Vale - Jodi Triggs (nee Luke)

04/10/1981 – 07/10/2024

Jodi Triggs was born in Darwin on October 4, 1981, to parents John and Glynis Luke. Although she wasn’t born into a horse-loving family, her passion for horses began when her family moved to Howard Springs. It was there, living near veterinarian Roger Hansel and his wife Cathy, that Jodi's equestrian journey started. She began riding one of Cathy’s ponies, sparking a lifelong love of horses.

Fortune smiled upon Jodi when renowned Northern Territory Dressage Coach Pam Crellin moved from Katherine to Darwin, settling nearby. This close proximity led to a long and successful coaching partnership, further igniting Jodi’s passion for Dressage.

Supported by her parents, Jodi dedicated her youth to horses. Rarely seen without her beloved equine companions, she spent her time attending lessons, competing, and being active at Pony Club. Noonamah Horse & Pony Club became Jodi’s second home, and alongside her grey Arab mare, ‘Princess Lara,’ she excelled in Dressage. Her talent was evident, representing her club with distinction, including competing at the Australian Pony Club Championships in Wagga.

Jodi’s commitment, compassion, and wisdom in horsemanship were well beyond her years, reflecting the strength of her character from an early age.

After finishing high school, like many Territorians, Jodi ventured "down south" to Perth for university. There, she discovered a new equestrian discipline—Campdrafting. Her natural talent quickly shone through, and she embraced this new challenge with the same determination that characterised her Dressage career.

Upon completing her studies, Jodi returned to Howard Springs with horses in tow. She continued Campdrafting with her Australian Stock Horse ‘Bunda Boston,’ but her passion for Dressage remained. Boston made the transition from cattle work to the Dressage arena, where Jodi’s talent once again flourished.

Her love for the Australian Stock Horse found its ultimate expression in her partnership with ‘Perrivale Darkan,’ affectionately known as ‘Tom.’ Despite his smaller stature at 15hh, Tom’s power and athleticism in the Dressage ring rivaled that of larger Warmbloods. Together, Jodi and Tom advanced to Medium level, reigning as champions in both Dressage and Show Horse for several years.

After taking a short break from competition to welcome her two children, Pippa and Cooper, with her husband Scott, Jodi returned to Noonamah Horse & Pony Club—this time as a leadline mum, guiding her children’s early riding experiences.

Around this time, Jodi also began breeding horses, producing the striking Warmblood foals ‘Forevermore’ and ‘De Amore,’ purpose-bred for Dressage. Her dedication to the sport was matched by her commitment to fostering the future of the equestrian community.

When Northern Territory Dressage Judges Judy Sheldrake and Susanne Barton-Johnson announced their departure, leaving only one local judge, Jodi stepped forward without hesitation. She began her judging career, quickly rising through the ranks from Preliminary to Medium level.

Jodi’s influence extended beyond the competition arena. She joined the Equestrian Northern Territory Board, where her governance and business expertise were invaluable. After serving ENT for 12 months, Jodi took on a role as a Director of the Freds Pass Sport and Recreation Board, representing equestrian interests with distinction.

A few years ago, Jodi, Scott, and their family embarked on a new adventure, relocating to Western Australia with their horses and dogs (Jodi's other love). The move was a significant loss for the NT equestrian community, who implored her to stay.

In a devastating turn of events, Jodi was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In true Jodi fashion, she faced this challenge with unwavering strength and determination, surpassing all expectations. During this time, she witnessed her children settling into their new home, and she found immense joy in seeing her beloved Tom return to the arena—this time with Pippa in the saddle, continuing the family’s equestrian legacy.

Those who knew Jodi would describe her as a kind-hearted, dedicated, and generous person. Her contributions to the equestrian community were immeasurable, and her legacy as an outstanding horsewoman will endure.

Our deepest condolences go out to her husband Scott, children Pippa and Cooper, parents John and Glynis, and brother John Daniel.

Jodi made the equestrian community a better place for all who had the privilege of knowing her. 

Rest in peace, Jodi.