SEE CURRENT INFORMATION ON ‘LATEST COVID INFORMATION’ PAGE

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POSTED 22nd OCTOBER 2021 – NEW VICTORIAN DIRECTIONS

The new Victorian State Government COVID safe settings have been released and the Restricted Activities Directions (RAD) have been replaced by a series of documents. Find out how they affect your equestrian activities here HRCAV COVID UPDATE – NEW DIRECTIONS 221021

POSTED 16th OCTOBER 2021 –  VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS FOR VICTORIAN PERMITTED WORKERS

New directions have been issued by the government requiring that from midnight 14th October, 2021, all workers and volunteers must meet new vaccination requirements in order to manage, coordinate or administrator community sport at physical recreation facilities across Victoria. All workers (see full document for further details) onsite, including paid or unpaid volunteers at recreation facilities, will need to comply with the current authorised worker vaccination requirements.

Note: Clubs are not yet permitted to hold rallies or clinics in restricted areas. No competitions in Victoria at this stage.

HRCAV Covid update 16th Sept 21 – vaccination requirements for workers

Chief Health Officer (Vic) directions

Victoria’s Roadmap

FAQ for workers

POSTED 30th SEPTEMBER 2021 – APPLICATION OF CURRENT RESTRICTIONS

In line with the Roadmap, a modest easing of restrictions was introduced at 11.59pm on Tuesday 28th September.

Residents of metropolitan Melbourne and regional areas in lockdown can undertake ‘contactless’ recreation at outdoor facilities, such as boating, tennis or golf and horse riding.

The 10km radius has been expanded to 15km – so exercise can take place up to 15km from your home.

Personal training, including private coaching, can take place outdoors with five fully vaccinated people plus a fully vaccinated trainer.

CURRENT TABLE OF RESTRICTIONS

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT OUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?

 VICTORIA

From 11.59pm on Tuesday 28 September

METRO MELBOURNE / MITCHELL SHIRE / CITY OF LATROBE

YOU MAY RIDE YOUR HORSE FOR PERSONAL EXERCISE under the following conditions:

PRIVATE COACHING IS PERMITTED under the following conditions

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

USE OF CLUB GROUNDS

CARE OF HORSES – Welfare reasons

REGIONAL VICTORIA (APART FROM RESTRICTED AREAS)

COMMUNITY SPORT

Community sport is classified as an activity under the organisation or jurisdiction of a club or association.

TRAINING

COMPETITION

PERSONAL COACHING, EXERCISE AND RECREATION

CLUB GROUNDS

OTHER REQUIREMENTS

BORDER CROSSING

Border crossing. Review the latest information on permits and restrictions.

The permit system is for both travellers to Victoria and residents of Victoria returning home from interstate travel.

POSTED 29th SEPTEMBER 2021

JOINT EQUESTRIAN GROUPS UPDATE

What outdoor facilities are open?

POSTED 22nd SEPTEMBER 2021

The Roadmap to Deliver the National Plan sets Victoria and our equestrian community on a hopeful path to opening while also preserving our health system and ensuring Victorians can still get the healthcare they need when they need it most.

KEY DATES FOR VICTORIANS

Vaccination Milestones
• 26th September – 80% single dose 16+
• 26th October – 70% fully vaccinated 16+
• 5th November – 80% fully vaccinated 16+
• Two weeks later – 80% fully vaccinated 12+

KEY INFORMATION FOR MELBOURNE METRO

210919 – Roadmap-Metro
CURRENT RULES FOR METRO COACHES (EFFECTIVE 22/9/21 UNTIL 80% FIRST DOSE RULES COMES INTO EFFECT)
From 26th September (subject to meeting vaccination milestones)
Coaching – Metropolitan effective 26th September
From 26th October (subject to public health consideration at the time & further clarification from Victorian Government)

KEY INFORMATION FOR MEMBERS UNDER REGIONAL RULES

210919 – Roadmap-Regional (1)

From 26th September (subject to public health consideration at the time)
From 26th October (subject to public health consideration at the time & further clarification from Victorian Government)

5TH NOVEMBER – REGIONAL AND METRO MELBOURNE ALIGN

From November 5th (subject to public health considerations at the time and further clarification from Victorian Government)
FURTHER KEY POINTS
GENERAL CONDITIONS WHEN PERMITTED TO TRAIN
FACE COVERINGS

POSTED 19th SEPTEMBER 2021

SEVEN DAY LOCKDOWN: GEELONG, SURF COAST & MITCHELL SHIRE

The Chief Health Officer has declared that these LGAs will enter a seven day lockdown commencing at 11.59pm on Sunday 19th September 2021, with restrictions the same as those in the City of Ballarat and Metropolitan Melbourne, excluding the curfew.

ROADMAPS OUT OF LOCKDOWN RELEASED BY VICTORIAN GOVT

There is some light at the end of the tunnel with a cautious return to activities in coming months. Note that the dates shown depend on reaching vaccination targets.

Victoria’s Roadmap-Delivering The National Plan press release

Roadmap Table -Metro

Roadmap Table – Regional

Roadmap Quick Reference Summary

POSTED 16th SEPTEMBER 2021 – UPDATED RESTRICTIONS

See edit ‘How does this affect your equestrian activities?’

From 11.59pm on Wednesday 15th September, the City of Ballarat will have the same restrictions – except for the curfew – in place as Metropolitan, Melbourne. This will last for seven days, until 11.59pm on Wednesday, 22 September.

From 11.59pm on Wednesday 15th September, Shepparton will have their restriction settings downgraded to match the rest of regional Victoria.

From 11.59pm on Friday 17th September there will be some easing of restrictions for Melbourne, Ballarat and Regional Victoria.

Click here for the full table of restrictions for Victoria effective from 11.59pm on Friday. Table of Restrictions effective 1159 17th September 2021

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT YOUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?

The Metro Melbourne restrictions (which are being applied to various regional areas from time to time) shown below still apply with some changes relating to personal exercise. You may now:

A reminder that you may ride a horse for the purpose of personal exercise provided you do not use a facility. This includes equestrian centers and Club grounds.

POSTED 10th SEPTEMBER 2021 – JOINT EQUESTRIAN ORGANISATIONS RELEASE

UPDATE OF COVID RESTRICTIONS

IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION IN ITS ENTIRETY

Following the announcement made by the Premier, Mr Daniel Andrews earlier this week, the COVIDSafe Settings for Regional Victoria have been eased.  These changes took effect from 11:59pm, Thursday 9 September 2021.

However, for Metropolitan Melbourne the stay-at-home directions and curfew remain in place. Please refer to the Coronavirus website for the full detail of the COVIDSafe settings: https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/how-we-live

HOW DO THESE RESTRICTIONS AFFECT THE EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY?

Metropolitan Melbourne – Community Sport, Exercise

Regional Victoria (Excluding Greater Shepparton)

 Community Sport

The intent of the restrictions is to MINIMISE THE MOVEMENT AND GATHERING of people to stop the spread of COVID 19. Training can be conducted but only WITH THE MINIMUM number of people required to train. There should be no spectators, and you should GET IN. TRAIN. GET OUT and not stay longer than is necessary to train.

  1. Community sport is open for training only, and only at outdoors facilities. Competition is not permitted. Indoor facilities remain closed.
  2. Community sport is classified as an activity under the organisation or jurisdiction of a club or association.
  3. Outdoor training is permitted outdoor only with the minimum number required to train (there is no group limit)
  4. Spectators are prohibited except one parent permitted to supervise children

Physical Recreation

  1. Physical Recreation activities have stricter limits that include:

– maximum of 10 per group

– maximum of 20 at a facility (with a density quotient of 1 per 4sqm) – the facility includes the entire space

Community Facilities

  1. Club/community indoor facilities can only be accessed to retrieve equipment, toilets or canteen. There is to be no gathering inside club facilities.
  2. Outdoor physical recreation facilities – are open with a maximum capacity of 20 per facility. Outdoor community recreation facilities can open for up to 20 people per facility. Large outdoor facilities, such as golf courses, are not subject to the 20 person cap as long as each group of no more than 10 can stay at least 50m apart.
  3. Canteens can only operate if they are a stand-alone Food & Beverage venue, independent of the club activity. If they are, they must comply with Food & Beverage restrictions, i.e. 10 inside at any one time and 20 outside, takeaway service only.

