COVID 19 INFORMATION

NOTE: HOVER OVER THE COVID 19 INFORMATION LINK ON THE MENU FOR DROP DOWN LISTS RELATING TO RALLIES AND EVENTS.

POSTED 17th FEBRUARY 2021

Victoria’s 5 day snap lockdown will end at 11.59pm tonight – Wednesday 17th February. This means we return to the CovidSafe Summer restrictions which applied before the lockdown, with some amendments. View the attached release which highlights these amendments: https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/…/210217%20-%20Full…

POSTED 12th FEBRUARY 2021

POSTED 28th JANUARY – FACE MASKS UPDATE

• You must always carry a face mask with you when you leave home unless you have a lawful reason not to.
• It is strongly recommended you wear one whenever you cannot keep 1.5 metres distance from others.

POSTED 12th JANUARY – FACE MASKS

Until further notice, in Victoria facemasks must be worn in public indoor spaces unless you have a lawful reason not to wear one.

DHHS face mask rules

POSTED 10th DECEMBER – COVIDSAFE UPDATE AS AT 6th DECEMBER 2020

Joint release COVIDSafe Summer 

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:

• be for exercise purposes
• be undertaken outdoors. The use of indoor facilities remains prohibited at this time
• adhere to class size caps relevant to personal trainers (maximum of two people, in addition to the personal trainer or coach)
• adhere to face mask and physical distancing restrictions
• not allow for equipment to be shared during the class or coaching session
• be undertaken within 25km of the participant’s home or workplace (if they are a permitted worker and carrying a Permitted Worker Permit). Coaches and trainers may travel more than 25km to work but must have a Permitted Worker Permit with them while travelling.

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,

• You can leave home for any period of time to exercise or see friends and family outdoors. This replaces the two hour limit on these activities. There are no limits on the number of times you can leave home.
• You can exercise in a group of up to ten people from a maximum of two households outdoors in a public place This replaces the limit of five people from a maximum of two households.
• Some outdoor activities can take place in outdoor sport and recreation facilities. Outdoor sport and recreation facilities can open if:
  • They are predominantly used for outdoor sport or physical recreation
  • There is no equipment for hire or sharing
  • Indoor facilities such as change rooms are not permitted for use, however toilet facilities are permitted to open.
  • A limit of 10 people from 2 household per group or more than 10 if the entire group is from the same household and you must be able to keep 1.5 metres between yourself and others.
  • Restrictions to no more than 10 people in the facility at once except where a distance of at least 100m between groups can be maintained (e.g. golf courses).

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

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:

• use a teleconference, videoconference or other means of electronic communication.
  The Associations Incorporation Reform Act 2012(the Act) permits members to take part in general meetings by using technology that allows members to clearly and simultaneously communicate with each other, regardless of the incorporated association’s rules about this. The Act also permits meetings of the committee of an incorporated association to be conducted by use of technology that allows members to clearly and simultaneously communicate with each other.
• use proxy voting. You must use a standard form to proxy vote if the rules of the incorporated association require you to do so. Members must be given a copy of the form with the notice of the AGM/Special General Meeting. A person acting as a proxy must act honestly and in good faith and exercise due care and diligence
• apply for an extension of time to hold the AGM. The Registrar is currently granting three-month extensions and waiving the usual fee. To seek an extension, complete our Extension of time to hold an AGM or lodge financial statements form (Word, 97 KB)and send it to registration@justice.vic.gov.au.

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

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

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

• Clubs may not conduct rallies, activities or events.
• Indoor arenas closed. Only owners may use the indoor arena.
• Outdoor sport facilities, including Club grounds, may remain open however, the Club is required to implement a booking system to ensure numbers meet venue limits. Riders may ride in groups of two with a maximum of 10 on the grounds unless 100m can be maintained between each pair. No sharing of equipment or facilities. Club rooms closed. Toilets can open.
• You can travel to care for your horse.
• Horse riding off property is a permitted activity for personal exercise and horse welfare purposes however, there is a limit of two people and an instructor if required for safety reasons. Stay local.
• If you can exercise your horse at home you should not take the horse off property for exercise.
• Instructors can visit your property to give lessons.

