The legacy of Australia’s mounted infantry forces and in particular the contribution made by local horsemen, is set to continue with the reformation of the 8th Light Horse troop.

Prior to WWI, militia troops were formed in the states to protect Australia, with some of these units being sent to the Boer War as mounted infantry. They learned quickly, the guerilla warfare of the Boers and became hardened fierce fighters.

On returning, the harsh lessons learnt were taught to new recruits of the militia. There were trained troops throughout Australia, ready to defend the country.

In WWI, men and horses left the Upper Murray and enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force. Some were in the infantry, some in the Light Horse and others in logistics, transport and other roles. They helped to create the legend of the ‘ANZAC’.

In the early 1930s, the militia units were reformed, with training camps and mounted military competitions held regularly. As part of the 8th Light Horse Indi, a troop from Corryong and one from Walwa, distinguished themselves in various ways.

When WWII broke out, the Light Horse stood ready to fight but the days of the horse were over, with the corps becoming mechanised. Leaving their horses at home was a hard wrench for the troopers but they still joined up to do whatever the Australian Defense Force required.

‘With never a sound of trumpet, with never a flag displayed,
The last of the old campaigners lined up for the last parade’

However, life goes on. A small and dedicated group has reformed the 8th Light Horse Indi Upper Murray Troop and is looking forward to attending Anzac Day services and other events in the Upper Murray.

The troop is holding an introduction day on Sunday September 1st at the Tintaldra Recreation Reserve.

Riders over the age of 16 are welcome – call 0423 56 230 for more information.

There will be an Australian tent pegging judge in attendance to give tuition in the sport and skill at arms and a retired master farrier to answer all your questions about hoof care and other topics. A director of the Australian Light Horse Association will also be in attendance to demonstrate the military uniform and saddlery of WW1.

Spectators are welcome. Please be advised there will be no catering available so it is BYO lunch.

Light Horse boasts a rich history

The 8th Light Horse (Indi) Regiment superseded the 16th Light Horse in 1919. It had its headquarters at Benalla with sub-units throughout the Upper Murray and North East. In December 1941, the regiment converted from horse to mechanised, initially as 8th Reconnaissance Battalion.

Then in July 1942 it became 8th Cavalry Regiment and served in Northern Territory. As the Japanese threat to the mainland declined the regiment was disbanded.

Close to 60 men from the Upper Murray initially enlisted in the Light Horse – although some moved on to Field Artillery, Provost Corps and Cyclist Corps. Their average age was only 24.

Five of these men would not return from the front, while many would be permanently affected by their experiences and die at an early age.

One light horseman would survive the horrors of the front only to die in Australia’s first aeroplane accident and another would be killed when his bicycle was hit by a car in Albury.

This article appeared in the Corryong Courier, 22 August 2024.