COVID Check In Marshals

  1. Under the COVIDSafe directions, organisers have a duty of care to ensure that only those permitted attend. QR Code and a COVID Check-in Marshal are required whenever a facility is operational and must ensure that all persons Check in with the QR code and no one is attending from a restricted area (eg Metro Melbourne). (If there is no clear physical entrance, best endeavours for mandatory QR code check-in is required as a minimum). Please ensure you use Victorian Government QR Code Service for your equestrian activity.
  2. Participants from metropolitan Melbourne and Greater Shepparton are not permitted. This is to keep regional Victorians safe from the current outbreak of COVID-19 in metropolitan Melbourne and Greater Shepparton and to help keep regional Victorian businesses and facilities open.

We will continue to provide updates as more information comes to hand. Stay safe, take care, enjoy your riding.

POSTED 8th SEPEMBER 2021 – REGIONAL VICTORIA RESTRICTIONS TO EASE

From 11.59pm on Thursday 9 September, restrictions will be eased in regional Victoria. The five reasons to leave the home will be removed, except for Greater Shepparton. There will be no limit on the distance regional Victorians can travel from home – other than restrictions on entry to metropolitan Melbourne.

However, it should be noted that some restrictions on activities remain. See the updated table of restrictions issued by the Victorian government. Table of restrictions effective 11.59pm on 9th September 2021

HOW DO THE RESTRICTIONS AFFECT YOUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?
SUMMARY FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA

Note: You are not permitted to travel from Shepparton or metro Melbourne to participate in these regional activities.

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

Outdoor physical recreation including horse riding: permitted

Outdoor Club rallies and clinics – Club organised training is allowed with the minimum number required to train. Ride and leave. No spectators. One parent per child only. No group limit.

Outdoor community recreation facilities including Club grounds – can open for recreation. Groups of a maximum of 10. Maximum of 20 on site. Large outdoor facilities, such as golf courses, are not subject to the 20 person cap as long as each group of no more than 10 can stay at least 50m apart.

Club rooms – closed

Competitions – not permitted

Coaching: Permitted. Coaches must not travel from restricted areas to teach in regional Victoria.

 

METRO MELBOURNE RESTRICTIONS REMAIN

Metropolitan Melbourne remains under the stay-at-home orders, with only five reasons to leave home.

MELBOURNE METRO AND SHEPPARTON

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

Outdoor physical recreation & sport: Closed: Club grounds closed

Organised equestrian activities including competitions, rallies, clinics: may not be held. Attendance at such activities is not a permitted reason to leave home.

Coaching: Coaches in the HRCAV environment are not authorised workers and are therefore not permitted to leave home to coach.

Care of horses: You may leave home to care for and attend to your horse for welfare reasons. This includes if your horse is housed more than 5km from your home. You may be required to provide evidence for your reason to travel. Carry proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

Exercise of horse: Exercising your horse for welfare reasons is permitted on the property where the horse is kept.

Exercise personal: You may ride your horse for a maximum of 2 hours with one other person within 5 km of your home for your personal exercise. You may NOT ride your horse for recreation or training reasons.

PAST ADVICE……

POSTED 2nd SEPTEMBER 2021 –  VICTORIAN RESTRICTIONS TO CONTINUE

From the Premier’s Dept: ‘Due to the ongoing level of community transmission and the continued number of unlinked cases popping up across the state, Victoria’s lockdown will be extended.

Victorians cannot afford to open up and let this virus run free – our hospital system would be overrun, our frontline staff would be placed under too much pressure and quite simply, people would die. We need to continue to slow the spread of the virus until more of us are vaccinated.

This is why Victoria’s Chief Health Officer has declared that almost all of the current lockdown restrictions will remain in place until 70 per cent of Victorians have had at least one dose of vaccine. This is estimated to be around 23 September.

Until then there will still be only five reasons to leave home: shopping for food and supplies, authorised work and study, care and caregiving, exercise, and getting vaccinated. Other restrictions – including mask wearing – will stay the same.’

Table of Restrictions_2nd Sept 2021

POSTED 23rd AUGUST 2021 – REGIONAL VICTORIA UNDER STAY AT HOME ORDERS

Stay at home orders have been applied to Regional Victoria from 1pm on Saturday 21st August.

While a curfew does not apply in Regional Victoria, residents will now need to comply with all other restrictions.

POSTED 17th AUGUST 2021 – LATEST INFORMATION

EXTENDED RESTRICTIONS FOR MELBOURNE

Metropolitan Melbourne remains under the stay-at-home orders, with only five reasons to leave home. However, as at 11:59pm Monday August 16 these settings have been strengthened.

Review the current restrictions Table of restrictions for Metro Melbourne as at 17th August 2021

HOW DO THE RESTRICTIONS AFFECT YOUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

 Outdoor physical recreation & sport: Closed: Club grounds closed

Organised equestrian activities including competitions, rallies, clinics: may not be held. Attendance at such activities is not a permitted reason to leave home.

Coaching: Coaches in the HRCAV environment are not authorised workers and are therefore not permitted to leave home to coach.

Care of horses: You may leave home to care for and attend to your horse for welfare reasons. This includes if your horse is housed more than 5km from your home. You may be required to provide evidence for your reason to travel. Carry proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

Exercise of horse: Exercising your horse for welfare reasons is permitted on the property where the horse is kept.

Exercise personal: You may ride your horse for a maximum of 2 hours with one other person within 5 km of your home for your personal exercise. You may NOT ride your horse for recreation or training reasons.

 

POSTED 9th AUGUST 2021 – REGIONAL VICTORIA RESTRICTIONS EASED FROM 11.59PM.

Review the current restrictions Restriction Changes 9th August 2021

Regional Victoria

Face coverings:
• Must be carried at all times.
• Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home or if an exception applies.

Equestrian activities and competition

You may not travel from Metro Melbourne or cross the NSW border to participate in organised equestrian activities. 

CURRENT NSW RESTRICTIONS

CURRENT SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RESTRICTIONS

 

BORDER CROSSING

Review the latest information on permits and restrictions for your state. Border crossing

The permit system is for both travellers to Victoria and residents of Victoria returning home from interstate travel.

 

POSTED 11th AUGUST 2021 – MELBOURNE METRO RESTRICTIONS TO REMAIN FOR A FURTHER WEEK.

NSW border requirements have changed. Please review requirements here https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/victorian-travel-permit-system

POSTED 9th AUGUST 2021 – REGIONAL VICTORIA RESTRICTIONS EASED FROM 11.59PM.

Review the current restrictions Restriction Changes 9th August 2021

Metro Melbourne restrictions remain unchanged.
Regional Victoria

Face coverings:
• Must be carried at all times.
• Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home or if an exception applies.

Equestrian activities and competition

You may not travel from Metro Melbourne to participate in organised equestrian activities. 

NSW border community residents can enter Victoria for a number of reasons including sport and exercise at a sporting club or at a physical recreation facility (excluding alpine resorts). This includes Victorian HRCAV Club facilities and events.

POSTED 5th AUGUST 2021 – VICTORIA BACK IN LOCKDOWN FOR 7 DAYS

From 8:00pm Thursday 5 August 2021 restrictions across Victoria have changed.

Review the current restrictions here 

HOW DO THE RESTRICTIONS AFFECT YOUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

 Outdoor physical recreation & sport: Closed: Club grounds closed

Organised equestrian activities including competitions, rallies, clinics: may not be held. Attendance at such activities is not a permitted reason to leave home.

Coaching: Coaches in the HRCAV environment are not authorised workers and are therefore not permitted to leave home to coach.

