Introduction to the Australian Stock Horse Society

The Australian Stock Horse Society (ASHS) is a non-profit organization that was established in 1971 with a mission to preserve, promote, and improve the Australian Stock Horse breed. The society is headquartered in Scone, New South Wales, and has members from all over Australia and abroad. The ASHS is dedicated to maintaining the breed’s heritage and ensuring that the Australian Stock Horse remains a versatile, athletic, and reliable working horse.

History of the Australian Stock Horse Society

The Australian Stock Horse has a rich history in Australia, with its origins dating back to the early colonial days. In the 1800s, settlers needed a horse that could handle the harsh Australian terrain and work with cattle. These settlers began breeding horses with a mixture of bloodlines, including English Thoroughbreds, Arabians, and Timor Ponies. This led to the development of the Australian Stock Horse, a horse that was tough, agile, and intelligent, and could work all day in the harsh Australian conditions.

The ASHS was founded in 1971 with the aim of preserving and promoting the Australian Stock Horse breed. Since then, the society has grown into a large and active community of horse-lovers who are passionate about this iconic Australian breed.

Purpose and Objectives of the Society

The ASHS has several purposes and objectives that guide its activities. These include:

• Promoting and preserving the Australian Stock Horse breed
• Providing education and information to breeders, owners, and enthusiasts
• Conducting competitions, events, and shows to showcase the breed’s versatility and athleticism
• Maintaining the breed standard and registry
• Accrediting breeders and judges to ensure that they meet the society’s standards and criteria
• Supporting research and development related to the breed
• Promoting the breed internationally and fostering partnerships with other organizations.

Membership and Benefits of Joining

Membership in the ASHS is open to anyone who shares the society’s passion for the Australian Stock Horse. Members can enjoy several benefits, including:

• Access to the society’s publications, including the quarterly magazine, The Australian Stock Horse Journal
• Invitations to participate in events, competitions, and shows organized by the society
• Access to the society’s online database and registry of Australian Stock Horses
• Educational resources, including workshops, seminars, and clinics
• Networking opportunities with other members who share their interest in the breed.

The Australian Stock Horse Breed Standard

The Australian Stock Horse has a unique set of physical and behavioral characteristics that make it well-suited for working with cattle and other livestock. The ASHS has established a breed standard that outlines the ideal characteristics of the Australian Stock Horse. This includes:

• A compact, muscular build with a deep chest and strong hindquarters
• A short, broad head with a kind and intelligent expression
• A balanced and agile movement
• A calm and willing temperament
• A coat that is typically bay, black, chestnut, or brown, with occasional markings.

Competitions and Events Organized by the Society

The ASHS organizes a wide range of competitions and events that showcase the Australian Stock Horse’s versatility and athleticism. These include:

• Campdrafting, a traditional Australian sport that involves working cattle and cutting them from a herd
• Showjumping and dressage competitions
• Barrel racing and other speed events
• Working equitation, which tests a horse’s ability to work with livestock and navigate obstacles
• Trail riding and endurance events.

The ASHS also hosts the annual Australian Stock Horse National Show, which is the largest gathering of Australian Stock Horses in the world.

Accreditation for Breeders and Judges

The ASHS has established a rigorous accreditation system for breeders and judges to ensure that they meet the society’s standards and criteria. Breeders who wish to register their horses with the society must adhere to strict breeding guidelines and provide evidence of their horse’s ancestry. Judges must undergo training and demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the breed standard and judging criteria.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

The ASHS is committed to preserving and conserving the Australian Stock Horse breed and its heritage. The society supports research and development related to the breed, including genetic testing and breeding techniques. The ASHS also works with other organizations to protect the breed’s natural habitats and promote sustainable practices.

Partnerships and Collaborations with Other Organizations

The ASHS has established partnerships and collaborations with other organizations that share its passion for the Australian Stock Horse. This includes working with breed societies and clubs in other countries, as well as collaborating with government agencies and conservation groups on initiatives related to the breed.

Conclusion: The Future of the Australian Stock Horse Society

The ASHS has played a vital role in promoting and preserving the Australian Stock Horse breed for over 50 years. With its active community of members and its commitment to education, competition, and conservation, the society is well-positioned to continue its important work in the years to come. The ASHS remains dedicated to ensuring that the Australian Stock Horse remains a beloved and iconic symbol of Australia’s rich cultural heritage.