December, 2006 - Natural Equipment

Neva Say Neva
B r o u g h t t o y o u b y w w w. n a t u r a l e q u i p m e n t . c o m . a u
We would like to wish you all a fabulous
Christmas!
May 2007 bring you all lots of good health
and happiness. Enjoy the holidays with
your families and of course with your
beautiful horses.
Thanks so much for all your support in
2006, it is very much appreciated.
Always keepin it natural,
Lee, Danny, Josh and Bre
Volume 1, Issue 7
December 2006
Articles and Adverts for
the newsletter.
When sending in your advert or article it would be
appreciated if you could
attach it to an email in a
Word document.
Photo’s are also best sent
as an attachment .
Remember !
It is FREE to advertise and
free to receive the newsletter, so let your horsey
friends know about it!
Deadline for next issue is
20th January
Email-
Welcome! Wow, when I think about what has taken place in our lives over the last
12 months, well , it just blows me away…yep there have been down times, but boy
have there been some highlights as well. I love this time of year when you reflect on
the events over the past 12 months, some you would love to forget, others you just
know you want to hold tight to those memories forever.
I will keep this short, but I really wanted to say a huge thankyou to everyone for
your support in 2006, it truly has meant heaps to Danny and myself.
Friends are a huge thing and we would like to acknowledge the support of our
friends and we consider every one of you who receive this newsletter a friend.
There is not a day goes by where I don’t receive a phone call or an email from
someone, that doesn’t make me smile. I truly love hearing about how you are doing
with your horses. There are so many people out there doing such great things for
horses, it is incredible.
I hope you enjoy this month’s newsletter. Thanks to everyone for their contributions.
Chrissy Cheers,
d.woodl@bigpond.net.au
January Competition
Tell us about
your New Year
resolution!!!!!!!!
Winner receives12ft Leadrope with Brass Snap
Valued at $50.00
Send your entry tod.woodl@bigpond.net.au
Please put in the subject lineJanuary Competition
Teaching at Exeter Farm, Braidwood, NSW
17 - 25th February, 2007
•
•
Colt Starting
When: 9am - 12pm Saturday 17th to Sunday 25th February. (9 days).
Cost: $990 per person and includes evening meal on the night before the start of the clinic.
•
•
Horsemanship Intermediate
When: 1.30 - 4.30pm Saturday 17th - Tuesday 20th February. (4 days)
Cost: $450 per person
•
•
Horsemanship Advanced
When: 1.30 - 4.30pm Thursday 22nd - Sunday 25th February. (4 days)
Cost: $450
per person
More information about food, yards
accommodation etc is available at
www.stevebyrne.com.au
Booking form also available on the website.
The Colt Starting Clinic is designed to teach the person a safe, efficient, and effective process for teaching a young unridden horse to be ridden under saddle.
The participant brings a suitable young horse, and under the coaching of Steve, will teach the horse to accept leadership, accept being saddled, accept being ridden with a hackamore and a snaffle bit, and learn to yield from all
the different parts of his body.
A partnership between the human and their horse is encouraged through developing communication on not only a
physical level, but mentally and emotionally as well.
The clinic runs for 9 mornings of 3-hour sessions. These sessions are made up of some theory, some discussion,
demonstrations as well as lots of practical groundwork and riding techniques with your horse.
Horsemanship Intermediate -This clinic is made up of some ground work and more riding. Groundwork includes on-line and liberty to help the human and horse become more relaxed and more responsive. The
person will learn how to and how not to use their bodies while riding and how to get affective with their legs and
reins.
Through knowing how to get respect from your horse whilst riding, you will develop good impulsion. This means
your horse will get his "life up" when you ask for it, while staying relaxed. It also means your horse will slow
down or stop when you ask for it.
You will learn how to teach your horse to walk, trot, and canter straight lines and circles, depart on the correct
lead, turn on his haunches, stop and back-up better, and move sideways in each direction. You will learn how to
use obstacles such as fence lines, gateways, jumps, trees, bushes, ditches, cones and barrels to help develop your
horse.
This clinic normally runs over 4 afternoons of 3-hour sessions. You will need a rope halter with 12 -15 foot line,
also a 22 foot line, saddle and pad, bridle with a snaffle bit.
Steve is coming to
Newcastle NSW.
Steve will be teaching
Intermediate & Advanced Horsemanship.
Interested?
Contact Lee1800 081 541 or
d.woodl@bigpond.net.au
Horsemanship Advanced -The Advanced Horsemanship clinic moves into the areas of lightness in your
hands and legs, even better impulsion, preciseness in maneuvers, speeding up maneuvers, flexion, straightness and
more engagement from the hindquarters.
You will spend most of the clinic riding, during which you will learn how to teach your horse to stop better, backup better, depart better, get leads and lead changes, spin, roll-back, side-pass and counter arc, maintain gait and
direction and much more.
Another important ingredient in horsmanship is finding a balance between "principle and purpose" which will also
be covered during this course. As in the intermediate clinic obstacles such as fence lines, gateways, jumps, trees,
bushes, ditches, cones, and barrels will be used to help develop your horse.
This clinic normally runs over 4 afternoons of 3-hour sessions. You will need a rope halter with 12 - 15 foot line,
saddle and pad, bridle with a snaffle bit, (40 - 60 foot soft lariat rope optional).
Contact- Steve Mobile: 0427 190 271 Email: steveabyrne@bigpond.com
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 3
Alladin the Ma gical Money Horse
by Anna Thomas
I am so amazed by the past couple of weeks’ occurrences that I just had to
share.
Well, it all started one morning when I asked my long-suffering boyfriend if
he had any cash before he left for work. He checked his wallet and then
handed me a twenty dollar note. I was promptly distracted by plans of what
to do with my horse, Aladdin, that day and went up to play with him. We
played some games and had a session of pushing passenger in the activities area at the riding centre where Aladdin is agisted. I then gave him his
feed before returning him to his mates in the paddock.
So, off I go to the feed store to spend my boyfriend's hard-earned cash on
some hay for my little darling Aladdin. It’s not until I am asked to pay for the over-priced drought-inflated bale that I
am confronted with the realisation that I have absolutely no idea what I did with the twenty dollar note. Hmmm, the
logical thing to have done would be to place the money in the back pocket of my jeans - so I check - nothing. Oh
dear. Fortunately I have my purse and a card to pay with. So, I head home and ransack the house in search of the
twenty dollar note. I hate losing anything, least of all money! No joy.
Disappointed and a tad poorer I tell myself that I must have lost it in the activities area and resolve to have a quick
check later when I return to feed Aladdin in the evening. Though I am quite sure if I had dropped it, it would since
have been picked up and pocketed by someone else. Still no luck.
Days later I recall the sad episode and given that the cash hasn't shown up I am forced to accept that its lost and
gone forever.
Anyway, over a week later I spend the weekend with my friend Trish and her horse Sage who are playing in Level 3
and helping Aladdin and I a great deal. We had a great weekend and I really felt that Aladdin and I were communicating on a higher level and that I had become more provocative and interesting to be around. Up until this time we
had been in a bit of a Level 1 rut and we managed to tear our way out of this and into Level 2 with a vengeance!
After Sunday's session I had to race off to a prior engagement and promised Aladdin that since he had been so wonderful and brave I would return with a yummy feed later. And so I did. Aladdin came over to the gate to greet me,
lowered his head and pushed his nose into his halter and we went through the gate. Once out of his paddock Aladdin gave a slight cough and something dropped from his mouth. It looked metallic - perturbed I leant down to see
what on earth he had been chomping ruthlessly on. I nearly fainted - THE TWENTY DOLLAR NOTE! This is no less
than 10 days later I might add, in a different area, when the facilities are used by probably no less than 35 horses,
and he dropped it in front of me! I looked at him in disbelief - he looked back with an expression that seemed to say,
"Well, you deserve it now, there you go, you can have it back."
I simply could not believe it!
Well, it's not often that your horse actually gives you money so I just had to share! In fact, a friend said to me only
last week that it would be far more efficient if he simply opened up his wallet in front of his horse and let him eat the
money out of it directly!
I cannot fathom how this could have happened but like to believe that he wanted to give it back and he knew - I
guess I'll never know. Anyway, I was glad to get my money back!