Care of horses: You may leave home to care for and attend to your horse for welfare reasons. This includes if your horse is housed more than 5km from your home. You may be required to provide evidence for your reason to travel. Carry proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

Exercise of horse: Exercising your horse for welfare reasons is permitted on the property where the horse is kept.

Exercise personal: You may ride your horse for a maximum of 2 hours with one other person within 5 km of your home for your personal exercise.

POSTED 27th JULY 2021 – VICTORIAN RESTRICTIONS TO EASE from 11.59pm tonight

The Premier, Daniel Andrews, has this morning announced that Victoria will come out of Lockdown from 11:59pm tonight, Tuesday 27 July. The 5 reasons to leave home have been removed, however some restrictions remain in place.

Intrastate travel limit:
• Movement between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria is unrestricted. Check current requirements for border crossing.

Face coverings:
• Must be carried at all times.
• Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home or if an exception applies.

Equestrian activities and competition

Link to full restrictions

CURRENT NSW RESTRICTIONS

CURRENT SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RESTRICTIONS

 

POSTED 23rd JULY 2021

Updated Club CovidSafe Plans now available.

POSTED 16th JULY 2021 – SNAP LOCKDOWN IN VICTORIA

From 11.59pm on Thursday 15th July

There will be only five reasons to leave your home:

A travel limit of 5km from place of primary residence will apply, except:

Facemasks: Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home, or if an exemption applies

Check the full restrictions here

HOW DO THE RESTRICTIONS AFFECT YOUR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES?

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

 Outdoor physical recreation & sport: Closed: Club grounds closed

Organised equestrian activities including competitions, rallies, clinics: may not be held. Attendance at such activities is not a permitted reason to leave home.

Coaching: Coaches in the HRCAV environment are not authorised workers and are therefore not permitted to leave home to coach.

Care of horses: You may leave home to care for and attend to your horse for welfare reasons. This includes if your horse is housed more than 5km from your home. You may be required to provide evidence for your reason to travel. Carry proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

Exercise of horse: Exercising your horse for welfare reasons is permitted on the property where the horse is kept.

Exercise personal: You may ride your horse for a maximum of 2 hours with one other person within 5 km of your home for your personal exercise.

CURRENT NSW RESTRICTIONS

CURRENT SOUTH AUSTRALIAN RESTRICTIONS

 

 

POSTED 28th JUNE 2021 – CHANGES TO RESTRICTIONS

COVID RESTRICTIONS – updated 28th JUNE 2021

VICTORIA

On the advice of the Chief Health Officer, restrictions in regional Victoria and metropolitan Melbourne will ease from 11.59pm Thursday 24 June.

Masks must still be worn inside.

METRO MELBOURNE

Equestrian sport and recreation

Rallies, training, clinics and competitions are allowed subject to

REGIONAL VICTORIA

Equestrian sport and recreation

Rallies, training, clinics and competitions are allowed subject to

BORDER CROSSING

Border crossing. Review the latest information on permits and restrictions.

The permit system is for both travellers to Victoria and residents of Victoria returning home from interstate travel.

REGIONAL AND RURAL NEW SOUTH WALES

From 11.59pm, Sunday 27 June 2021

If you have been in the Greater Sydney region, including the Blue Mountains, Central Coast, Wollongong and Shellharbour on or after Monday 21 June, follow the stay at home rules for 14 days after you left Greater Sydney.

Rallies, training, clinics and competitions are allowed subject to

Masks must be worn indoors and outdoors unless you are exempt. Masks do not need to be worn outdoors when exercising vigorously.

Electronic check in is required.

BORDER CROSSING

Border crossing. All of regional NSW (not including the communities in the border bubble) is an orange zone under Victoria’s travel permit system effective from 1:00am Sunday 27 June.

If travelling from regional NSW (not including the communities in the border bubble) then you need an orange zone permit to enter Victoria. Travel conditions for cross border communities will apply to the LGAs listed at – Cross Border Communities info site.

 

COMPULSORY QR CODE REQUIREMENT

A reminder that the relevant state government recommended QR system is to be used to check in persons attending venues.
Click here for the Victorian app
Click here for the NSW app

POSTED 16th JUNE 2021 – CHANGES TO RESTRICTIONS effective from 11.59pm on Thursday 17th June

From 11.59pm Thursday 17 June, the 25km travel limit will be removed and travel between metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria will resume.

Face coverings:
• Must be carried at all times
• Must be worn indoors except if at home, or if an exception applies
• Recommended to be worn outdoors where 1.5 metres physical distancing cannot be maintained

Club rallies, clinics and competitions are permitted under the following conditions:

Metro Melbourne

Regional Victoria

Table of restrictions effective 1159pm on Thursday 17th June

.

POSTED 11th JUNE 2021 – CHANGES TO RESTRICTIONS effective from 11.50pm Thursday 10th June

The five reasons to leave home no longer apply in metropolitan Melbourne, and the existing 10-kilometre limit has been increased to 25 kilometres.

WHAT PHYSICAL RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SPORT IS PERMITTED IN METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE?

Physical Recreation:

Note: Indoor physical recreation is NOT CURRENTLY PERMITTED.

Community Sport:

Outdoor community sport IS PERMITTED FOR TRAINING PURPOSES ONLY under the following conditions:

Competition

Competition, either for children or adults, IS NOT CURRENTLY PERMITTED in Metropolitan Melbourne.

Rallies and Clinics

Outdoor rallies and clinics ARE PERMITTED.

COACHING – METROPOLITAN COACHES

Coaching can resume subject to the following:

COACHING – REGIONAL COACHES

CARING FOR YOUR HORSE

If your horse is housed more than 25km from your home, we recommend carrying proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

 

WHAT PHYSICAL RECREATION AND COMMUNITY SPORT IS PERMITTED IN REGIONAL VICTORIA?

Community Sport

Community sport is OPEN for children and adults, for both TRAINING and COMPETITION, INDOORS and OUTDOORS, with the conditions outlined below.

However, you cannot travel into metropolitan Melbourne for community sport, and participation is limited to minimum number of people required to participate in and facilitate the activity and must be within venue caps, as follows:

Indoor physical recreation and sport

Indoor Physical Recreation and Sport is OPEN in Regional Victoria, with the following requirements:

We will continue to provide updates as more information comes to hand and welcome the easing of restrictions that enable us to extend our activities in both Melbourne and Regional Victoria.

 

COMPULSORY QR CODE REQUIREMENT

A reminder that the Vic Govt QR system is to be used to check in persons attending venues. Click here for further information

POSTED 3rd JUNE 2021 – CHANGES TO RESTRICTIONS FROM 11.59pm

The Victorian Government yesterday announced that the circuit breaker lockdown will be extended for a further week in Greater Melbourne. There will be some minor changes to the restrictions. The changes come into effect from 11.59pm on Thursday 3rd June.
The restrictions in REGIONAL VICTORIA will be eased with the ‘5 reasons to leave home’ removed. Outdoor junior sport can resume as can training for all age groups. Outdoor venue and group number caps apply.
Click on the following link for the full restrictions https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/…/210602%20-%20Table…
Equestrian competition will not be permitted although training clinics/rallies can resume in Regional Victoria.
The Vic Govt QR system must be used to record attendance.
Further advice will be posted as it comes to hand.

POSTED 27th MAY 2021 – 7 DAY CIRCUIT BREAKER RESTRICTIONS

As per this morning’s Victorian Government update, the existing COVID-19 related Public Health Orders have changed, and a state-wide 7-day circuit breaker has been announced.

Effective from 11.59pm tonight (Thursday 27 May) until 11.59pm Thursday 3 June, there will be only five reasons to leave your home:

A travel limit of 5km from place of primary residence will apply, except:

Facemasks: Must be worn indoors and outdoors except if at home, or if an exemption applies

Indoor physical recreation & sport:  Closed. Indoor riding arenas and other indoor spaces closed.

 Outdoor physical recreation & sport: Closed: Club grounds closed

Organised equestrian activities including competitions, rallies, clinics: may not be held. Attendance at such activities is not a permitted reason to leave home.

Coaching: Coaches in the HRCAV environment are not authorised workers and are therefore not permitted to leave home to coach.

