ASSC Clinic | Aussie Side Saddle

Celebrating Success: ASSC Side Saddle Clinic

Queensland | 2026

The 2026 Australian Side Saddle Community (ASSC) Queensland Side Saddle Clinic was an outstanding success, bringing together riders, enthusiasts, instructors and supporters for a memorable day of learning, discovery and camaraderie.

From first-time experiences in the saddle to valuable opportunities for experienced riders, the clinic celebrated the history, elegance and versatility of side saddle riding while strengthening the connections within our growing community.

First Rides and New Achievements

One of the most rewarding aspects of the clinic was watching riders experience side saddle for the very first time. From their initial saddle fittings to confidently riding at walk, trot and canter, participants embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and determination, even progressing to jumping during their very first session riding aside!

Watching confidence grow, skills develop and friendships form throughout the day was truly inspiring. These achievements were a wonderful reminder of why we are so passionate about introducing new riders to this unique discipline and helping them discover the enjoyment and possibilities of riding aside.

Exploring the Art of Side Saddle Fitting

Another highlight was our interactive side saddle fitting session, which brought participants together to examine and fit a variety of side saddles to horses of different builds.

This hands-on experience provided a valuable opportunity to ask questions, share knowledge and develop a greater understanding of saddle construction, fit and suitability. It was an excellent example of the educational opportunities that make clinics so worthwhile, allowing participants to explore not only the art of riding aside but also the knowledge and practical skills that support it.

Meet Buck – Our Static Mount!

No clinic would be complete without a little extra help, and ASSC's static mount, affectionately known as Buck, certainly earned his place as a valued member of the team!

Buck gave attendees the opportunity to practise sitting aside and explore different saddle styles and sizes in a relaxed setting. With options including an offside saddle and a Western side saddle, there was plenty to discover.

Many participants took full advantage of the opportunity to become familiar with side saddle position, balance and the differences between saddle styles. Buck proved to be a popular attraction throughout the day, providing a hands-on learning experience for both newcomers and those wishing to broaden their knowledge.

A Wonderful Response from Participants

ASSC has been delighted by the positive feedback received from both ridden and non-ridden participants. The kind words, encouragement and thoughtful reflections shared after the clinic mean a great deal to us.

This feedback reinforces our commitment to preserving the traditions of side saddle riding while creating opportunities for people of all ages and experience levels to discover and enjoy its elegance, history and versatility.

Whether participants came to ride, learn about saddle fitting, deepen their historical knowledge or simply share their enthusiasm for the discipline, the clinic offered something for everyone.

Special Thanks to Our International Instructors

Our heartfelt thanks go to Maggie, Linda and Laura from the American Sidesaddle Association for travelling to Queensland and generously sharing their extensive knowledge, experience and expertise with our community.

Their patience, encouragement and dedication to helping each participant work towards their individual goals contributed enormously to the success of the clinic. We are incredibly grateful that they made the journey to Australia and shared their passion for side saddle riding with us.

Participants benefited from an exceptional instructional team comprising three qualified instructors, supported by two instructors-in-training. Their combined knowledge and experience helped ensure that riders received valuable guidance, individual attention and encouragement throughout the day.

The collaboration between the Australian Side Saddle Community and the American Sidesaddle Association was a wonderful demonstration of how shared knowledge and a common passion can bring people together, strengthen connections and help preserve this special part of equestrian heritage.

Recognising Vision and Leadership

Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to ASSC founder Simone Johnson for bringing this remarkable clinic to life.

Organising an event of this scale requires considerable planning, dedication and hard work. The success of the clinic reflects Simone's vision, commitment and determination to create meaningful opportunities for people to learn about, experience and enjoy side saddle riding.

Through her efforts, the Australian Side Saddle Community continues to provide a welcoming environment where knowledge can be shared, skills developed and new friendships formed. Her commitment to growing the community and preserving the traditions of riding aside is helping ensure that this beautiful discipline continues to be enjoyed by future generations.

A Community Effort – Thank You!

A very special thank you goes to the Speechley family for their generous support. So much of what makes an event successful happens behind the scenes, and we are deeply appreciative of the many ways they assisted both organisers and participants.

Special thanks also to Marshall, who kept the sound system running smoothly and helped resolve technical challenges throughout the event.

To every participant, instructor, volunteer, helper, supporter and spectator who contributed to the clinic, thank you for being part of this memorable experience. Your enthusiasm, generosity and willingness to share in the learning made the day what it was.

It is this spirit of encouragement, friendship and shared passion that makes the Australian Side Saddle Community so special.

Looking to the Future

The success of the Queensland Side Saddle Clinic has once again demonstrated the value of bringing people together to learn, share experiences and celebrate the art of riding aside.

From first-time riders discovering a new challenge to experienced enthusiasts expanding their knowledge, the clinic provided a wonderful opportunity to connect with the history, practical skills and enduring appeal of side saddle riding.

The Australian Side Saddle Community extends its sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event such a success.

We look forward to building on this experience and creating further opportunities for riders and enthusiasts to learn, connect and experience the joy of riding aside.

Continue Your Side Saddle Journey:

Whether you're discovering side saddle for the first time or looking to expand your existing knowledge, we invite you to explore our educational resources, meet our community and discover what's coming next.

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