By Kath Gannaway
IT’S not every day history enthusiasts can get their hands on a rare collection, but that’s exactly what’s on offer at Gulf Station in Yarra Glen.
Heritagecare, a partnership between Heritage Victoria and conservation volunteers, is calling for volunteers to pull together the story of waler horses at Gulf Station.
Heritagecare project officer Paige McAlpine said it was a unique opportunity for anyone with an interest in heritage and history to gain skills in cataloguing a significant collection.
Gulf Station, one of the oldest and most intact farm complexes in Australia, is one of Victoria’s treasured National Trust properties.
Ms McAlpine said among many of the now rare livestock bred at the property were waler horses.
Gulf Station manager Clemens Unger, who is in charge of a waler breeding program, said the property was famous for its waler horses
“The waler was the signature horse of the Light Horsemen and horses from Gulf Station were sent overseas, including to India as remounts for the British Army,” Mr Unger said.
A donation of walers to Gulf Station this year has provided the opportunity to start a new breeding program.
Along with the horses came a wonderful collection of saddlery, two original World War I uniforms and other memorabilia.
“This collection needs to be catalogued and displayed,” Ms McAlpine explained.
Volunteers would need to commit to working on the project two days a week for six months, but Ms McAlpine said there were very definite rewards attached to that commitment.
“As well as having the opportunity to work at this magnificent, historic property and learn about our history and heritage, volunteers will come away with the skills to be involved in ongoing heritage projects.
“There is also a tremendous sense of achievement in working on these types of projects,” she said.
Training would include first aid and occupational health and safety components as well as cataloguing and display skills.
For more information about the project contact Ms McAlpine on 9326 8250 or 0428 367 118.
