The project has been underway since Easter and will provide young riders with a fenced area to improve their skills in a safe, confidence building environment. The used fencing was donated by Jindabyne Sport and Recreation Centre and is now being recycled by the members of Jindabyne Pony Club.

This new arena will now mean that the club has a fenced round yard, a fenced grass arena, a sand arena and a grass arena - all the arenas are suitable to hold a dressage arena. These facilities enhance the existing jumping and flatwork areas, the wooden yards and dedicated water tank and the cross country course and clubhouse. Trees were also planted over Easter to help "green" the grounds. Many of these trees were donated by families but also by Mitre 10 and Eastside Gardens. Maintenance work is now planned for the club house over the winter months.

Last Sunday also saw sixteen riders enjoy the great autumn weather. Many of these members were new to riding this year and the level of improvement is amazing, according to club chief instructor Krista Mower.

"The results of our members over the past few weeks and the improvement in their riding is amazing!

"Members from Jindabyne Pony Club have won show jumping, rider classes and championships, sporting, dressage and western events over the last few weeks. They have shown their versatility and their great sportsmanship. We are really proud of each and everyone of them," Ms Mower said.

This week's improvement awards go to Maegan McCraw who has taken her pony Slim Dusty to gymkhanas, zone competitions and school riding days. Maegan's confidence is now zooming along and even after a tumble last Sunday - got straight back in the saddle to have another go. Cheoli Cooper has also had a tough week but keeps trying. Our other award goes to Abby Mifsud who with her pony Prince just keeps getting better and better. Abby moved from Sydney less than six months ago and in that time has learnt to ride, joined pony club, competed at Dalgety Show and won ribbons at SMGS Equestrian Competition - well done Maegan, Cheoli and Abby.

The next rally will be on the Monday of the June long weekend. Horses are optional and it is weather dependent - it will be a casual day to welcome in winter. There will one final push to finish the arena though - so bring your gloves and shovels. Please RSVP to Donna, Virginia or Anne for catering. New members always welcome.