As per usual, the weather for the AWHA QLD Branch and IHB Gala Day Show was less than ideal. Although wet, it was far from the freezing, windy conditions normally provided for our judges, competitors and volunteers at this time of year. It is fantastic that we're able to secure the indoor at Gatton Showgrounds for our annual Gala Day Show to protect everyone from the inclement conditions. All horses were immaculately presented given the conditions and praised highly by our judges.

On behalf of the AWHA QLD Branch committee and its members, we sincerely thank both Heather and Di for their time given their busy schedules. It is greatly appreciated. I would also like to thank our volunteers and all of our sponsors. Without their assistance and generosity such a day would not be possible. I would also like to thank our members for making the effort to attend the Gala Show Show with their horses this year. This is greatly appreciated by the AWHA QLD Branch committee. We hope everyone enjoyed their day and we look forward to seeing you again next year.

The AWHA QLD Branch took a different strategy towards the Gala Day Show this year. As per usual, rosettes and sashes were awarded along with cash prizes of $45, $30 and $15 for first to third place. In lieu of trophies and rugs, this year saw Champion Horses awarded $100 cash, Reserve Champions awarded $50 cash with Supreme Champions awarded $150 cash. We have received positive feedback regarding these changes and will be looking at other ways we can entice participants for next year's Gala Day Show. Any feedback regarding the show can be emailed to me to allow for improvements, etc. in future years.

A big thank you to Catherine Reid of Catherine Reid Photography and Designs for photographing our day. Competitors, owners and breeders will be able to see Catherine's photgraphs from the day via her website gallery. Once the images have been made available via her gallery, I will place a post on Facebook to let you know. Please monitor our Facebook event page to stay current with our Gala Day Show information: www.facebook.com/events/502488826527884/ All current AWHA Ltd members will receive a 10% discount on photography purchased. Catherine's website: www.catherinereid.com.au/gallery.html

Three mares were also classified at the Gala Day Show with three of our trainee classifiers gaining more experience. Further information regarding our trainee classifier program can be found on the AWHA Ltd Federal page: www.awha.com.au/branchhome.aspx?B=10

More events will be happening for the remainder of the year so don't forget to monitor our QLD Branch page: www.awha.com.au/branchhome.aspx?B=4 We have our annual Online Stallion Service Auction, QLD FOD, mare classificaiton days, etc. More information will be emailed to members as it becomes available.

Kind regards,

Shanna Antrim.
AWHA QLD Branch President and Publicity Officer.