Equestrian Australia (EA) has announced on Friday that Nicholas Ballard has been appointed as Chair of the EA Board.
“Nicholas brings a lifetime of experience in the equestrian industry to this role, having been involved as a competitor, owner, parent, official, and volunteer. His deep commitment to giving back to this vibrant sport has been evident throughout his extensive involvement in the equestrian community,” reads today’s EA announcement.
Nicholas was elected to the Board on 15 November 2024 for a term of three years and will now take over the reins from outgoing EA Chair Zac Miles.
“From 2021 to 2024, Nicholas proudly served on the Equestrian Queensland (EQ) Board, including as Vice Chair in 2021 and as Chair from 2022. During this time, he built effective and lasting relationships that have fostered the sustainable growth of the equestrian community in Queensland. This experience has equipped him with invaluable insights into the governance and strategic leadership required to guide EA into the future.”
Committed to strengthening all aspects of the equestrian community, Nicholas’ priorities are listed as:
- Supporting affiliated clubs and event organisers
- Empowering EA-accredited officials
- Championing EA-accredited coaches
- Developing our athletes
“The Board is confident that Nicholas’s combination of grassroots understanding, governance experience, and dedication to the equestrian community will make him an outstanding Chair. His collaborative approach and proven track record of building strong relationships will be invaluable as EA continues to grow and support equestrian sport across Australia.”
The new Chair appointment follows the EA AGM and SGM on 19 November, where 2500+ members voted in the Director Elections. Brett Cantle and Brad Frankum were initially announced as the successful candidates, however an “unprecedented error” via the Vero Voting system was detected, and following a correction Brett Cantle and Nicola Rockwell were elected to the EA Board.
