An experienced horse trainer who died after being kicked in the head by a horse at a property in the NSW Snowy Mountains is being remembered for her contribution to the industry.

Michelle O’Neill, 49, died at a property at Peak View near Cooma on Wednesday afternoon.

Police and paramedics were called to the scene following reports of a workplace accident, but Ms O’Neill was pronounced dead at the scene.

Reports are being prepared for Safework NSW and the NSW Coroner.

Tributes flow

Ms O’Neill ran Cherry Tree Equine and trained horses and riders in a range of disciplines including dressage, campdrafting and barrel racing.

According to its website, the business was founded in 2010.

The sudden passing of Ms O’Neill has shaken the Snowy Monaro community.

Many locals and loved ones have taken to social media to express their grief.

In a statement to the ABC, Ms O’Neill’s family thanked the public for their support.

“We’d like to thank everyone for their best wishes, condolences and tributes to Michelle,” the statement read. 

Several posts have been made on social media reflecting on Ms O’Neill’s legacy.

“So humble, so kind and a hell of a horsewoman. The industry has truly lost one of the greats,” one user wrote.

“Our local Snowy Mountains community is shocked and saddened by the passing of Michelle O’Neill who gave something to the horse industry that we will all be forever grateful for,” another said.

One post paid tribute to Ms O’Neill as “an amazing woman who grew into a local legend in our community”.