We’re dedicated to fostering and celebrating the art of driving horses, ponies, and other equines. Whether you’re an experienced driver or new to the reins, there’s a place for you in our community.
The ACDS Federal AGM will be held on Thursday July 2nd, 2026 at 7.30pm. The meeting will be via the Vero Voting Portal. Members should have received an email outlining how to record their intention to attend and how to join the meeting. For further details contact Federal Secretary, Tracey Tuohy acdsfedsec@gmail.com
Nominations are now open for the ACDS Victorian Branch Executive positions for 2026–2027. Positions open for nomination are: • President • Vice President • Secretary • Treasurer Please see the attached nomination form for details. Completed nomination forms must be accompanied by a resume of no more than 300 words and returned by COB Friday 5th June 2026. Completed forms
Ammended qualifying period for the 2026 Victorian Graded Driven Dressage Championships: In response to the difficulties that Victorian members have been experiencing related to the recent fire events throughout the state of Victoria, an extended qualifying period for the 2026 Victorian Graded Driven Dressage Championships has been formally approved. The qualifying period for the 2026 Victorian Graded Driven Dressage Championships
Information relating to the Junior Bursary and the Application Form are now available on the ACDS Federal Website on the Young Drivers page. Applications close October 31st.
Held every two months, our meetings are open to all members. While voting is reserved for Club Delegates, we encourage everyone to attend and share their ideas.
Meetings are held via Zoom with the occasional face to face meeting.
We're proud to have a Victorian representative at Federal meetings, ensuring our state's voice is heard at the national level.
New members are always welcome! We'd love to have you join our carriage driving family. Here's how you can get started:
We're passionate about nurturing the next generation of carriage drivers. Our junior and young driver programs offer tailored instruction, mentorship, and opportunities for young enthusiasts to develop their skills in a safe and encouraging environment.
Young Drivers Convenor - Alison McDiarmid alimcjmull@gmail.com
Carriage driving offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in competitive driving, pleasure driving, or simply learning the ropes, we have programs and events to suit your interests.
CDEs test horse and driver skills through dressage, marathon, and cones phases. Competitors aim for the lowest overall penalties, showcasing obedience, fitness, and precision.
Carriage dressage demonstrates the horse’s training and harmony with the driver through prescribed movements. It’s both a standalone discipline and a CDE phase.
Indoor Driving offers compact competitions with Precision and Paces, Cones, and Obstacles phases. Popular in winter, it provides training opportunities in a controlled environment.
Pleasure Driving involves leisurely, social drives, while Endurance Driving challenges teams to complete long-distance courses. Both disciplines celebrate the joy of driving in various settings, from relaxed country roads to more demanding multi-day events.
Show Driving showcases the aesthetic side of carriage driving. Competitors are judged on their horses’ beauty and manners, as well as overall turnout presentation.
Show Driving showcases the aesthetic side of carriage driving. Competitors are judged on their horses’ beauty and manners, as well as overall turnout presentation.
Never held a driving rein before? No problem! Our newcomer programs are designed to introduce you to the world of carriage driving. You’ll learn the basics of harnessing, driving safety, and horse care from experienced mentors who are eager to share their knowledge.
Come and be part of our thriving carriage driving community in Victoria.