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 4
Free Lease:
Beautiful 17yo16.1hh t/bred mare. To go to natural home only. Up too level two in the saddle and level three on the
ground. She is a stylish, soft, yielding, light, willing, sensitive horse. My daughter has given up riding so I have
taken on her horse, plus I have a two year old to bring on. So Annie is just sitting the paddock, looking neglected,
begging to be played with. She is a thoroughbred, so she requires a brave, experienced rider, definitely not suitable as a first horse.
Email: designs@joravan.com.au
Ph: (02) 6495 7754
For Sale:
WESTERN SADDLE
All Purpose, 15.5" seat,
good condition.
$1500 ono
For Sale:
WESTERN SADDLE All Purpose, 14" seat,
good condition
$1000 ono
Call Jill for more
information on
02 48475 024
Braidwood NSW
Call Jill for more
information on
02 48475 024
Braidwood, NSW
Christi has sent in these great
photos of her and her horse
Roly…
Now who says that you NEED a bit?!?!
Reader’s Survey….
What articles, stories etc would you like to
see in the newsletter?
I would love some suggestions!
I know some very knowledgeable people
who would like to write in articles but are
unsure as to what topics you as the reader
would like to read!
Please feel free to email me your ideas
etc…
Emaild.woodl@bigpond.net.au
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 5
A “Touch” of Brilliance.
By Equine Touch Practitioner Susan Wyatt
November the 20th saw a group of excited students from across Australia assemble
at Phoenix Lodge in Stawell, Victoria, to undertake their respective Equine Touch
courses.
For Julia, Emil, Eva, Kylie & Nicole this was their first journey into the amazing
world of Equine Touch as Level 1 students. They spent an enthralling 3 days learning the basics under the patient guidance of Dr. Ivana Ruddock.
Initially this took the form of mastering ‘the move’ and there was much laughter and
proclamations that they “would never get it right” but by day 3, we watched as they
focused and performed ‘basic body balances’ with wonderful skill. They will find, as
have those who have gone before, that this ‘ET thing’ will change their life and the
way they think about all aspects of their horse.
In addition to the level 1s, there was a group of 8 enthusiastic Level 4 students &
Practitioners who were kept constantly challenged and in a state of awe by the
Founder Jock Ruddock.
The group consisted of Linda, who wins both the award for the furthest traveled, and
the one for most determined student as she worked one handed! Karen, who along
with Bruce win the ‘brain drain’ award as they traveled direct from studying Level 3 in
Dungog to Level 4 in Stawell! Robyn juggled the course with her Father’s medical appointment; and Susan, Janis, Marg and Trish just tried to stay focused and stop their
hands shaking! (more on that later!)
Jock taught the group a series of brilliant assessment methods and new procedures to
assist our favourite animals the magnificent equine. This is without doubt the most brilliant bodywork modality available in this country. We watched with awe as our 2 “project horses” Buddy and Charles went from being very defensive animals with multiple physical issues to being balanced, relaxed with many of their physical issues resolved or
ameliorated. A very big thank you to Nicole for allowing us to help ‘Buddy’; and to other Nicole (W), owner of
‘Charles’ for allowing us to assist him. Charles’s owner Nicole will be joining the L1 course in January, so those undertaking this course can ask her directly about the changes in her horse.
If all this was not enough, the wonderful lunches supplied by Trish and her ‘Flying
Emu’ team, and the ever present entertainment from Julia, made this a week to
remember.
Jock and Ivana Ruddock have such a passion for The Equine Touch, and it is an
absolute honour to have been educated by them. If you are considering undertaking the Level 1 course, I sincerely urge you to enroll in on of the January courses
as this will be the last opportunity to learn the basic levels from them.
Why were half the Level 4 course participants excited?
We are proud to announce that after a rigorous selection process 5 Australian ET Practitioners have been selected
to attend the Equine Touch International Instructors Course and Conference in San Marcos, Texas in May/June
2007. These fortunate five Practitioners are: Mary Hitchcock from WA; Susan Wyatt, Trish Radke, Margaret Hobbs
and Janis Hobbs from Victoria. Providing the candidates pass the academic and practical examinations they will be
able to offer to teach The Equine Touch Levels 1 and 2. Keep watching this newsletter next year for news, and thinking positively, dates of courses!
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 6
Vibro Harmonisation Technique & Equine Touch
Vibro Harmonization Technique comes to Australia!! Yes at last, Jock Ruddock will be teaching a course
of VHT in April next year in Victoria, Australia. VHT is where it all started and is the Human Technique
from which The Equine Touch grew.
The course will be held from Friday 13th April to Monday 16th April inclusive.
Cost for tuition will be $550.00 and the venue is yet to be confirmed.
Expressions of interest for this course can be directed to the Victorian Course Coordinator, Susan Wyatt.
Contact details below.
Places are limited, so get your name down quickly & watch this space for further details next month.
There will be a Level 1 and a Level 2 Equine Touch course in January (12/13/14) at "Phoenix Lodge"
the Equine Touch Centre in Stawell, Victoria.
This will be one of the final opportunities for students in Australia to learn the first 2 levels from Jock &
Ivana Ruddock. Jock will continue to teach the upper levels 3 & 4 (ET & Beyond), however his trips to
Australia will be greatly reduced.
For the more advanced Equine Touch Student:
There will be Level 3 & Level 4 “ET & Beyond” Symposium in Victoria in March, at our Equine Touch
Education Centre “Phoenix Lodge” in Stawell, VIC.
Dates for the Symposium are: Thursday 19th April to Sunday 22nd April inclusive.
For details about any of these courses/symposia contact the co-coordinator:
Susan Wyatt
0416 274 276
(03) 54 274 274
naturalsavvy@iprimus.com.au
Accommodation is available on site, at an extremely low rate, for courses at Phoenix Lodge. So those
early birds who get in quickly will be able to take advantage of this. Availability is strictly limited so do not
sit on your hands!
Equine Touch Courses in Australia
With Jock & Ivana Ruddock
www.theequinetouch.com
Level 1 course in WA
19th, 20th & 21st January 2007
Course being held at Perth Hills, Darlington
Contact Linda Yoxall
Ph (08) 9299-6021
or 0407 090 166,
Email: chrislinda@iinet.net.au
Level 1 course in TAS
24th,25th & 26th January 2007
Course being held at Browns Road, North Lilydale
Contact Mary Hitchcock
Ph 0428 627959
Email– equinetouch1@bigpond.com
or Liz Stanfield Ph 63951590
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 7
Natural News From Tasmania – December 2006
by Cynthia Cooper
Little Kids & Big Kids Adventure Camp - The annual January camp for 2007 will focus on fun and adventure for little kids (616) and big kids (over 16 to 60!) at Golden Valley. Over the three days we will explore challenge courses, trails, and fun games to
play with ponies and horses while learning safe and natural ways to improve our horsemanship. Camp out with your horse/pony
and have lunches catered for - BYO breakfast and evening meals (cooking facilities available).
Places are limited so book early - this would make a wonderful Christmas gift at just $150 per person or $250 for parent and child
together. (Children under 13 must be accompanied by a parent who need not participate with a horse).
Email Cynthiac@vision.net.au to book your place.
Safer Grass Clinic - Presented by Kathryn Watts Research Director, Rocky Mountain Research & Consulting, Inc. Colorado. USA.
Sunday 11 February 2007 at the Deloraine Community Complex from 9am to 5pm.
Your investment: $90 which includes yummy lunch (all needs catered for) + morning/afternoon tea.
*If you’re a vet, farrier, hoof trimmer, or horse owner, don’t miss it.
Topics to be covered:
· - Holistic management of the carbohydrate intolerant horse.
·- Why forage in Tasmania is so high in sugar.
·- Laminitis: prevention, early diagnosis, and first aid treatment.
·- Equine nutrition for the rest of us: Applying common sense to feed horses as individuals (which may differ from the 'average'
horse featured in the equine texts)
“Have all your questions answered about grass and keeping horses on it safely.”
Katy Watts is a dynamic presenter – to see her web site go to www.safergrass.org
Xmas Gift Ideas for Your Horse
Make your horse's Christmas fun too with these 'Horse Approved' presents:
Horse Toys such as a ball, cone, pallets to walk on, poles, tyres, tarp, drums, logs, and other things to make playground challenges.
Comfort and Health Things such as a sand pit for rolling, gravel to walk on for hoof conditioning, hoof bath to soak in, mineral
feeder for self serve minerals.
