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Renowned as one of the world's most versatile horse breeds, the Australian stock horse is athletic, agile and intelligent with the calm temperament required to make the most of all these qualities. This tough breed has evolved from its early beginnings as a work horse employed in the building of a new colony to withstand the harshest of conditions in its rugged Australian environment.

The first fleet of ships to land on Australian shores in 1788 carried a hardy selection of horses of Arabian and desert Barb bloodlines. Stamina and strength of character were a necessity for horses undertaking this long journey, both to ensure they arrived in good health and that they would be suitable for the task at hand.

During those early years of settlement many high quality thoroughbreds and tough pony breeds were imported to Australia. Breeders began selectively breeding the best of these together with horses already hardened to their environment, producing an exceptionally good looking and versatile strain. As New South Wales was the first state in Australia to be colonised, the horses bred and used there were known as Walers. These were to become the foundation stock for the Australian stock horse as we know it today.

The efforts of the Waler in World War 1 and the Boer War saw the Australian Light Horse cavalry acclaimed internationally for its endurance and stamina. These horses survived treacherous conditions, sometimes travelling in scorching heat without water for up to three days at a time. Recognised as the finest cavalry horse in the world, the Waler's popularity grew tremendously in the years following the war, and many of the best breeding stock were exported for incorporation into breeding programmes in numerous countries.

In 1971 the Australian Stock Horse Society was established both in recognition of the breed's outstanding characteristics, and to ensure the continuation of bloodlines and type. Registration required horses to be classified in the areas of confirmation and type, bloodlines and athletic ability. In excess of 170,000 horses have now been recorded with the society, and the popularity and demand for the breed continues to grow steadily.

Australian stock horses are still widely used on rural properties for stock work, but their versatility and temperament have made this breed a quality choice of mount in all areas of equestrian endeavour. From campdrafting to dressage, polo to showjumping, pleasure riding to eventing, the Australian stock horse excels. The breed is also internationally recognised with numerous successes in the United Kingdom, USA, Asia, Africa and New Zealand.

In the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games opening ceremony, 121 Australian stock horses were ridden in a beautifully choreographed performance to music from "The Man From Snowy River", as a tribute to this wonderful breed of horse.

Anyone wishing to purchase a quiet, reliable all rounder, whether to pursue their chosen equestrian sport or just as a friend and companion on the open trail, would do well to take a look at the Australian stock horse.

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