Waler Horses in an Educational Setting
Document © Angela Tiede, 2016. Image: Coolibah and I riding out at Rupertswood
In 2016 I approached Salesian College Rupertswood with a plan to incorporate Waler horses into the equine programme they were looking to establish. They needed something that could work across the whole school in order to attract funding. What better fit than the rare breed Waler horse, in need of broader support and a role to play in modern life. Without a job, rare breeds disappear.
Waler mare Coolibah went to the school as part of this project. She participated in the 2017 ANZAC Day activities and also the Harvest Festival held at the end of October, almost coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the Charge at the Battle of Beersheba. Despite the broader plan not being realised, the potential of including Waler horses in school programmes surely remains, hence I am posting this document on our website. Others may find it useful to incorporate in part or in whole into their educational activities, or just be interested in how Walers could be so integral to modern life for our children as they make their way in the world.
Coolibah participates in regular visits to the Collingwood Children’s Farm, so her educational role continues. She and I have fond memories of riding around the substantial grounds of the Rupertswood Estate, from her very first day there she was at home. Perhaps she could feel the presence of the many Walers bred and trained at Rupertswood by Sir Rupert Clarke back in the day, when those Walers were world famous for their quality.
