It is great to be back at carnivals all around the state, and playing polocrosse again.

I have had a few conversations recently, and this update serves as a gentle reminder for all members, whether you are hosting or just competing to be vigilant about horse welfare.

A couple of topics that require urgent attention are:

Fungal Dermatitis / Ringworm skin conditions….. these are sneaking into NSW horses presently, see article in this newsletter.

Horses being tied up at carnivals rather than yarded. The NSW Policy requires that no horses are tied up overnight or for the duration of a carnival. We all understand that some very small ponies are not easily contained in panels, but they require the same attention as a bigger playing horse, sufficient room, feed and water and somewhere to lie down if they would like.

Field conditions: It has become apparent over recent weeks that some of our playing surfaces have become harder than we would like, most likely assisted by the cold conditions and frost. Whilst this is unfortunate, we need to be diligent in providing a safe playing surface for players and their horses. Also included in this are the run off areas behind the goals. Sometimes players need to be reminded how to ride in these conditions, however clubs need to provide safe and soft surfaces for all.