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Register for news updatesHappy Year of the Horse!
Given 2026 is the year of the horse, RTA thought it timely to talk sharing the rail trails with horses! Do you know what to do when approaching horse-riders on a rail trail? RTA’s etiquette guidelines recommend rail trail users: “approach horses with care” (read RTA’s full etiquette guidelines here).
As part of their Go Slow and Say Hello trail campaign, the Australian Trail Horse Riders Association (ATHRA) produced a short video highlighting how horse-riders and other rail trail users best interact with each other for a safe outcome.
It focuses on situations where it’s often easier for horse riders to yield to cyclists approaching from behind, and suggests cyclists use their voices (not bells) as they approach horse-riders.
As the campaign voiceover says: “Horses use sight and sound to detect predators. When cyclists are approaching from behind, your horse may not recognise it as a person, but rather assumes that it’s a predator.
“Allowing space for the cyclists to pass, and turning your horse to face them, will ensure a safer journey for all.
“Cyclists should slow down, and use their voices to communicate, waiting for a signal to pass, and continue talking as they make their way through.”
Watch it on ATHRA’s website here.
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One comment on “Happy Year of the Horse!”
What a fantastic post — perfect for celebrating the Year of the Horse! This is such an important reminder about how we can safely and respectfully share our beautiful rail trails with horse riders. The ATHRA “Go Slow and Say Hello” message is spot on, especially the guidance about cyclists using their voices instead of bells and giving horses time to recognise them. As riders, we know how much calmer and safer everything is when everyone communicates clearly and gives each other space.
On that note, the Marysville Saddle Tramps will be hosting two wonderful rides on March 21 and March 22 from the Yea Golf Club/Race Club — one to the Cheviot Tunnel and another from the Club to Homewood. If you're interested in joining, you’ll need to be an ATHRA member (day membership available). Please contact Jackie on 0418 321 144 for details. Hope to see many of you out on the trails! 🐎✨