Guided horse rides at a holiday park or farm stay

Holiday makers and families staying at the site, plus day visitors who book through the accommodation or a local tourism listing.

Price per rider per ride, sometimes with a fee or revenue split agreed with the site owner. Busy during school holidays and long weekends, so income is seasonal.

• Safe, confident horse handling
• Guiding groups and talking with visitors
• Negotiating a simple partnership agreement
• Basic first aid

• Public liability insurance specifically covering horse riding, and whether the site owner's policy covers your activity
• A written agreement about who is responsible for the land, trails, injuries and cancellations
• Permits or council rules for commercial rides, especially on beaches, state forests or national parks, check with the land manager
• Horse welfare and biosecurity rules in your state, including vet advice on Hendra virus vaccination
• Seasonal and weather-dependent income while horse costs continue year-round
• Rider waivers, helmets and a Working with Children Check if you run rides for under-18s without a parent present

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $30,000, depending on how many horses you lease or agist and the tack, insurance and equipment you need. These are estimates only and will vary with your partnership arrangement.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on guest numbers, ride prices and the season. Income is seasonal and weather-dependent while horse costs continue all year. This is an estimate of revenue, not profit.

Check public liability insurance covering horse riding and whether the site owner's policy covers you. Also get a written agreement on responsibility, check permits for commercial rides on public land, horse welfare and biosecurity rules, including Hendra advice from a vet, and Working with Children Checks.