Sport
29 November, 2022
Equine community welcomes new arena
THE Meraki Equestrian Centre’s state-of-the-art new indoor arena has been officially opened, allowing equine lovers from across the region to learn, train and exercise their beloved stallions.
The 30 metre by 80 metre shed is split into two separate sections, with a larger 20 by 60 arena for experienced equestrians to utilise and a smaller 20 by 30 metre arena designed for younger learners and new horses.
Mareeba Shire Council approved the construction of the shed in August this year and the Meraki team were ecstatic to bring the horse community together at the facility.
The arena is a long-time dream for owner and chief instructor Yvonne van Reeuwijk who has been developing her property into a horse-lovers haven since she purchased it last year.
“I feel emotional. This place is more than a dream come true and going step by step to make it come to life has been incredible and I am very grateful for where I am today,” she said.
“The most important thing is that I built this place with a purpose for everyone to come and use.
“I really want the people of the Tablelands and surroundings to know that they can come and use this facility and ride it whenever they want.”
Ms van Reeuwijk’s assistant Jayde Hearne spent several months helping prepare the official opening of the arena and can’t wait to make a “statement to the equine community”.
“This centre has been here for almost a year, so this is a massive statement for us,” she said.
“It is a lot nicer up here than it is in Cairns where it is just too hot and by providing this indoor arena means we can now ride all throughout the day and at night-time as well.”
To utilise the new arena, contact Meraki Equestrian Centre through merakiequestrian.com.au