New equipment that is good for your horse such as a bitless bridle, hoof boots, a liberty line or bareback pad. Or, knowledge for
you from the new DVDs and books available from www.naturalequipment.com.au
Perhaps a Gift Certificate for a future course, clinic or camp, with Cynthia at Natural Horse World.
Barefoot Bits & Pieces - New TAFE Course for Equine Hoof Trimming
TAFE Tasmania is leading the way by providing a pilot course for a Certificate 3 In Equine Hoof Trimming, which will be up and
running in 2007. This course will have accredited instructors such as Jeremy Ford (Certified with the American Assoc. of Natural
Hoof Care) and Cynthia Cooper (Natural Horsemanship Instructor) working with ex-Farrier and TAFE teacher, Nathan Kerrison,
Marg Richardson, and Jen Clingly, to provide an extremely comprehensive course on all aspects related to hoof trimming and
horse care.
Students around Australia will be able to access the course on line with contact time to be available in Tasmania and at other locations around Australia, e.g. to study wild horses in the outback.
This course will enable trimmers to have a credible National Trade Certificate in Equine Hoof Care, which will complement the
currently available Certificate for Farriers.
Anyone interested in receiving more information should contact Nathan Kerrison at TAFE - Nathan.Kerrison@tafe.tas.edu.au
Natural Horse World Newsletter
The next newsletter is due out by Friday 15 December.
You can view or subscribe to the latest newsletter by going to www.naturalhorseworld.com
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 8
JASPERS’ 3-DAY CAMP
Oh what a camp! Late November back in 2-0-0-6……..
Nothing like a Grand Entrance to display the benefits of Natural Horsemanship and its effect on horse behaviour in a crisis …….
Friday afternoon saw Thelma & Fran (Louise) arrive in the truck with 3 horses – but only two were standing!
Alladdin’s (aka ‘Scar Face’) legs slid from underneath him resulting in him being lodged under Buddy, with Red (The Wonder
Horse) ‘wondering’ what the …was going on!
The girls, fighting the urge to imagine all the horrible things that could happen next, managed to stay ‘in the moment’ and handled the situation beautifully. Apart from some bruises and a bit of bark removed, the outcome was a happy one.
Of course, this provided some Diversional Therapy ideas for Fran who later suggested Peter (of Jaspers fame, aka Sub-Aquatic
Porcelain Detailer) and Chris (Meg’s Man, aka Dishboy #2) could go ‘sand mining’ down at the creek. That way there would be
something in the truck to soak up the excrement and so preventing future ‘slips’ in the truck during their onward journey to Victoria. I’m sure Wazza (Gab’s hubby), had he been present at the time the sand mining concept was floated, would have been a
most enthusiastic fellow miner!?
Friday night and Day One (Sat) saw us re-acquainting with our wonderful hosts and culinary marvels, Juliette and Peter, as well as fellow Natural Horsepeople and their partners (mostly horses, but
also Chris and Waz!)
•
•
•
•
•
•
Gab & Curly Sioux
Pixie & Whiskey
Kathy & Lace
Megan & Bonnie
Kerry & Sugar
Frances W & Montana
•
•
•
•
•
•
Juliette & Duncan, Lowanna and Jasper
Fran B & Feather
Tric & Babe
Wendy & Pepper
Thelma & Red (The Wonder Horse)
Fran & Buddy (with Alladdin cameos)
Martian Exploration!
IT’S THE JOURNEY….NOT THE DESTINATION…….
This theme was embodied by Fran’s ‘FLEXIBLE’ style of learning. Flexibility here also relates to the riders, rather than the lateral or vertical flexibility of the horses! This allowed us to take advantage of the many opportunities which arose, enabling us to
adapt to horse or human behaviour as well as other things, like …. the weather!
Although flexible, the 3-day programme ‘flowed’ beautifully from one concept to the next, and by focusing less on ‘Goals’ or
‘Outcomes’, it provided both horses and riders with Enjoyment vs Stress, and Support (for each other and our horses) vs Competition.
Being ‘IN THE MOMENT’ was the other main concept. Here we learnt that, just because your horse may have done something
yesterday, doesn’t mean s/he’ll do it today. Today is a new day with challenges, and delights, for us to enjoy with our horses.
DAY ONE
Liberty
This was a wonderful morning, where we used the concepts of ‘Draw & Drive’, ‘Tracking’, ‘More from Less’ and ‘Setting up to
Succeed’. We also talked about avoiding the trap of ‘Micro management’- if it’s not working, try something else.
Some of us swore the ‘experienced’ horses were communicating with Bonnie and Montana (our Jaspers’ Virgins), telling them
to “…just humour them…” and “…try licking your lips, they’ll give you a break….”, and other pearls of wisdom. This only
reinforced our belief that they are such ‘forgiving’ creatures, and just how much they allow us to learn …. both about them and
ourselves!
Due to nearly 40 degree heat, we elected to have a ‘siesta’ break after lunch, starting back later in the afternoon and finishing
around twilight. It was also a relief to see Chris return from his mystery bike ride – a little melted around the edges but in one
piece.
Forward
Through our bridleless ‘Passenger’ and ‘Pilot’ riding we allowed our horses to find ‘somewhere to go’ and explored ‘forward’ e.
g. backing up can be ‘forward’.
A previous Clinic saw us using our body (rather than artificial aides) to regulate the horses speed, and Juliette stole the show
then with the best ‘creep’, captured on video. Well, this Clinic she didn’t disappoint! We were again using our bodies, but this
time for direction. Armed with a carrot stick (looking a little like a big antenna) Juliette looked like a Mounted Martian as she
moved ‘forward’.
Volume 1, Issue 7
Continued from page 7...
Page 9
DAY TWO
A democratic vote during the previous night’s dinner saw us out on the paddock well before breakfast.
Punctual Pixie won the ‘First on the Ground’ Award, with the rest of us straggling down ‘about’ 0630.
Body Dynamics
Incorporating several disciplines such as Tai Chi’s ‘sand in the leg’; Pilates’ ‘core stability’; and Fran’s
‘tissue box’, our body positions-without exception–were transformed, some dramatically. We learnt new
principles, such as ‘fitting the stirrup to our foot’, rather than the other way around, along with other little
gems, all directed at improving position and hence communication with our horses.
Photography & DVD’s
What ARE you two
Megan (can’t we all have a seat like hers?) and Gab (“I’m sure there’s a bit of T’bred in Curly, I’ve just
doing?
got to find it!”), provided us with more than 3gigs of photographs! Not only did these present a
wonderful memento of the 3 days, but also the opportunity to view our body positions and riding styles. Draped around the
cool of the living room during the heat of the day, in an atmosphere of support and humour, we ‘critically analyzed’ our body
positions and riding styles, noting the incredible differences between Day 1 and 2.
This critique took place after watching DVDs, where we practised being highly opinionated international dressage judges,
admonishing the ‘blatantly corrupt’ judges and overriding their scores. Surely they could see 1st place should be awarded to the
German horse/rider who were ‘quite obviously’ the most fluid and effective team on the day!
Before and after this ‘classroom’ activity, some took Fran B’s lead and disappeared to have a siesta in a cool and shady spot,
some showered fully clothed, and others dunked in the dam!
Patterns
Late in the afternoon, we worked on Figure 8’s to help develop Rhythm and Canter Leads. We looked for the ‘sweet spot’
where the horse ‘saw the track’ and increased the chance of striking the correct lead. We walked, trotted and cantered in, out
and around the big and little round yards and larger paddocks. Sometimes we were all in together, other times we rode
individually, learning from and encouraging each other in turn.
DAY THREE
Another early start…... By now we realized we had to bribe Thelma out of the truck with a
coffee!
Liberty Transitions and Bareback & Bridleless
How good was this girls?!
Thelma was even overheard admitting that “…there may just be something to this natural
horsemanship sh/stuff...”.
I think she’s converted …
at last!
Trail Ride
After brekkie, we donned the ‘runners’ on the barefooted kids and headed for the hills. Lots of
Leap Frog helped the horses with their socialising and etiquette skills. Some of the highlights included Frances and Montana’s
Roller Coaster impersonation; Fran B and Feather looking such a gentle pair and really ‘together’ and confident with each
other, even on the trail; Buddy and Fran G ‘beating’ Montana out of the scrub; Wen and Pepper becoming ambidextrous at the
canter; Kathy, who is obviously spending lots of time in the saddle (and it’s paying off) and Lace having to go bush so her ‘big
walk’ didn’t have us all cantering to keep up; and Tric hanging up her spurs! But the ‘piece de resistance’ was the move by
Frances, when, in order to use a mounting block to get back on to Montana (aka Mohammed), she lugged a boulder and placed
it beside where ‘Mohammed’ was standing!
