The effort to save the Clarendon dressage facility in New South Wales has faced a major setback after the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association (HDAA) rejected Equestrian NSW’s proposal to keep the grounds available for local clubs, high-performance squads, and general hire. The HDAA, which leases the Hawkesbury Showgrounds from the Crown, decided not to renew dressage NSW’s licence that expired in 2024 and plans to demolish the dressage arenas to create a car park for commercial events, with demolition costs to be borne by dressage NSW.

Following a recent council meeting, Hawkesbury Council also voted against supporting further discussions to preserve the arenas for equestrian use. Despite strong community advocacy, Equestrian NSW and Equestrian Australia are continuing efforts at the Ministerial level to prevent demolition, emphasizing that the arenas are vital infrastructure for the sport and future generations.