NBHA By Laws — Navigation

Photo Credit: Haylie Marie Photography

National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc.

By-Laws

ARBN: 612 068 498 IN: IA36297 ABN: 18 605 902 019

Current 01/05/2026

This document is to be used in the first instance and then followed with the NBHA official rule book and NBHA Model Rules, these are binding to all members and affiliated committees of National Barrel Horse Association of

Australia Inc.

The official World NBHA Rulebook may be found at NBHA Member Rules. Where it is referred to NBHA in the World NBHA Rules it is referred to mean of National Barrel Horse Association Australia Inc.

Where “NBHA Headquarters” is mentioned in NBHA Rulebook, it is taken as meaning the contact details for Australia (enquiries@nbha.com.au).

The Objects of the Association are:

To support and encourage the sport of Barrel Riding here in Australia
To promote good horsemanship and sportsmanship
To encourage families to have fun and learn in a safe environment with their horses and each other

Divisional barrel racing is the heart of NBHA. Divisional barrel racing gives ALL competitors - from beginners to professionals, from youth to seniors - a chance to learn and succeed in barrel racing. The Divisional format

encourages riders to improve their skills and work toward the higher Divisions, while still having a chance to be competitive.

National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc. recognizes the International Barrel Horse Federation (IBHF) as the international standard to run divisional barrel racing events and we run our events to that standard following

the official NBHA Rule Book (see below) with bylaws that are unique to our Country. (refer to said bylaws within this document in the first instance and NBHA Member Rules ). The purpose of National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc. is to provide Barrel Racers with an opportunity to race within Australia following the guidelines within our ByLaws and set down by the international organisation (IBHF) that will promote the sport of barrel racing and its growth. These international event rules have been adopted to address the needs of NBHA Australia members, promote fairness, eliminate confusion, and assist show organisers.

INTRODUCTION

These Rules cannot cover all possible situations that may arise during a show, nor can they regulate all administrative questions. Where cases are not precisely regulated by a Rule, it should be possible to reach a responsible decision by looking at the Rule book and/or submitting a written letter/email to the NBHA Australia Board. These Rules assume that the NBHA Australia Board have the necessary competence, sound judgment and absolute objectivity. Too detailed a rule might deprive the official of his/her freedom of judgment and thus prevent him/her from finding the solution to a problem dictated by fairness, logic, and special factors. Breach of these By Laws may result in Disqualification of members or where committee’s are concerned may result in termination of your sanctioning within NBHA until further notice. The rules and competition rules within these By Laws have been voted in through NBHA Australia AGM’s and stipulate how NBHA is to be run within Australia again these are the rules in the first instance, if not listed here as per AGM voting refer to NBHA World rules

MEMBERSHIP

The individual membership of the Association shall comprise of: -

(a) Open (this includes Senior) ...................................................................................................................................... $100 per year

(b) Youth / Teen (18 years and younger – not riding in Open) ............................................................................ $65 per year

(c) Associate/Supporter (not a competition rider) .................................................................................................... $25 per year

(d) Day membership…………………………………………………………………………………………….$20 per day

Youth/Teen Competitors riding in Open are to pay Open membership

Only members of the Association that are 18 years or older will have voting rights.

NBHA members shall not use social media to bring NBHA or NBHA Australia into disrepute. Please refer to the Official NBHA Rulebook Section F: Penalties and/or Disqualifications.

Day Membership (NO POINTS)

Non-members of districts may compete for prize money {on the day} at any NBHA event (excluding State Show or National Show) only upon payment of day member membership through the NBHA Australia online Portal where the insurance waiver can be signed.. A day member, in the amount of twenty dollars ($20.00) Day membership is always to be completed through our online portal so our insurance waiver is signed.

LIFE MEMBERSHIP

Life Membership of National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc. may be considered for special services rendered in connection with the sport. Life Membership is not transferable and will only be granted at the level of membership previously held (i.e. an Associate/Supporter will only receive Associate/Supporter Life Membership, a previous Open member will receive Open Life Membership). Recommendations for Life Membership shall be put forward to the Secretary prior to each yearly NBHA Australia AGM and shall set out the details of special service rendered. Life Memberships will then be decided at the AGM in consultation with all members and a vote taken. A Life Membership recipient must still do their renewals each year to sign the insurance waiver.

