About Us

In February 1990 Trish & John Shugg purchased McDonald's Saddlery which had been operating for only eighteen months.... and what a journey it has been! We quickly outgrew our first small shop and in November 1990 we moved a few doors up the road to our current location. Then in October 1995 we expanded into the shop next door. During this time we also took our store on the road travelling to shows throughout Victoria, NSW, SA, WA and Tasmania.

Every year we travel to the USA to attend trade markets looking for new and exciting products to bring back for you. We meet with our manufacturers and suppliers and over the years have developed strong working relationships with them.

When starting in this business Trish & John were self proclaimed novices in the Western industry; Trish came from an English / dressage background and John will tell you himself he has never ridden a horse. What a learning curve!! Through talking to you, our customers, we quickly discovered that there was a real need for a specialist Western Saddlery. During the past 17 years we have worked hard to provide you with just that - the best possible range of western gear and exceptional service not only in store but also through our mail order system and now our brand new website.

From economy to top of the range ... we've got you and your horse covered from head to toe!! Our aim is, and will always be, to be
"THE BEST IN WESTERN DOWN UNDER"


So who are Trish & John?

Prior to 1990 Trish (with her daughter, Fiona, who helps at the shop from time to time) was very involved with English showing and Dressage and had great success showing Australian Ponies, Galloways, Hacks and Warmbloods. This came to a standstill when Trish stepped through the door of the shop all those years ago.

Six years down the track Trish became the proud owner of her first Quarter Horse, Charary Power To Impress (aka Bash), an AQHA Champion. Their career together has been incredible. Bash has been a prolific winner at all major shows in Hunter Under Saddle, Western Pleasure and all Amateur events. Together Trish & Bash have been High Point of Australia many times and last season Trish finally achieved her ambition of being High Point of Australia in Showmanship.

Winderadeen Shadows came to the family as a 2 years old ... another winning partnership! He has a new owner now and Trish has another project, "Libby".

Because of her knowledge of horses and the Western industry Trish is of great value to the saddlery and its customers. You can shop with confidence knowing that you are dealing with people that know their stock and can help you with any questions you may have.

John, as he says, pays the bills and drives the truck, is in charge of the office and shop management. Trish is the buyer and advisor and together they are a great team.

John admits he hasn't ridden a horse but he has great people skills and product knowledge. He was a director looking after the distribution and warehousing areas for a large textile company for 24 years before "retiring" and becoming one of the proud owners of McDonald's Saddlery.