Minister for Territory and Municipal Services, Shane Rattenbury, on behalf of the ACT Government, today signed of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ACT Government and the ACT Equestrian Association (ACTEA).
“The MoU fulfils a commitment made by the Chief Minister, Katy Gallagher, and signifies the government’s commitment to working collaboratively with key stakeholders in planning strategically for equestrian activities in the Territory,” said Mr Rattenbury.
“The ACT has one of the largest ratios of recreational horses to population in Australia. Equestrian sport and recreation activities are part of the history and social fabric of the ACT and surrounding region and the ACT Government is committed to ensuring the long-term sustainability of the equestrian sector in Canberra.
“The MOU ensures that the interests of the equestrian sector are articulated and considered within relevant government processes to ensure that there is consistency as Canberra’s urban environment continues to change.
“This important union facilitates cooperation and coordination on strategic policy issues and complements existing arrangements including the quarterly equestrian forum and Bicentennial National Trail MoU.
ACTEA was established in 1970 as an umbrella organisation to represent all equestrians in their endeavours at all levels of achievement, representing 18 affiliated groups across a range of disciplines from pony club, showjumping, trail riding and dressage, to horse trials, ‘eventing’ and endurance. ACTEA also manages Equestrian Park at Yarralumla as a recreational and competition facility under licence from the ACT Government.
“The MoU promotes an integrated approach to planning for and managing existing and future equestrian infrastructure. The MoU also establishes a management framework for a variety of important issues such as biosecurity and animal welfare, trail planning and land development, and the ongoing management of the Equestrian Park.
Today’s signing coincides with the ‘eventing’ clinic taking place at Equestrian Park led by equestrian champion Mr Sam Lyle.
(Media Release Shane Rattenbury)
