McKenzie Park is more than a property — it’s a dream built through dedication, passion, and a lifelong love of horses.

From Empty Paddocks to an Equestrian Haven

Originally named Joredemi Lodge, a home for show horses, the 90-acre farm began as a blank canvas — an empty space waiting to become something extraordinary.

In 2000, the vision to create a true horse heaven began to take shape. The goal was simple: to build a welcoming, safe, and affordable environment where riders and horses could train, learn, and enjoy their time together.

Over the years, the property became home to countless clinics, pony club rallies, and lessons, with the construction of an indoor arena marking the start of a new chapter. As the infrastructure expanded, so did the number of horses, and what began as a small dream grew into a thriving equestrian space.

Shane and Margaret Splatt dedicated their lives to bringing this vision to life and sharing it with the wider horse community, ensuring that Joredemi Lodge became a place for everyone to enjoy. As time went on, Margaret’s passion for horses evolved, and she developed a deep love for miniature horses — a collection that brought endless joy and character to the property.

A New Era and Expanding Vision

In 2021, the property transitioned into a new chapter under the guidance of Danielle Velisha. The name was changed to McKenzie Park in honour of her mother, Margaret, who was still alive at the time and deeply proud to see the next stage of the dream coming to life.

While the name changed, the heart of the vision remained — it simply grew. Danielle brought fresh energy and focus, expanding the property into a modern equestrian training and performance facility while maintaining its welcoming, community-based roots.

With the passing of beloved Nanna Margaret later in 2021, Shane, Danielle, and her family have continued her legacy. Inspired by her, they have lovingly kept her miniature horses and donkeys, honouring her memory through the continued expansion and growth of the farm. She remains at the heart of McKenzie Park and is deeply missed by all who knew her.

The addition of the outdoor arena marked the beginning of this evolution, supporting a growing team of sport and performance horses.

Lessons and coaching programs flourished under respected professionals including Jason Dins and Jessica Cocks, later joined by Karen Blythe for dressage and Yona Lloyd for jumping. Together, they’ve built a positive and inspiring training environment for both ambitious young riders and passionate amateur owners.

Growth, Progress, and Purpose

Since 2021, McKenzie Park has continued to grow and modernize, becoming a full-service equestrian and rehabilitation facility.

Recent developments include:

• A large machinery shed

• A cross-country paddock

• A rehabilitation and recovery facility

• Rest and recovery yards

• Upgraded fencing and infrastructure

• A purpose-built stable complex for performance horses

Today, McKenzie Park stands as a hub of equestrian activity, offering a balance of world-class facilities and a welcoming, community-minded atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

The vision for McKenzie Park continues to evolve. Exciting plans are underway for:

• A second water complex

• A sand outdoor showjumping arena currently under construction and due to finish August 2026.

• A grass showjumping arena

• Further expansion of the rehabilitation and conditioning services

At its heart, McKenzie Park remains committed to providing a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment — a place where everyone feels welcome, and where horses can perform, recover, and thrive.

Our mission is simple:

To nurture the next generation of riders, provide the highest standard of horse care and training, and continue building a legacy of excellence in the equestrian community.

💖 In Loving Memory

McKenzie Park proudly carries forward the dream of Margaret Splatt — a woman whose kindness, love of horses, and devotion to community shaped everything this farm stands for. Her spirit lives on in every corner of the property, from the miniature horses that still call it home to the riders who find joy and inspiration here each day.