The Australian Draught Horse

The Australian Draught horse is mainly derived from the results of cross breeding the original four pure bred draught breeds imported into Australia;  the Shire,  Clydesdale, Percheron and the Suffolk Punch.  More recently, a fifth draught horse, the American Belgium was bred in.   In the 1980’s Marlie Draught Horse Stud imported a Suffolk Punch mare from the UK, and a Belgian stallion from the USA.   Both made a considerable contribution to the breed.

The Australian Draught Horse Stud Book Society was formed almost forty years ago to encourage the breeding, working and showing of heavy horses throughout Australia.   The various branches of the Australian Draught Horse Stud Book Society holds regular meetings and horse working days.

For more information on the Australian Draught Horse Stud Book Society,  see: http://www.australiandraughthorse.com

Aleks Berzins with young geldings Hank and Williams, working at potato lifting, Kadwell’s Farm, Crookwell Potato Festival May 2017.

Australian Draught Horse Foals 

New foals at Marlie Draught Horse Stud this Spring, 2018

Just a few days old, Marlie Gemma and Marlie Rubble with their Dams.    Both are sired by WoodBarn Hector

Marlie Gemma decides to explore further afield

Immediately followed by Marlie Rubble

Closely watched by Marlie Molly, six weeks old

who decides a roll in Mum’s hay is preferable.

Marlie Molly showing the strong, sturdy looks of an Australian Draught. 

All three foals display the quality sought for in this breed – hybrid vigour at its best.