AFFILIATED DISTRICTS

Any potential District may be asked to run three non-point events under the Association banner to see if they will be supported and to see if the Directors and their Representatives are members of NBHA Australia, self-motivated, capable of running events, passionate about our Association and in it for the right reason. The three non-point events will raise funds for timers and other essentials that are needed to run a District. After these three non-point events, the Executive Management Committee will evaluate how well received the potential District is in that area and the impact on other Districts before officially naming and setting up the District. To be affiliated, District Directors must sign the District Director Agreement each year and ensure that all shows are sanctioned as per Section B. Show Sanctioning Form. The $30 show sanctioning fee will apply and once accepted a yearly $250 Affiliate Fee is payable to NBHA Australia. Independent Districts still run under NBHA Australia as their Governing Body and still adhere to rules set in these By Laws {in the first instance} and those in the NBHA World Rulebook. Any show that is run under the Association insurance is considered a sanctioned show. NBHA Australia request all Districts send their dates in prior to their season starting. No District are to advertise dates for their season without prior approval from NBHA Australia. If date changes are needed during the season this can happen via emailing into enquiries@nbha.com.au The request and fee must be received at NBHA Headquarters when application for dates are made and upon receiving reply invoice from NBHA Australia, any added/further dates must be received and paid for at least 14 days prior to the requested show date. A $3 per run fee {each competitor} is charged from NBHA Australia $1 per run being allocated to the National Show and $2 per run allocated towards insurance. However it is requested Districts put their season dates together and make application to all events prior to commencement. No District will advertise events prior to being approved by NBHA Australia first. Districts may choose to set up as Not for Profit Sporting Orgnisation or become an Incorporated Association (either way, they need to be their own legal entity and registered with the Australian Government to obtain an ABN). Naming of the entity should be consistent with - NBHA | State | District Number | Area (i.e. NBHA QLD D01 SEQ) All Districts shall follow the NBHA Australia By-laws, NBHA Rulebook, NBHA Australia Constitution. All proposed amendments to Affiliates/Districts must be submitted to the Executive Management Committee/NBHA Australia Board for approval. Affiliates/Districts may utilise NBHA points for district awards. If Districts charge an annual Awards Fee, Awards must be given. Members of NBHA Australia and Day members can compete at any District however will not accumulate points unless District Memberships are paid to Districts {District memberships are District Awards Fee} NBHA Australia members may choose to pay District Awards fees to multiple Districts and be recognised for end of year prizes within multiple districts, however, they must nominate their home district when completing membership with NBHA Australia (via NOMINATE) and that is the only points that will be recognised for qualifications to World Championships. Districts can follow the structure under Section D. Payout for Awards Fees where for sanctioned shows, they can also charge an awards fee to a maximum $5 which is excluded from the payout, alternatively, affiliated Districts of the Association may continue to charge an Annual District Awards Fee for Prizes (which must be paid for members to accumulate points) however must be used by committee’s as such, being End of Year Awards.

NBHA Australia sanctioned events are as follows and can be run in the following formats:
a. Open (events paid out to 3D, 4D or 5D, points to qualify for Worlds to 5D)
b. Seniors (events paid out to 1D, 2D, 3D, 4D or 5D, points to qualify for Worlds to 5D)
c. Teen (events paid out to 3D, 4D or 5D, points to qualify for Worlds to 5D)
d. Youth 12 years and under (events paid out to 3D, 4D or 5D, points to qualify for Worlds to 5D)
Districts are to supply prizes/end of year awards to the format being run and placings of atleast 1st – 3rd placings, as this is what your District Prize levy/membership is for.
Results must be posted in a public place (i.e. Facebook) within 7 days after event. Both Timesheets, with Payouts & Points along with current Points spreadsheet.
Payouts must be included on the results posted after an event.
Submit timesheets to NBHA Australia {enquiries@nbha.com.au} within 7 days after your event for insurance/show fee’s to be emailed out. Any committee not emailing into NBHA Australia within expected timeframe of 7 days will incur a $50 late fee to be payable to NBHA Australia. Insurance Invoice and late fee will need to be paid before any further events can be run.
A minimum of 75% of all entry fees going to the jackpot/event. (Exception: If a show offers at least $1,000 added money, a minimum of 70% of all entry fees must go to the jackpot.) That is, a maximum of 25% (or a maximum of 30% if at least $1,000 added) may be withheld as the “office charge.” If more than 25% is withheld pursuant to the above, this fact must be stated on any show bills or flyers.
This is exclusive of other fees which may be charged for specific purposes such as State or District Awards Fees as defined below, timer fee, processing fee or arena fee. While we permit such charges, they must not be excessive, must be clearly stated in all advertising, and must be directed to the specific purpose as labelled, for example, the timer fees must either be paid to the timer owner/operator, or put toward the purchase of a timer for the district. The charging of a “processing fee” to district shows, the sole purpose of which is to add to the general revenue of the show, is not permitted.
Where Districts decide not to continue the NBHA Australia Annual District Awards Fee/membership fee, to help support the District raise money for District Awards, NBHA sanctioned shows may charge an awards fee to a maximum $5 which is excluded from payout. If your district will not be awarding year-end awards there is not to be a district fee.

Retirement of Districts

A District may retire from the Association at any time by giving notice in writing to the Secretary of its intention, so to do, but any District, before retiring, shall be liable to any fees payable by it. A retired District desiring to re-join the Association shall apply for admission in the manner provided by these NBHA Australia By-Laws.

