SA barrel racer named Blind Australian of the year

Guide Dogs SA/NT would like to congratulate client Megan McLoughlin, who has been announced as the Blind Australian of the Year, recognising her contribution to the community, excellence in her 
achievements and self-determination. 

As an  equestrian, Ms McLoughlin’s passion in life is Barrel Racing, which she undertakes with her horse Biscuit. She has also been competing in the Australian Dressage Championships in Victoria last week, where she was crowned the 2026 Grade IV Australian PARa CPEDI*1 Champion on her horse Mayfield Springsteen (affectionately known as Boss). 

With just seven per cent vision in one eye, no vision in the other and legally blind, Ms McLoughlin competes in national mainstream competitions, having taught her horse to respond to a whistle being blown behind the barrel they’re aiming for, but from outside the Barrel Racing ring. 

Blind Australian of the Year Awards organisers praised Ms McLoughlin as an accomplished disability advocate, journalist,  equestrian, storyteller and rural health champion whose achievements exemplified courage, innovation, leadership and service. 

“Megan has transformed personal adversity into a platform for advocacy and social impact,” her citation read. “She has challenged perceptions of blindness through her achievements in elite sport, media, healthcare, agriculture and community leadership. 

“A passionate equestrian, Megan developed innovative techniques using echolocation and auditory cues to continue competing at a high level. She became the first legally blind Australian to qualify for the Australian Barrel Horse Association National Finals and is now pursuing the goal of representing Australia in Para-Equestrian Dressage at Paralympic level.” 

Beyond sport, Ms McLoughlin founded Herd of Hope – a charity supporting people affected by organ and tissue donation – and is a respected advocate for disability inclusion, rural healthcare and mental health.  

“I’m just trying to get on with life and trying to be a good mum to my children as someone they can look up to,” Ms McLoughlin said. 

“I dedicated this award to my children, they’re always my eyes and make sure I’m safe. I’m sure they’ll always make a difference and help people because they have empathy and understanding, and that’s what the world needs. 

“I really hope we can also help people to realise there are services out there that can help us – Guide Dogs has helped me out a lot with assistive technology and put me in touch with others who can help.” 

Guide Dogs SA/NT CEO Dan Cox praised Ms McLoughlin’s achievements, advocacy and leadership skills. 

“Megan is incredibly committed to showing that life doesn’t stop when something goes wrong – she has stood up to support organ donation after becoming a recipient, she has shown that living with low vision doesn’t stop you from pursuing your passions and she has been a fantastic leader in the community,” Mr Cox said. 

“She thoroughly deserves to be recognised and celebrated as she continues to embrace the opportunities that don’t just come her way, but those she creates.”