08/01/2026
We are often asked whether we desensitise our brumbies, and the answer is yes, absolutely. But we don’t just bag them down. We work with the whole horse. True desensitising means helping them feel safe in their mind and body, and this is what builds a genuinely sound, reliable horse. Combined with the Brumby‘s natural intuition and gentle nature when handled correctly, they become exceptional partners.
One of the most important things that sets Brumby‘s apart from many domestic horses, is there incredible ability to read energy. With a Brumby, you must be willing to earn their trust and build a real connection. If you rush them, ignore their feelings, or treat them as though they don’t matter, they won’t respond, and will very quickly put you in your place.
This doesn’t mean the Brumby hasn’t been trained. It simply means you aren’t yet connecting with them or haven’t earned their trust and respect. With Brumbies, that connection is absolutely paramount in order to move forward successfully with them.
Mac is a 6 year old KNP gelding that I established a good bond with over a period of about 6 weeks training back in Aug/Sept last year. With a 4 month break with no handling and time off spent in the paddock, I resumed training with Mac 1 week ago and was delighted at the connection I still had with him. In this particular session today, I introduced Mac to Big Ted and whilst Mac was initially unsure of Ted he trusted me, and allowed me to place Ted in the saddle strap him on before Mac moved off calmly and without fuss on the lunge into a nice steady trot. Mac can be nervous around new people and it does take time to build trust with him. Time and patience is your best friend when building a connection with your brumby and by giving them that they will reward you plenty.
