Mobile pony rides for parties and events

Parents hosting birthday parties, school and kindergarten fundraising committees, councils, shopping centres and event organisers.

A flat fee per booking or per hour, usually covering a set number of ponies and riders. Larger events can mean a day rate or a fee per ride.

• Confident, calm horse handling
• Safe towing and driving with a float
• Good with children and parents
• Reliable and well organised

• Public liability insurance that specifically covers animal rides, and cover for any helpers
• Animal welfare laws differ by state; check limits on working hours, heat and rest for the ponies
• Check whether your state requires a Property Identification Code (PIC) or horse registration, and ask your vet about Hendra virus vaccination
• Councils and event organisers may need a permit or proof of insurance, so check before each booking
• Check towing limits for your vehicle and float, and Working with Children Check rules for any staff or helpers
• Ponies are a daily cost and responsibility even in quiet months, including feed, farrier and vet bills

Startup costs are typically around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on the number of ponies, your float and towing setup, insurance and equipment. These are estimates, so get real quotes. Ponies are also an ongoing daily cost.

Check public liability insurance that covers animal rides and helpers, animal welfare laws in your state, and whether you need a PIC or horse registration. Also ask your vet about Hendra virus vaccination, and check towing limits, permits and Working with Children Check rules.

Monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $5,000, depending on how many bookings you take and your travel distance. Estimates start at about 10 hours a week. Feed, farrier and vet bills continue in quiet months.