A PUBLIC RECORD
Walers are a uniquely Australian mix of the horses brought to the Colony to provide transport and facilitate communication, settlement and farming in our harsh environment. Walers were bred to suit local conditions so successfully that they were also exported all over the world up until the mid-twentieth century.
Despite efforts to save the breed, the old blood lines and types are fast disappearing. This public record is intended to help ensure that we do not lose them, providing opportunity for public assistance.
DOES ANYONE KNOW?
Stories about the horses are a powerful way to engage with them. Do you have any stories about any of the horses in the database, in particular from the foundation generation?
ALL FOR THE WALER
The Waler horse is something most will just read about in history books; or recognise from legendary feats such as the Charge at the Battle of Beersheba. They are however not a relic of history, and several groups have been working since the 1980s to secure their future, with remnant herds likely still existing in remote Australia.
Our database provides a place to record our foundation generation of Waler horses and their offspring, acknowledging their significant contribution to our history. To ensure our Walers are still here for future generations to know, we are collecting this information for owners, breeders and the generally interested.
Todd River Downs Horse Capture
For those interested here is the timeline of steps taken along the journey to capturing and bringing to Victoria horses from Todd River Downs, NT. In addition, a diary of milestones noted in their first year of captivity.
Battle of Beersheba
The Charge of Beersheba is celebrated as one of the best in history. Here is the who, why, where, when and how of that day.
An intrinsic part of Australian identity, a tremendous example of courage and the spirit of Australians in what seem insurmountable situations.