Small horses to be big stars at Equitana

With a maximum height restriction of 34 inches, these pint-size creatures are always a favourite amongst the crowds.

The Independent Miniature Horse Registry's (IMHR) President, since 2005, Leanne Williams, Silver Oak Miniatures, is looking forward to Equitana, and what the miniatures have to showcase.

"We have a few things happening over Equitana - we have US judge Wayne Hipsley coming over, he's from Lexington Kentucky,” she said.

"We get him out every year for our judging and exhibitor clinics, as well as judging, he also commentates our events."

Ms Williams said that the miniatures, which have been featuring at Equitana since its beginnings in 1999, are something people of all ages enjoyed.

"We have a stand in the breeders village, where we have live horses for people to come and look at, and for the kids especially, to come and have a pat," Ms Williams said.

A miniature's preparation regime for events like Equitana is taken very seriously.

Ms Williams said, "they will be prepared like an athlete, exercised and trained for jumping, they are body clipped and wear special horse makeup, they are prepared like an Arabian."

IMHR's Rodney Peet, said miniature horses were the most popular breed of horse shown in Australia.

"They are just as popular as the other horses."

"They are putting on a full show," Mr Peet said.

Miniature horses were originally bred as exotic animals and as pit-ponies.

As a pit-pony, the stockier horses would pull carts in caves and mines.

With at least 50,000 miniatures in Australia and 15,000 to 20,000 registered breeders, they are certainly an industry on the rise.

Nicole Kelly, of Sapphire Park in Queensland, has decades of experiences in breeding and training miniatures on her award winning stud.

With a lifetime worth of equine knowledge and now a particular passion for miniatures, breeding, training and judging is now a lifestyle.

"I've been judging for 20 years, and training, breeding and showing successfully for nine years, I have showed since I was four years-old," said Mrs Kelly.

Mrs Kelly divides 100 miniatures on nine hectares at Sapphire Park, and on another nine hectares of agistment property.

Louise Williams said miniatures had many advantages that added to their appeal.

"Obviously, apart from their size, they are much easier to handle than a bigger horse,” she said.

"They are easier for people of all ages, they can lead a miniature around without being pulled off their feet," Ms Williams said.

Mrs Kelly agrees.

"Mini's are easier, not as time consuming, and are great for kids. They are suited to everyone, and minis are great for children with disabilities. It's something even the older generation is getting involved in," Mrs Kelly said.

The miniature horse is also a very curious animal.

Ms Willams said, "you will often find that if you leave the back-door open, they will just wander inside.

"They are very inquisitive."

Bigger horses are also said to be frightened of miniatures.

Ms Williams believes it is a matter of confusion.

"Bigger horses can be very shocked by the sight of miniatures, they smell like a horse, but because of the size, they become very confused - It's kind of like the elephant and the mouse," said Ms Williams.

Mrs Kelly won't be bringing her prized miniatures to Equitana, due to the long trip from Queensland, though she will be assisting the IMHR exhibit along with President, Ms Williams.

With only 800 Super Tickets remaining and seats for Specialist clinics and Evening Programs going fast, it's time to secure your place and be part of Australia's most exciting equine experience.

The Super Ticket is hailed as the best value ticket in Australia and every seat is on top of the action in the purpose-built stadium.

The Super Ticket includes entry into everything -- competition, entertainment, education and the largest equine shopping precinct in the Southern hemisphere -- for all four days including reserved seating at the evening programs.

Super tickets cost $315 or $310 for children or concession.

Visit www.equitana.com.au