Who We Are

Barwon Heads & District Pony Club Inc. is a volunteer-run, Pony Club Victoria affiliated club based at Barwon Heads Village Park on the Bellarine Peninsula. For over 60 years, we've been teaching young riders aged 5 to 25 the skills of horsemanship, sportsmanship, and community. We're proudly gender-equitable — the majority of our riders are girls and young women, reflecting our commitment to the Victorian Fair Access Policy.

Why We're Raising Funds

Equestrian sport carries significant costs — feed, agistment, gear, coaching, competition fees, and travel. The cost-of-living crisis is hitting families hard, and without support, young riders drop out before they ever get the chance to represent their club at competition level.

We believe a rider's opportunity to compete shouldn't depend on their family's budget. That's why we've established the BHDPC Rider Participation Fund through the Australian Sports Foundation — a permanent, tax-deductible fund that lessens the financial barriers to participation.

How Your Donation Helps

Your donation funds benefits that apply to ALL our riders:

• Visiting Coaches — Professional instructors who come to the club to coach all our riders, not just those who can afford private lessons.

• Shared Equipment — Quality training equipment, showjumping jumps, training poles, and safety gear that every rider can use.

• Competition Support — Subsidised competition entry fees and travel assistance so riders can represent BHDPC at zone, state, and national championships.

The Tax Advantage

We've partnered with the Australian Sports Foundation — the only organisation in Australia with Deductible Gift Recipient (DGR) status for sport. Donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible. The tax benefit depends on your marginal tax rate — a $100 donation could save you between $18 and $47 in tax. Seek independent tax advice for your personal circumstances.

Our Vision

When a BHDPC rider enters the arena at a Zone Championship, the community that helped get her there is represented with her. Your donation isn't charity — it's an investment in young riders, in community sport, and in the next generation of equestrian athletes on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Donate today. Help our riders take the reins.