Horses for courses

AS an inaugural committee member and former project officer of the South East Victoria Equine Network (SEVEN), I have had the pleasure of working with fellow SEVEN committee member Cr Helen Ward for 18 months.
Cr Ward was appointed to the committee as the representative from Cardinia Shire. She is a known horse enthusiast who has owned horses for over 30 years.
A study released in June 2001 estimated that the contribution of the horse industry is in excess of $6.2 billion to the Australian economy a year. If the value of volunteer labour is included, this figure escalates to over $8 billion per year.
Most horse related enterprises can be found in the local government areas of Cardinia (22 per cent), Mornington Peninsula (28 per cent) and Casey (38 per cent).
Cr Ward, through her appointment to the SEVEN committee, has demonstrated her commitment and dedication to the establishment of a multi purpose equine complex.
She recognises the economic benefits associated with such a facility and has, and continues to be a strong advocate for such a facility in Cardinia.
Her professionalism, ability to communicate and no nonsense approach has been refreshing, and I for one want to see her continue in her role as Cardinia Shire representative on the SEVEN committee.
Cr Ward has always had the best interests of Cardinia at heart with respect to this issue and I know that she and SEVEN, will continue to work towards the ultimate goal of a state-of-the-art multi-purpose equine facility for use by all equine enthusiasts.
Miranda Cox,
Nar Nar Goon.