Etiquette

Field Etiquette

When hunting in the field, there are a number of traditions that evolved over the years; some have to do with safety, some efficiency, and some purely represent good manners. As with most things in hunting, they all reflect common sense. Your adherence to these traditions will help make everyone’s day more enjoyable.

1. Be punctual at the meet, most meets are at 9.00am. This means you should be on your horse by that time, ready to move off. No rider shall be allowed to move off once the field has departed.
   
   
2. Ensure rider and horse are turned out in a neat and tidy appearance and the horse is sound.
   
   
3. Never leave the field early without the permission of the Master.
   
   
4. Always respect the landowner and his property. You are his guest. Never litter the meeting place or his land in any way. Do not trespass on his land on days that the hunt is not invited. Avoid crops by keeping toward the side fence of the paddock. Always bring your own feed and water.
   
   
5. Pay your field fee if you are a subscriber, or your Capping fee if you are not, to the Field Secretary before the meet and prior to being asked. It is your responsibility to seek the Field Secretary and not wait for them to find you.
   
   
6. Allow time to pay your fee and complete any waiver forms before the hunt. This includes if you have visitors and they are your responsibility to organise this.
   
   
7. Ride behind the Master and obey his instructions at all times. Do not ride too close to his horse’s heels or side. It is important to keep within sight of the Master to prevent riders getting lost, there should be no stragglers. If you have trouble keeping up please advise the Master or nearest Red Coat.
   
   
8. Hunt livery is an indication of seniority and those wearing it should be respected at all times. Junior members should always give priority to senior members. Committee member decisions or instructions should be respected.
   
   
9. The hounds, Master, Huntsman and Whippers-In have priority and right of way at all times. Make way for them by turning your horse towards them.
   
   
10. Never get between the Huntsman and his hounds.
    
    
11. Never speak to or interfere with hounds unless asked to do so by the Huntsman or Master. When hounds are working, be quiet so as not to distract them.
    
    
12. When hounds are near you, be sure to turn your horse to face them to avoid the possibility of a hound getting kicked – a most serious crime in the hunting field.
    
    
13. Never ride on the heels of another horse. At some point all horses will kick if run into or stepped on. If your horse is a known kicker, put a red ribbon on his tail, ride to the rear of the field, and remember that the red ribbon does not absolve you of responsibility if your horse does kick or misbehaves.
    
    
14. If your horse refuses a jump, pull away from the obstacle immediately and join the rear of the field before attempting the jump again.
    
    
15. Report damage of any kind to the Master immediately.
    
    
16. Report any injuries to the Master immediately.
    
    
17. Be certain all gates are left as they are found. If there is any doubt you MUST contact the Master.
    
    
18. If you sight a fox, attract the attention of the Huntsman or a Whipper-In as quickly and quietly as possible and indicate this by gesturing with your hand in the air pointing in the direction the fox ran.
    
    
19. Remember that there is a rhythm to a hunt – if you disrupt that rhythm you can cause serious accidents. If your horse is acting up, move to the rear and away from others. If you must pull up, do not stop in the way of others still moving forward. Move out of the way quickly. A bit of common sense goes a long way toward making the day safe and enjoyable.

Hunt Attire

Riders:

1. Aust. Safety Standard Approved riding helmet (black).
2. White, cream or buff coloured jodhpurs.
3. Black long boots or proper riding boots (black or brown).
4. White riding shirt.
5. White hunt stock or tie.
6. Riding jacket (preferably black).
7. Other Hunt Club Red Coats and Collars only after permission has been granted by The Master.
8. Wet weather apparel as determined by The Master depending on conditions.
9. Junior riders are permitted to wear official Pony Club attire.
10. For those hunting for the first time neat attire, including Aust. Safety Standard Approved riding helmet.

Horses:

1. In sound condition.
2. Manes plaited, hogged or brushed.
3. Coats clean and brushed.
4. Hoofs blackened.
5. Tails plaited or brushed.
6. Horses that are known kickers must have a RED ribbon on their tail. This does not absolve the rider of any responsibility if your horse does kick or misbehave.
7. Tack in a clean and well maintained condition.