Recognising a current or former Pony Club member over 25 who has made a significant impact on the horse industry while remaining a proud ambassador for the movement, the award celebrates a lifetime of passion, service, and leadership. Meaghan’s story ticks every box — and then some.
A career defined by excellence in equine care
Based in Victoria, Meaghan has served as Senior Equine Nurse and Large Animal Coordinator at Gisborne Veterinary Clinic for more than 20 years. Her role combines hands-on veterinary care with leadership, mentoring and teaching — ensuring both horses and the next generation of veterinary professionals receive the best support possible.
Her dedication to education has seen her teach at the Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE, complete externships at Auburn University in Alabama and Guelph University in Canada, and present at national and international veterinary conferences on topics ranging from colic management to breeding and stallion collection.
Meaghan holds an impressive list of qualifications, including Bachelor of Science (Zoology & Psychology) – University of Melbourne; Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (ECC & Surgical) – Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE; Certificate in Artificial Insemination (Equine) – South West TAFE; and Certificate IV in Training & Assessment – Victoria University.
Her professional achievements have been recognised with multiple awards, including the 2017 Equine Veterinarians Australia Nursing Award and the Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE Outstanding Student Award.
Leadership in Pony Club and beyond
A proud Pony Club member since 2001, Meaghan has devoted decades to coaching, mentoring and leading at every level.
She is a Level 1 PCA Coach, National Coach Accreditation Scheme Assessor, and Chief Instructor for Central Zone, Victoria. As President and Event Coordinator at Riddells Creek Pony Club, Meaghan is affectionately described as “the heart and soul” of the club — the person who is always there for riders, families, and horses alike.
Her influence extends nationally and internationally: she was the Coach for the 2023 Pony Club Australia Inter-Pacific Exchange (2023, was named 2021 PCA Coach of the Year (Miss Kay Irving Award, and was the 2021 Pony Club Victoria Coach of the Year (2021). Meaghan also received the Pony Club Association of Victoria Award of Merit in 2000 and is holder of the internationally recognised PCA ‘A’ Efficiency Certificate since 2002.
Within the wider horse community, Meaghan contributes as an organiser and veterinary coordinator for major events such as the Candlebark EA Horse Trials and the Melbourne International Three-Day Event, and she even supported logistics for the Tokyo Olympic Test Event in 2019.
A voice for welfare and education
Horse welfare sits at the heart of everything Meaghan does. Her published articles in The Free Press and Midland Express — covering topics like senior horse care, foaling preparation and understanding Hendra virus — have helped educate countless horse owners across Australia.
She has also represented veterinary nurses through her long-standing involvement with the Veterinary Nurses Council of Australia (Vic Division), helping to raise standards and recognition for the profession.
“I don’t have children of my own — but I have 45 of them”
Despite her remarkable professional success, Meaghan’s greatest pride lies in her Pony Club family.
“I don’t have children of my own,” she says, “but I have 45 of them at our local club. Pony Club is more than riding — it’s about learning, belonging, and growing together.”
Those who know her best describe her as a mentor, advocate, and friend — someone whose generosity and knowledge uplift everyone around her.
Carrying forward Gillian Rolton’s legacy
In the spirit of Gillian Rolton — a lifelong champion of education, horsemanship, and perseverance — Meaghan Sutherland’s contribution to the horse industry and the Pony Club community stands as an inspiration to all.
Her dedication to welfare, learning, and community reminds us that the heart of Pony Club beats strongest in those who never stop giving back.
Source: Pony Club Australia