Care of horses: You may leave home to care for and attend to your horse for welfare reasons. This includes if your horse is housed more than 5km from your home. You may be required to provide evidence for your reason to travel. Carry proof ownership (i.e., registration papers), the location of your horse and the reason that you are travelling.

Exercise of horse: Exercising your horse for welfare reasons is permitted on the property where the horse is kept.

Exercise personal: You may ride your horse for a maximum of 2 hours with one other person within 5 km of your home for your personal exercise.

Click here for the full 7 Day Circuit Breaker Restrictions

Click here for a  joint equestrian bodies statement

Please contact the HRCAV office if you have any queries.

POSTED 26th MAY 2021 – RALLIES & COMPETITIONS

Further to our earlier advice, at this stage, HRCAV rallies and competitions may proceed under the current restrictions. As we learnt last year, this can change at any time so please stay informed.
Current requirements for rallies and competitions can be viewed here.
Rallies
Competitions
CovidSafe Conditions of Entry
QR Code check in must be used at all venues.  Clubs must use the VIC GOV QR code app.
Make sure your COVID Officer/s are across all protocols and provide support to them to enforce the protocols.

POSTED 25th MAY 2021

The Victorian Government has this morning announced further COVIDSafe measures across Greater Melbourne to help keep Victorians safe.

These minor restrictions will come into effect from 6pm this evening:

Updates will be posted as soon as further information is received.

POSTED 29th MARCH 2021

From Friday 26th March 2021 Victoria moved to further relax CovidSafe requirements.

POSTED 29th MARCH 2021

Don’t forget – if you wish to enter Victoria from over the border you will need to apply for a Travel Permit under the traffic light system.

Go to the DHHS website for further information.

 

POSTED 19th MARCH 2021

The CovidSafe requirements and plans have been updated with minor changes. The main change is the removal of the requirement to use alternating yards and stables.

Please ensure that you are using an up to date CovidSafe plan for your rallies and events.

POSTED 12th JANUARY – FACE MASKS

DHHS face mask rules

 

POSTED 4th DECEMBER

Simplify the check in process to your venue by using a QR code. Click here for further information

 

POSTED 26th NOVEMBER

The latest equestrian organisation update has been released. The document outlines the requirements for equestrian activities during the last step before Covid normal.

Joint release – equestrian requirements during the last step

 

POSTED 26th NOVEMBER

Updated advice for rallies, competitions and Club activities will be posted shortly. With the end of the year approaching, people are wondering if they will be able to hold Christmas breakups. Please read the advice on the attached link about social gatherings. If you can abide by these requirements, you can meet for social activities.

https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/social-gatherings-victoria-last-step#is-there-a-limit-on-the-number-of-people-i-can-see-outdoors

 

POSTED 23rd NOVEMBER – UPDATE

Good news on Sunday with more easing of restrictions, bring us into the last step before Covid normal.

The following link provides information for sport and exercise. Government requirements regarding social distancing, wearing of masks, cleaning, record keeping and group limits need to be heeded. We will review the equestrian organisation rules and release an update as soon as possible.

https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/sport-and-exercise-victoria-last-step

 

POSTED 18th NOVEMBER – UPDATE

The next Government update is scheduled for 22nd November when we hope to receive news which allows us to proceed to the ‘last step’ in the return to relative normality. In the meantime, please review the attached update covering the current requirements.

Joint release for 8th November changes

 

 

POSTED 12th NOVEMBER – RING OF STEEL REMOVED

Statewide restrictions for the third step

Members can now travel statewide. Rallies and competitions offer a welcome opportunity to get our horses out and catch up with friends. Remember to follow Covid Safe requirements, maintain social distancing and hygiene practices, wear a mask unless you are out of breath, abide by group limits and record tracing details of attendees at your events and activities.

A more detailed equestrian update will be posted as soon as possible.

 

 

POSTED 28th OCTOBER – RESTRICTIONS EASED

Vic Govt information on easing of restrictions in Melbourne from midnight 27th October

Rallies are back in Metro Melbourne and indoor arenas can open in Regional Victoria. These are two of the much anticipated steps now allowed as we move closer to opening up equestrian activities around Victoria.

Click on the link below to learn more about how the eased restrictions affect the Victorian equestrian community.

What we can and can’t do under the eased restrictions

Remember – Covid Safety Plans are compulsory for all Club organised equestrian activities and events. 

The HRCAV Regional Victoria Safety Plans are available here (note: indoors now open)

EVENT SAFETY PLAN Fillable OCT 13 2020
CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR MELBOURNE METRO issued 30th October 2020 WORD
CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR MELBOURNE METRO issued 30th October 2020 PDF
CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA V3 30th October 2020 WORD
CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA V3 30th October 2020 PDF

Melbourne Metro Safety Plans will be posted soon. The Metro plan will mirror the current Regional Plan however, riders, helpers and non professional coaches must live within 25km of the venue and indoor arenas cannot be used.

Welcome back everyone. Stay safe and take care.

 

 

POSTED 20th OCTOBER – LIMITED COACHING ALLOWED IN METRO MELBOURNE

The Victorian Government has confirmed that coaching is allowed from 19th October under the following conditions.

Note: Some government websites are still to be updated following the weekend’s announcement allowing the opening of physical recreation and sport facilities for exercise and the expansion of the 25km travel limit.

Coaching or training people is permitted in limited circumstances. Coaching and training must:

PERMITTED WORKER PERMIT

Sole traders

If you are a sole trader then you must issue a worker permit and sign the worker permit. For the purposes of the worker permit you are considered both the employer and employee. You should complete the employee and employer details.

Further information regarding Permitted Worker Permits can be found on the DHHS Website.

 

Note: Metro Melbourne based Clubs are not are not yet permitted to hold rallies, clinics, organise coaching or hold competitions.

 

POSTED 19th OCTOBER – HORSE RIDING IN METRO MELBOURNE

Following the easing of restrictions announced yesterday,

Refer to the attached update for information on how this affects the equestrian community in Melbourne.

Horse riding in metropolitan Melbourne – update 19th October

There are currently no changes to the directions for Regional Victoria which affect our members. Rallies and competitions may be held. Covid Safety Plans are required. See below.

 

 

POSTED 28th SEPTEMBER – COVID SAFE FORMS FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA

CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA 16th SEPT

COVID SAFE EVENT CONDITIONS OF ENTRY FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA v2 28 09 2020

EVENT SAFETY PLANS FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA UPDATED 19th OCTOBER

EVENT SAFETY PLAN FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA fillable

EVENT SAFETY PLAN – DRESSAGE EVENT EXAMPLE

 

 

POSTED 30th SEPTEMBER – RIDING OFF PROPERTY IN MELBOURNE

As expected, the latest easing of restrictions in Melbourne has not resulted in much change. However, those who keep their horse at home can now exercise it off property as long as facilities are not used and you stay within 5km of home (trail riding).

People who agist may still only ride their horse for welfare reasons as previously advised.

If the number of new cases continues to remain low, it should only be a matter of weeks before we are able to join our friends in regional areas under stage 3 restrictions. This will see a return of competitions, rallies, riding and coaching – albeit with restrictions and subject to govt advice.

Keep up the good work everyone. We know that it has been hard but we are nearly there.

Covid Update – Melb Step 2 Regional Vic Step 3

POSTED 24th SEPTEMBER – RETURN TO COMPETITION IN REGIONAL VICTORIA

Further to our advice dated 17th September 2020 detailing permitted equestrian activities in Regional Victoria, the following directions are provided to assist a return to competition under the RESTRICTED ACTIVITY DIRECTIONS (NON MELBOURNE) NO. 5 (Third Step)

The restrictions came into effect at 11.59pm on 16th September 2020.

These restrictions allow

  • Outdoor non-contact sport for adults.
  • Outdoor sport (contact and non-contact) for people aged 18 and under.

What you need to know

  • There are no restrictions on reasons to leave home or on how far you can travel within regional Victoria
  • You must wear a face covering when you leave home.

