Today’s commencement of the prestigious Sydney Horse Classic at the Royal Easter Show marks a celebration of the eradication of equine influenza, Minister for Primary Industries Ian Macdonald said today.

Minister Macdonald said the Sydney Horse Classic gave some of the country’s top riders a chance to compete for $100,000 in prize money, which has been provided through the Iemma Government as part of the ‘Return to the Horse’ event schedule.

"The Sydney Horse Classic is a pivotal event in our program of providing financial support to the horse industry, following the successful eradication of horse flu," he said.

"We know this has been an extremely difficult period for everyone in the horse industry, and we want to show our appreciation for their cooperation by supporting these competitive events, which also showcase some top riding talent for show audiences."

The Sydney Horse Classic consists of a series of elite riding and hack competition events during the next six days at the Royal Easter Show.

"The event is a great way to demonstrate our valuable horse industry is on the road to recovery and up and running again - and it’s a great way for the community to see these magnificent horses in action," Minister Macdonald said.

"The Easter Show has had hundreds of other horses competing in world class Olympic qualifying showjumping, interstate and international polo and polocrosse matches, campdraft and stock horse competitions.

"I want to congratulate the Royal Agricultural Society President Rob Vickery for the efforts of he and his staff in ensuring horses are participating in this year’s show.

"I encourage all show visitors to take the chance to see the excellent display of horsemanship that will be displayed through the Sydney Horse Classic events."

More than $300,000 in State Government support has been provided for the show through the Department of Primary Industries, which is a Grand Champion sponsor of this year’s event.

Media contact: Lyndall Derrig 0400 462 447 or Trudy Glasgow 0427 217 354