After arriving back from the trail ride and washing down the horses, we all met back at the lunch table for our final meal
together (for this camp anyway), laughed and relived some of the highlights of the previous 3 days, and talked about what we
had learnt.
It is always so hard to leave Jaspers…..I don’t think there was anyone that wouldn’t have -given the opportunity– stayed for
another 3days! But alas, it was time to go, so we said our ‘goodbyes’, thanked our hosts, bade farewell to Thelma & ‘Louise’,
wishing them a safe trip south to Bendigo, and kept our fingers crossed that the labours of the ‘sand miners’ would ensure a
non-slip passage.
As the wagons circled at the bottom of the driveway and crossed the creek for the trip home, I’m sure we were all filled with
inspiration to continue…and enjoy… our journey with natural horsemanship.
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 10
For Sale
Crickety Snickets
Cricket is a 2 year old filly who will mature around 15.2 hands.
She has been started under saddle naturally and is going very nicely. She has attended a three day colt starting
course with Camilla Davidson, as well as more recently participating in a balanced riding workshop and lots of
fun days. She has been ridden by a 14 year old since her first ride.
Cricket is a genuinely gentle, sweet natured horse, very mature for a two year old. She is calm, confident, and
takes everything in her stride. She is tall, athletic, attractive and would suit someone who wants to go to level 3
and beyond as she has the mental and physical ability to excel as a performance horse. She has been started
gently and is unspoilt and ready to go on with.
She is a purebred Quarter Horse by The Main Man (Hank Man Leo), out of Shammy Cricket (Shammy Ashwood,
Clover Cue Luck). This bloodline is producing lovely natured, willing, athletic partners. Her older siblings are
quiet, gentle horses that are being ridden by youths and are much loved family members.
Cricket is a pleasure to have around and will only go to the right home where her potential can be realized.
$4000+GST.
Phone 0417 557 959 or email quinnpg@bigpond.com for more information.
Located South Coast, NSW
Are you looking for a horse to do one of the great colt starting courses
that are on offer at the moment?
We have two fillies for sale. Both are ‘unstarted’ two year olds. They are well handled, well mannered, and gentle
natured. Both catch, have their feet trimmed, have been rugged, floated, tied up, led off the motor bike, are used
to kids, bikes, dogs etc etc etc. They are both pretty chestnuts with nice heads and a long rein. Both are pure
bred quarter horses by The Main Man (Hank Man Leo). We have several of his offspring and they are confident,
willing partners. They are athletic and quiet – a sought after combination! Both are well grown and ready to take a
rider/saddle.
Annie is a very red chestnut with a pretty white face and small white
socks with chestnut spots in them. She is a lovely type of filly and will
make a very nice mare. She is bred to be a cow horse and has the attitude to perform. We have her two older full sisters who we are delighted
with.
$3000+GST
Located South Coast, NSW
Lucy is a pleasure to have around. She will make a very quiet, reliable
horse. Her mother is a ‘bombproof’ mare. She has been handled a lot
and is very intelligent and willing. We wanted to keep her for our kids to
grow in to but have too many horses – and most of them are quiet
enough for the kids!
$2000+GST
Located South Coast, NSW
Phone 0417 557 959 or email quinnpg@bigpond.com for more information.
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 11
Horse Names by Glenn Wilson
Despite having the name of Roly, Roly is neither fat, round or size XXXL in the girth. His favourite activity is, well,
rolling. Favourite surfaces include mud, dust, mulch, and green grass. Favourite times are 24/7, especially after a
brush or wash down when he looks particularly smart. Someone once told me of a horse called ‘Gutsy’ and this was
not because of meritorious bravery. Seems this boy liked his tucker. Horse names are as weird as they are creative
and appropriate (sometimes).
According to some experts though, horses don’t really care what they are called, just as long as they are called for
dinner.
On the other hoof, to we humans, names are very important. Apparently hearing one’s name is one of the best
sounds we can experience (depending, of course, on the tone that is used by the caller).
When it comes to naming horses, a clear pattern emerges. There are three main camps. Horse namers use either
lack of imagination, use too much imagination, or leave the naming to the Gods; trusting the universe to provide an
appropriate and ‘WOW’ name for their horse.
Deliberately I have excluded the naming of racehorses in this piece because that is something I just know zip about
(and don’t care much for either) and have no interest in learning the system and logic of naming gallopers.
But getting back to real horses, the ones who are part of the family, I know of several Banjos, several Brandys, a
few Katies, a couple of Missys and more than a couple of Cheyannes. The human name equivalents are John, Sue,
Jill and Bill (good horse names actually). Comanche seems to be popular too especially with short furry Shetland
ponies.
Naming can be partly a popular vs. boring issue, although often the proud new owner of a horse has little say in
what the horse is named as often they arrive already named. In other words, pre loved and pre named horses. In
my case I acquired a mare called Katie, much to the chagrin of my partner at the time who was called Kate. My confusion was heightened by trying to come to terms with the title of ‘nag’. As horses really don’t care what they are
called, I had the opportunity to change her name there and then but instead chose to respect the previous owner’s
choice.
Have you noticed that horses don’t have surnames either? Apart from horses from the poncey, purebred, starstudded lines that is. None of mine have surnames and I like it that way. It’s easier to fill out forms for them, as they
themselves are literarily challenged.
A great way to come up with a really original and often very appropriate name for a horse is to introduce the horse to
a human who knows nothing about horses. And when they say, as they inevitably do, “What’s his/her name?” (And
they usually get that wrong because they are too afraid to look) you can say, “Dunno, what do you think a good
name would be?” More often than not they will come up with a ripper, a truly original and very appropriate name for
your steed. It may take a while for the inspiration to appear, but just be patient. This is how my mother named a
gelding I bought at the saleyards. She told me she dreamed of a really good name for him but Mum, being in her
80’s, forgot what the name was in the morning. Well, I just had to have faith in her remembering the name in a later
dreaming state. It worked and she rang me with the result a couple of days later.
Keeping the number of syllables to a minimum is also important when it comes to horse names. One is good; two is
normal and any more than that becomes cumbersome. Or if your horse has a multi syllabled moniker you have
probably partaken in that great Aussie tradition of trimming the handle down to one, perhaps two at the most, syllables. Anderson becomes Andy and then And. This peculiarity is of course countered by simple single syllabled
names being upgraded to multi syllabled ones. Don’t ask me why. Doc becomes Doctor and Rick becomes RickyTicky or worse still, Tricky Dicky.
Hyphenated horse names are only really appropriate for the Range Rover (what a great horse name) set because
more often than not, the humans themselves have hyphenated names, both first names and surnames too. MarieClare Hamilton-Jones accompanied by her horse Jasmine-Enterprise. Have you seen this pair? A sight to be held
and a mouthful as well.
For the horse collector, the collection of names can be fascinating. I learned from our esteemed editor Lee that she
oversees a group that include Tiny, Casper, Mate, Laddie, Harmony, Spirit, Red, Sharnie, Lace, Mouse, Melody and
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 12
Continued from page 11
Horse Names by Glenn Wilson
and Phantom. Try saying all that quickly after a few ales. Or what about the ‘set’ set. A friend of mine had horses
that included Brampton, Hinchinbrook and Magnetic, Skye and Majorca. All islands. ‘No horse is an island’ I say.
Have you ever changed a horse’s name? I had to once. The name she came with was Sierra Montana. What? A
harness horse too. Sierra Montana – ‘Walk on’. It just wouldn’t have worked. She was rechristened Sissy. Two
syllables, easy to remember and distinct.
Australia being a true multi cultural country with imported horses and riders is now fertile ground for new creativity
when it comes to naming horses. Popanova was a Russian’s show jumper; Pasta, an Italian owned racing quarter
horse. Really! But one of the most appropriate names I have heard of belonged to another of the Italian’s stable
and that was a horse named ‘Fiasco’. Go figure that one out.
