This remains a basic handbook, written before the internet (yes there was a time before the internet!) Done for Classifiers, it was compiled by observing Walers and researching Australian horses of the past and is shared here for those interested in what to look for in our old-fashioned horse.
The first Colours and Markings guide for Walers, once done for Classifiers, was written before the internet; even when the internet started it was some years before scholarly articles appeared on diverse subjects. Now we know the genetics behind colours and marking.
Spots are discussed in our post Colour and Markings. This post is to supplement the information there as it will be helpful especially to those with Snowy Mountains brumbies now seeking known breeding links to the past.
Happy (Sarie Marais), once a rogue and originally from Wilpena Pound, had been pulled off the meat truck at several stations to see if anyone could ride her.
Sir Rupert was as enterprising as his ancestors, the horses he shipped to Colombo and India were described as the best ever sent from Australia.
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.
John had a big, truly beautiful farm at Saltwater River, Tasmania; still in the family. Back in 1986 when I formed the Waler Society, John was very supportive. I hadn’t met him before but heard he had a Waler – after a phone call he kindly asked me down to his farm, Blackjack.
Lyndavale, on the Maratjura waterhole, was established in 1929 by William Leslie Pearce, known as Snowy Pearce; he had it throughout the1930’s and early 40’s.
Sit down with a cuppa and learn about the progression through history of the primary horse breeds that made up our original Waler horse. The historical context is everything…
There are four types of Waler, and no height restriction although those under 14 hands would be classed as ponies. One only needs to think of Thoroughbreds to think of breeds where the type varies considerably.
