This May, the 2025 Warburton Estate Agents Scone Horse Festival will mark a significant milestone, celebrating 45 years of honouring Scone as Australia’s Horse Capital. Themed “Home is Where the Horse Is: 45 Years of Heart in Scone,” this year’s festival reflects on the enduring bond between Scone’s equestrian heritage and the community that has shaped its legacy.
Central to the celebrations are the prestigious VIP Awards, which recognise individuals and horses whose contributions embody the equestrian spirit of the Upper Hunter. Categories include:
- Horse of the Year: Honouring outstanding achievements across breeds and disciplines such as dressage, pony club, showjumping, hacking, and racing.
- Young Achiever of the Year: Celebrating young talent aged 16 to 21 excelling in equestrian pursuits.
- VIP of the Year: Recognising individuals whose dedication has left a lasting impact on the equine industry.
Festival President Jason Hill encourages the community to nominate those who have enriched Scone’s equestrian story. “This year’s theme celebrates Scone’s deep connection to the equestrian world and the people who have contributed so much to its history,” Mr Hill said. “The VIP Awards recognise the passion and commitment that inspire and strengthen our
community.”
Nominations can be made online via the Scone Horse Festival website. Submissions close on Friday 28 March, with winners announced at the VIP Opening Night, launching ten days of equine celebrations from 9–18 May 2025. Last year’s winners showcased the region’s talent and dedication:
- Horse of the Year 2024: Dalswinton Charlotte, Supreme Champion Clydesdale.
- Young Achiever of the Year 2024: Paige Baxter, a versatile equestrian competitor.
- VIP of the Year 2024: Julee Gilmore, a dedicated community contributor.
The 2025 festival will feature beloved events like the Scone Equine Hospital Horse Festival Parade, highlighting the completed revitalisation of Scone’s main street.
“As we mark this milestone, we honour 45 years of memories and look forward to creating new ones for future generations,” Mr Hill said.
The Scone Horse Festival Committee thanks Arrowfield Stud for sponsoring the 2025 VIP Awards, Warburton Estate Agents, Godolphin, Duncan Equine, ACM & ABC Upper Hunter for their continued support.