How it All Began

My passion truly ignited when I started working full-time and began my journey as a part-time stablehand 15 years ago. This role eventually evolved into a full-time position, where I managed 25 horses independently on a private agistment property in the picturesque Duffys Forest area of the Northern Beaches.

I began to understand the significance of daily physical and mental care for the equines in my vicinity. I observed a significant lack of dedicated stablehands in the local area who would reliably show up regardless of the weather. Numerous horror stories abounded of individuals failing to feed horses or handle them safely and ethically, leading to preventable repercussions for both humans and horses.

I soon shifted my career path and temporarily became a veterinary nurse, starting in general practice before moving into Emergency Veterinary Nursing. Concurrently, my passion for equines led me to work unofficially as a stablehand in the local area, visiting private properties to provide basic services like feeding, handling, watering, and cleaning up after the horses. During this period, I completed a Diploma of Performance Horses and a Diploma of Emergency and Critical Care Nursing through TAFE NSW, cherishing the memories of my days at SIEC with the school horses.

My career has naturally transitioned back to full-time Equine care, thriving on word-of-mouth recommendations from my wonderful clientele and friends. I managed a boutique agistment yard in the area and have embarked on my Bachelor of Equine Studies in 2023. In addition to my studies, I am also actively competing with my own horses, always striving for excellence.

Now, I am solely working at "Barn Chicking," pursuing my passion and happiness. From understanding the unique quirks of each horse to creating that perfect 'landing strip' in the stable, to the thrill of being chased by aggressive roosters—every day is uniquely beautiful.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all my wonderful and dedicated supporters for making this dream a reality. A special shout-out to my close friends, especially Callum and Zenne, for being my pillars during both challenging and triumphant times. To Cameron, my husband, for his patience at the end of each day and for preparing that much-needed cup of tea or a late-night "breakfast" at 10pm. And to my father, Richard, for his unwavering belief in me, ever since I first encountered a horse in primary school, around Year 4, and for backing my aspirations from the moment I left gymnastics to embark on this adventure.

A special tribute to Beautiful Bella, my first Thoroughbred, who was the ideal first horse anyone could have asked for. Despite having the poorest conformation imaginable, she more than compensated with her golden worth, reflected in her patience, temperament, and versatility, as I navigated the learning curve of horsemanship, stumbling through many mistakes.