Horse Safety Australia clinics are run throughout Australia to qualify those involved with running trail rides for groups (including tourists and school students). Our main areas of interest include communication, group and horse management, risk assessment and safety. These clinics are especially directed towards those who have worked in the industry and have experience, but who may not have a ‘piece of paper’ to prove they are good operators.
Horse Safety Australia qualifications are mentioned in the Safe Work Australia Guide, and by the education departments in all states (in their guidelines to schools for horse programs involving students) and the Adventure Activity Standards used for trail riding in national parks and state forests in most states.
Trail Guide Qualifications
Assistant Trail Guide
Minimum age 16. Can assist in a trail ride, under the direct supervision of a qualified trail guide. Includes the basics of Workplace Health and Safety, basic care and safe handling of horses including loading and unloading using a float, an understanding of the principles of minimal impact, and an ability to walk, trot/jog and canter/lope independently on a beginners’ horse.
Trail Guide (Day Rides)
Minimum age 18. Qualified to provide foundational instruction to beginners, with a strong emphasis on risk management, planning and communication.
The instruction at this level includes teaching and supervising riders in groups and/or individually in the areas of mounting, correct position and control at walk and trot/jog. Includes the abilities to supervise others around horses, transport horses in floats, apply first aid for horses (including giving injections) and manage herds of horses in a structured environment. PLUS trail riding skills (short rides only) including an awareness of the added responsibilities and risks of trail riding, allowing for changing weather conditions, use of roads and tracks, track maintenance, planning for contingencies and management of groups of riders outside of the confines of an arena.