Between the Flags

In this episode of Between the Flags, we sit down with Yona Lloyd for an honest conversation about resilience, taking chances, and staying committed to the sport you love.From his upbringing in Tasmania to building a life in Western Victoria, Yona shares the experiences that have shaped him as a rider, coach, husband, father and horseman. We talk about the tough times, the setbacks that test your resolve, and the lessons learned from choosing to keep showing up when things don't go to plan.Known for his down-to-earth approach and genuine passion for helping riders and horses develop, Yona reflects on the importance of backing yourself, taking the leap when opportunities arise, and finding purpose in the journey rather than the result.This is a conversation about horses, family, coaching, resilience and why, despite the challenges, we keep coming back to eventing.A thoughtful and inspiring chat with one of the good humans in our sport.

The conversation with Janet Houghton covers her introduction to the eventing community, her early days and involvement in eventing, her role in the squad program, event organization and management, and the importance of Melbourne in eventing. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of event organization, as well as the support and significance of the eventing community. The conversation covers a range of topics related to eventing, including the classes offered, leadership and direction in eventing, challenges and progress in the sport, the love for eventing, volunteering and community involvement, and light-hearted conversations.

At 22, Oliver Barrett has already claimed his first Adelaide five-star win—proving that talent alone isn’t enough to reach the top. In this episode, Oliver shares how discipline, strategy, and the legacy of his family’s Sandhills program shaped his rise in Australian eventing. From riding ponies as a kid to managing ten horses a day, he reveals the routines, mindset, and pressure behind competing at the elite level.We dive into the influence of his dad’s 2012 Adelaide victory, the mentorship that sharpened his skills, and the relentless focus required to succeed in one of the toughest sports in the world. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or simply chasing big goals, Oliver’s story is a powerful lesson in turning ambition into achievement.

Prue and Fi Chat with Katie Taliana, it's a journey from trail rides and childhood dreams, to competing at five-star events. That passion, perseverance, and a little cheekiness can take you anywhere. From coaching in caravans to working overseas with Zara Phillips, her story is full of surprises — like how she met her husband online and navigated the highs and lows of eventing. Her story of resilience, hard work, and balancing family with sport will inspire you to keep riding, even when the road gets tough.

Nat Blundell shares her journey in the world of eventing, from her early days in New South Wales to her experiences with horses like Billy Bathgate and Algebra. She also discusses her role as a course designer and her passion for darts.TakeawaysEventing JourneyHorse PartnershipsCourse DesigningDarts ChampionChapters00:00 The Early Years and Introduction to Horses06:21 Success with Billy Bathgate15:00 Support from Owners and Future Plans25:29 Living in the Region and Course Designing32:59 Cool Down Questions