Date
24th January 2026
Time
8am - 4:30pm
Location
Shirley Heights Equestrian Centre
610-640 Yarra Junction-Noojee Road,
Gladysdale Victoria 3797
What is The Riders Retreat?
The Riders Retreat is not just another clinic. It’s a full day, all inclusive equestrian wellness event designed to help you reconnect with your horse, your riding, and a community of like minded riders who value growth, wellness, and genuine connection.
You’ll be guided by high level coaches who are not only experts in their field, but also there throughout the day to support you, answer questions, and guide you both in and out of the arena.
This is a community event, a chance to meet new people, learn alongside others, and feel like you’re part of something bigger. You’ll be surrounded by people who get it.
Created by riders Dana and Nicole, who both run businesses within the equestrian industry. Nicole is also a professional event manager, so every detail has been intentionally designed with riders in mind.
This day is about support, connection, and coming back to centre, as a rider and as a person.
Off-Horse Experiene
Full Ticket
What's Included
Welcome Breakfast + gift bag (exclusive event tee + more goodies)
Flatwork Session with Charlie Welsh – focused on rider seat, timing, effective aids and connection.
Strength & Conditioning Workshop with Amanda Lewer – a carefully designed session using poles and gymnastic-style exercises to help horse and rider build strength, balance, and coordination
Catered Lunch – wraps, grazing platters, and time to unwind
Off-Horse Rider Mobility Session with Amber Cargill – focused on rider strength, biomechanics and mobility
Exclusive Pop-Up from Aurora Equestrian x EquiCare – featuring limited edition pieces and event-only discounts
How the day will run
To ensure every rider gets the most out of the day, spaces are strictly limited to 20 riders.
Riders will be split into four small groups of five, based on experience level. This allows for more focused attention and tailored coaching throughout the day.
Each group will rotate through the two core sessions:
- Flatwork Fundamentals
- Strength & Conditioning
Then we will all come together for an off-horse rider mobility class specialising in rider strength and biomechanics.
Each session will run for 1 hour, with a clear lesson plan and learning outcomes, allowing every rider to build confidence and take home practical tools they can continue using beyond the day.
You’ll be guided by high level professionals who are there not just to teach, but to support, encourage, and offer insight every step of the way in and out of the arena.
Why we created it
We felt something was missing, a space where riders could feel supported not just in the saddle, but also out if it.
This day is about slowing down, reconnecting, and leaving with more clarity and confidence.
All disciplines welcome. All backgrounds celebrated.
This is just the beginning.
Got Questions?
DM us on Instagram @TheRidersRetreat or email theridersretreat@gmail.com