Members Step Up to Support ANZAC Driveway Tribute

Pony Club members from around the country have jumped in to show their gratitude for our fighting men and women in all wars and conflicts – and all war horses - by standing in their driveway in tribute.

CEO Dr Catherine Ainsworth said most Pony Clubs around Australia take part in their community’s ANZAC Day services and parades, either mounted or unmounted, and some saw this as a way to support that tradition now that everyone is in self-isolation.

“COVID-19 was not enough to stop them dressing up, in uniform or costume, with flags, signs and poppies, to pay their respects. There were over 100 photos sent in from every State in Australia this week.”

Pony Club members particularly identify with the Australia Light Horse, and the men who took horses into battle. Some members ride horses with Waler bloodlines. Walers became legendary with the Australian Light

Horse for their feats of endurance and bravery on the battle field during WWI. By 1867, the Waler had developed a reputation as one of the finest cavalry horses in the world.

Walers were originally bred to be stock horses that could withstand the extreme conditions of the Australian outback. They were able to go without water for prolonged periods and proved even more effective than camels for their desert endurance. And just as Pony Club members need tough, fit horses for many of the sports they compete in, such as showjumping, mounted games, eventing, polocrosse and tentpegging, they also like horses that are ‘bomb proof!’

Watch the Video Anzac Day Driveway Tribute below: