Above: Edwena Michell with Mattea Davidson and Jaybee Vigilante – Waratah World Cup Winners 2024.

Established in 2018, Waratah Showjumping has rapidly become a pivotal event on the Australian Jumping calendar. Spearheaded by Edwena Mitchell, the inception of Waratah Showjumping stemmed from her experiences with the New South Wales State Jumping Championships. Multiple events faced cancellations due to inclement weather, prompting Edwena to seek a better solution. After being unexpectedly sidelined from hosting the State Championships in 2018, she decided to take matters into her own hands. 

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Utilising the newly resurfaced indoor arena at Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC), Edwena took advantage of an already booked date for the NSW State Championships and founded Waratah Showjumping.

After a successful first year, Edwena recognised the potential for growth and incorporated Waratah Showjumping and registered as an official club under Equestrian Australia. Edwena saying, “2019 was our first World Cup… the surface was so good… a couple of people said this is so good you need to do a World Cup.”

Waratah Showjumping’s vision centers on creating a premier Jumping experience that prioritises rider needs, quality course design, and a welcoming atmosphere. Edwena’s commitment to riders is evident in her approach to event management. She focusses on flexibility for competitors, allowing them to adjust their participation based on the unique needs of their horses and this rider-focused ethos has become a hallmark of Waratah Showjumping, saying “I want good course design, good gear, a nice atmosphere… that friendly, ‘here’s a stable, can I help you?'”.

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The team is essential to the success of Waratah and Edwina says, “in 2019 we had Michael Haese over as our Course Designer and that was absolutely fantastic.” We have a wonderful committee with Amanda Madigan, Helen Chugg, Amber Fuller, Nathan Wood and Colleen Brook along with my daughter Jennifer of course and “Jennifer is never backward in coming forward with feedback and suggestions!” Edwena goes on to say that having Karinda Alpert in the office is invaluable – especially when “I am having one of my snippy moments” with Karinda always managing to maintain her composure and pleasant attitude.

Above: L to R 2019 Course Designer Michael Haese with Judges Kevin Taranto, Michael Archer and Megan Scrivener.

Since its inception, Waratah Showjumping has seen several notable highlights, including its first World Cup event in 2019. The introduction of this prestigious competition garnered significant attention and enthusiasm from riders and spectators alike.

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In recent years, Waratah has expanded its offerings to include the Trans-Tasman Young Rider Teams event, which allows young riders from Australia and New Zealand to compete, saying “For the last couple of years, we’ve had the Trans-Tasman Young Rider Teams Event on borrowed horses… the New Zealanders have expressed an interest in bringing their own horses out this year.”

Like many event organisers, Edwena has faced several challenges with Waratah Showjumping. Securing sponsorship is a significant hurdle. Rising costs associated with organising events further complicate the situation, making it imperative to maintain affordability for competitors while ensuring the event’s sustainability. Edwena says, “Generally the cost is a challenge, I try to keep around the same prices each year, I’m not trying to make profit at the expense of the riders.”

As a steward herself, Edwena’s commitment is to maintaining high standards for event governance and fairness which has led to a focus on steward communication to prevent misunderstandings and foster a positive atmosphere for all participants.

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When asked about what she personally likes about her involvement in running events she says, “I love everything…I love the organisational aspect of pulling together an event, which comes from my catering background and I particularly like to see the young horses, and I love their progression.” Edwena goes on to say, “It is wonderful to see riders and their parents who I have known since my Pony Club days with Jennifer, like Jim (Jamie) Winning and Kerry and John Winning who I consider to be some of my closest friends.”

Exciting developments are on the horizon for Waratah Showjumping. Edwena has confirmed plans for two World Cup events in 2026, further solidifying Waratah’s position as a premier Jumping show.

Waratah Showjumping stands as a testament to Edwena Mitchell’s dedication and passion for equestrian sports. Through resilience and innovation, the event has not only survived but thrived, earning a reputation for quality and rider-centric values. As it continues to evolve, Waratah Showjumping remains committed to fostering the growth of Jumping in Australia, ensuring that both the challenges and triumphs of the past pave the way for a bright future in the sport.