ABOUT HUNTING WITH THE NORTHERN HUNT CLUB

The Northern Hunt Club has been a drag hunt bringing an experience similar to British or Irish Fox hunting to Tasmania since its inception in 1953.  The aim of riding to hounds is for a group of disciplined horses and riders to enjoy a day of non-competitive riding following hounds across country in a congenial atmosphere.  The pride we show in our Club is reflected in the attitude and presentation of members and their horses.

We are generously allowed the use of hunt properties across Northern Tasmania from Elizabeth Town to Epping Forest.  A Facebook event page is created for each hunt including all details, and the red hunt club flag will be displayed at the entrance to each property on hunt days.  Out of respect for property owners, please do not bring dogs or hay to hunts.  

Hunting generally starts at 11am, after morning tea and registration from 10am when the property gates are opened.  The Master will call for riders to mount and warm up their horses around 10.45am and at 11am will welcome all riders and give instructions for the day.  The hunt sets off soon after.  Spectators are welcome to follow the hunt in 4WD vehicles.

Our hounds are trained to follow scent (aniseed) traditionally laced onto a piece of hide and dragged on a long rope behind a rider.  Nothing is chased and nothing is caught.  Most jumps are natural logs and optional.

The Hunt field is headed by the Hunt Master, who is assisted by Whippers-in.  They control the hounds and must not be interfered with in any way.  To ensure this, drag hunts appoint a Field Master or Field Mistress, who is identified by a white sash, to lead the field. 

Riders can choose to canter at the front or go sedately at the back.  Riders in the field are not to pass the Field Master/Mistress, and if they do so, will be “fined” a bottle of port (or cordial in the case of children).  A $2 “fine” also applies to falls and calling the hounds “dogs”!

We welcome new riders to try hunting.  Hunting is a friendly non-competitive sport and it’s a great way to encourage a horse to jump and to be able to ride on private land in a safe environment.

Tally Ho!

from the NORTHERN HUNT CLUB 2025 COMMITTEE

President: Hayley Atkins

Vice President: -

Master: Hayley Atkins

Deputy Master: -

Kennel Master: Hayley Atkins

Secretary: Leah Goodwin 

Treasurer: Caitlin Bowman

Patron: Sandra Atkins

Public Officer: Leah Goodwin

Committee: Katrin Overdijk, Katelyn Hernyk, Sandra Atkins, Caitlin How, Danielle Whatley, Abby Viney, Debbie Smith

Thankyou to all past and present members.

Email: [email protected]