PROTESTS AND COMPLAINTS

Persons who believe a rule violation or infraction has occurred at an NBHA event, may file a written protest with their direct District committee. The written protest must be accompanied by a $50 protest fee. The protest must be made within 30 days of the incident which is being protested. If the protest proves to be valid, the $50 protest fee will be returned to the person filing the protest. If the protest proves to be invalid, the protest fee will be kept by the district where the protest was filed to be used for district year end awards. In certain cases, determined by the NBHA Board may reserve the right to return the $50 protest fee even if the protest proves to be invalid. This is the ONLY manner in which a protest or complaint will be accepted for a rule violation at an NBHA Australia

District event or NBHA National/State Show.

NOTE: This rule does not prevent Directors and Show Managers from correcting obvious problems brought to their attention, without the submission of a written protest fee. Any situation not covered under these rules shall be decided by the NBHA official on site. Complaints are to go to the District or Affiliate Involved. If informal complaints are received by NBHA Australia (i.e. without the $50 protest fee), they will be passed back to the District Director/committee to handle. District Members are encouraged to provide feedback and complaints directly to your District Directors/committee so that they know when there is a problem and given the opportunity to resolve it.

District Directors/Committee’s must:

• STEP 1 - Listen to the complaint.

• STEP 2 - Record details of the complaint. Go through the complaint in detail so you can understand exactly what the problem is. Keep records of all complaints in one central place or register. This will help you identify any trends or issues.National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc.

• STEP 3 - Get all the facts. Check that you have understood and recorded the details of the complaint correctly. Ask questions if necessary.

• STEP 4 - Discuss options for fixing the problem. Ask the member what response they are seeking. Decide if the request is reasonable.

• STEP 5 - Act quickly. Aim to resolve the complaint quickly. If you take a long time they tend to escalate.

• STEP 6 - Keep your promises. Keep the member informed if there are any delays in resolving their request. Do not promise things that you cannot deliver.

• STEP 7 - Follow up. Contact the member to find out if they were satisfied with how their complaint was handled. Let them know what you are doing to avoid the problem in the future.

COMPETITION RULES

OPEN, SENIOR, TEEN, YOUTH & LED/ASSISTED Barrel Racing Classes are mandatory to be run at all point events and MUST be run in that order for rollovers. If rollovers from these events are not an option {example – rolling your teen time from your open run} Mandatory events can be run in any order.
Times can only be rolled over from Opens to Youth, Open to Teen, Opens to Seniors, or Open to Features/Side pots otherwise the horses first run of the day.
Times CANNOT be rolled over from one Jackpot to next Jackpot.
AGE CATEGORIES
• Open (all ages)
• Youth (12 years of age and under as of January 1st of the competition year)
• Teen (13-18 years of age and under as of January 1st of the competition year)
• Senior (50 years of age and over as of the date of the show)
Proof of age may be required at the discretion of Show Management.
A Youth competitor may not rollup to a Teen division for any reason.
A competitor must start and finish their run inside the alley way/arena.
Only one horse may be in the competition arena at any time during competition.
Contestants may ride any horse, regardless of ownership, and may ride as many horses as they choose in a class. However, a horse may not be shown by more than one person in a class, unless the
following conditions are met:
a. Both contestants are members of the same immediate family who also reside in the same household (husband, wife, siblings, children, and grandchildren). Children and grandchildren who are attending school away from home, but who reside part of the year with their parents or grandparents are included under this rule.
b. Neither contestant is showing any other horse in that class.
c. In no case will the same horse be run more than twice in the same class.
d. A horse suitable for the led event may be used multiple times in the led event only for the purpose of multiple children having a safe mount to ride.
Drags must be completed at every 5 according to draw, regardless of any scratching’s, draws remain the same.
Any time a contestant crosses the starting line, time will begin, and this will constitute an attempt at a run.
A contestant will be given a “no time” for any of the following reasons:
• Off Pattern
• Knocking over a barrel completely, regardless of if it stands back up on either end. Touching the barrel is permitted, without penalty.
• Running out of turn and/or riding a horse other than the horse in the drawn position. It is the contestant’s responsibility to know their drawn position. In the case where the announcer clearly announces the wrong running order and can identify their mistake, a contestant shall keep their time. At the completion of the “out-of-order” run, the ground shall be drug for those riders remaining in the drag, if any.
• If the rider falls off after crossing the starting timer. A rider who falls off a horse completely, before the starting line, regardless if the horse breaks the timer, a re-run will be offered in that moment in the same draw position, and not at a later time.
NBHA Officials have the right to disqualify any uncontrolled, refusing or likewise difficult horse which does not begin the pattern within two minutes of the time the rider has been called. This rule does not apply to competitors who have not checked in with gate personnel.National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc.

