Wendy Tidbold – Side Saddles
Saddle Making
Side Saddles became a passion for Wendy, learning as much as she could from the very few Australian sources available and then made contact with the UK Side Saddle Association and the International Side Saddle Organization in the USA.
Wendy started rebuilding Side Saddles from the tree up as there were only old saddles around with dip seats. Occasionally, a more modern Side Saddle with a flat seat would turn-up.
There is only a handful of saddlers in the world that specialize in the making of Side Saddles. Wendy’s Side Saddles have been made not only for Australian customers, but also for customers in New Zealand.
United Kingdom
In 1995 and 1999, Wendy travelled to the United Kingdom to obtain lessons with the master of Side Saddle riding and acknowledged world authority on Side Saddles, Mr. Roger Philpot. Wendy also competed in the 3-day UK Side Saddle Show in Warwickshire in 1999.
Whilst in the UK Wendy participated with a top American and a champion English Side Saddle rider in a documentary for the Discovery TV Channel.
USA
Further travels in 2002 included the USA for the 3-day Side Saddle Spectacular at the Kentucky Horse Park making contact with USA & Canadian saddlers. Wendy brought a Western American Side Saddle tree home with her.
Media
Wendy has featured in three Side Saddle segments on the Channel 10’s kids show, Totally Wild, a segment on Channel 9s Brisbane Extra, plus an ABC National Radio interview, various magazines in Australia and New Zealand including the Australian Women’s Weekly – (The Last of their Kind).
Equitana Brisbane
In 2002 rode in Brisbane’s first Equitana held at the Exhibition & Convention Centre performing a Pas De Deux Side Saddle over 5 nights. This was an all breed’s horse show where individual horse acts are performed to music under laser lighting, the show originating from Europe.
Dressage
As a valued member of Redlands and Southern Districts Equestrian Group for over 25 years and served as the club’s President for 10 years. Wendy enjoys the company of the horse enthusiasts in the club and often competes in dressage events.
Side Saddle
Keen to continue promoting Side Saddle riding and keep her interest alive. Private or group Side Saddle lessons are available with Wendy, while also accepting invitations from Pony Clubs. Wendy is able to bring her own saddles to both demonstrate and teach Side Saddle riding.