The 36-year-old is a finalist in the Horsemanship category for a second straight year, after being shortlisted in the category in 2022.
The awards are designed to showcase exceptional talent within the thoroughbred industry, and Hazel's nomination was backed by just about every trainer at Murray Bridge where she's made a successful career as a trackwork rider.
"A typical morning, I probably ride about 14 to 16 horses at the track here and then I go to a few trainers' properties where I'll ride anywhere between 3 and 10 extras," said Hazel.
"I enjoy working with the tricky horses, and then also the young horses, because you get to watch their progression as they start to learn and understand what you want, and then progressing on to be a functioning member of society rather than a troublemaker."
Local trainer Matt Seyers can't speak highly enough of Hazel who he rates as the best horsewoman he's seen.
"We'd be lost without her. I've often said I'd love three of her, without her it would make life very tough," said Seyers.
"She's always there every morning. She's dedicated, does everything right and gets on with every horse. You might have a horse that's a little bit of a pain that no one else can ride and she just gets on and gets the job done.
"They turn themselves around and they end up winning races. She does everything from the breakers to the gallops and she's invaluable to everyone," he said.
Hazel eventually hopes to have her own pre-training facility and is grateful that her mum introduced her to horses at a young age.
"I was one of those kids that was placed on a pony from very early days, and I was given every opportunity.
"I always had ponies to ride - naughty ones, nice ones, there was plenty of variety I've never been a one pony sort of person. I just had opportunities with horses, opportunities travelling to compete nationally and internationally (eventing and mounted games), so I've just really been blessed with the upbringing I had," said Hazel.
The other finalist in the Horsemanship Award is Arda Tascioglu from New South Wales.
The ceremony is at The Star on the Gold Coast on May 29 where winners in seven categories will be honoured including Leadership, Dedication to Breeding, and Thoroughbred Care and Welfare.
"The calibre of nominees this year reflects the depth of talent and commitment within our industry," said Johan Petzer, Chair of the Stud and Stable Staff Awards judging panel.
"Selecting the two finalists in each category was incredibly challenging, yet it was great to see the passion that each individual brings to the table," he said.
