Do I need prior riding experience to join?

Beginners are welcome for the one-day clinic, where instruction starts with basic ground skills and riding fundamentals.

What age group is the clinic suitable for?

Participants must be at least 14 years old to ensure safety and appropriate instruction levels.

Are horses provided for the clinic?

Yes, Gunnamatta provides well-trained horses suited to the skill level and goals of each participant.

What should I bring to the clinic?

Wear sturdy boots, long pants, and bring sun protection and water; helmets are provided, but you can bring your own.

Can the program be tailored to different riding disciplines?

Absolutely. Lessons are customized to help participants pursue their preferred riding style or prepare for horse ownership.

Is there access to beach rides during the clinic?

Yes, trail rides include routes to local beaches, bushland, and private property, depending on the program length.

Horsemanship Clinics at Gunnamatta Trail Rides, Fingal VIC

Located in Fingal, Victoria, Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers a unique hands-on horsemanship experience set against the backdrop of southeastern Australia's diverse coastal and bush landscapes. Known for its sprawling sandy beaches, rolling bushland, and temperate climate, the region invites riders to deepen their equine connection beyond casual trail rides. Gunnamatta’s Horsemanship Clinics cater to riders aged 14 and up, providing personalized instruction that bridges horse care, traditional riding skills, and dynamic trail adventures.

Choose between an intensive one-day session or an immersive three-day program, both designed around individual skill levels and ambitions. The curriculum encompasses essential horse health practices like temperature monitoring, recognizing signs of illness, and wound care, alongside ground work techniques such as round yard exercises and lunging. Tack management and tailored riding lessons complement these foundations.

The highlight is undoubtedly the guided trail rides that weave through Fingal’s scenic beaches and native bushland, granting firsthand experiences of coastal and woodland ecosystems. Riders witness local flora like dune grasses and eucalyptus groves, with chances to spot native fauna including kangaroos and a variety of bird species.

What sets Gunnamatta apart is its focus on private, one-on-one instruction, allowing for a customized approach that addresses specific learning goals or preparation for horse ownership. The clinic’s location near the Mornington Peninsula enriches the adventure with accessible natural beauty and a strong equestrian culture. Whether refining basic skills or preparing for ownership, Gunnamatta Trail Rides offers a thorough, engaging, and authentic equestrian education in a remarkably unspoiled setting.

About Gunnamatta Trail Rides

Gunnamatta Trail Rides is a horseback riding operator based in Fingal, Victoria that provides guided trail rides, lessons and horsemanship programs along coastal and nearby inland terrain. The business offers beach rides to St Andrews Beach, private and group sessions, a Family Play introduction for children aged 6–12 with parents or carers, one-on-one private lessons structured across three skill levels, and multi-day horsemanship clinics including one-day and immersive three-day options plus an extended four-week package. Riders are asked to arrive early for safety briefings and gear fitting; many activities continue rain or shine.

Experienced instructors lead shore and dune rides, clinic sessions and private lessons that focus on riding technique, horse care and confidence-building. Signature packages combine a beach ride with local experiences such as the Peninsula Hot Springs or a meal at St Andrews Beach Brewery. Private bookings include tailored early-bird and group options to suit different riding levels and schedules. Gunnamatta Trail Rides emphasizes horse welfare and participant safety through supervised grooming, arena work for beginners, and clear instructor guidance during trail and beach rides. Programs are suitable for families, adults seeking private coaching, and riders wanting structured progression or concentrated horsemanship training. Flexible scheduling and a range of single-day and extended packages support both casual visitors and those exploring horse ownership and long-term skill development. Notable offerings include Mane Insights, Family Play, 1:1 Private Lesson, Horsemanship Clinic (one-day and three-day options), Horsemanship Clinic 4-week Package, St Andrews Beach Ride, Private St Andrews Beach Ride, Beach & Bathe Package. Available.