No horsing around

Edward Darby riding Somerset Day (Supplied)

Every King’s Birthday long weekend, the finest horse riders in Australia trot, canter and gallop over to Werribee Park.

Why do they do that? To participate in the Melbourne International Three Day Event.

Running from June 5-9, the event will showcase the best men and women on horseback.

First held in 1957, the Melbourne International Three Day Event has become an anticipated feature on the equestrian calendar.

The cross country course winds its way past the Werribee Park, Werribee Open Range Zoo, the beautiful Werribee Mansion, through the stunning State Rose Garden, across the Werribee Park Polo fields and the National Equestrian Centre.

Complemented by a large, undercover, winter trade village and with evening entertainment, there is something for everyone, young and old.

Event director Janet Houghton explained why the event is such a hot ticket.

“It is the biggest event of its kind in Victoria– riders come from all over Australia to compete,” she said.

“We have trade stands, everything equestrian including Olympic riders, fun events like hobby horse as well as the Olympic disciplines of dressage, cross country and show jumping.”

Giddy-up for plenty of indoor and outdoor activities, including pony rides, guided cross country course walks, equestrian education and entertainment as well as a trade exhibition.

There will be a range of items going under the hammer to raise money in support of building the cross country course.

So get back in the saddle, and get down to the main event.

More: m3de.com.au/