The document below details the conditions for holding equestrian competition under Regional Victoria Third Step Restrictions.

Return to competition Stage 3 Regional Victoria

HRCAV Clubs planning to hold an event must complete an EVENT SAFETY PLAN

Interstate Clubs

Clubs located in South Australia and New South Wales may hold events in accordance with these directions subject to local restrictions.  Specific directives for sport, which may include additional requirements, can be found here NSW and  South Australia

 

POSTED 17th SEPTEMBER – RIDING, COACHING AND RALLIES IN REGIONAL VICTORIA

With the easing of restrictions in Regional Victoria, Clubs and members are being offered the opportunity to begin a staged return to equestrian activities. Click on the link below for further information.

Regional Victoria – return to riding, coaching and Club activities.

Clubs holding rallies and activities are required to complete and follow a safety plan aimed at ensuring restrictions are followed and risks mitigated.

CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN FOR REGIONAL VICTORIA 16th SEPT

 

POSTED 16th SEPTEMBER

Joint advice regarding easing of restrictions in Regional Victoria

 

POSTED 14th SEPTEMBER – HOLDING YOUR AGM

The State governments have made allowances during Covid 19 restrictions, to assist Clubs which are due to hold their Annual General Meetings.

If your club or association is scheduled to hold a meeting, you must follow the restrictions on gatherings.

In Victoria, if you need to hold a meeting, you can:

Similar concessions are in place in NSW and South Australia

 

POSTED 7th SEPTEMBER – CHANGES TO VICTORIAN RESTRICTIONS

HRCAV COVID Update – 7 September 2020

Victorian Government Coronavirus Roadmap – metropolitan Melbourne

Victorian Government Coronavirus Roadmap – regional Victoria

 

POSTED 13th AUGUST – JOINT RELEASE FURTHER CLARIFYING STAGE 4 RESTRICTIONS RELATING TO EXERCISING HORSES

The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has impacted us in ways we couldn’t have imagined and it continues to test us all. Victoria is at the centre of this pandemic in Australia, and how we all behave over the next few weeks determines how successful or otherwise we emerge on the other side.
We know there has been a lot of confusion in our community as to what is and what is not allowed. We want to assure you that we have been working alongside Equestrian Victoria (EV), Pony Club Victoria (PCV) and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) to clarify how restrictions impact our members. 
Today the Department for Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released updated information related to Stage 4 Restrictions, specifically information related to horse riding.
Below are updated guidelines under Victoria’s Stage 4 Restriction as they relate to horse riding. These have been prepared in consultation with DHHS, Sport and Recreation Victoria and the RSPCA, to provide guidance for our members.
We ask you to be vigilant and that all members not look for loopholes in the restrictions and apply common sense and care for yourselves, your horses and the wider community.

JOINT ADVICE – HORSE RIDING IN STAGE 4

 

 

POSTED 10th AUGUST – STAGE 3 & STAGE 4 – FURTHER CLARIFICATION

STAGE 3 – REGIONAL VICTORIA & STAGE 4 – METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE

IMPORTANT TO NOTE: A STATE OF DISASTER HAS BEEN DECLARED IN THE STATE OF VICTORIA

Please note that HRCAV is not an expert on pandemics and as such all  Victorian Government and Department of Health and Human Services information, guidelines and directives supersede this information.  The attached information is presented in conjunction with Equestrian Victoria (EV) and Pony Club Victoria (PCV),with the purpose of informing our equestrian community on how we are responding toCovid‐19,and to provide recommendations for what we believe is the best course of action for all equestrian groups/clubs, facilities, officials and members. There will be areas where advice varies slightly between organisations depending on that group’s area of responsibility. Horse owners are expected to consider the intent of the restrictions and err on the side of caution.

HRCAV COVID 19 PLAN AND MEMBER ADVICE

 

 

POSTED 6th AUGUST – UPDATE

We are still awaiting advice from the Victorian Government on the application of some of the restrictions. Once this is received we will circulate a more comprehensive document. In the meantime we can advise the following:
STAGE 4 RESTRICTIONS – MELBOURNE METRO
What STAGE 4 means for Groups and Clubs
 
NO EQUESTRIAN COMPETITIONS OR ACTIVITIES
• No equestrian competitions, rallies or other organised activity to take place.
• To be reviewed in line with Government guidelines and directives.
 
OUTDOOR & INDOOR FACILITIES CLOSED
All club facilities must be closed
 
MEETINGS & WORKSHOPS
Group/club/committee meetings/workshops should only take place online
 
COACHING
From 11:59 PM on Wednesday 5 August, coaches and trainers must work from home and use online and video conferencing facilities to deliver their coaching and training. The exception to this rule is if the coach/trainer is providing services to a rider(s) already within their household.
 
VETS & EQUINE SERVICES
Vets and other equine services (e.g. farriers) are considered essential services for the welfare of the horse and are permitted, only where there is a genuine animal welfare issue. Essential services/workplaces must ensure they meet their obligations as a Covid Safe Business and adhere to all government, social distancing and hygiene requirements.
STAGE 3 RESTRICTIONS – REGIONAL VICTORIA

What STAGE 3 means for Groups and Clubs

NO EQUESTRIAN COMPETITIONS OR ACTIVITIES
• No equestrian competitions, rallies or other organised activity to take place.
• To be reviewed in line with Government guidelines and directives.
 
OUTDOOR EXERCISE
Only allowed to exercise, with one other person or household members, provided 1.5 metres distance can be maintained.
 
OUTDOOR FACILITIES
*Outdoor facilities maybe open where:
• public gathering and physical distancing limits(1.5 metres and only with one other person or household members) can be adhered to.
• and there is no use of shared equipment or communal facilities.
For outdoor facilities that meet the requirements above and where access is controlled by a club, a booking system is required to be in place to ensure that all restrictions are met.
 
INDOOR FACILITIES
Indoor facilities must close.
 
MEETINGS & WORKSHOPS
Group/club/committee meetings/workshops should only take place online.
 
What STAGE 3 means for HRCAV members
 
KEY MESSAGES FOR EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITES:
• keep it low risk,
• keep it local,
• remain within your current abilities, and
• don’t start new activities or a new discipline at this time.
 
EXERCISING & CARING FOR YOUR HORSE
• Travel to care for your horse/s, is allowed. This includes exercising. However, all necessary health and safety measures will need to be followed.
• If you are unable to exercise your horse safely on the property where the horse is kept, you may ride off “off property” but keep the riding as local and as risk free as possible. You may float your horse to a safe, local, outdoor facility for exercise.
• Members who agist should still refer to the Agistment Centre/facility owner for specific restrictions and requirements implemented at the facility.
 
AGISTMENT CENTRES
• Agistment Centres must set up a roster and limit the number of persons on the property at any one time.
• Equipment should not be shared or touched by other people.
 
INDOOR FACILITIES CLOSED
• Indoor sport and recreation facilities are CLOSED.
 
GROUP ACTIVITIES
• Group activities with anyone outside your household are not allowed. Activities are to be limited to one other person or household members.
 
COACHING
Coaches may continue to coach outdoors and those receiving instruction can only do so with one other person or household member, and only under the following conditions:
• Coaching may take place at private and/or agistment facilities.
• If you are unwell or have Covid Symptoms you must stay home or get tested.
• You can go horse-riding off-property with members of your household or one other person, plus an instructor if required. You should not travel further than you need to, and you should horse ride at the closest available location to your home.
• Coaches may not travel into a Stage4 area to coach.
• There should be NO organized CLUB activity.
• You must be able to keep 1.5mdistance between yourself and others
• Strict hygiene practices must be practiced
• Any shared essential equipment such as gates, jump wings, dressage arena sets should be sanitised before and after use.
• Sharing of equipment such as helmets gloves and whips is not permitted.
 
FLOATING YOUR HORSE NON ESSENTIAL TRAVEL
• The floating of horses outside of your home for training/coaching is considered non-essential travel.
 
