Dust, Grit & Heart: Why Western Performance Horse Riding is Booming in Australia

Picture this: the sun’s not even up, steam rising off the horses’ backs, and a crowd of locals—young, old, city slicker, or bush legend—gathers at the rails. Suddenly, a bell rings, a gate swings, and bang—a rider and horse explode into action, chasing down a rogue steer at warp speed. Welcome to the world of Western performance horse sports—where grit meets fun and everyone, from tiny groms to silver-haired legends, gets a chance to shine.

What Makes Western Performance Riding So Addictive?

It’s the rush. The unpredictability. The feeling when horse and rider are so in sync, they’re almost reading each other’s minds. And here’s the kicker—girls compete equally with the blokes, and often come out on top. Maybe it’s that natural “feel” or intuition; maybe it’s sheer determination. Whatever it is, it’s pure magic.

The Big Three: Aussie Western Performance Horse Sports Explained

Campdrafting – Our Own Aussie Creation

Campdrafting is as Aussie as Vegemite, born in the bush and built on quick thinking and even quicker riding.

• You start in the “camp” (small yard), single out a beast, and show the judge you’ve got it under control.

• Then it’s full-throttle out into the arena, weaving that cow around pegs in a figure-eight—bonus points for style, and a big cheer if you keep your hat on.

Why do we love it? Because the whole family can get involved, from tiny kids on ponies to parents and even grandparents. And yes—females are buckling up and winning, often by feeling into the rhythm of their horse more than muscling through.

Cutting – Finesse Over Force

If campdrafting is footy, cutting is chess—with horsepower.

• Rider and horse quietly enter a herd, “cut out” one cow, and then it’s a battle of wits: can you keep that cow separated using nothing but your horse’s moves (and your best poker face)?

• Judges love style, quick reactions, and horses that seem to anticipate the cow’s next move.

Why do girls often excel? It’s all about finesse. Sometimes, a gentle cue or subtle shift is more powerful than brute strength. Watch the best female cutters—they’re barely moving, but their horses are electric.

Reining – The Western Ballet

Reining is the high art of the western world—a choreographed pattern of spins, sliding stops, and flying lead changes.

• Horses are judged on how smooth and precise their moves are, not just how flashy.

• It’s hypnotic to watch and harder than it looks (trust us).

Community, Camps & Pure Fun

Events like the Bonalbo Western Riding Camp or the iconic Bangalow Buckle are where the magic happens.

• You’ll find entire families camping out, cooking dinner over a fire, swapping stories, and getting up at sunrise to practice.

• Kids cheer for their mates, parents swap tips, and everyone is welcome—whether you’re there to win or just to have a go.

At Golden Glade Ranch, this is what we live for. Gigi’s in the thick of it—training, riding, and proving that girls really can do anything in this sport. There’s nothing quite like seeing the next generation of female riders going toe-to-toe with the best.

Western performance horse sports teach you about partnership, fun, guts and resilience. Doesn’t matter if you’re 8 or 80, male or female, beginner or pro—grab your boots, trust your horse, and give it a crack.

If you want to feel the buzz, get involved, or just see what all the fuss is about, come along to the next event—or drop by Golden Glade Ranch. You might just catch the bug. And if you see Gigi, say hi—she’ll probably be heading for the start gate with a grin, ready to show everyone what true girl power looks like.

Ready to ride? The next champion could be you. Dust off your hat, and let’s make some memories.

Paige and Gigi leaning in