Our Expert Instructors
Our team of certified instructors brings together decades of experience in various riding disciplines. Each instructor is passionate about sharing their knowledge and helping students achieve their equestrian goals safely and effectively.
Senior Instructors
Sarah Mitchell
Head Instructor & Co-Founder
Qualifications & Experience:
- Equestrian Australia Level 3 Instructor
- Former Australian Olympic Team Member (Dressage)
- 20+ years teaching experience
- FEI Level 3 Dressage Judge
- Bachelor of Equine Science
Specialties:
Advanced Dressage, Competition Preparation, Instructor Training, Young Horse Development
Sarah co-founded Skill Tipster with a vision of making high-quality equestrian education accessible to all. Her competitive background includes representing Australia at international dressage competitions and winning multiple national championships. She is passionate about developing both horses and riders to their full potential.
Michael Mitchell
Senior Instructor & Co-Founder
Qualifications & Experience:
- Equestrian Australia Level 3 Instructor
- International Show Jumping Competitor
- 18+ years teaching experience
- Equine Sports Therapy Certification
- Diploma in Equine Management
Specialties:
Show Jumping, Cross-Country, Trail Riding, Equine Health & Fitness
Michael brings a wealth of experience from his competitive show jumping career and his expertise in equine health and fitness. He has competed internationally and has a particular talent for helping nervous riders build confidence. His holistic approach to horse training emphasizes both physical and mental well-being.
Riding Instructors
James Thompson
Trail Riding Specialist
Qualifications & Experience:
- Equestrian Australia Level 2 Instructor
- Trail Horse Riders Association Certified
- 12+ years trail riding experience
- First Aid & Emergency Response Certified
- Bush Navigation Expert
Specialties:
Trail Riding, Bush Navigation, Outdoor Safety, Natural Horsemanship
James leads our trail riding programs and is an expert in Australian bush navigation and outdoor safety. His calm demeanor and extensive knowledge of the local terrain make him the perfect guide for riders wanting to explore the beautiful countryside around Camden.
Emma Wilson
Beginner & Youth Specialist
Qualifications & Experience:
- Equestrian Australia Level 2 Instructor
- Pony Club Australia Coach Certification
- 10+ years teaching children
- Early Childhood Education Background
- Child Protection Certified
Specialties:
Beginner Lessons, Children's Programs, Confidence Building, Basic Horsemanship
Emma has a special gift for working with new riders and children. Her patient, encouraging approach helps students overcome fears and build confidence quickly. She combines her equestrian expertise with her background in education to create engaging, safe learning experiences.
David Chen
Western & Competition Instructor
Qualifications & Experience:
- Australian Stock Horse Society Certified
- Western Riding Instructor Certification
- 15+ years competition experience
- Multiple Campdrafting Championships
- Cattle Work Specialist
Specialties:
Western Riding, Campdrafting, Cattle Work, Competitive Western Events
David brings authentic Australian western riding expertise to our team. His competitive background in campdrafting and cattle work provides students with genuine western riding skills. He's particularly skilled at teaching the precision and timing required for competitive western events.
Lisa Rodriguez
Dressage & Flatwork Specialist
Qualifications & Experience:
- Equestrian Australia Level 2 Instructor
- International Dressage Experience
- 8+ years teaching dressage
- Classical Dressage Foundation Training
- Horse Biomechanics Specialist
Specialties:
Classical Dressage, Flatwork, Horse Biomechanics, Intermediate Riding
Lisa's classical dressage training and deep understanding of horse biomechanics help riders develop correct positions and effective communication with their horses. She excels at helping intermediate riders refine their skills and develop the precision required for dressage.
Support Team
Tom Patterson
Stable Manager
Experience:
- 15+ years horse care experience
- Equine Nutrition Specialist
- Stable Management Certification
- Equine First Aid Certified
Tom oversees the daily care of all our horses, ensuring they receive the best nutrition, healthcare, and attention. His expertise in horse care and stable management keeps our equine partners healthy and happy.
Kate Sullivan
Assistant Instructor & Groom
Experience:
- Certificate III in Horse Breeding
- 5+ years grooming experience
- Equestrian Australia Trainee Instructor
- Working toward Level 1 Certification
Kate assists with lessons and manages horse preparation and grooming. She's currently advancing her instructor qualifications and brings enthusiasm and dedication to every aspect of horse care and student support.
Dr. Rachel Hayes
Veterinary Consultant
Qualifications:
- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
- Equine Medicine Specialist
- 20+ years equine practice
- Sports Medicine Certification
Dr. Hayes provides regular health checks for our horses and offers consultations on equine health and wellness. Her expertise ensures all our horses receive professional veterinary care and maintain optimal health for their teaching roles.
What Sets Our Team Apart
Continuous Education
All our instructors participate in ongoing professional development, attending clinics, workshops, and certification courses to stay current with the latest teaching methods and safety practices.
Safety-First Approach
Every team member is trained in emergency procedures and first aid. We maintain strict safety protocols and ensure all instructors are equipped to handle any situation that may arise.
Personalized Instruction
Our instructors understand that every student learns differently. They adapt their teaching methods to match each student's learning style, goals, and comfort level.
Passion for Teaching
Beyond their technical expertise, all our instructors share a genuine love for horses and a passion for sharing that love with others. This enthusiasm creates an inspiring learning environment.
Interested in Joining Our Team?
We're always looking for qualified, passionate equestrian professionals to join our growing team.