Our History

The Australian Stockhorse, possibly the world’s most versatile horse, evolved through selective breeding in response to the demands of the environment.  Hardened over years of mustering and droving in trying climatic conditions saw the basis and foundation of Australians first breed.  Australian horses had been selectively bred for strength and stamina, reliability and versatility.  The use of Thoroughbred stallions over condition hardened local mares produced the beautiful strain of tough but stylish animal exemplified by today’s Australian Stockhorse.

By the late 1960’s and early 1970’s a small group of horsemen and horsewoman deemed it important to establish a Society, so that these great Australian horses would not be lost genetically and future generations could be recognised and officially recorded.  In June 1971 the Australian horse was given the recognition it deserved with the formation of the Australian Stockhorse Society.

The Society quickly spread and soon there were branches in Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory.  Victoria entered in 1973, with the formation of branches in Victorian occurring in 1975. Five in total – Upper Murray, Gippsland, Central & West, Swan Hill and Melbourne Metro.

In the late 1970’s, with a rapid expansion in member numbers, a mutual decision was made to formulate a West Gippsland Sub Branch.  West Gippsland’s founding father, Ian Stuckey, was the main driving force behind this, he is still recognised today with a memorial trophy at our annual Branch Show. In June 1984 the Board gave its approval for the West Gippsland Sub Branch to be elevated to full Branch status.  Larry Cutler of Lardner was elected unopposed as the first Branch President with Maureen Lawson being elected unopposed as Secretary.  Some of the original Branch Committee included Graeme Cook, Mick Howes, Aub Goodman & Ian Stuckey.

The Branch continues to go from strength to strength with an Annual Show, Challenge and Campdraft and schools held regularly.