Meet The Team

Pictured: Campy, Riki and Riona (2017)

the coach

Riona Edwards

Riona deeply engages with the wisdom and guidance of the herd and shares the insights she has gained from them over the past 20 years in her lessons. She combines liberty horsemanship with classical dressage and equine massage in her unique, horse-centered approach to training and care, aiming to build confidence, communication, and connection between horse and human.

She is committed to using science-based principles, including positive reinforcement, clicker training, and a focus on biomechanics, to develop a harmonious and healthy horse, with an emphasis on strength and soundness.

The horse who started it all, her heart horse Campy, set Riona on a new path and transformed her perspective on horsemanship. Previously focused on traditional dressage, Riona realised something was wrong when professionals and peers dismissed Campy’s behaviors as merely being naughty or stubborn. This realisation led her to explore liberty, trick training, bitless and bridleless riding, equine massage, and classical dressage. From a horse that was difficult to handle on the ground and bucked under saddle, Campy evolved into a partner who seemed to intuitively understand and respond to subtle cues, eagerly giving 200% in every and any session. Inspired by this journey, Riona now dedicates herself to helping others learn how to listen to their horses and follow their guidance through her coaching. 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Equine Science (University of Queensland)

  • Certified Equine Interactions Experience Practitioner (Equine Experience International)

  • Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist (Equestricare)

Our Hearts of the Herd

  • Gyda

    Clydesdale x Appaloosa

    Gyda is a truly kind and sensitive mare with a beautiful gentle nature who makes everyone feel comfortable when they meet her. Gyda excels as an exceptional teacher, particularly with beginners, guiding them with patience and grace in the art of liberty horsemanship. She holds a special place as our 'liberty queen,' a role she's gracefully embraced well into her 20s.

  • Zeus

    Friesian x Knabstrupper

    Zeus, our spirited young gelding, is a burst of personality in our herd. He's a mischievous charmer, always ready to bring smiles and laughter to our days. Though a hoof injury keeps him from riding, Zeus has found his calling in liberty and ground work. Watch him dazzle with his dance moves and charming displays – he's a showstopper in his own right!

  • Paulie

    Percheron

    Meet Paulie, our loveable gentle giant with a heart as vast as the open fields. He's the epitome of easy-going, always welcoming a bit of extra attention and will fall asleep as you scratch him. While he's busy learning the art of liberty horsemanship, Paulie truly revels in the simple pleasures of a good brush and a refreshing wash, showcasing his love for the finer things in life.

  • Fern

    Miniature Pony

    Fern, the clever little filly who arrived alongside Gaia with no real history to guide us, Fern has proven to be a treasure trove of surprises. She thrives on attention and adores getting a brush. Yet, beneath her charm, she's a spirited and spicy girl when it comes to liberty, adding a spark of excitement to any session. Currently, Fern is enthusiastically engaged in her training.

  • Gaia

    Miniature Pony

    Gaia, our delightful little mare who arrived with Fern, initially carried anxiety and fear around people. She's a sweet soul, slowly building trust at her own pace. Gaia is happy to walk around the property with you and relax while being groomed. Currently, she's in training, and not actively in sessions at the moment.

  • Freyja

    Percheron x Quarter Horse

    Freyja is a stunning young mare, known for her gentle and sweet nature. When you step into the paddock, she'll be right by your side, following you for a scratch and enjoying the time spent in your company. She's recently begun her journey into liberty and showcases not only her kindness but her cleverness as well!

  • Raven

    Shire x Percheron

    Raven, our magnificent broodmare, graces our herd with her size and beauty. While she's not currently in sessions, she's always up for a friendly scratch if you happen to cross paths with her. Her gentle nature makes spending time with her a truly rewarding experience.

  • The Chickens

    Silkies

    We have a small flock of gorgeous chickens who enjoy a dust bath and soaking up the sun.