VETS & EQUINE SERVICES
• Vets and other equine services (e.g.farriers) are considered essential services and are permitted on the grounds of animal welfare, whilst adhering to social distancing and hygiene requirements.

 

POSTED 5th AUGUST – HOLDING STATEMENT

We are still awaiting formal government advice re travel and care for horses under COVID-19 Stage 3 and Stage 4 Restrictions and will provide an update as soon as possible. In the meantime, we confirm that you may still travel to care for your horse. Please refer to the advice posted today by Equestrian Victoria regarding permission to travel.

Equestrian Victoria advice 5th August

 

POSTED 4th AUGUST – INTERIM ADVICE

We are currently awaiting advice from the Victorian government on a number matters relating to care of horses during stage 4 restrictions and will post a detailed update as soon as possible.

Stage 3 restrictions for regional Victoria come into effect on Thursday. The restrictions will mirror the those which, until recently, applied to the Melbourne metro area. A detailed update will be available but in the meantime you can view how Stage 3 restrictions will affect your equestrian activities by reviewing the previous advice posted on 13th July (see below). Very briefly:

REGIONAL VICTORIA

 

INTERSTATE CLUBS

Clubs can hold activities, rallies and unofficial competitions provided state government requirements are followed.

South Australia restrictions

NSW restrictions

 

MELBOURNE METROPOLITAN AREA

Melbourne has been under Stage 3 restrictions and moved to Stage 4 restrictions at 8pm Sunday 2nd August.

Melbourne Metro area restrictions

We appreciate that there are many questions and a full update will be posted once we have confirmation from the Victorian government on a number of points. In the meantime, please be advised that:

 

ON-LINE COMPETITIONS

On-line competitions have been popular with our members, providing goals to work towards and respite from the day to day grind.  We will continue to offer these competitions but, unfortunately, opportunity to participate will be limited due to the new restrictions.

Please note that:

 

Thank you everyone for your patience. Stay safe.

 

POSTED 3rd AUGUST – STAGE 4 RESTRICTIONS FOR MELBOURNE

The Premier has announced stage 4 restrictions for Melbourne Metro area effective from 8pm Sunday 2nd August and stage 3 restrictions for the rest of Victoria starting Thursday. The HRCAV, EV and PCV will be working together to determine how the restrictions affect the equestrian community. We will provide an update ASAP.

Premier’s statement

 

POSTED 13th JULY – EV/PCV/HRCAV UPDATE

Based on further information and confirmation with DHHS, we have updated the Stage 3 Restrictions document.

The updated document contains the following sections, with changes to those marked with an ‘*’:

◼︎ Introduction *
◼︎ Community sport
◼︎ Exercising your horse *
◼︎ Indoor facilities
◼︎ Outdoor facilities *
◼︎ Outdoor exercise and recreation activities*
◼︎ Agistment facilities
◼︎ Travelling to care for your horse(s)
◼︎ Coaching *
◼︎ Professional equestrians

RESTRICTED AREAS – UPDATED ADVICE TO MEMBERS

 

POSTED 11th JULY – EV/PCV/HRCAV UPDATE

This advice has been updated – see link posted on 13th July

 

POSTED 9th JULY – EV/PCV/HRCAV UPDATE

Equestrian Victoria, Pony Club Victoria and the HRCAV are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our members and community.

Following consultation with the Victorian Department for Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Sport and Recreation Victoria (SRV) we can update the equestrian community regarding the impact of the new restrictions on equestrian activity, and in particular, those members within metropolitan Melbourne and the Mitchell Shire.

The update includes advice regarding riding off property and use of sporting facilities including Club grounds.

View the update here NEW RESTRICTIONS FOR METROPOLITAN MELBOURNE AND MITCHELL SHIRE

Edited 11/7/20. See 11th July post for version 2 of the update. 

 

POSTED 8th JULY – MELBOURNE AND MITCHELL SHIRE LOCK DOWN

The Melbourne Metro area and the Mitchell Shire have been returned to Stage 3 lock down. This will affect many of our members and Clubs. The restrictions come into effect from 11.59pm tonight at will be in place for the next 6 weeks unless otherwise advised.

Please review the information on the DHHS website here https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/updated-restrictions-1159pm-wednesday-8-july

The local government areas where the Stay at Home restrictions apply include:

Use this link to determine if your town or suburb located in a restricted municipality

https://knowyourcouncil.vic.gov.au/councils

 

How do the new restrictions affect our members and Clubs?

OUTSIDE THE RESTRICTED AREAS

‘You can only visit a restricted postcode for three reasons: shopping for food and supplies, care and care giving and study or work – if you can’t do it from home.’

‘If you need to travel through the Melbourne metropolitan area and the Shire of Mitchell, you can. You should plan your trip so that you don’t need to stop in an impacted area unless it is for one of the three reasons.’

 

WITHIN THE RESTRICTED AREAS

‘If you live in the Melbourne metropolitan area and the Shire of Mitchell you need to Stay at Home.

There are four reasons that you can leave home:

  1. Shopping for food or other essential items
  2. To provide care giving, for compassionate reasons or to seek medical treatment
  3. For exercise (outdoor exercise only, with only one other person or members of your household)
  4. Work or study, if you cannot work or study from home

Otherwise, you must stay home.’

‘Those in the Melbourne metropolitan area or the Shire of Mitchell can only go in and out of these areas for three reasons: shopping for food and supplies, medical care and caregiving, and study or work – if you can’t do it from home. Exercise and recreation will not be a reason to travel into or out of these areas’.

RIDING OFF PROPERTY AND ACCESS TO CLUB GROUNDS

Refer to joint release posted 13th July.

PLEASE CHECK OUR WEBSITE REGULARLY FOR ANY UPDATES. 

Thank you for your patience and stay safe.

 

POSTED 8th JULY – STATE BORDER CLOSURES

Members are reminded that there are restrictions applied to Victorian/NSW and Victorian/SA border crossings.

Information for Vic/NSW residents

Information for Vic/SA residents

 

POSTED 25th JUNE – COVID SAFE RALLIES AND COMPETITIONS –

COVID SAFE CONDITIONS OF ENTRY   updated 16/7/20

CLUB RALLIES AND ACTIVITIES SAFETY PLAN fillable

EVENT SAFETY PLAN Version 1 fillable

CLUB RALLY REQUIREMENTS

POSTED 2ND JULY – MELBOURNE HOT SPOTS

COVID:19 UPDATE. RESTRICTED POSTCODES

How will the new ‘hot spot’ restrictions put in place by the Victorian government affect HRCAV Club activities?

The restricted postcodes are listed below.

-All people in the declared postcodes are covered by stay at home restrictions. You cannot visit your club whether it is in the restricted postcode or outside of the restricted postcode.

-Any clubs located in these postcodes may not conduct activities.

-Clubs outside of the restricted postcodes must not allow members or visitors who reside in the listed postcodes to attend competitions, rallies or activities at your club.

Thank you to our Clubs for your efforts to provide Covid safe activities and to members for your acceptance of the restrictions and requirements. It’s important to maintain a cautious approach and encourage safe practices at this time.

For further information visit the Victorian DHHS website

 

POSTED 22ND JUNE – SMALL COMPETITIONS PERMITTED – updated 2/7/20

We confirm that HRCAV Clubs are now permitted to host competitions with a limit of 20 riders.

RELEASED 19TH JUNE – UPDATE

Update for HRCAV Clubs as at 19th June

POSTED 25TH MAY – EASING OF RESTRICTIONS IN VICTORIA

UPDATE 25TH MAY 2020 FOR VICTORIAN CLUBS

Pony Club Victoria, Equestrian Victoria and the HRCAV are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our members and community.  We continue to remain engaged with all levels of government and industry bodies around the COVID-19 situation, providing you with the latest information as it translates to equestrian activity.

We thank all our members and the broader equestrian community for your hard work to ensure restrictions can be eased by the state government.

Restrictions were eased from 11 May 2020 and yesterday further restrictions were announced by the Victorian State Government. Effective 1 June 2020 up to 20 people may gather outdoors, with a further easing 22 June 2020 that will allow for up to 20 people to gather indoors in groups of 10.

