The Willing Horse is situated in a valley behind Splityard Creek Dam. The property, “Wivenhaven”, is located 15 kilometres northeast of Fernvale, and is roughly 40 kilometres from either Ipswich, Mt. Glorious or Somerset. As the property name implies we are near the Wivenhoe Lake in the Brisbane Valley. Activities available in this area include sailing, canoeing, fishing and of course, horse riding. There are deer and camel farms, museums, historical homes, antique and craft shops within about a half-hour drive from “Wivenhaven”. It may also possible to take a tour of the Splityard power station.
The Willing Horse caters to people who want more than the usual ride. We allow the riders to assist with the management of the horses including grooming, saddling and feeding. Safe and thoughtful horsemanship are taught and practised by The Willing Horse. Beginner and more experienced riders generally leave with a sense of achievement and a deeper understanding of the horse-human relationship.
The Willing Horse’s approach to horse riding promotes safety, social interaction and informal learning.
We will be constantly improving and developing this new web site, so visit regularly to learn more about horses and The Willing Horse - School of Horsemanship, and to see more pictures!
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| Facilities
The Willing Horse - School of Horsemanship is situated in hilly terrain among cattle properties and was previously used to run cattle. We currently have access to approximately 130 enclosed acres of two enclosures of 80 acres (with 1 dam) and 50 acres (with 2 dams). Distributed within this 50 acre enclosure are the cross-country course (jumps are all under 2’6” in size), the small arena (approx. 7m x 10m) inside an enclosed exercise area (gently undulating natural landscapes; a controlled but realistic environment), and the large arena (20m x 40m). Both the small and large arenas have even footing. Show jumping equipment may be used in the large arena. There are 3 other enclosures ranging in size from 2-10 acres, and 2 small holding yards.
Services
Horse Transport. We have a Dyna 200 (light truck), a large stock trailer, and a single trailer. For a fee, our customers may have their horse/s transported for them. You may choose to hire the small trailer so you can transport your horse yourself. |
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| Horse riding is a fun and exciting activity. At The Willing Horse School of Horsemanship we try our best to make your experience as much fun as we can. Safety though is paramount at all times.
Your Safety - Safe Dress
- Helmets with an Australian Safety Standard 3838 or equivalent (3063). Helmets are mandatory for clients riding on school horses, undertaking lessons and training, and using the equipment and land provided by the The Willing Horse – School of Horsemanship. The use of Helmets is strenuously encouraged, and helmets are made available to clients who do not own a helmet or who do not regularly ride with a helmet.
- Closed Footware is a Must. Work boots, steel-cap boots, laced hiking boots sneakers/joggers/tennis shoes are acceptably for ground work however they may not be suitable for riding with stirrups. If you are wearing inappropriate or unsafe footwear you will not be allowed to use the stirrups (a saddle attachment used to support the rider’s foot) while riding. Footwear which is designed for horse riding and footwear with riding boot features (firm leather-like material upper, a low arch, refined tread or a smooth sole, and a distinct functional heel) is the best and will allow you to use the stirrups safely.
- Trousers. We suggest that you wear long, practical trousers - something that is sturdy but stretches a bit is great. You do not need to purchase jodhpurs or breeches unless you wish to.
- Sunscreen. We strongly recommend the use of sunscreen and we do provide it for your use.
- Hat. Some parts of the activities may see you standing watching - a sensible hat is always a good thing. If it resists blowing off then it will be good while you are riding as well.
- Long Hair.It is generally a good idea to restrict your long hair while riding as it may otherwise blow into your face reducing your visibility or providing distraction.
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| The Willing Horse - School of Horsemanship
Lynn Patchin
Phone: (07) 5426 7223 | |