Successful Heavy Horse Festival at Allora

Last weekend the weather was hot but perfect for the tough breed of Heavy Horses at the Allora Showground.

This being the second year of running the Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival over two full days.

Organisers were thrilled with the crowd of around 5,000 through the gates with Saturday being a huge day.

Over 100 horses were on show or competing in the many and varied events from ploughing, dressage, harness, saddle, working and led classes with Champions judged in each category.

Added attractions this year were exhibits from the Rare Breeds Trust of Australia.

Visitors were amazed by the 11 year old Damara Wether, with the biggest tail you have ever seen as well as donkeys, miniature goats and Highland cattle.

Competitors came from near and far – Kempsey, Armidale and Tamworth down south, north from Bundaberg and Emerald and of course plenty of entries from our local region.

The organising committee was thrilled with the turnout and would like to thanks all the wonderful sponsors, competitors and visitors who made this weekend a rip roaring success.

Plans are already underway for next year’s Festival which will happen around mid-March 2024.

Taking a look at the Darling Downs Heavy Horse Festival

Photos: Katelyn Caldwell

See all the pictures in the issue.

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 22 March 2023.