Horse Riding Jobs for Backpackers

Horse Riding Jobs in Australia

Working with horses is sometimes tiring work, but more importantly it is incredibly rewarding. In Australia, there are many different equestrian jobs available for those looking to work with horses, available for all kinds of people.

This isn't a job you'll just be able to take up with no experience, but if you've already spent years horse riding then a career as a rider in Australia can be an exciting and well-paid endeavour. Horse riding jobs will require a rider that's able to handle horses that are both young and inexperienced, as well as older horses already being ridden professionally. Australia is a land of many different terrains, so riders will be expected to be able to handle track work, bush work and beach work with equal levels of skill.

The exact specifications will depend on the rider job you are applying for, but it's likely that other qualifications will be expected too. These might include basic first aid skills, and a track record of skilled riding proven through certificates or awards.

Working on a stable

If you love the outdoors, or the thought of the peaceful yet interesting lifestyle that comes with working on a farm, equestrian jobs really are the perfect choice. Such jobs will often require minimum experience but will provide a varied and busy day to day routine. Working as a stablehand will also often mean your accommodation and food is provided for you, as due to the nature of the role that might well require early morning hours, many farms and stables look for live-in staff. It's a great opportunity to socialise with fellow workers and your host family. Full training will usually be required, but again there may be some qualifications needed, such as a driving licence, as larger farms will require helpers to drive across longer distances with tools or supplies.

For those who want to work exclusively with horses, there are jobs available in stables across Australia, especially for those interested in working as a stablehand. Working as a stablehand will normally involve reporting to a higher member of staff, and carrying out all sorts of everyday duties. These might include feeding the horses, cleaning out the stables and bringing in new bedding, as well as interacting with others visiting or using the stables such as vets and horse riders.

If you choose to work on a farm rather than in a stable, it's highly likely you will spend a lot of your time tending to the horses, but there will also likely be opportunity to work with other animals too - so if you're not insistent on working exclusively with horses this is another good idea.

For backpackers in Australia, equestrian work comes with another advantage. It is usually suitable for the Australian second year visa extension scheme. The scheme allows those visiting Australia on a working holiday visa to stay in this beautiful country for a little while longer, and carrying out stable work is a great way to ensure you've got a flexible, simple job that will allow you to make the most of your time here.