EFFECTIVE FROM 1 JUNE 2020

Outdoor recreational activities can be undertaken in groups of up to 20 participants, subject to social distancing and hygiene measures being implemented. This means members may continue to:

Note:

Members may continue to:

The approach to activities/training should focus on ‘get in, train, get out’, minimising unnecessary contact in stables, toilet facilities, and any communal areas. 
BE SAFE, CAUTIOUS & APPROPRIATE.

EFFECTIVE FROM MONDAY 22 JUNE 2020
SUBJECT TO THE ADVICE OF THE CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

In addition to the existing conditions outlined above for outdoor activity, from Monday 22 June up to 20 people can gather and train indoors per separate enclosed space. This includes indoor equestrian centres and club rooms.

This means in any one indoor space there can only be 20 people maximum, and only in groups of a maximum of 10. This includes trainers, parents and helpers.

We thank you for your continued support during this challenging period and encourage members to contact your respective state office if we can be of any assistance with advice or support.

GRADUAL EASING OF RESTRICTIONS:
https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/gradual-easing-restrictions-covid-19

SPORT AND EXERCISE:

https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/sport-cultural-and-recreational-activities-restrictions-coronavirus-covid19

 

POSTED 23RD MAY – NSW CLUBS

Our NSW based Clubs can now begin a cautious return to rallies and activities, following the HRCAV directives on this page. It is also important to abide by your state’s Health Guidelines and Public Health Orders which may differ from other states.

 

POSTED 18th MAY – A SAFE RETURN TO ACTIVITIES

As we begin a cautious return to activities, it is  important that members take care and abide by the directions of the DHHS and HRCAV which are updated regularly.

Please direct any questions you may have to Sally Mizzi at the HRCAV [email protected]

WHERE CAN I FIND THE DIRECTIONS FOR RUNNING RALLIES DURING COVID 19?

Risk management directions for Clubs resuming rallies are listed below. Take all reasonable precautions to limit the spread of Covid 19.

CAN HRCAV PROVIDE CONFIRMATION OF OUR INSURANCE COVER?

Clubs using council owned grounds will likely be asked for proof of insurance cover during the Covid 19 period.

HRCAV holds Public Liability, Personal Accident and Management Liability insurance for Clubs and members, which have remained unchanged throughout the pandemic.

The insurance policies held require insured entities to take all reasonable precautions to prevent a claim. As such, reasonable care should be taken in line with recommendations of the relevant authorities including HRCAV and Australian health and government authorities who are best placed to advise on the response to this evolving situation. Failure by Clubs to act in accordance with such directives from HRCAV, government or relevant authorities, could see them found in breach of the reasonable care conditions of the policy, thus compromising their cover.

Contact the HRCAV office at [email protected] to request formal confirmation of cover.

CAN WE HOLD RALLIES ON A MEMBER’S PROPERTY?

Rallies may be held on members’ properties. All risk management directions must be followed as well as any other requirements of the property owner. Activities are to be restricted to the equestrian facilities. The owner’s house is off limits.

HRCAV insurance policy extends to cover any landowner whose land is used, hired, or passed over by the Member Club providing the use of the land is for the purposes of running a sanctioned Member Club or HRCAV event or activity.

CAN WE USE INDOOR ARENAS?

If the arena is substantially enclosed it may only be used by the property owner. If the arena is NOT substantially enclosed, it may be used provided its use is managed to address the risk of virus transmission. The following information has been released by Equestrian Victoria.

WHAT CONSTITUTES AN INDOOR ARENA?

An Indoor Arena is “an arena that is substantially enclosed by a roof and walls, regardless of whether the roof or walls or any part of them are permanent, temporary, open or closed”.

“Substantially enclosed” means: Premises that have a ceiling or roof but there is an opening or an aggregate area of openings in the walls which is less than half of the area of the walls (including other structures that serve the purpose of walls and constitute the perimeter of the premises).

If your arena has:

Example 1:
My arena has a roof and is 60m x 20m. I have full height walls down one long side and down one short side. The other two sides have half height walls. Therefore, my arena is SUBSTANTIALLY ENCLOSED (more than 50% is wall) and is therefore technically an Indoor arena.

Example 2:
My arena has a roof and is 60m x 20m. I have half height (or lower) walls all the way around my arena. My arena is therefore NOT SUBSTANTIALLY WALLED and is therefore technically NOT an Indoor arena.

INFORMATION FOR PRIVATE INDOOR ARENAS OWNERS

An indoor arena is able to be used for personal use by the owner/s of the property on which the arena is situated.

Definition of a “privately owned arena” – a facility which is NOT operated on a ‘for-profit’ or ‘not-for-profit’ basis.

Example 1:
I have an indoor arena on my own property and do not derive any income from it. Can I ride in it?
YES, however this is limited to the resident/s of the property. Having visitors attend to train in your indoor arena is not in the spirit of State Government directives – refer to Equestrian Sport.

 Example 2:
I have an indoor arena on my agistment property, can my agistees ride in it?
Agistment centres need to act in accordance with State Government directives and we will be communicating with those centres that have registered with Equestrian Victoria. If you would like to register your agistment centre please do so here.

POSTED 13th MAY – RISK MANAGEMENT DIRECTIVES FOR HRCAV CLUBS

Clubs are now permitted to hold some activities and re-open their grounds to members for training between rallies – subject to venue owner permission. The following joint update has been released by PCV/EV/HRCAV. Although described as ‘guidelines’, HRCAV Clubs are required to implement the stated directions. These have been developed to help stakeholders comply with Government requirements and reduce the risk of Covid 19 exposure. The only direction you may not be able enforce is downloading of the CovidApp however, members should be encouraged to do so for their own safety and the safety of others.

These directions apply to our Victorian and South Australian clubs. NSW Clubs will be notified when they are able to resume some activities.

BULLETIN: RETURN TO ACTIVITY – RALLIES, INSTRUCTION AND OTHER ACTIVITIES 12 May 2020
PONY CLUB VICTORIA, EQUESTRIAN VICTORIA AND HORSE RIDING CLUBS ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA

On Monday the Premier Daniel Andrews announced the easing of restrictions concerning COVID-19 under the current declared State of Emergency.

These restrictions will be further reviewed May 31

As outlined in our announcement yesterday evening, this means a controlled return to Pony Club, HRCAV, EV and equestrian activity effective from 11.59pm 12 May 2020.

The following guidelines have been developed, and whilst not prescriptive, provide for your club to assess your own situation.

At all times we expect reasonable common sense to prevail in line the objectives of the State Government to limit the spread of COVID-19, and to ensure our philosophy of
‘Get in – Train – Get out’  is maintained.

Directions for HRCAV, PCV and EV Clubs conducting rallies or activities:

To continue to have restrictions eased by the State Government we need to apply these guidelines with caution and care, and with common sense. Our main concern remains the safety and welfare of our members and the broader community and we thank the broader equestrian community for your help in getting to a position where we can return to limited activity.

POSTED 12th MAY – DHHS RESTRICTED ACTIVITY DIRECTIONS NO. 6  

POSTED 11th MAY – EASING OF SOME RESTRICTIONS

COVID 19 UPDATE

Please note: This info does not apply to our NSW Clubs. NSW Govt’s next update will be on 15th May. We will confirm arrangements for NSW Clubs once the NSW recovery plan is released.The following information does apply to SA Clubs which are covered by govt restrictions similar to Vic.

