WORLD-class stunt riders and Olympic gold medallists will share centre stage at the the biggest equine celebration in the southern hemisphere next month.

Equitana Asua Pacific will attract 1000 horses and 200 exhibitions to the Melbourne Exibition Centre from November 19 to 21.

The Mane Event, a 50-minute veriety special, will feature barrel racing action, rhinestone cowgirls and a 16-horse squadrille, an andalusian horse in Spanish costume and singer Daryl Braithwaite. Stars of ABC-TV's The Saddle Club, Jessie Jacobs and Janelle Corlass Brown, will perform songs from their latest CD.

The competition programs will include World Cup qualifiers for dressage and showjumping, indor cross country and reining masters events.

Tickets cost $33 for children and are available through RACV Ticketline on 132886 or at www.equitana.com.au