Australian Stock Horse Society Reaches 200,000 Horses Within 50 Years

It is with great excitement, The Australian Stock Horse Society (ASHS) announces, the 200,000 horse has been recorded with the Society.

A one-year old, black mare named BULLWADDY TILLY DEVINE, owned by Bullwaddy Stud from Katherine in the Northern Territory, was determined to be the 200,000th horse. The horse carries Heritage Australian Stock Horse bloodlines including ABBEY, ELLIOTTS CREEK CADET, DOGWOOD COMET and should be a great prospect for the owners in years to come.

It is difficult to know if a group of 100 enthusiastic horse people interested in the preservation of the Australian Stock Horse in 1971, could ever have imagined the Society would grow into one of the largest pleasure and performance horse breed organisations in Australia, recognised nationally and internationally across the equine industry.

The Society they founded is heading towards its 50th Anniversary in 2021. It grew from humble beginnings in a small office in a backyard, to an organisation with 59 active branches throughout Australia, as well as in New Zealand and the United States of America.

The Society’s growth is truly global with members in South Africa, Canada, Ireland and United Kingdom. The new CEO - Andrew Cooper brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. He looks forward to leading the Society into this momentous time for the Society.

Registration is an official way of permanently recording bloodlines, breeding trends, horse identification and maintaining ownership records. As an added advantage, the Society provides events, awards and opportunities for registered horses and members. What the Society offers is valued by members and horse owners alike.

ASHS provides training opportunities along with Youth Development programmes, including a National Youth Point Score, National Youth Exchange Programme and National Youth Show.

One of the most prestigious moments for the Australian Stock Horse was the Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony in 2000, when the Australian Stock Horse took centre stage whilst an estimated 3.7 billion viewers from 220 countries and territories learned the remarkable history of this Australian Icon.

This breed’s versatility and success in a variety of disciplines, has seen it recognised as “The Breed for Every Need”.

A new initiative this year, is the introduction of a new registration category for horses not previously eligible for registration, named the Registry. To be eligible, horses must have Heritage Australian Stock Horse ancestors and satisfy the requirements for registration, pass Society Inspection for conformation and ASH type, be DNA tested and identification recorded as part of the registration process.

Whilst the devastating drought and fires have impacted many regions of Australia, ASHS members are a resilient group and it is amazing to see the continued support of the breed. In recent months, the Society has offered members an opportunity to renew their membership and lodge Registration applications at discounted prices. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the severe drought and unprecedented fires.

People from all walks of life can be involved and the Society provides an opportunity to CONNECT WITH LIKE-MINDED PEOPLE while ENJOYING THEIR PASSION for horses.

The ASHS aims to bring communities together through events and activities, from event officials to volunteers, competitors and spectators. There is something for everyone and for all ages, whether a family group or an individual. Attending an event can be a way of stepping back from life’s pressures and enjoying some time with others.

To commemorate the Society’s 50th Anniversary, the ASHS has partnered with the iconic Australian family Business, ADINA Watches to produce a unique Mens & Ladies watch exclusive to the ASHS. The beautifully designed watches are completely assembled in Australia and include a 2-year warranty. To view images and pre-order, ashs.com.au Online store.

With a growing global profile and member base and with quality Australian Stock Horses being bred throughout Australia, New Zealand, United States of America and the United Kingdom, this iconic legend will continue to grow and succeed for years to come. Members trust in the organisation and the breed is highlighted by 200,000 horses now recorded with the Society.

For further information please contact The Australian Stock Horse Society 02 6545 1122, or www.ashs.com.au

Supplied by ASHS

Article courtesy of Equestrian Australia