Our demanding 41-day approach consists of a rigorous daily routine, confronting self-realisations, long days full of horsemanship, difficult ranch work, and arduous travel across tough remote bushlands on horseback. Through this hard work, veterans are faced with challenging physical and mental pressure that enables them to look internally for root causes and to re-gain inner strength to thrive with purpose.
During the program, combat veterans embark on the “Hero’s Journey” and a process of transformation to “un-program”, to self-discover, and to reframe the many tangible rewards gained from service. They will gain new insights and perspectives that will lead them to discover renewed purpose and to build the resilience that is necessary to successfully transition back into civilian life. This journey is not easy, it is confronting, and it is life changing; but ultimately, it leads towards a choice – to accept or to change.
The horse human connection is real – If you are angry, your horse is angry, if you are anxious, your horse is anxious. The horse will expose your inner truth, expose your falsehoods, make you work hard to be your authentic self and to be present. The horse is the litmus paper and mirror to your soul, you cannot hide. There are no shortcuts, you must connect, lead and protect your horse otherwise you will not succeed in achieving the tasks set before you.. you will fail, unless you face yourself. This is also true in life.
The Heroes and Horses Australia program is not suited for all veterans and has been developed for combat veterans specifically. Attendance is via an application process that must be completed in its entirety in order for the applicant to be considered for our program. It’s also important to note that family members, spouses, friends, etc. cannot apply on behalf of the veteran – they must apply themselves. It is critical that you want this for yourself.
There are only 6 participants per program. Once your application has been received and reviewed, you will be notified whether you have been offered a position. Please note, those individuals who have been accepted will be given one week to confirm their participation. After that week has lapsed, any available positions will be offered to individuals on the “standby” list.
who is eligible?
The program has been developed for male combat veterans.
participant age and weight limit?
There is no age limit but, we do have a weight limit of 118kgs for safety reasons.
Do you need horse experience?
No.
Pricing?
The program is free to attend (including flights to and from NSW). However, participants are responsible for their own medical expenses, so medical insurance is required.
spouse contact?
If you opt for it, we will send out periodic communication to spouses to keep them informed of activities as well as share our experiences. Part of this will be to help with any expectations they may have for you during and after the program.