WA Polo, you beauty!

I recently spent a few weeks in Australia and had a great time balancing polo tournaments, beach days, and life on the farm. It was the kind of trip that gave me a bit of everything — sport, exploration, and a whole new lifestyle to try out.

Most weekends were spent playing in 6-goal tournaments across Western Australia. The level of play was sharp and competitive, and I was fortunate to ride alongside and against some exceptionally experienced players. Each match was fast-paced, tactical, and pushed me to elevate both my individual performance and team dynamics. These weekends were more than just games—they were learning experiences that challenged and developed me as a young player looking to grow in the sport.

During the week, my days were grounded in the rhythm of the farm. Early mornings started with feeding the horses, followed by schooling sessions with young horses and conditioning work for the polo ponies. Stable maintenance was part of the daily routine too, and there was always something to be done—from mucking out stalls to cleaning tack.

One of the most enriching aspects was gaining hands-on experience with farm machinery. I learned to operate a bobcat—something I never expected to enjoy, but which quickly became a fun and useful skill. I also helped care for sheep, adding a completely new dimension to my understanding of animal management beyond the polo field.

Outside of polo and farm life, I found time to explore Western Australia. I became good friends with Emily, who was also working on the farm. Together, we made the most of our downtime—visiting stunning beaches, waterparks, and lakes, and even taking a quick trip into the city for a lively night out. These moments helped round out the experience and offered a refreshing contrast to the demands of daily training and chores.

This was my second visit to Australia, and whether I was stick-and-balling or learning how to drive a bobcat, this trip reminded me that growth in polo comes not just from time on the field, but from every aspect of the lifestyle that surrounds it and what it means to live and breathe this sport.

A special thank you to Neville Stewart for hosting me at his beautiful cottage and welcoming me into the Western Australian polo community. His support made this whole journey possible—and unforgettable.