Side Pot

A “side pot” is additional opportunities to recognise competitors. Contestants can pay an additional fee to enter their designated “side pot.” This means that in addition to the main competition, times will be “carried over” into the designated pot adding an additional chance for the contestant to win a money against what is often a smaller pool of competitors. (for example age categories for horses such as Futurity/Derby/Senior Horses. Aged events are/can be run as separate events at National and State Shows as these are just that our National or State Championships of all categories. Horse age classes = Futurity Horses – 4, 5 or 6 year old | Derby 7, 8 or 9 year old | Senior Horse | 16 years or older as at 31 January of competition year. Side pots can be rolled from the Open, Senior, Teen or Youth events however must be run on the same course, in the same day. Rolled time for sidepot is taken from the nominated horses first run on the day {excluding horse being used in led class}.

Sidepots can be run in one of two ways within Districts –

1. A one off fee at the start of the season {prior to any events} to nominate per horse for points only. No money will be paid out at each event nor will a fee be charged per event. Points will be accumulated for end of year prizes only or

2. A nomination fee for each event, points accumulated for end of year prizes and payouts done for each event throughout the year.

3. Aged events are points for the horse only. The nominated horse may have multiple riders throughout the season.

4. Registration papers or Proof of Age paperwork must be given to committee’s and these checked against each horse nominated each year.

LED (Led is NOT a Divisional Event OR Age dependent)

1. At no time will a lead line competitor receive points toward World Championship {USA} Qualifications.

2. Points are accumulated for end of year District Awards, points are awarded on an outright contest basis of 1st to 5th.

3. Leds are not a World Points Qualifier event. They are a District end of year points qualifying event.

4. Riders who are on Lead line are not eligible to compete in any other class including Opens, Youth, Teen, and Senior Classes

5. This is a walk, trot, canter class however an uncontrollable/unsafe horse can be stopped by an official on the day

6. A horse suitable for the led event can be used multiple times in the led event only, for the purpose of multiple children having a safe mount to ride.

7. All riders in this group must wear an approved safety helmet whilst mounted on a horse at any NBHA affiliated event.

8. The person leading must lead at the horse/pony's head / neck / shoulder throughout the entire run and remain in full control of the horse.

9. At no time can the person leading be in front of the horse/pony’s nose.

10. Assisted Riders who are 4 years of age and under must have a person to lead the horse and a support person (both must be NBHA members 16 years & over). The person leading must lead at the horse/pony's shoulder throughout the entire run and remain in full control of the horse. The support person must stay at rider's side and remain in contact (without restrictions to the child or their clothing) with either the rider's leg or back throughout the barrel pattern. Once they reach the age of 5 years, they do not require a support person and can compete off lead if able.

11. Competitors aged 4 years and under are not permitted to carry a whip or any other device to smack or whip their mount.

12. It is at the committee’s discretion to deem a horse too much to be used in a leadline. Committee members or appointed official can ask for a child to be taken off a horse who is behaving badly in their view, who is highly strung, who may be rearing, who has the possibility to become uncontrollable and find a safer mount.

All other classes are feature events {Poles/Beginner Barrels/Novelty events}and are run at Director or Promoter discretion. This means the said Feature event is at committee’s discretion whether they run the event or not. This does not mean the event rules can be changed by the committee/Promoter. Event rules of feature events are listed under Feature Guidelines below for clarification.

FEATURE EVENT GUIDES

POLE BENDING

1. To be run as a straight out event not Divisional and paid 1-3rd placings depending on entries as per payouts

2. If points are accumulated,points are awarded on an outright contest basis of 1st to 5th.

3. Course size will be 9 Metres from timers to first pole then 6 Metres between poles.

4. 6 poles are to be used, if 6 are not available then 4 must be used, an uneven number is never allowed.

5. Contestants can enter the course from either side of the poles as long as the course is completed correctly.

6. A no time will be given if the pole is tipped/touches the ground and/or does not return past 45 degrees vertical as ruled by the event judge.

7. Excessive use of a whip, bare hand, under and over or other equipment will result in a no time being given. Excessive whipping will be classified as more than 2 on the way to the top pole and more than 4 on the way home.

BEGINNER BARRELS (Beginner Barrels is NOT a Divisional Event)

1. Payout is to 3rd place or less depending on placings

2. Points are at committee’s discretion however beginner barrels does not qualify for World Points

3. Entries per rider for these events is limited to two separate horses.

4. Rider must be a genuine Beginner Rider (for example; the rider is only comfortable riding at a trot or slow canter, the rider has not competed in timed events for over 5 years, the rider has never won an open pony club/active riders barrel race, the rider has never placed in a Divisional, Novice or Open barrel race).

5. Riders will be disqualified from this class if they run a time that is less than 2 seconds off the Open 4D time (4 seconds off 1D).

6. District Directors have discretion to move competitors out of Beginners if they feel they have reached an adequate competitive level.

7. No Feature events (Novelty/Poles/Beginner Barrels) will be allowed to run before the main performance at any event.

EXHIBITION BARRELS

1. Exhibition Runs are demonstrations. To make a demonstration, you must be a member (this includes Day Member).

2. Rider may acquaint their horse with arena environment and ride around the course. The time in arena shall be no more than 1 minute.

3. No points or prize money is awarded for Exhibition Runs.

4. Exhibition fees go directly to the Promoter or District running the event.

COMPETITION DRESS CODE

Competition Dress Code applies to ALL competitors including Led/Assisted and their handlers and supporters. It also applies to anyone helping either on foot or horseback leading horses into the Arena/Alley/Holding Yard.

1. Western style Hat or Helmet must be worn (no caps allowed)

2. Long-sleeved Western shirt with collar. Shirt sleeves must be rolled down and buttoned or snapped. Shirt tails must be tucked in. (“Fishing” style shirts are not acceptable).

3. Jeans or Jodhpurs must be worn.

4. Cowboy style boots -pull on or lace up (moccasins/cruisers/joggers/gum boots/thongs/sandals/ sneakers etc are not acceptable) must be worn by everyone entering the Arena/Alley/Holding or handling horses at any time.

5. All Juniors aged 17 years or younger as of January 1st each year must wear a approved helmet {description below) at all times whilst mounted with chin straps done up

PROMOTERS (A Promoter runs the NBHA show entirely and therefore takes the profit)

1. Promoters are responsible for 100% of the running of their event and must provide all resources and allocate and manage volunteers to run the event. District Directors or their Representative will only be in attendance to check results

2. For a show to be sanctioned by the NBHA, a written request must be made to the District Director on an NBHA Sanctioned Show Request Form. Proof of payment of the $30 sanctioning fee to the District account must accompany this request.

3. To be approved as a sanctioned show, the request form and fee must be received at NBHA Headquarters at least 14 days prior to the requested show date. Shows will be sanctioned on a first-come, first-serve basis.

4. 14 days prior to the event, Promoters must pay a fee of $70 per event for non-point events and $140 per event for point- events to NBHA Australia. Rules for Series or Feature events MUST be submitted with NBHA Sanctioned Show Request Form and approved by the NBHA Management Committee. It is an obligation that to run a Series, the Promoter MUST complete the series as originally advertised. Should the series be shortened due to weather, then all members will be advised and the NBHA Management Committee will arrange another date to complete the series

DISTRICT TITLES

If a District charges an award fee/membership fee. Awards MUST be supplied to atleast a 1-3rd basis on Divisions run throughout the year. This is what our sponsorships and Award fee’s are obtained for.

In the event of a tie for a District title in any Division (1st Place only in any Division) the contestants will be deemed Co-Champions. Districts are to award equal prizes to each of the Co-Champions {order in extra buckle/prizes after confirmation of tie}
If agreed between District and competitors, where there are tied placings associated with a placing {2nd & 3rd} and the District cannot provide or order in equal prizes to all Co-Champion placings, they may establish the prizes based on which member won more events during the competition year (count-back of winning places).
In the instance where the contestants are still tied after a count-back, a run-off will occur to decide first choice of the prizes using the following protocol:
• The District Director will toss a coin to determine running order, unless both/all parties tied parties mutually agree the coin toss to determine the clear winner without a runoff.
• In an event of a run-off, each contestant will be given a minimum of 30 minutes of rest before having to ride in a runoff.
• During the runoff, any barrels knocked down will result in a 5 second penalty per barrel down.
• Winning monies related to a tie will be split 50/50 or evenly in the case of more than two individuals in a tie and contestants will be deemed Co-Champions. Prizes will be awarded to the results from the runoff or the mutually agreed upon flip.
• If a contestant fails to contact the District Director within 30 minutes of announced results. He or she will forfeit the opportunity of flipping a coin or running for first choice of awards. This will not impact the event payoff, or the contestants being considered Co- Champions.
• It is the contestant’s responsibility to seek show results.
No sanctioned NBHA point shows will be approved for dates that would interfere with members from attending their State Championships, the World Championships, the Youth World Championships, or a National Championship Show held within the same region. NBHA Australia Board will have final approval for all sanctioned shows. NBHA points will not be awarded for shows that are not properly sanctioned.

SAFETY FIRST

Contestants must compete using a safe and suitable saddle. Riding bareback in a sanctioned NBHA class will result in a disqualification. Additionally, no bareback riding is permitted on the grounds at any NBHA event, at any time, and can result in a fine or further action for repeat offenses.
Only MEMBERS of NBHA are permitted to ride within the ENTIRE location of the event.
Only NBHA officials (or their designated helpers) to be in arena or marshalling area on foot.
A competitor must start and finish their run inside the alleyway/arena.
If any horse is deemed out of the riders control the rider may be requested to remove the horse from the arena/marshelling/warm up area for the safety of other competitors.
Only one horse and rider to be in the arena to make a run at any time.
Riders will be called to the marshalling area to wait for their run. Only those within the current block are to be in that area with the exception of riders needing a handler to enter the arena/alleyway, assistance with their horse..
Riders who are 4 and under must have a person to lead the horse and a support person (both must be NBHA member 16 years & over). The person leading must lead at the horse/pony's shoulder throughout the entire run and remain in full control of the horse. The support person must stay at rider's side and remain in contact with either the rider's leg or back throughout the barrel pattern. Once they reach the age of 5 years, they do not require a support person and can compete off lead if able. Competitors aged 4 years and under are not permitted to carry a whip or any other device to smack or whip their mount.
All riders aged 17 years or younger as of January 1st each year must wear an approved helmet (description below) at all times whilst mounted with chin straps done up.
All members wearing helmets please note:
Helmet compliance expires 5 years from date of manufacture. PLEASE BE AWARE that at any time NBHA Board member or District Director can ask to see the helmet. If it is not to the correct standard (AS/NZS 3838 (AU, ASTM F1163 marked SEI or Snell, EN 1384 (2014-12) only or VG1, VG01.040 (2014-12) or if the compliance is not in date, you will be asked to wear a compliant helmet or will not be able to compete and will not be allowed to be mounted on a horse for the duration of the event.

HORSE WELFARE

1. Striking horses with a whip or any other piece of equipment (including your hand) around their head will result in disqualification for the duration of the competition. (Whip is defined as any apparatus to encourage/aid horse - e.g. whip/stick/under over/quirt/hand & anything else not specifically mentioned)

2. Excessive use of a whip or other equipment (including your hand) will result in a no time being given. Excessive whipping will be classified as more than 2 strikes to the first, 2 strikes in between each drum and 4 on the way home.

3. See NBHA Official Rulebook, Section A. Competition Rules: Rule 18, Stallions are to be ground handled solely by individuals 18 and over. There is zero tolerance for uncontrollable, dangerous horses whether stallion or not. Any negligent behaviour resulting in improper control of any horse can be grounds for disqualification. Show Management, Promoters, or NBHA Directors require ANY horse to be identified with a ribbon in their tail however, all STALLIONS must wear a Ribbon, see guide below:

HORSE WELFARE OFFICER

A Horse Welfare Officer acts as part of the support system to District Directors at an event or competition. The role is not a compulsory, or an official role, but is recommended for all sanctioned events and competitions to enact the Australian Horse Welfare Protocol. The Horse Welfare Officer plays two main roles at a competition or event, they are:

1. To act as a visual deterrent in order to prevent any breaches of horse welfare from occurring.

2. To act as a point of contact for other competitors or spectators to notify incidents of concern, and to then assist that person in making a report

Key Responsibilities:

•Move through the competition grounds, including the stables, warm up arenas, float parking, round yards and around competition arenas/ areas themselves. (Remember, you are there to act as a visual reminder that horse welfare standards must be followed and to act as a deterrent.)

•Have an understanding of the rules of the day, and an understanding of appropriate horse welfare (Australian Horse Welfare Protocol).

•Be friendly and approachable.

•Your role is there to support the District Directors on the day. Please be aware that your role has no official standing or authority to make decisions or sanctions, nor can you reprimand a rider/ owner in anyway.

•Should you see an incident of concern, make notes as appropriate, take photos or video on your phone, and call one of the numbers listed on your induction sheet for assistance.

•Do not engage in any conflict. If in doubt, call an official.

•Do not make any judgements on a particular incident. Record evidence as you witness it or ask a witness to make a formal report.

•Provide feedback at the end of the day to the District Director on your observations.

INDEPENDENT DISTRICTS

The purpose of National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc. is to provide Barrel Racers with an opportunity to race within Australia following the guidelines set down by the international organisation that will promote the sport of barrel racing and its growth. These international event rules have been adopted to address the needs of NBHA members, promote fairness, eliminate confusion, and assist show organisers. This document included with theNBHA Australia By-laws, are binding to all Independent Districts operating under NBHA Australia and are voted in through NBHA Australia AGM’s each year and updated to be current. These By-Laws are to be followed firstly {in the first instance}as they are relevant to Australia and the NBHA Rulebook {following the By-Laws} are both binding to all members and affiliated independent committees/districts of National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc. Any rules within our NBHA Australia Bylaws supersede the World Rules as they relate to Australia. NBHA Australia is your Governing Board. A Governing body is a formal group of people {NBHA Board} such as a board of directors vested with the authority to lead, manage and oversee the strategic direction and legal compliance of an organisation. Possessing the legal power to make, implement, or enforce rules and decisions. Where it is stated Director or District Director this is referring to Independent Associations/Districts/Committee members. To be affiliated, District Directors must sign the District Director Agreement each year and ensure that all shows are sanctioned as per Section B. Show Sanctioning Form. The $30 show sanctioning fee will apply and once accepted a yearly $250 Affiliate Fee is payable to NBHA Australia. Independent Districts still run under NBHA Australia as their Governing Body and still adhere to rules set in these By Laws {in the first instance} and those in the NBHA World Rulebook Any show that is run under the Association insurance is considered a sanctioned show. NBHA Australia request all Districts send their dates in prior to their season starting. No District are to advertise dates for their season without prior approval from NBHA Australia. If date changes are needed during the season this can happen via emailing into enquiries@nbha.com.au The request and fee must be received at NBHA Headquarters when application for dates are made and upon receiving reply invoice from NBHA Australia, any added/further dates must be received and paid for at least 14 days prior to the requested show date. A $3 per run fee {each competitor} is charged from NBHA Australia $1 per run being allocated to the National Show and $2 per run allocated towards insurance. However it is requested Districts put their season dates together and make application to all events prior to commencement. No District will advertise events prior to being approved by NBHA Australia first. NBHA Australia can cancel your affiliation if competition rules are not adhered to and your district will forfeit any fee’s paid. Work with other barrel racing associations and major rodeo’s, avoid scheduling your barrel race on top of another show. Avoiding scheduling conflicts will not always be possible, but please try to avoid that situation and maintain goodwill. Schedule shows in all parts of your district not just the one area. Districts may choose to set up as Not for Profit Sporting Organisation or become an Incorporated Association (either way, they need to be their own legal entity and registered with the Australian Government to obtain an ABN). Naming of the entity should be consistent with- NBHA | State | District Number | Area (i.e. NBHA QLD D01 SEQ)

1. All Districts shall follow the NBHA Australia By-laws, NBHA Rulebook, NBHA Australia Constitution. All proposed

2. Amendments to your District Constitutions or any added rules will need to be submitted to the Executive Management Committee {NBHA Australia Governing Board} for prior approval before endorsing such ruling.

3. All Districts must submit all rules they wish to add to their District prior to their season starting to NBHA Australia for prior approval. If this formal obligation is not met your district will default back to those rules not standing and standard association rulings will apply.

4. Shows will be sanctioned on a first-come, first-serve basis. NBHA Australia reserves the right to refuse sanctioning for a particular date or show if it is determined not to be in the best interest of NBHA or its members.

5. Divisions for points are determined by time brackets. The fastest time in the class will set the time for payback and District 00 points. Whatever district or districts sanction the show, their district members’ fastest time will set the time for their district points. If sanctioned by more than one district each district’s fastest time will set their time for their district points.

•1st Division – Fastest time in the class and those who place in this division.

•2nd Division – Fastest time in the class plus one-half second and those who place in this division.

•3rd Division – Fastest time in the class plus one second and those who place in this division.

•4th Division - Fastest time in the class plus one and one-half seconds and those who place in this division.

•5th Division – Fastest time in the class plus two seconds and those who place in this division.

Note: The 5th division is not limited to a one-half second interval from two to two and one-half seconds off the fastest time. However, riders must make a good faith effort to run the pattern as fast as their ability will allow.

6. Sanctioned shows are to pay out on either the 3D, 4D, or 5D format.

7. Districts are to supply prizes/end of year awards to the format being run and placings of atleast 1st – 3rd placings, as this is what your District Prize levy/ is for.

8. Districts are to choose to payout their classes in a 3D, 4D or 5D although points are always awarded in a 5D format for World Qualifiers.

9. The times splits between the divisions for a 3D payout class is 1.0 – 1.0 second splits, 4D payout class may be either 0.5 - 0.5 - 0.5 second splits or 0.5 - 0.5 - 1 second splits, and splits for a 5D format must be 0.5 second between all divisions. It is up to the Director to choose the payout best suited.

10. Payouts must be included on the results posted after the event.

11. The ground conditions within the arena must remain consistent throughout the event. The ground around the barrels must be reworked and levelled after no more than each 5 contestants have competed as per your draw regardless of whether there were scratchings.

DISTRICT DIRECTOR/COMMITTEE DUTIES

1. MUST BE A MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING OF NBHA AUSTRALIA

2. Where referred to as District Director or Director this is referring to each Independent Association Committee member.

3. District Directors/Committees are to check ALL competitors for current NBHA Australia Membership before any competition.

4. No competitor is to compete without NBHA Australia membership Day or Yearly at any time.

5. District Director or qualified District Representative must attend all sanctioned shows in the district.

6. District Directors are to help members with pre/online nominations where needed, plus on the day nominations/payments.

7. Submit Sanctioned Show Request Forms, pay Affiliate Fee and Sanction Fees at the beginning of the season PRIOR to any events being advertised, this is to avoid Districts running events on the same weekend. These will not be approved and approval will be given on a first in basis, if changes are needed 14 days prior to the event is required.

8. Prepare draws/show result forms and ensure payouts are as per NBHA spreadsheets as well as overseeing each sanctioned show so it runs to international standard

9. Complete Show Results and maintain District point standings for the district

10. Results must be posted in a public place (i.e. Facebook) within 7 days after event. Both Timesheets, with Payouts & Points along with current Points spreadsheet.

11. Payouts must be included on the results posted after a race.

12. Submit timesheets to NBHA Australia {enquiries@nbha.com.au} within 7 days after your event for insurance/show fee’s to be emailed out. $50 Late fee for any committee not sending in timesheets within required timeframe.

13. Submit final District point standings to your Governing Board {enquiries@nbha.com.au} at the end of the competition year within 14 days of your final event being run.

14. Keep District members informed about District shows.

15. Maintain accountability, bank account, and records of District funds. (Actively seek sponsors and promote within District Shows/Facebook Pages) NOTE: Each District is responsible for their end of year prizes.

17. Assist NBHA Australia Directors with organizing and coordinating State & National Championships.

18. All Independent Districts/committee’s answer to National Directors being your Governing Board.

19. If Independent Districts/Directors refuse to comply, shows will not be recognised as NBHA qualifying shows (State/National/Worlds) and members of your independent incorporated association will not be competing in World/National or State Shows.

20. To hold NBHA Australia events, your independent incorporated association/District committee must recognise National Barrel Horse Association of Australia Inc as the Governing body for your NBHA events and follow correct chain of command.

21. All NBHA sanctioned shows must run strictly to the NBHA Australia By-Laws. Where by-laws differ from that of National Barrel Horse Association Rule book you are to follow NBHA Australia By-Laws in reference to Australia then proceed to NBHA Official Rulebook

22. All Districts shall follow the NBHA Australia By-Laws and the NBHA Australia Directors Handbook, {now found/co-joined with the By-Laws for ease of access}, NBHA Rulebook, NBHA Australia Constitution.

23. All proposed amendments to Independent District Constitutions shall be submitted to the Executive Management Committee/NBHA Australia Board for its approval first.

24. Event rules can be added to Independent Association rules however these cannot change competition rules of your Governing Body, being NBHA Australia please refer to NBHA Australia By-Laws {above} these rules have been voted in at our AGM’s therefore stand for all independent Districts to follow.

25. NBHA committee members shall not use social media to bring NBHA or NBHA Australia into disrepute. Please refer to the Official NBHA Rulebook Section F: Penalties and/or Disqualifications.

ARENA’S AND ARENA SURFACES

1. The information provided is a guide for you to ensure the safety of competitors and their horses. Remember a successful event requires a good arena surface first and foremost.

2. You will need a tractor or suitable equipment with an attachment i.e. (disc plough, scarifier, ripper). This type of implement will of course depend on what you have available and the type of ground you have to work with. You will need a drag along with a tractor, 4 wheeler, side by side buggy, or car to drag the course during your event.

3. You will need a fenced off arena for competitors only, to warm up their horses. This warm up area needs to be fenced off from the car park and spectator area eg: you can tie flag rope around the area and use small signage COMPETITORS ONLY.

4. Drums – Drums must be 44 gallon size (empty) and be closed at both ends.

5. The preferred method of working the ground is with a ground tool pulled by some type of motor vehicle. Hand raking is not acceptable.

6. Drags must be completed at every 5 according to draw, regardless of any scratching’s draws remain the same.

WHAT TYPE OF GROUND DO YOU HAVE?

7. The first question is determining what type of ground conditions you have to work with, some examples: - clay, natural sand, sandy loam and indoor. Arena needs to be ripped, disced or a softened arena surface with minimum surface depth of 6 – 7 inches.

8. NATURAL SAND This type of surface does not have a hard base so would not normally require the use of a plough, however this would be dependent on how long it has been since the arena has been used/turned, it will require water to hold the sand together. The amount of water will depend on the type of sand. The surface again need to be levelled out with a drag.

9. SANDY LOAM This type of surface will require the use of an implement to break up the ground but to a depth of about 6 or 7 inches as long as there is not a hard pan underneath again to which you will need a disc plough to break up the base and alot of water to do so properly.

10. CLAY SOILS - Clay based soils have a tendency to pack. This will make it difficult for a horse to find any grip in their turns. We are not talking about what the top of the ground looks like, we need to get down to the hard base. A scarifier or ripper should be used to break up that hard surface underneath, down about 6 or 7 inches. The arena should be worked in both directions in order to bust up the ridges that have been left from the first rip. Once your arena has been worked both ways a set of harrows or some sort of drag implement should be used to level the surface safe from any ruts made from the tractor, rocks or clods.

11. INDOOR ARENAS There should be at least enough dirt to withstand all runs on the ground and to keep it from breaking through to the floor again this should be at least 6-7 inches above the floor in all area’s. These arenas are hard to work with as it greatly depends on the mixture of dirt used and what type of floor is under the dirt. It takes a lot of experience with soil to try and make indoor arenas perfect time after time.

12. You will be required to drag/work your barrel race pattern during your event in order to give each contestant an equal opportunity at the same ground. You are required to drag the pattern after every 5 runs. The result you are looking for is to keep furrows around the barrels as minimal as possible. The deeper the furrows, the more chance for injury and slower times.

Download a Copy

NBHA WORLD RULES