Wingham’s traditional rodeo will go ahead on January 5 as a “Bull Rodeo”, trimmed of all horseback events, but with increased prize money for bull-riding competitions.

The rodeo’s usual horse supplier is based in purple-zone (special restricted area) Branxton, outside the Manning, which is classified as a green zone, or protected area, free of equine influenza infection, Wingham Show Society secretary Ann Thorburn said.

Riders will use local horses for ring duties during the event, she said.

Horses may be moved within the local green zone provided their owners fill out and carry a Travelling Horse Statement (THS).

A Travelling Horse Statement – Green Zone can be obtained on the State Department of Primary Industries’ website, at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au.

Manning Valley Dressage and Hacking Club secretary Linda Pike says the club is looking to hold its first event since August in late January or February.

The extra paperwork involved in THSs is never welcome, but will be worthwhile if it contributes to getting rid of equine influenza for good, she said.

The local area has been lucky to remain free of the disease, but people here have also contributed to the situation by cooperating fully with the restrictions and “doing the right thing”, she said.

Oxley Island Pony Club president John Fitzgerald said his understanding is that training days are permitted in the new year, but there is no information available on when pony club competition days will be allowed to resume.

His club is planning to hold a training day in February, when he expects THSs will still be a requirement for movement within the local green zone.

Mr Fitzgerald also criticised the State and Federal authorities for the lack of information supplied to pony clubs and similar organisations.