Stockhorse Has Appeal Beyond The Farm Fence

Newcastle Herald

Monday December 19, 2005

By FRANCES THOMPSON Upper Hunter Reporter

THERE is movement at Rosebrook farm, an Upper Hunter property, where Terry Blake is preparing for his big horse sale.

The January event will see some fine stockhorse flesh for sale.

Once thought of as an indispensable mixed-breed work animal, the stockhorse is increasingly sought after for leisure and pleasure.

Mr Blake's grandfather bred them on a family property between Muswellbrook and Denman.

His father continued the tradition and Mr Blake, at Rosebrook for 60 years, has refined the breed.

"My horses are all over Australia and I have sold to England, Ireland, New Zealand and New Guinea," he said.

United Kingdom buyers want them for polo, they are exported to the United States for polocrosse and in Australia campdrafting is creating a big demand.

Campdrafting, which showcases the co-ordinated skills of rider and horse in rounding up stock, is said to be the fastest-growing equine sport in Australia, outstripping rodeo.

Prizemoney is increasing and important campdrafts, such as the Ellerston event on January 14 and 15, will need more than 1000 head of cattle to cater for all the competitors.

Australian Stock Horse Society business development manager Ray Hynes said export potential and home-grown factors were driving the trend.

"The desire for recreational activity is growing and seems to go hand in hand with the development of smaller rural properties," he said.

These are lifestyle farms, not providing economic returns but supported by income from non-rural jobs.

Mr Hynes said prices for a "leisure horse" started at between $5000 and $10,000.

Mr Blake said his horses were renowned as "good fronted".

"If they are heavy in the throat they are more likely to be pulling a cart," he said.

"Fineness in their heads and necks shows an agility and responsiveness to a rider."

Mr Blake and another Upper Hunter breeder expect to field more than 100 stockhorses in the January 28 sale.

The Scone stockhorse sale will be held in March.

© 2005 Newcastle Herald

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