And in case you are still wondering about my gelding’s name, it’s Willoughby. Applying the syllable rule his name
neatly becomes Will. Different huh? Good on you Mum! And she also had the honour of naming the ‘newie’.
Macgregor, or Mac for short. Long live the creative, appropriate, easy to say and remember Horse Name!
© Glenn Wilson
October 2006
Greetings from Exeter Farm.
Wishing you all a Christmas that sparkles with family and glows
with friendship, and we hold all good thoughts for you in 2007.
Kate, Owen and all who call Exeter Farm “home”.
Volume 1, Issue 7
Please note:
For information on Accommodation please contact Denise at
admin@basas.org.au
Page 13
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 14
LATERAL THINKING HORSEMANSHIP
WITH WAYNE ANDERSON
By Trish Madden
On 18 and 19 November, Lee Woodland and I had the chance to enjoy a clinic with Wayne Anderson at Wakaya
Park, Paterson, organised by the wonderful Michelle from Maitland Saddleworld.
Firstly, let me say that the venue was terrific. A full sized indoor dressage arena with incredible footing that allowed
us the room to move and try all that Wayne had to offer. And given that it was incredibly hot here, it was soooo nice
to be inside out of the sun for a change!
Wayne is a student of Buck Brannaman and has also had exposure to Ray Hunt’s teachings. He makes the point that
it is mainly through Buck’s teachings that he has progressed. I think this becomes clear through watching Wayne at
work. He has such a similar style to Buck (who I have only ever seen on video). Wayne is calm and oh so gentle
with these horses, doing only as much as necessary to make the change and always looking for softness in attitude
and body. He is forgiving of both horses and students and we were all excused with ‘well, that was an honest mistake’. There is no room for temper tantrums in this clinic but if the horses got bothered, he was there to provide a
centre of calm that allowed them to work through their issues and achieve gentleness.
I have been a long term student of the Parelli method of natural horsemanship and have lately started to extend my
horizons and seek more lightness in my relationship with my horse (the fat arab known as Sage). This clinic gave
me so many answers to issues I have been facing. Why has Sage become so locked on his shoulders? Yes, he is
calm, relaxed and ‘with me’ but it seemed there was tenseness that I couldn’t get rid of. Wayne seemed to free Sage
up by allowing him to ‘drift’ while disengaging his hindquarters. Forward movement is the key here. Wayne insists
that horses should be thinking forward at each point and if we insist on a ‘planted’ foot at the early stages we will
lock that joint and lose lightness. Talk about a lightbulb! I think I had been slowly working my way to getting this
myself but a couple of hours with Wayne and I have a completely new program to challenge Sage with and hopefully make a new horse. Each question I asked received a full and comprehensive answer and boy oh boy, did I need
‘soak’ time overnight to mull on all the things I was now facing.
I think the main thing I got from this clinic was the nuances in my relationship with Sage. Wayne isn’t about speed
or high energy action. I think it was more about quiet thinking and calmness in both horse and handler, but being
prepared to go with the horse’s energy and support him to calmness. I found I had to concentrate to ensure I got the
message and make the change and this isn’t a criticism of Wayne’s teaching but an acceptance that he had something
new to offer me that demanded my full attention and effort to assimilate. Yes, I will definitely be going back and for
those of you who feel you are getting into a bit of a rut with your horsemanship then I would recommend Wayne as
a teacher who will boost your enthusiasm and offer you a different perspective on your horsemanship.
I recently had Michelle out to
treat ‘Mate’. I was thrilled with
what she did, how she went about
the horse. This is one very
knowledgeable lady.
It is great to have someone that
offers a variety of treatments and
therapies.
Cheers, Lee
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 15
So are you looking for an idea for a Fancy Dress
Party…. Look no more…
Emily is 8 yrs old and the pony's name is Angel.
Took them about three hours to zebrify her.
Page 16
Volume 1, Issue 7
Young Horse Training
DVD
by Cynthia Cooper
Price: $50.00
This double DVD set, packed with 2.5 hours of step by step
instruction, was filmed at one of Cynthia Cooper's Young
Horse Days. It covers all aspects of training young horses
from birth to two year olds, showing you everything from the
first approach and touch, to catching, haltering, leading then
hoof handling, worming, trailer loading and tying up.
Foals, weanlings and yearlings at various stages are used for
the demos which show the most gentle, natural approach to
take with your training. Although it wasn't filmed on a professional camera, the editing and production is very good and
enables you to find the chapter and information you want on
each subject. This information is essential for you to give your
young horse the best possible start in life and comes from
Cynthia's 30 years of experience with training foals and starting young horses.
To place your order-
www.naturalequipment.com.au
Freecall within Australia– 1800 081 541
Ph- +61 (0)2 4996 5500
Fax– 02 4996 5513
Email– d.woodl@bigpond.net.au
The Southern Tablelands Natural
Horsemanship Fun and Support group
Held its last Fun day for this year at Bungendore show grounds on Saturday the 9th December with 20 plus students attending.
I want to take this opportunity to thank all the many students that have supported these days
and helped make the days a success with fun. Also in helping with the newcomers to the NH program to
feel welcome and to better understand what we do on these days. How understanding the horse better,
makes it better for all.
We are always looking forward in welcoming interested people to the next NH Fun & Support day in the
new year of the 10th February.
Until then have a very Merry Christmas and loads of Fun with your Fury friends. Thanks Camilla.
Page 17
Volume 1, Issue 7
Natural Horsemanship 7 Games in BRAIDWOOD NSW
With Camilla Davidson
On the 2nd and 3rd of December I ran a 2 day work shop focusing on the 7 games and how they bridge the gap between predator and prey animals. The small group of students got to understand and experience how the 7 games help create a language
for us to communicate with our horses. During the 2 days the students spent allot of time studying their horses while playing with
Janet Booth with JW - Driving them, and learning how better to read their own horses and then
sideways
the others’ horses in the group. Were they confident, were they
fearful, were they a little unsure, or were they one of the thousand emotions in-between, and then how best to help each individual horseanality with their emotions and how this all plays a
big part in their confidence to learn. Building the horse’s confidence, which in turn builds the human’s confidence, is always a
part of these courses. So they got to play the 7 games using obstacles and longer lines to keep life interesting for both horse and
human (imagination ).
NH Instructor Camilla Davidson
Showing the 5 Zones.
To Bruce and Georgia
Check them out !
Niki Van Buuran on Kalaha
with NH instructor Camilla
On the Sunday afternoon when all were well prepared, they applied what they had done on the ground to on their horses’
backs, all with big smiles.
Early 2007 I will be starting horses and then from March onwards
I will be running follow-up courses; with 2 x 3-day workshops already booked out in March, an advanced ground skills and riding
course in June.
Ben with Marilyn Edmond
playing with the Cones
The NH Group Dec 06
Anyone wishing to know more of the NH courses run in the
Southern Highlands of NSW please drop me a line.
Kind Regards
Camilla Davidson
Natural Horsemanship
Lizzie Reed with Rosie
Porcupine Sideways
02 48461002
0429 461 002
jembaicum@aapt.net.au
Karen on Shadow and Lizzie on Rosie
taking the QH yield,& Lateral bend
from the ground onto their backs
For Sale:
16hh bay, 10yr old, registered standardbred gelding. No problem to float load, vaccinate, drench and is good with
farrier. Is doing online Level 2 PNH groundwork, as well as some liberty work. Has been ridden around our property and is calm with noise, dogs, kangaroos etc. 14yr old girl has ridden and he has been willing to jump for her. Is
a big gentle horse who learns well and with regular work has lots of potential to be a great partner for someone who
can teach him using natural horsemanship methods. Price $2500
If interested please ring Karen 67698316, Tamworth, NSW
Page 18
Volume 1, Issue 7
My Goals with Natural Horsemanship
It took me a while to realise what my goals were because as I have gone from L1-L3 my attitude
has changed a few times and I had sort of lost track of previous goals and hadn't bothered to set them
again.
But at last they have come to me. I want my horse to be my buddy and trust me with his life. That's a big
ask I know but miracles do still happen and to perferate the wall between horse and human to join the two
into one is a fascinating and beautiful ideology that I believe is possible. I want my horse and I to be mentally and emotionally and physically fit and at peace with each other. I want to be able to ask my horse to
have input into our relationship. Horses can be creative, especially ones who have been given the opportunity to be so. I want to dance, run, jump, play and occasionally work with him if I have to, with the understanding of compromise; I want him to be free in his innerself and his outerself. To me that's a great
dream,,,, and also to strive to have it with our human friends as well, that's quite a big dream.