 MEMBER RELEASE

A COVID SAFE RETURN TO EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES
Equestrian Victoria (EV), Pony Club Victoria (PCV) and the Horse Riding Club Association of Victoria (HRCAV) are committed to ensuring the health and safety of our members and community. We continue to remain engaged with all levels of government and industry bodies around the COVID-19 situation, providing you with the latest information as it translates to our sporting landscape.
Following Friday’s announcement by the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison about the national 3-step recovery plan, and this morning’s announcement by the Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews there is now a gradual easing of government restrictions that will allow the resumption of SOME equestrian activities.
 From 11.59pm tomorrow evening (Tuesday 12 May), outdoor recreational activities can be undertaken in groups of up to 10 participants, subject to social distancing and hygiene measures being implemented. This means members may now:
• Ride off property
• Travel horses locally and regionally including for training/coaching – but no overnight stays
• Participate in outdoor training/coaching activities with a maximum of 10 participants
 Note:
• Riders should check with venue as owners/managers may have venue specific restrictions
• Social distancing (1.5m) and good hygiene MUST be maintained
• These allowances are for outdoor areas only – no gatherings for recreational activities indoors are permitted
• Groups can be no larger than 10 (plus the coaches and helpers required to run the activity). More than one group of 10 can be present on a venue at the same time, if the different groups are physically well separated on different parts of the venue. No other facilities except toilet facilities may be used.
 Members may continue to:
• Have coaches, farriers, trainers, vets, and other equine professionals attend your property
• Attend agistment centres to care for horses subject to venue owner/manager specific restrictions
 The approach to activities/training should focus on ‘get in, train, get out’, minimising unnecessary contact in stables, toilet facilities, and any communal areas.
 BE SAFE, CAUTIOUS & APPROPRIATE.
 The Premier’s announcement is effective until 11.59pm 31 May, by which time we should have a more detailed plan that we can build upon to support the return to events and competitions here in Victoria, guiding our sport out of this crisis.
 We understand the desire from members to return to group activities and competitions as soon as possible. We equally share this desire and we look forward to further announcements by the Victoria government over the coming week(s). We will release a more detailed and a stepped plan once we have that information.
 The equine community is well positioned to move through the federal government and AIS frameworks. However, it is likely that modifications will be required to some of our current resources to mitigate additional risks related to COVID-19 based on government advice.
 We thank you for your continued support during this challenging period and encourage members to contact the EV, PCV or HRCAV offices (as appropriate) if we can be of any assistance with advice or support. Please note, that our office hours and days have not changed since our last announcement.
 Let’s all continue to exercise caution – we don’t want to take a backward step just as we begin to move forward.
DHHS – GRADUAL EASING OF RESTRICTIONS
DHHS SPORT AND EXERCISE
Download the COVIDSafe App for iPhone and Android
 Matthew Brown
Chief Executive Officer – Equestrian Victoria (EV)
 
Rick Gill
Executive Officer – Pony Club Victoria (PCV)
 
Sally Mizzi
Administrative Officer – Horse Riding Club Association of Victoria (HRCAV)
 
 
Directions for HRCAV Clubs conducting rallies or activities:
• Toilets may be used. Ensure social distancing and hygiene is strictly observed.
• Club rooms and other communal areas to remain closed.
• Ride and leave policy – avoid gatherings.
• Participants to bring their own food and drink.
• Roster riding times to limit numbers at venue.

 

POSTED 5th MAY – NO TTT EVENTS IN 2020

The HRCAV advises that all 2020 Top Team Trophy events have been cancelled. It is not known when it will be safe to again hold large events and this uncertainty has placed undue pressure on the host Clubs. We hope that 2021 sees the virus under control and life returning to normal allowing these popular events to return. New dates and details will be added to the Event Calendar in due course.

 

POSTED 4th MAY – SUSPENSION PERIOD 

The HRCAV has previously advised that the date for possible resumption of our events and activities would be 18th May depending on the situation at that time, (see posts below). At present there are no plans to lift the suspension period however, should the Victorian Government update on 11th May ease restrictions impacting the equestrian sector, we will be in a position to review our policy. We will liaise with other equestrian organisations before any changes are announced to ensure a balanced approach and consistency of information to members.

 

POSTED 24th APRIL – COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Covid 19 restrictions. HRCAV has been liaising with EV and other equestrian bodies to ensure consistency of information. The link below provides clearly explained answers to commonly asked questions. The advice in this link applies to our members.

Answers to commonly asked questions

 

POSTED 31st MARCH – EV ADVICE APPLIES TO HRCAV CLUBS AND MEMBERS

We are sure you will join us in thanking Matthew Brown and his team at Equestrian Victoria for liaising with the DHHS to determine how the various restrictions impact the equestrian community in Victoria. We appreciate your efforts EV.

Here is a link to their advice which has been endorsed by the HRCAV and will apply to all members.

https://www.vic.equestrian.org.au/sites/default/files/CORONA%20UPDATE%20Agistment%20centres%20etc%203.0%20MONDAY%2030%20March%202020_Final_5PM_0.pdf

Please be aware that information provided may need to be updated subject to the release of further government restrictions.

HRCAV members are protected under our insurance policy but please be reminded that failure to abide by government and HRCAV directions may compromise your cover.

 

30th MARCH – INTRODUCTION OF STAGE 3 RESTRICTIONS

RESTRICTED ACTIVITY DIRECTIONS – AS AT 30th MARCH – replaces Non Essential Activity Directions (No2)

STAY AT HOME DIRECTIONS

 

HRCAV ADVICE 28th MARCH – CLOSURE OF CLUB GROUNDS

Stage 2 Non Essential Activity directions issued by the Victorian Government mandate the closure of equestrian centres. In accordance with this directive HRCAV Clubs which own, control or operate their club grounds are required to close their club grounds from midnight 26th March until midnight on 13th April 2020. (Update: Club grounds to remain closed until further notice). Agistment centres – a person who owns, controls or operates an agistment centre may continue to operate for the purpose of treating or caring for animals, performing and animal rescue function or maintaining the facility.

Read the full stage 2 restrictions relating to non essential activity here

https://www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/202003/Non-Essential-Activity-Directions-No-2.

Please follow the social distancing, hygiene and restriction of movement recommendations and requirements issued by government bodies. We want you, your families and community to be as safe as possible in these trying times.

We are facing a difficult period which may impact our mental and physical well being. Please keep in touch with neighbours, club members, family and friends to make sure they are ok. We are all in this together.

Follow this page for further updates.

Ken Hammet
President

 

HRCAV ADVICE 23rd MARCH – SUSPENSION OF CLUB ACTIVITIES

The HRCAV advises that all Association and Club activities are to be suspended until 18th May (to align with the suspension period for competition). This includes rallies, clinics, face to face meetings and social activities. We take this step to further safeguard our members, families and the community. The suspension period will be reviewed at the beginning of May and a further update posted.

Use of locked Club grounds for private training is to be strictly controlled with Clubs responsible for ensuring that the number of persons using the grounds at any one time is limited and the recommended hygiene and social distancing measures are enforced. Clubs deciding to close their grounds will be supported by the HRCAV. Further information will be sent to Club Secretaries by email today.

The HRCAV office will be manned, with staggered attendance to limit contact. Please be patient if your enquiry is not attended to in the usual efficient manner. A staff member will get back to you in due course. Any urgent business should be sent to [email protected] or by leaving a telephone message.

We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this difficult time. Please be careful and stay safe.

 

HRCAV ADVICE 16th MARCH – Suspension of competitions

Due to the escalation of concerns about the Corona virus and the need to provide our Clubs with clear guidance about events and activities, it has been decided to suspend all HRCAV competitions until 18th May 2020. The HRCAV will continue to monitor the situation and will extend the period of suspension if necessary. Like the official HRCAV Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/HRCAV-213545695476432/ ) or monitor our website to stay informed.

Event organisers are advised that entry refunds must be provided upon request, with the usual vet or medical certificate requirement waived until competitions resume.

Should you wish to reschedule your event, please contact the office for advice. The event calendar on our website will be updated regularly.

Clinics and rallies can still be conducted at the discretion of the Club committee as long as precautionary measures to help protect those in attendance are implemented. Such measures would include:

• members feeling unwell to stay at home,
• avoid close social contact at the rally,
• byo food and drinks,
• hand soap/sanitiser in toilets and kitchens.

For further information about Covid 19 go to:

https://www.health.gov.au/…/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-hea…

This decision has been made to support the health and safety of our members, families and communities. We find ourselves in a rapidly evolving situation and will share updates as soon as possible.

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