Why a Code of Conduct?

Each rider makes a mark on others.  How receptive local councils or recreation providers are to horse riders can sometimes come down to the actions of the one or two horse riders that make a nuisance of themselves. 

Just as we each may have an opinion of 'dog owners' or 'trail bike riders' based on the behaviour of those we meet, so too do our actions reflect on every other horse rider. 

 

Be Courteous to Others

  • Greet other trail users -a smile and hello will create a supportive atmosphere across different groups.  It will also ensure that they know you have seen them (and ensure they see you).
  • Give way to pedestrians, if the trail is narrow. Always slow down when approaching other trail users and prepare to stop.
  • Be considerate of others desire for quiet and solitude.  

Be Proactive

  • Think and plan ahead.  Acting or asking for help early will avoid getting flustered or frightened by your horse's fears.
  • If you need to ask someone to slow down, or change their behaviour try to stay friendly and explain why.  Asking for help, rather than demanding will usually get a better response. 
  • Thank motorists who slow down with a wave and a smile. 
  •  Take care when riding around others, they may be afraid of horses. Reduce your speed!, especially on corners or where there is limited visibility.

Dogs

  • If you have a dog with you while riding, you must keep it under control at all times. 
    • If the dog will not come to your horse's side when called, you should not be riding with it until it is trained to do so. 
    • Be courteous to other riders, just because your horse likes dogs doesn't mean everyone's does! Don't let them roam parking areas, and call them to your side when riding past other horses.
  • Thank dog walkers for putting their dog(s) on a lead (even if your horse doesn't mind dogs). 

Tread Lightly on the Environment

Whenever you ride, consider your actions as if you are a guest on another's property (or looking after your own). 

Tracks, trails

  • Keep to marked trails, if they are provided.
  • When paddocks or trails are soft, keep your speed down so that you don't leave a muddy mess.
  • Although public berms are public, do consider the landowner's feelings.  If it is safe, use the road in wet weather to avoid damaging a pristine berm.

Clean up, keep natural areas pristine

  • Clean up manure! Whenever possible.  Use bins if they are provided.  Be particularly aware of manure in areas accessed by non-riders.  You may not find it offensive but others can, or may be bothered by the flies it attracts.
  • Seeds from meadow hay may spread weeds, so if in doubt take only lucerne hay or hardfeed for your horse when visiting native reserves or parks. 
  • Avoid sensitive areas: historical, natural or archeological.

Respect farms and stock

  • Leave gates as you find them, unless there are specific instructions to keep them closed or open.
  • Don't disturb stock, particularly in spring.

Be Safe, Be Seen

  • ALL riders wear a riding helmet whenever they ride a horse (no matter how good a rider you think you are).
  • Many recreation providers now either prefer or require all riders to wear hi-viz apparel when riding. 

While some people don't like the standard hi-viz vests there is now an excellent choice of sports apparel in bright colours and hi-viz (cycle and running tops which include things like zippered pockets for keeping keys etc).

Even where you are not required to wear this gear, it is a good way to stay safe and to make a good impression on those you meet.  Simply taking sensible safety precautions tells others that you are a responsible rider and that you have the right\permission to be riding there.

 Being visible may save your life, or just make you a more friendly sight

 

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