I think with the explosion of natural horsemanship info and education out there now, I think my goals are
not impossible as with the abundance of desire and creative input from the whole movement only a lack of
effort on my part would slow the journey.
I looked outside just before and had a giggle as my 3yo whom it took me 1.5 hours to originally cause to
leap the 44 gallon drums (laying down) a few weeks ago, is now of his own accord playing with them and
experimenting how much of his body he can put over them. Fascinating.
Yours naturally
Tanya Atkins
"Nadar"
PNH started bay part arab (unreg) gelding 5 years old 14.3hh, started by Mel Fleming and
turned out to mature for 18 months.
High play drive, sensitive, great partner
$1500 (cost of starting)
Ph Trish 0418 600 742
"Lizarazu"
QH/TB Bay filly 2yrs in Feb 2007 should mature approx 14.2hh
Friendly, lightly handled, great turn of speed, very cowy
even tracks the chooks.
Stallion at www.davrac.com
$1000 ono
Ph Trish on 0418 600 742
Page 19
Volume 1, Issue 7
Winner of November Competition…...
This is my 6 year old daughter's story:
I Luve horses bicos thay look nois and thay can canter fast and it is fun and thay are
good to play with and it is fun puting the sadl on and thay can eat the grass in the padics
so we don't have to lohrn mo thats why I like horses
Tayla
CONGRATULATIONS TAYLA!!
I will be posting you out your Think Like A Pony Book and Rope Halter this week ☺
STOCK/QUARTER HORSE MARE
6 1/2 YEARS, 14.2HH
CHESTNUT
100% SOUND, CLEAN LEGS, HARD BLACK FEET.
4 SALE THROUGH NO FAULT OF HER OWN; OWNER HAS NO TIME FOR 2 HORSES IN WORK
FREE REIN WALK, ALL PACES ON A LONG REIN.
NO BITE OR KICK, BUT NOT FOR SALE TO A BEGINNER
HAS HAD PROFESSIONAL TRAINING IN REINING AND PLEASURE, BUT SHE WILL EXCEL IN ENDURANCE,
PLEASURE, PONY CLUB, CAMP DRAFT OR CTR
THE BEST BEHAVED IN COMPANY EITHER LEADING OR FOLLOWING, SHE DOESN’T CARE. SPIRITED,
EAGER AND SHARP LITTLE HORSE, BUT NOT SCATTY OR FLIGHTY WHEN RIDDEN,
THOUGH WARY OF STRANGERS
FLOATS LIKE A DREAM
TYPICAL MARE I AM TOLD, IN NATURE AND HER NEED FOR INDEPENDENCE!
GREAT TO CATCH EXCEPT WHEN SHE IS IN A BIG PADDOCK WITH LOTS OF OTHER HORSES WHEN SHE
ENJOYS MUSTERING!
FANTASTIC MANE AND TAIL, SOLID MUSCLED CHEST AND RUMP WHICH CARRIES A 5 FOOT 7, 65KG PERSON FOR ANYWHERE UP TO 4 HOURS EASILY!
THIS MARE IS A STEAL AT MY ASKING PRICE AND SHE IS ONLY THIS CHEAP DUE TO I DO NOT WANT
HER SITTING IDLE IN A PADDOCK, AS SHE IS FAR TO GOOD BUT I HAVE NO TIME TO KEEP WORKING
HER. THE BEST HOME ONLY AND NO TIME WASTERS PLEASE, WHO ARE INEXPERIENCED OR STUPID.
$1800.00
TEL: 0427 968 052
Beachmere Qld. Rudds horse transport is 2 doors down, so delivery is no problem.
Page 20
Volume 1, Issue 7
The Australian
Savvy Forum
The Australian Savvy forum is a
great place to discuss Natural
Horsemanship and gain advice and support or just
have a good ole chin wag and keep up your motivation.
We mainly have PNH students posting on here, however, we welcome all NH students to the discussion
boards.
We also have a classifieds section for anything you
have to buy or sell (but not commercial - business advertising).
We accept no responsibility should someone get hurt
as a result of following suggestions put forward on this
forum. You ride and participate at your own risk!
Please note, this website is not sponsored/authorised
by Parelli Natural Horse.Man.Ship TM nor are we affiliated with the Parelli Natural Horse.Man.Ship TM organization. We are simply keen students.
We invite you to join us for a chat!
http://z13.invisionfree.com/Australian_Savvy/
index.php?act=idx
Stallion—Romerito SO473
Pure Spanish Andalusian By Poderoso (Justiciero IV Imp/Corveta Imp) out of Romera (Encantador/Ordinara Imp).
Sire of multi national champion pure and part andalusians. Passing on his calm, intelligent gentle nature, straight
movement, trainibility and magnificent colour.
Service Fee $660.00inc
Chilled Semen available
Viewing by appointment
More photo’s available at this site...
http://www.horsepoint.com.au/DesktopDefault.aspx?ItemID=2111044&TabID=3434&Alias=horsepointau
Contact
Trish Buchan
0418 600 742
Dubbo NSW
tinshed@hwy.com.au
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 21
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 22
NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP GROUPS & CLUBS…
Central Coast Natural Horsemanship Group Our group meets monthly at Warnervale NSW with a NH instructor.
Please contact Karen on 02 4362 3859 for further details.
Upper Murray Horseman's Association meets on the 1st Saturday of each month for Natural Horsemanship clinics at the Albury Wodonga Equestrian Centre at Thurgoona NSW.
Bookings essential. Ph Coral on 0260712855 or email: moreilly@dragnet.com.au
NH Play Days held at Lobethal Polocrosse grounds, Kuitpo forest or Tilling Hill in the Adelaide Hills, SA
Contact Michelle on 08 8339 2759 or michellewhelan@optusnet.com.au to be added to the mail out list.
Nambucca Natural Horsemanship Club–
Contact Secretary Cheryl Hasson– Ph 02 6569 3244 or Email alatell@nor.com.au
Central West Natural Horsemanship Group Inc. Our Group meets at the Geurie Racecourse at Geurie, NSW.
Contact Trish via email– CWNHG@hwy.com.au
Southern Tablelands & ACT Natural Horsemanship Fun & Support Days Run By Camilla davidson @ Bungendore show grounds, August 12th, September 9th, October 14th
All welcome, come along and join in with us in having Fun with our horses and friends whilst learning & being inspired by each other. Contact Camilla jembaicum@aapt.net.au
Natural Horsemanship Fun & Support Day News: SOUTH COAST
For the South Coast students, be looking out for the Milton and Cobargo N. H Fun & Support days to be held soon.
We ran the first fun/support day at Milton in late June @ Tracey Wakefords place with 8 students attending, we all
had a great day and looking fwd to more with new students attending, if you are interested make contact with
Camilla at jembaicum@aapt.net.au
South Coast Cobargo NH Fun & Support day is on Saturday the 18th November followed by a NH riding dynamics workshop on the Sunday the 19th Nov. contact Camilla for more information and to book in,
e-mail: jembaicum@aapt.net.au
Page 23
Volume 1, Issue 7
Update on the Guyra Horse Rescue
New contact information:
Kay Barney
kay@corporatehousing.com.au
ph. 0419 276 661
You can keep up to date about these horses at..
http://www.freewebs.com/carinya_park/guyrahorses.htm
14th December- From Bianca:
"The latest is we are getting the horses home this weekend, and then arranging for an open day here in Guyra Dec
22nd. Horses will not be able to be taken away on the day. Deposits can be placed on horses, with application
forms, and approved owners can be collect their horses after Christmas. We are happy to agist them until you can
collect them- agistment payment will need to be provided to cover their stay.
Lots of people are asking how they can help: what we really need now are things like donations of hay, transport, halters, leadropes, vet services, any horsecare products (ie flyaway anti-fly spray, flyveils, farrier services, and especially cash donations.
We will also be looking at sponsorship for some long term residents which may have special needs.
A note to people- mares that are heavily pregnant will not be leaving the property until their babies are old enough...
so if you are looking to sponsor a horse we will be happy to hear from you!
Cash donations are sorely needed to buy vet time, arrange transport, and to pay for all those little unexpected things that pop up.
Volunteers are most welcome- if you can donate time to come and help handle the horses, that would be very
welcome- we will only accept natural horsemanship techniques. We are using RSPCA approved transport and handlers, with calm and commonsense handling techniques.
I would also welcome any media inquiries- journalists can contact me at my office, leave a message and I will get
back to you.
For all the wonderful people who have been trying to get through to me; please be patient! I appreciate your calls-it
means so much to me- I just cannot get back to everyone. I am working on it! I empty my mobile's mailbox constantly and it fills up faster than I can keep up with!
Thankyou all- I have to go home and get some rest before I fall asleep at my desk! I can sleep well knowing that the
horses are safe- I hope you all pat yourselves on the back- know that by your support, generosity and even the simple passing on of emails and spreading the word, you have saved these horses."
Bless all
Bianca
Natural Equipment have donated halters in various sizes and lead ropes.
We think what Bianca and friends have done is a wonderful thing, we are sure you will all agree and even
the smallest of donation will be of great help to them.
Page 24
Volume 1, Issue 7
Snowy Mountains trial ride Braidwood Ladies head for the Hills
L to R, Augustus, Kate & Encore,
Cheryl & Powder Finger,
Penny & Jack, Lyn & Bead
First days ride to Old Currango
Brumbies @ Old Currango
On the 6th November. five southern tablelands NH ladies
headed out from Braidwood, through Cooma and Adaminaby, on a three hour drive to get to Currango Homestead. This is nestled in the snowy mountains, where we
camped in a lovely old hut, "Daffodil Hut" for six nights.
We rode out each day on a different track to discover varied landscapes and "Out Huts"
These five days were a great time to spend much needed
and wanted time with our own horses without outside influences and demands of a busy working life. We also got
to spend valued time with our close friends, which tends
to be a luxury in this day and age. We had with us young
to older horses that got to experience a different environment to the one they are accustomed to and confident in.
The older, more experienced horses could help to build
the confidence of the younger ones and with their human
partners also being good leaders for them, all went well
and without mishap.
All along the Currango plains we could spot Brumbies,
sometimes far off and other times quite close. The brumby
runners had just been in before us to reinforce the fear of
the prey animal towards the predator, so we would retreat
whenever we sensed they were feeling threatened. The
photos show of our exploration all around the Currango
plains and mountains, a treasured time of friends, horses
and landscapes of natural beauty.
Hainsworth Creek - Cheryl & Powder
Finger. Kate & Encore
The Pocket Hut north of Currango
Lunch @ Pocket Hut Kate, Lyn &
Penny
Daffodil Hut
Horse relaxing early morning @ Currango
Augustus & Camilla D looking out over Tantangra Dam
Penny, Lyn Kate
& Camilla
Millers Hut - Augustus,
Lyn & Bead
Riding into Hainsworth Hut
Crossing Creek Penny & Jack
Cheryl & Kate enjoying a
chat with Augustus, Encore
& Powder Finger
Lyn & Bead laying their coat
down to Cross Wire. Kate &
Encore
Editors note— I don’t know about you, but when I saw these
photo’s, it just made me appreciate everything we teach our
horses...from the ground to their back…
Augustus & Knot in tree
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 25
Volume 1, Issue 7
Page 26
Page 27
Volume 1, Issue 7
Pop open those Champagne bottles, you asked
for it, we are extending our Chrissy special till
the end of January….
Rope Halters—$25.00 Save $8.00
12ft Lines with Brass Snap- $40.00 Save $10.00
12ft Lines with Bull Snap- $40.00 Save $5.00
Communication Stick- $25.00 Save $5.00
Small Communication Stick- $25.00 Save $5.00
Bareback Pads- $225.00 Save $50.00
Think Like A Pony Book- $15.00 Save $15.00
Great Lies We Live By Book- $10.00 Save $5.00
Special ends 31st January
Order online at—
www.naturalequipment.com.au
Or give us a callFree call number– 1800 081 541
Ph 02 4996 5500
Fax 02 4996 5513
Email– d.woodl@bigpond.net.au
Page 28
Volume 1, Issue 7
Karen & Shadow's big day out.
Karen Lancaster is one of my students who shows such dedication and enthusiasm, to better understand her horse
Shadow and she put his welfare and his happiness first while competing at a one day event at Yass NSW, in November.
The one day event Karen participated in was the Beckford one day event, which is kindly known as the "Chicken
Run". Karen came last and her exact words were, I came last but that didn't taint the experience at all as it was one
of the biggest goals I have ever kicked in my life!!! And just take a look at Shadow’s expression and overall appearance. I think it tells the story of their great relationship.
Kind Regards
Camilla Davidson
Natural Horsemanship
Page 29
Volume 1, Issue 7
Phil Rodey Horsemanship
Based at Branxton NSW.
Phil offers both horsemanship courses and also colt starting. You can
find out more information on courses, feedback etc at-
www.freewebs.com/rodey1
To get your free sample of Winnie’s Cookies please visit www.enhancebynature.com.au
Page 30
Volume 1, Issue 7
Parelli Level 1 course – Carterton, NZ, with Russell Higgins
October 2006 by Sandra Gow
I was going to write a report as soon as I got home, but I was far too tired! The course went really well,
and we were so thankful for Taralee Stables' indoor arena. The wind was atrocious. Not a nice towing experience for anyone - even my van was rocking from side to side. Very slow trips over the Rimutaka Hill
for us. Russell's loudspeaker system had trouble competing with the noise of the wind. I wasn't the only
one to keep looking up wondering if the roof was going to stay there. I highly recommend this venue for
courses, even if it IS over that horrible hill!
We had a good group - 10 horses on the Saturday. Sunday dropped down a bit as we had some who for
various reasons could only do one day of the course. It was a shame because we all learned so much on
Sunday, even though most found it a bit more challenging than the Saturday. After all, if you're not out of
your comfort zone then you're not learning! By the time Sunday ended, all the horses and handlers had
made some huge changes, and are well placed to continue with their home study of level 1.
Russell's float loading demo on Saturday was a highlight for me. He used Amanda's mare Bree. Now,
Bree loads on the float pretty well, and travels well. However, on Saturday when we arrived we unloaded
Basil from the float first. And, before I even had a chance to undo the butt bar on her side (thankfully I
hadn't yet stepped onto the ramp or I would have been flattened), she decided to limbo underneath it.
Took some skin off her back doing it, but she wanted out so she got out. Luckily Amanda has just undone
her lead rope, so we didn't end up with a horse half way under the bar fighting against being tied up. I
never realised that the way the horse comes out of the float gives you a really good indication of what they
think about being IN it. So, even a horse that loads well and travels well - so we think they're OK - can still
have real issues mentally about the whole floating thing.
It was great to be able to see so many subtle signals from the horse and see her make a really significant
change. Russell is great at talking us through everything that is happening and pointing out small things
that we otherwise might miss. It really reinforced to me that it isn't about the float - it is about the horse's
confidence. Russell made a point of really retreating at times. Not just backing the horse off and playing
friendly game (which is what I normally do), but actually turning around and walking away from the float for
a significant distance. During those retreats was when Bree sighed and licked her lips, dropped her head,
and really thought about things. And, the next time they came back to the float, you could see the difference in the way she was thinking. It was the best float loading demo I've seen yet. Thanks Russell!
Oh, and by the way - when we got back to Amanda's place to unload the horses...we had trouble getting
Bree OFF! She was quite happy, thanks very much. Didn't need to come out. We managed to back her
off one step at a time, by Amanda playing porcupine/yo yo from inside the front of the float. It was the funniest thing - you know, late at night, under torchlight, wind blowing a gale, all we wanted to do was get to
bed, and the horse wanted to stay in the float rather than come out... I guess you had to be there!
All in all we had a great time. We all learned heaps and the newbies (at least the ones who stayed Sunday as well) are totally motivated to continue with level 1, because of the changes they saw in their
horses. They've asked for another clinic, so I am organising an Advancing Partnership Clinic for early
next year, which will be at Upper Hutt. Anyone who has either done a level 1 clinic, or is following the
home study system, can come along to that with their horse, and of course everyone else is invited to
come to audit. Anyone who is interested can contact me on Gaz175@xtra.co.nz
Sandra Gow
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Volume 1, Issue 7
Running a Horse Sanctuary
Billie Dean
Animal Communication
If you have a genuine love of animals, running an animal sanctuary fills the heart to overflowing. To me the most satisfying thing in the world is to see my rescued horses happy and
healthy, running and playing in large paddocks. I love the happy faces and shining coats of
dogs I’ve taken from death row and brought back to health, and I love their different and
unique personalities.
Billie with Erin
We didn’t start off thinking of ourselves as a sanctuary. We just had big hearts and a belief
that no animal should be killed just because they are homeless or unwanted. The more we
opened the door to that world of animals as disposable commodities, the more our compassion grew, and the more we wanted to change things. Also as a professional animal communicator, how can you say “no” to the ones who ask you for help?
We started in rescue with one elderly old trotter that someone had rescued then left alone in a paddock with no one
to talk to but the kangaroos. When we came across him on a ride one day, he was dying of a broken heart.
We had to fight for the trotter’s mental and emotional health but his person, who saw him once a year, finally relented
and gave him to us. He lived a very happy last ten months with other horses for company.
A 17-hand racehorse industry discard called Monty was another early rescue. His person had been told he’d never
make a dressage horse because he threw his head. It was to be the end of his story. He ran away from home
through an open gate (left open by the “expert” dressage woman) and found us across a busy road at night. He
stayed, became my husband’s first Parelli horse, and learnt not to throw his head.
A horse dealer’s yard we wandered in to by “mistake” found me staring in horror at the handling and condition of the
horses there. I sent out a silent message to those that wanted to be with me, withdrew hard earned savings from our
bank account, and took home three of them.
Another rescue, Samantha, was a Shetland pony with badly neglected feet. They looked like Chinese slippers when
she was found. She was rescued and ended up at our place – a Ballyoncree fixture.
Jaffah’s person was in personal strife, and once I heard about the situation, Jaffah kept appearing in my mind. She
said nothing – trusting I would get the message. I did. We sent a float to pick up her and her paddock mate Maverick. Three days later their paddock was burned in the fury of the Canberra fires. They would not have survived. We
lost Maverick last year and today Jaffah is one of our special needs horses for no reason except she wants to be.
The other members of her herd are a pony with no teeth and two sight-challenged horses, one of whom needs constant care, as she is just not constitutionally strong.
Today we have 28 horses that we have given a forever home to. That means they are here for the rest of their lives.
We don’t care if they can’t “perform”. They’re happily living like brumbies, in different
herds, handled often, and very friendly.
In fact, ten of them are brumbies, safe because no one wanted to see them on the pony
market. And Finn, our pony brumby stallion, is here because the first thing he said to me
was, “I don’t want to be dog meat.”
One “horsewoman” who visited us complained to me that I “should” be working my
horses. They “should” be doing things. But she met some as she was crossing our creek
and apologised a short time later. “They’re really happy,” she said incredulously, and
went away to rethink some of her “shoulds”.
Bindi, a no teeth special needs
elderly pony, shares his breakfast with Gwenny the goose.
When someone tells me horses need to “do” things, I remind them that brumbies are
happy in the wild and certainly aren’t craving to piaffe. Wearing my animal communicator’s hat, I can tell you that
most horses, and especially show horses, need a massage. And yes there are horses who enjoy their “work”, but
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Volume 1, Issue 7
(Continued from page 31)
there are also horses, for example, who resent being forced to breed and others who want
have a different life path than the one ordered upon them.
to
A classic example of this is a filly who didn’t want to be a racehorse. She foresaw her own
death on the rails and played up for her trainer every time she went to the track. She told
me she would much rather be an eventer. Sadly she never got her wish.
Ups and Downs
Dougal plays with Finn the
brumby stallion who didn't
want to end up dog
The up side of running a Sanctuary is, of course, the animals. If you have a healing bent
like me, it’s a wonderful thing to see a neglected, abused, or abandoned horse transform. Like Rupert – a nervous
wreck from the racing scene who went “ballistic” in Sydney agistment, even tearing up small trees. At home, in a
free environment, we’ve never known him to be anything other than a gentle sweetheart.
With gentle handling and simply leaving them alone to be horses, we’ve turned around a
lot of lost causes. They begin to regain their trust, and they respect your politeness.
The down side of running an animal sanctuary is, of course, the financial side. It helps to
have a fundraising plan so you can hire staff and have everything you need to take care of
the horses in a healthy and holistic way. You also need to take care of you. I used to do
free animal consultation work for numerous other sanctuaries both here and in the USA.
Tammy starved on agistment and
is now here for life. Our daughter The people all got burnout and closed up shop. Their animals were homeless once again.
The people’s relationships split up and I guess, at some point, the financial struggle, the
Tamsin
has fallen in love and Tammy has bottomless pit of unwanted animals, and the cruelty of mankind got to them.
become her riding pony.
On the other hand, a fabulous example of how a good Sanctuary is run is Best Friends, in
Utah, USA. They have about 1,500 animals on 3,000 acres. They had a team of very dedicated friends who ran it
and when it got too much for them, they opened it up to volunteers and donations and were able to carry on.
We’ve run Ballyoncree Animal Sanctuary on our own for the last 10 years, and started rescue work 20 years ago.
But like Best Friends, last year (2006) we decided to open up to sponsorship and donations so we could carry on.
With financial backing you can do so much more. Right now we’re at maximum capacity for two people and a child
to handle successfully – especially when we also work to support the Sanctuary.
One of the secrets to a successful Sanctuary is to have helpers so you can play, and take time out – even occasional
weekend breaks. Especially together with your partner. You have to be able to have a normal life to refuel yourself
so you can best serve your animal friends.
I realised we weren’t doing that when someone said to me, ”The nurturers need to be nurtured”. We’d had two unexpected and sudden deaths in the horse herd, lost four of our elder dogs, and had been nursing high-need animals
intensively for several years. I was feeling emotionally fragile and tired and the word “burn-out” threatened to apply
to me. Being aware of it was a good start to helping me through it.
The Future
Twelve years ago I was given a vision of how our Sanctuary would run and be of service to people and animals in a
much wider capacity. I’m excited we are on track with this and enjoy seeing it unfold. It starts with building a community through our on-line newsletter.
Our dream now is to hire a holistic manager /animal nanny so Andrew and I can have more time to put energy into
education in various forms. Homeless animals are always going to be a problem until people start to realise animals
are sentient beings with hearts and souls and feelings. They are not disposable commodities and they do mind being killed – very much. I think that in the future humanity will look back and feel shame for how we treated our furry
brothers and sisters.
As writers and filmmakers Andrew and I have an opportunity to tell stories and touch people’s hearts. Our film company’s mission is to entertain, uplift and inspire. (See http://www.laughingowl.com,au)
I also teach animal communication around Australia so others can hear the animal’s stories and learn to listen to the
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Volume 1, Issue 7
(Continued from page 32)
silent language of nature.
It’s not always easy running an animal sanctuary when you’re tenderhearted and
fall in love with each and every one. There can be a lot of ups and downs. But as
I said at the beginning, there’s something about living with animals this way that is
special for the heart and soul. Our horses are teaching us life lessons, taking us
on an amazing spiritual journey and are definitely here for a purpose.
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Ballyoncree Thoroughbred herd winter 2006
Billie Dean is a professional animal communicator who teaches animal communication and healing. She has studied
with elders from different native cultures and believes in respect for all creatures. Billie is in demand as a teacher
and speaker. She can be contacted on billie@laughingowl.com.au
Web: http:://www.billiedean.com
HOW YOU CAN HELP THE BALLYONCREE ANIMAL SANCTUARY
•
•
•
Sponsor a horse. See http://www.billiedean.com/general/donations.htm
Donate goods or funds. See to the Newsletters page at http://www.billiedean.com for the latest wish list.
Volunteer. Contact Billie for details.
Also, check out: http://www.ballyoncree.com
Play Equipment
Tyre Platform
Made by Pat Miller
I just got an old tractor tyre from local tyre service
(they are happy to get rid of them).
Cut out the inside edge on one side
(using a electric Jigsaw).
Fill with rocks, gravel etc to 3" from the top.
Then add some cement reinforcing wire, and fill to
top with cement.
The whole thing would have only taken about an hour
and a half if BJ hadn't been helping!
(photo’s show BJ the horse, helping)
And the platform is a finished size of 1.4m wide
x .450m high.
Who says we need a man, we just need a horse by the name of BJ :) Cheers, Lee