The University of Queensland UQ Skills Strengthens Pathways for Future Equine Careers Through Interschool Equestrian
Equestrian Queensland (EQ) and Interschool Queensland (IQ) are proud to announce an exciting partnership with UQ Skills, The University of Queensland's vocational education and training provider, as a major sponsor of the upcoming 2026 Edwards Saddleworld Toowoomba IQ State Championships.
Set to take place from 29 June to 3 July 2026 at the Toowoomba Showgrounds, the Championships will bring together hundreds of riders, horses, schools, families, and supporters from across Queensland for one of the state’s premier equestrian events.
This partnership highlights a shared commitment to supporting young people through education, industry pathways, and opportunities both within and beyond equestrian sport. As Queensland prepares for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, developing skilled professionals across the equine industry is becoming increasingly important, and the Diploma of Equine Management offered through UQ Skills provides an exciting pathway for students looking to build careers in the industry and contribute to the future of equestrian sport in Australia.
The Diploma of Equine Management equips students with practical, hands-on skills and industry knowledge across horse care, training, equine business, event operations, and management, helping create future leaders who may one day play a role in facilitating major national and international events, including the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
An exciting initiative returning in 2026 is the Interschool Queensland ‘Beyond the Arena Award’, proudly sponsored by UQ Skills.
Launched in 2025, the award recognises a student who demonstrates excellence not only in competition, but also through leadership, sportsmanship, dedication, and contribution outside the arena.
Georgia Rose Klutentreter was the inaugural recipient of the 2025 Beyond the Arena Award, recognised for being a standout both in and out of the arena. Georgia received a $3,000 tuition discount towards the Diploma of Equine Management, an incredible opportunity to turn her passion for horses into a future career.
Applications for the 2026 UQ Skills IQ Beyond the Arena Award are now officially open, providing another exciting opportunity for young equestrians to further their education and industry pathways.
The 2026 Edwards Saddleworld Toowoomba IQ State Championships are expected to attract more than 270 competitors and over 300 horses, showcasing talent across Dressage, Show Horse, Jumping, Combined Training, and Vaulting disciplines.
Equestrian Queensland and Interschool Queensland are excited to continue working alongside UQ Skills to deliver an outstanding event while supporting the future growth of Queensland’s equestrian industry.
For more information about the Beyond the Arena Award, UQ Skills, the Diploma of Equine Management or the IQ State Championships, follow the links below.
2026 Edwards Saddleworld Toowoomba IQ State Championships
Newsletter
