Waler Warhorses

Waler Warhorses

These photos were taken, amongst many others, by photographer Alun Bartsch in early 2014. MAGO FILMS spent the day at Enderslea Farm filming a farewell scene for a documentary called Australia’s Warrior Horses about the Waler Horses that were used in World War 1. The term Waler is just a shortening of New South Wales. They were bred there for their sturdy resilience under very rough outback conditions and therefore found to be perfect for dangerous wartime situations. I had never been this close to a film crew before so it was rather thrilling and of course I was delighted to receive so many wonderful shots of the various actors and crew. They later used the Bindoon Agricultural College main building for a Turkish scene so it was convenient for them to have these sites so close together. This year is the Centenary of the Gallipoli Landing and this documentary will be one of many that contribute to the celebrations that are planned for 2016.
In 1918 a great uncle of mne called James Souter was killed at Villers-Bretonneux in France. The next couple of years Australias participation in the European war will be remembered.