Australia is home to many incredible equestrian communities in some pretty spectacular backdrops. Our horse industry give us access to many equestrian pursuits and adds generously to our outback and rural culture. But have you ever wondered if the grass is greener on the other side?

I’ve always felt an element of curiosity and a great sense of interest in the horse communities and cultures of other countries, and feel that with a sense of adventure, there are endless opportunities to be uncovered.

Working while travelling is a great way to meet people and really get immersed in the culture of countries abroad. And, if you have a strong interest in horses and are happy to give things a go, there’s definitely a niche of job opportunities to take advantage of; often providing some optional exciting careers.

Here are a few working holiday ideas that might sow the seeds for a wonderful overseas adventure.

1. Polo Grooming

Polo is an amazing fast-paced sport and provides many jobs with horses in various parts of the world. England, Argentina, New Zealand and the United States are the main foreign hosts of this adrenaline-rushing game and positions in one place often provide connections in other areas of the world, as players follow the summer season. Grooming jobs are a great way to start off in this sometimes prestigious world, and can often involve a bit of playing time. Players and patrons have ‘strings’ of ponies that need to be kept fit, active and happy in order to succeed and hard-working grooms are always being sort after. The community is close-knit and offers a fun and easy way to get to know people from across the globe.

2. Eventing

Eventing is a world renowned equestrian sport and if you’re interested in learning the art to a three-day event and going up the grades, grooming overseas is the perfect in to an incredible depth of knowledge. Grooming jobs for eventing and also show-jumping and dressage yards are in excess throughout United-Kingdom and Europe. While your day might typically involve some very early mornings and a lot of plaiting, your daily routine focuses on the success of some of the world’s top equine athletes. Travelling to top events such as Badminton and Burghley can definitely be on the cards and valuable tuition is often offered in addition to wages.

3. Ranch Work

While the United States also offers numerous equestrian sports such as racing, polo and eventing, it’s also the home of the horse ranch. Perhaps a similar concept to Jackaroo/Jillaroo work in Australia, ranches throughout the U.S. offer stimulating outdoor jobs in amazing landscapes. Generally involving horse-trekking or stock work, these jobs are a great way to get involved in the country life, enjoy the outdoors and become part of the community. Working as a ‘wrangler’ is a perfect position for somebody who loves vast landscapes, livestock and is willing to work hard. Maybe even get involved in a cattle drive or two, an experience most people would pay for!

These are only a few ideas fished from a large pool of opportunities available abroad. So if you want to travel, as well as benefit from your love of horses, get online and look up something today. It could be the start of a life-changing equestrian adventure!