Introducing the Enhanced Equestrian WA Annual Awards Policy!

After carefully gathering feedback and attentively listening to the valuable insights from our members via a members survey, in conjunction with thorough consultations with the EWA Board and Sport Committees, we are excited to announce the restructure of our Annual Awards Policy.

We extend our appreciation to all our members who actively participated in providing feedback on the Awards process and the 2022 Annual Awards event at Optus Stadium. Your input has been invaluable in shaping these exciting developments.

Here is a small overview of the amendments made and the exciting unveil of our *NEW* Award Categories:

1. Elimination of Finalist Voting
After a comprehensive review and extensive deliberation, it has been decided to discontinue the practice of voting for the winner of member-nominated awards.

These awards will now require the completion of a brief online nomination form that addresses the specified award category criteria. These award nominations, submitted by our members and/or affiliated clubs, will be carefully considered by our Honours and Awards Selection Panel, culminating in the selection of deserving winners.

2. Exciting Additional Awards
We are also delighted to introduce two brand *NEW* Award Categories:

• *NEW* Breeder of the Year:
  This accolade pays tribute to breeders whose exceptional contributions to equestrian sport have been instrumental in producing high-quality horses for riders across various equestrian disciplines.
  
  
• *NEW* Chairs Award:
  The Chairs Award is an esteemed recognition presented to an outstanding Equestrian WA member who has made significant contributions to the sport of Equestrian. The recipient is chosen at the discretion of the Equestrian WA Chair.

3. Review and Refinement of Awards
Recognising that certain awards were not designed to adequately represent all disciplines, clubs, or event types, a thorough review was conducted, leading to refinements in several award categories. These modifications are aimed at ensuring that the awards align more closely with their intended audience and nominees. Here's a glimpse of the changes made:

• Coach of the Year: 
  This award category has been subdivided into two distinct categories, such as 'Performance' and 'Community Club.'
  
  
• Event of the Year:
  To better capture the diverse range of events within the equestrian community, this award category has been divided into 'Club' and 'Special Events.'
  
  
• Club of the Year:
  This award category has been subdivided into two distinct categories for recognition of Metro and Regional Clubs.

4. Online Nomination Process
All member-nominated award categories will require the completion of an online nomination form. These forms will be conveniently provided by Equestrian WA through JotForm Links.

Access the updated Equestrian WA Annual Awards Policy here:
Equestrian WA Annual Award Policy - 20 Sept 2023

SAVE THE DATES:
As you prepare for this exciting process, here are some important dates to mark on your calendar:

November 1st:        Annual Award Nominations Open
November 22nd:     Annual Award Nominations Close
February 2nd:         Awards Night (TBC)

We look forward to your active participation in this enhanced Awards process as we continue to celebrate excellence and the contributions given within our equestrian community.

Your support is integral to the success of these prestigious awards.