A significant decision was made by the councillors at the Hawkesbury Showgrounds, voting unanimously to halt any potential demolition of the arenas, initiating a 60-day window for negotiations. The future of dressage in New South Wales faced uncertainty as the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association (HDAA) engaged in talks to potentially preserve Clarendon, a vital hub for equestrian sports.
The heated dispute stemmed from HDAA’s proposal to dismantle the sand arenas at Clarendon, sparking concerns over the fate of the 62.5-acre site. The Dressage NSW (DNSW) community, with a longstanding history at Clarendon, rallied to protect their cherished grounds, fearing the loss of a crucial venue for riders of all levels, from amateurs to elite competitors.
The standoff between HDAA and DNSW escalated, with conflicting statements regarding the future of the dressage facilities. While HDAA hinted at repurposing the land, the absence of a concrete plan raised alarms within the equestrian community and beyond. The potential repercussions extended beyond sport, impacting the local economy supported by the equestrian industry.
Amidst the uncertainty, the community’s response was resounding, with over 150 individuals attending a Council meeting, showcasing the collective effort to safeguard Clarendon. The significance of this battle extended beyond contractual disputes, resonating as a moral obligation to preserve public infrastructure on Crown Lands.
Industry experts highlighted the economic significance of equestrian activities, emphasizing the substantial contributions to the local economy through events, services, and businesses. With the potential to emulate the success of equestrian centers like Tamworth’s, securing Clarendon’s future was deemed crucial for Hawkesbury’s equine sector.
As the clock ticked on the 60-day negotiation period, the fate of Clarendon hung in the balance. The community’s activism, including a petition signed by thousands and the formation of the ‘Save Clarendon Dressage’ campaign, underscored the widespread support for preserving this essential equestrian facility.
With the possibility of Equestrian NSW stepping in to assume the lease, a glimmer of hope emerged for Clarendon’s survival. The offer presented a potential lifeline for the threatened dressage grounds, signaling a collaborative effort to secure the future of equestrian sports in New South Wales.
While the pause in demolition provided a temporary reprieve, the impending deadline loomed large, underscoring the urgency of reaching a resolution within the stipulated timeframe to safeguard Clarendon’s legacy and the economic vitality it underpins.
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