Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the New South Wales Central Coast, Stonewall Equestrian stands as a premier destination for equestrian enthusiasts. With a commitment to excellence in facilities and event management, this venue is carving a niche for itself in the competitive world of equestrian sports in Australia.

In an insightful interview, Krissy Harris, the driving force behind Stonewall, shared her vision and the exciting developments planned for the future.

Krissy, with her late husband Heath, has poured her heart and soul into Stonewall, fostering an environment that encapsulates the essence of Australia. From the outset, they emphasised the vision of maintaining an authentic Australian feel throughout the venue.

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Krissy recalls a pivotal moment when Cathy Cooke, a retired interior designer and a close friend, offered her assistance after a slightly less-than-stellar event setup. “Dear Krissy, you ran a great Jumping show, but your tent was… well, let’s just say it could use some help,” Cathy pointed out.

This candid feedback sparked a collaboration that transformed the aesthetic of the venue, including the VIP tent, the iconic bathrooms that have since become a talking point among visitors and the enchanting saddlery and gift shop.

Krissy’s collaboration with Cathy extends beyond design; it also involves Michael Cooke, Cathy’s husband, an award-winning garden designer. Together, they have meticulously curated the landscaping and ambiance of the venue, ensuring it resonates with the natural beauty of the Australian landscape.

Stonewall is certainly far from just being about aesthetics; it is a hub for equestrian events. The facility hosts a variety of equestrian events with plans to run eight Jumping shows this year, including the Thoroughbred Sport Horse Association National Titles and very excitingly their first FEI World Cup Qualifier in October. Krissy is determined to elevate Stonewall’s status on the national circuit and eventually the international scene.

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The magnificent arenas have been there for a few years now, but for the venue to develop further, the bathroom and shower block facilities we an absolute necessity and not to do things by halves, the team at Stonewall have developed these Australian outback style buildings down to the smallest detail including dog tie up rings and water bowls.

The addition of live streaming for events is another innovative that Krissy is excited about. “If we can start to get our young horse shows live-streamed, it will open up opportunities for international buyers to view and purchase horses from Australia,” she explained. This forward-thinking approach reflects the global nature of equestrian sports and the potential for Australian talent to shine on the world stage.

One of the core philosophies at Stonewall is to create a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all visitors “When you drive in the gate, it’s got to feel ambient, and you’ve got to have a smile on your face,” Krissy expressed. This commitment to a positive atmosphere is evident in the thoughtful layout of the centre, including two rings that allow for a more manageable experience for both competitors and spectators. 

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Krissy believes that the happiness of the competitors, whether they are winning or not, is paramount. “I want you to enjoy your day. It’s not just about the ribbons,” she noted. This ethos is reinforced by the centre’s carefully curated facilities, including easily accessible amenities, 200 large stables and quality food options.

Looking ahead, Krissy is enthusiastic about the developments on the horizon for Stonewall. She is working diligently to ensure that the infrastructure meets the growing demands of equestrian events. The introduction of an international Course Designer for her World Cup Show (Stonewall International) and the enhancement of facilities reflect her dedication to elevating the standard of competitions held at the venue.

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As Krissy aptly puts it, “We have to lift it into the future.” With her innovative vision and passion for the sport, Stonewall Equestrian is poised to become a beacon of excellence in the equestrian world, attracting competitors, sponsors, and enthusiasts from far and wide.

Stonewall Equestrian is more than just a venue; it is a community hub where passion for equestrian sports thrives. With Krissy Harris at the helm, the centre is set for an exciting future, embodying the spirit of Australia and the love of horses. Whether you’re a competitor or a spectator, a visit to Stonewall promises not just thrilling equestrian events but also an unforgettable experience in a beautifully curated environment.

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