INTERSTATE CLUBS

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

South Australia restrictions

NSW restrictions

• A maximum of 20 riders can be in attendance at a Club activity or event at any one time.
• Clubs holding rallies and activities must complete and follow a Club Safety Plan.
• Clubs wishing to hold an HRCAV event (including unofficial events) must forward a copy of their Event Safety Plan for approval with a copy of their event program.

MELBOURNE METROPOLITAN AREA

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

• Club grounds must be closed to members.
• We have been advised that you can travel to care for your horse if necessary, including exercise for welfare purposes.
• Do not ride off property at present. Await further advice.

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:

• Members in regional Victoria cannot travel a horse off property for the purpose of participating in on-line competitions (effective 6th August)
• In Melbourne Metro area, entry is open only to members who can ride their horse at their place of residence (effective 3rd August)

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

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:

• Banyule
• Bayside
• Boroondara
• Brimbank
• Cardinia
• Casey
• Darebin
• Frankston
• Glen Eira
• Greater Dandenong
• Hobsons Bay
• Hume
• Kingston
• Knox
• Manningham
• Maribyrnong
• Maroondah
• Melbourne
• Melton
• Mitchell Shire
• Monash
• Moonee Valley
• Moreland
• Mornington Peninsula
• Nillumbik
• Port Phillip
• Stonnington
• Whitehorse
• Whittlesea
• Wyndham
• Yarra
• Yarra Ranges

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

• Clubs outside the restricted areas may continue to operate under the previously advised conditions.
• Members must limit travel into 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

• Stay at home restrictions apply.

‘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.’

• Members must limit travel out of restricted areas

‘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’.

• Any clubs located in these postcodes may not conduct activities.
• You cannot visit your club whether it is in the restricted postcode or outside of the restricted postcode.
• 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.
• Indoor arenas will be closed. Only owners may use the indoor arena.
• People can still travel to care for their horses.
• Instructors can still visit your property to give lessons.

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.

•  3038 Keilor Downs, Keilor Lodge, Taylors Lakes, Watergardens
  • 3021 Albanvale, Kealba, Kings Park, St Albans
  • 3012 Brooklyn, Kingsville, Maidstone, Tottenham, West Footscray
  • 3042 Airport West, Keilor Park, Niddrie, Niddrie North
  • 3064 Craigieburn, Donnybrook, Mickleham, Roxburgh Park, Kalkallo
  • 3047 Broadmeadows, Dallas, Jacana
  • 3060 Fawkner
  • 3032 Ascot Vale, Highpoint City, Maribyrnong, Travancore
  • 3046 Glenroy, Hadfield, Oak Park
  • 3055 Brunswick South, Brunswick West, Moonee Vale, Moreland West

-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.

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.

• Separate competitions of up to 20 riders may be held at the same venue however, all competitors must depart the venue before competitors for the next competition are admitted.
• Event organisers will be required to prepare and implement a Covid 19 Event Safety Plan. Club Secretaries have been provided with a copy of the plan and suggested mitigation strategies for recognised areas of risk. At present, Event Organisers are being asked to forward a copy of their Plan to the HRCAV with their Event program. Any Covid specific conditions of entry to their event are to be pre-advertised.
• Clubs should not consider holding events unless their venue allows social distancing in all areas including warm-up, parking and common areas, and they have the ability to implement and enforce risk management protocols.
• While Clubs are required to take steps to encourage social distancing at their event, ultimately, it is the responsibility of all participants to maintain a distance of 1.5m from other persons and avoid gatherings. Persons failing to abide by social distancing requirements may be required to leave the venue.
• Participants should also wash hands often (byo sanitiser) and observe hygiene recommendations.
• Anyone experiencing any symptoms of Covid 19 must stay at home.
• Anyone presenting with Covid symptoms, will not be permitted to enter/remain at the venue.
• To facilitate tracking should a participant prove to be Covid positive, every person entering the venue must have their details and time of entry and departure recorded. It is also strongly recommended that participants download the Covid Safe App .
• Competitors are required to ride and leave as soon as practicable or by the time set by the organisers, whichever is earlier.
• Spectators should be discouraged from attending.
• Clubs and participants must ensure that they do not breach current restrictions set by their state government. We are all aware that circumstances can change from day to day. Restrictions such as those imposed recently for the Victorian hot spot postcodes are very well publicised, so please stay informed. If you have any questions, you can contact the office.
• Please be aware that organisers may need to cancel or postpone their event subject to the current Covid situation.
• Performance points will be awarded at HRCAV competitions however, points for the Annual Awards will not be allocated while numbers are limited.

RELEASED 19TH JUNE – UPDATE

Update for HRCAV Clubs as at 19th June

POSTED 25TH MAY – EASING OF RESTRICTIONS IN VICTORIA

UPDATE 25^TH 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:

• Ride off property
• Travel horses locally and regionally including for training/coaching – overnight stays at friend or family premises permitted subject to current restrictions
• Participate in outdoor training/coaching activities with a maximum of 20 participants

Note:

• Riders should check with venue as owners/managers who 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 20 (plus the coaches and helpers required to run the activity). More than one group of 20 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.
• 1 parent/helper per rider only.
• Toilets can be used. Hygiene must be maintained, and soap or sanitizer provided.
• Club rooms, canteens and other spaces must remain closed.
• The COVIDsafe app should be downloaded and active.
• Name, mobile phone and time at the venue must be recorded for every person present.
• Person displaying any sign of sickness must not attend.
• Clubs which allow member use of locked grounds for training must put in place a booking system to limit numbers at the grounds at any one time. Rules in line with the requirements for rallies and group training must be applied.

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.

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.

• 10 people maximum per group/activity
• 4 square metres per person and 1.5 metres apart at all times.
• Canteens, and other amenities remain closed
• Toilets can be opened provided hygiene is maintained

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 info@hrcav.com.au

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 info@hrcav.com.au 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:

• A roof and no walls it is NOTan indoor arena – it is a COVERED Arena
• A roof and is enclosed by full height walls it is an INDOORarena
• Half height (or thereabouts) walls BUThas OPENINGS the area of which MAKE UP MORE THAN HALF THE AREA OF THE WALLS, including any other structures that serve the purpose of walls and constitute the perimeter of the premises, then your arena is NOT an indoor arena.

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:

• Maximum of 10 riders plus coach and helpers to a group
• Non riding personnel to be kept to a minimum
• Subject to venue size and layout, more than one group of 10 may be present.
• Groups must be physically separated on different parts of the grounds, including separate yards and parking areas
• When multiple groups are at the venue they must not intermingle. Name, phone number, date and time at facility must be recorded for every person on site
• Administration and sign on must be organised to avoid gathering.
• Ensure social distancing and hygiene is strictly observed, including hygiene around portable equipment.
• Club rooms and other communal areas to remain closed.
• Yards may be used if it is possible to maintain social distancing.
• Toilets may be used.
• Regularly disinfect surfaces such as gates, equipment and toilets.
• Get in – train – get out policy – avoid gatherings.
• No overnight stays either on site or offsite.
• Participants to bring their own food and drink.
• Schedule riding times to limit numbers at venue.
• No spectators, family or friends permitted on site. Only 1 parent or helper permitted per rider.
• Clubs which allow member use of locked grounds for training must put in place a booking system to limit numbers at the grounds at any one time. Rules in line with the requirements for rallies and group training must be applied.
• The COVIDSafe app should be downloaded and active on all phones

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

A COVID SAFE RETURN TO EQUESTRIAN ACTIVITIES

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 18^th 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 info@hrcav.com.au 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.