Breed: Australian Stock Horse
Temperament: quiet, intelligent, easy to train
Cost: $2000+
Lifespan: 20-30 years
Maintenance: medium
Recommended for: anyone
Background
Horses arrived in Australia with the First Fleet in 1788. Only the strongest and most enduring animals survived the harsh climate and difficult working conditions of the early colonies. In early Australia, horses were bred for stamina and durability, adding elements of Thoroughbreds, Arabs, Timor and Welsh Mountain ponies. After more than 100 years of breeding a distinctive horse was developed and was common through Australia. However it wasn’t until after WWII that a true Australian horse breed was recognised, although no formal register was established.
Despite the decline in the use of working horses after the war, an interest in the breed remained. In the 1970s a group of Australians formed the Australian Stock Horse Society to preserve and develop the breed into the future. More than 100,000 horses are currently registered with the society.
The name Australian Stock Horse can also be written as Australian Stockhorse. Both forms of the name are recognised by the society and used by breeders and studs.
Stock Horse vs Waler
There is still some controversy and argument over the differences, or similarities, between Walers and Australian Stock Horses. Walers were a type of Australian horse used by the British and Australian armies in India, Africa and throughout fighting regions during WWI. Walers are thought to have been virtually wiped out after the war. Some would say the term ‘Waler’ was the traditional or historical name given to Australian Stock Horses. Others argue that Walers are a distinctive type and still exist as such today. The Australian Stock Horse Society holds the view that Walers are part of the base stock of today’s current Australian Stock Horses. If there was a Waler, proven to be in existence today, it would easily be accepted into the Australian Stock Horse Society’s breed register.
Appearance
The Stock Horse is Thoroughbred-like in appearance with thicker hind quarters. There is no set type or colour for this breed and height varies between 14hh and 16hh. There are no specific standards or conformation, however, a horse must pass the Australian Stock Horse Society’s point test to gain admission to the breeding register. It is not unusual for horses to show physical characteristics of the original breed influences.
Temperament
As in all horse breeds, temperament can vary, but the best Australian Stock Horses are quiet, strong, intelligent, agile, hard working, courageous and versatile. Their stamina and learning capabilities make them ideal for Polocrosse, Polo, Pony Club, Campdrafting and Rodeo, and some even compete in Showjumping, Eventing and Dressage.
Maintenance
The Australian Stock Horse is a breed requiring no special treatment or care. Standard horse husbandry of good diet, regular grooming and feet and teeth care will ensure the horse is healthy and happy.
Health and lifespan
Australian Stock Horses will live between 20-30 years and do not have any health problems other than the natural wear and tear found in any active horse.
Cost
$2000+ depending on quality, breeding, age and experience.
Recommended for
Because of the excellent nature of these horses they are suitable for most riders, although older or quieter horses are recommended for young children or inexperienced riders.
More information
We filmed our story with Terry Blake from the Hunter Valley, NSW. Terry and his family have worked their ‘Rosebrook’ property for almost 100 years and have always bred working horses. Terry is an active member of the Australian Stock Horse Society and is well known for breeding Australian Stock Horses for polocrosse and cattle work.
Please contact:
Australian Stock Horse Society
PO Box 288
48 Guernsey Street
Scone, NSW, 2337
Phone: (02) 6545 1122
Fax: (02) 6545 2165
Email: [email protected]
