Boonah Clydesdale Spectacular

 Saturday 15 June

Setting off at 8am, I enjoyed a lovely rural drive to Boonah. The 14C temperature on my arrival, soon rose to a very pleasant 20C. The horses were already being judged by the Scottish offical, Peter Tennant. After finding a cup of coffee, I settled in a ringside stand and marvelled at the size, strength and beauty of these gentle giants.

Most categories had only one or two entrants, and I did not understand how the categories worked, but that really wasn't an issue to my enjoyment.                                                          

Google's description of the Spectacular.

"The Clydesdale breed of horse has a long history in the Scenic Rim, dating back to the 1800's when Arnold Wienholt had the Wienholt Clydesdale Stud in Maryvale, a stud of some 400 horses. The Clydesdale breed in Queensland and in the Scenic Rim has been kept alive by the Ehrich Families and their enormous  history and passion for the breed. This event showcases the best of the breed and attracts breeders from Queensland and interstate. It boosts the largest prize purse in the Southern Hemisphere with the Supreme Champion taking home $2000 in cash and the winner of "The Thistle" Champion of Champions, takes home $5000 in cash."

In researching the above, I discovered the 'Thistle" winner.

2024 "Thistle" winner and Australian Champion Clydesdale, Samarah Park Lady Sarah. A panel of 3 judges unanimously agreed on the quality of this filly!

My thoughts are that the prize money is small change for the costs of breeding and competing. Look at these rigs to get the horses to Boonah and elsewhere.

Arrival at the showgrounds.

Judging took place throughout the day.

An impressive trio waiting for the judge to announce the winner. The following images are of them performimg for the judge. Sadly I don't know which one won.

Not good!

Being calmed.

Finally settled.

Great movement.

Very impressive walk.

Slightly spooked.

Walking well.

Other categories.

Awaiting their turn.

So much time and dedication into braiding tails and manes.

Winners - I have no idea of what category.

The opening ceremony, which many of us thought was going to be a Grand Parade. Shame!

Other entertainments going on all day.

The Teviot Clydesdale's team offered carriage rides regularly.

I was very disappointed that I only saw this team, of eleven draught horses pulling a wagon, as they left the arena. 

Australian Light horses in action with lances, swords and bayonets.

Caber tossing

Horse whisperer.

Horse shoeing .

Sheep dog exhibition.

Craft markets of all things rural.

Shetland pony rides.

Sunday must be their day to shine.

Lovely to see these three pass over, but nothing to do with the Spectacular.

As you enter the centre of Boonah, this marvellous metal horse sculpture by reknowned Scottish sculptor, Andy Scott, greets one. Created on a visit in 2003, Andy returned this week to be a part of the week's program celebrating Clydesdales.

This is Andy Scott in front of his famous Clydesdale heads, in Falkirk, Scotland.

As a country girl at heart, this was an extremely enjoyable day.

I would love to read your comment.