14/08/2026
Meet our 2026 Equestrian Judge, Shane Ackerly! 🐴
Here’s a message from Shane:
'My equestrian journey began in the early 1980s when I attended a horse-riding camp in Sheffield, Northern Tasmania, run by a wonderful lady named Sandra Southwell. That experience changed the course of my life. I became immediately besotted with horses and knew I had found my calling.
In 1985, I left Tasmania and relocated to New South Wales with the dream of becoming a full-time trainer. I quickly discovered that establishing myself in the industry would not be easy, and for many years I worked hard to build a reputation and find my place within the sport.
Around this time, I met my future wife, Sheryl, and not long afterwards, Springfield Stables was established. Together, we were fortunate enough to produce some of the country’s finest show horses and, for several decades, competed successfully at the highest level.
Although we no longer compete with the numbers we once did, I still have a couple of beautiful horses to show, and my passion for the sport remains as strong as ever. Over the years, I have been privileged to judge at most of the State Royal Shows and HOTYs, and more recently, I was honoured to be selected as the Ride Judge at the 2026 Grand National in Sydney.
It is a great pleasure to return to my home state and adjudicate at this prestigious event. I look forward to meeting you all and sharing in what promises to be a wonderful occasion'
We’re delighted to welcome Shane to the Royal Hobart Show and look forward to his expertise in the ring this year.
Stay tuned as we introduce more of our 2026 judges! 👏
