DEDICATED equestrian extraordinaire, Reg Cleland OAM, passed away on Sunday, June 14, leaving an incredible legacy of improving the sport of equestrian in Victoria and Australia, with many Kilmore locals and many more across Australia paying tribute to Mr Cleland’s life.
Mr Cleland played a critical role in equestrian’s advancement in Australia, with Equestrian Victoria one of many to leave tributes.
“It cannot be overstated the enormous contribution Reg has made to Equestrian sport over many decades. Reg was instrumental in the establishment of the EFA (Equestrian Federation of Australia) and the State Branches back in the early nineties and also led the original negotiations that secured Werribee Park as the home of Equestrian sport in Victoria, among so many other achievements too numerous to list,” they wrote on their Facebook page.
“We take this time to reflect on the wonderful life of a man who gave his heart and soul to the sport of Equestrian and dedicated his entire life to the sport in so many ways and send our love to his wife Fran and all of her family.”
The Melbourne Showjumping Club also paid tribute – of which Mr Cleland was chairman for 20 years on top of his role as a national jumping selector.
“As Chairman of the Melbourne Showjumping Club for 20 years, Reg was an integral member of our club. Within our club, Reg spent hundreds of voluntary hours giving back to the sport through course building, officiating and encouraging the next generations of riders to love the sport. His warmth and generosity helped shaped many of our countries great competitors and officials,” they said.
“Reg served on the Equestrian Victoria and Equestrian Australia Boards and was a national jumping selector. His unwavering dedication and passion helped grow jumping in this country and we are all indebted to his service.”
Local cafes in Kilmore were among those that also paid tribute.
The Kilmore Hub posted: “Rest peacefully, Reg Cleland. Thank you for the difference you made in all our lives.”
The Gaol Café said Mr Cleland will always be remembered.
“Reg touched many lives and will be remembered for the kindness, friendship and positive impact he made on our community,” they wrote.
The Rose Garden Café kept it short and sweet.
“What a wonderful and fulfilled life he endured. He will definitely be missed by many,” they wrote.
Earlier this year, Mr Cleland earned the Order of Australia Medal to his lengthy resume, which recognised his 60 years of work in improving equine sport.
