THE Zone 9 60th Anniversary Jamboree was hosted this year in combination by the Bellinger River Pony Club and North Dorrigo Pony Club, held at the picturesque Bellingen Showgrounds.

Fifty riders were in attendance.

More were expected however bushfires raging in the Macleay region meant some families could not attend at the last minute.

It was the first Jamboree held since 2019 due to the pandemic in 2020/21 and floods in 2022.

The standard of organisation and two days of intense competition was high and the enthusiasm of riders, of all ages, impressive.

Zone 9 is the biggest of its kind in NSW, consisting of eighteen pony clubs from Nabiac through to Corindi Beach.

The Zone 9 Executive Committee pulled off a great weekend, providing a brilliant program and opportunity for horse riders to compete and mix socially in a relaxed and friendly environment.

“The kids don’t get to mix and mingle like this as clubs, so this event was great,” Kerrie Fittock, North Dorrigo Horse and Pony Club Secretary, told NOTA.

“Normally when they go to an event, they compete as individuals, but here they were competing as teams against other clubs.”

Many disciplines were on the program including hacking/rider classes, sporting, jumping, rescue relay, dressage, pairs and team of fours.

The March Past was a highlight event, with every club showcasing riders and horses in pristine condition holding their club flag proudly.

Bellinger River Pony Club were this year’s winners of the March Past.

By Mary KEILY