Wild Beginnings: Discover the Art of Pack Saddling in Australia
Horse woman and horse trainer, Kate Young, Pack-saddling through the Australian Bush
There’s something deeply Australian about disappearing into the bush with horses, carrying only what you need, travelling slowly through rugged country and reconnecting with the land in a way modern life rarely allows.
For many people, that dream has always felt just out of reach — something reserved for seasoned horsemen, remote stockmen or experienced bush trekkers.
But a new hands-on workshop in regional New South Wales is opening the door for everyday Australians to experience the world of pack saddling and long-distance horse trekking for themselves.
Hosted by Australian horsewoman/ horse trainer, Kate Young, of Wild Horsemanship, the Wild Beginnings: Introduction to Pack Saddling Workshop is designed specifically for beginners wanting to learn the foundations of pack horses, bush travel and practical trail skills in a welcoming, supportive environment.
What Is Pack Saddling?
Pack saddling is the traditional art of loading horses to carry equipment, food and camping gear for long-distance travel through the bush or remote country.
Before vehicles reached many isolated regions of Australia, horses were essential for moving supplies through mountains, forests and rural terrain. Today, pack saddling continues through bush trekking, mountain riding, endurance adventures and remote camping trips.
Unlike modern fast-paced travel, pack horse trekking invites people to slow down, travel intentionally and experience the bush in a far more connected way.
For many Australians, it’s becoming part of a growing movement back toward traditional bush skills, horsemanship and authentic outdoor adventure.
About The Wild Beginnings Workshop
The Wild Beginnings workshop is an immersive, hands-on introduction to pack saddling and long-distance horse trekking.
Rather than simply watching demonstrations, participants will actively work with experienced horses and learn practical skills needed for preparing horses and equipment for the trail.
According to Kate, the goal is simple:
“To get more people out into the bush and experiencing this way of travelling with horses.”
The workshop is designed to build confidence while giving participants a realistic introduction to pack horse travel in Australia.
Participants Will Learn:
Foundations of pack saddling
Handling pack gear and equipment
Preparing horses for the trail
Bush trekking basics
Safe loading techniques
Practical horsemanship skills
Understanding balance and weight distribution
Trail preparation and horse management
All horses and equipment are provided.
Workshop Dates & Location
The workshop will be held over the June Long Weekend in beautiful bush country near Ebor, New South Wales.
Location
Ebor, NSW
Dates
6th & 7th June
Participants can choose between a one-day or two-day experience.
1-Day Option
Saturday
10am – approximately 4pm
$220
Includes tea, coffee, morning tea and BBQ lunch
2-Day Option
Saturday & Sunday
Starts 10am Saturday – finishes approximately 2pm Sunday
$400
Includes all meals
Includes bunkhouse-style accommodation or powered campsite
Spaces are intentionally limited to keep the workshop hands-on and personal.
Why More Australians Are Returning To Bush Horse Culture
Across Australia, more people are searching for experiences that feel real, grounded and connected to the land.
Pack horse trekking offers something modern life often lacks:
simplicity
adventure
practical skill-building
connection with horses
immersion in nature
self-reliance
genuine community
As interest grows in Australian bush culture, horsemanship and traditional outdoor skills, workshops like this are helping preserve knowledge that has long been part of Australia’s rural heritage.
While many equestrian spaces are increasingly influenced by international riding trends, pack saddling remains deeply tied to Australia’s own bush traditions and working horse history.
Who Is This Workshop For?
The workshop is ideal for:
horse lovers curious about pack trekking
riders wanting new adventures
people interested in bush skills
those wanting to explore Australia differently
beginner pack horse enthusiasts
riders wanting practical horsemanship experience
You do not need previous pack saddling experience to attend.
The environment is designed to be beginner-friendly, supportive and practical.
A Different Way To Experience Australia
There’s something timeless about travelling through the bush with horses.
No rushing.
No screens.
No noise.
Just horses, country, practical skills and the rhythm of the trail.
For people wanting to reconnect with Australian bush culture and experience a slower, more meaningful adventure with horses, Wild Beginnings offers a rare opportunity to learn from experienced horse people in a truly authentic setting.
How To Book
Places are limited.
To enquire or book:
Email: kate@wildhorsemanship.com.au
Phone: 0422 198 232
Website: https://wildhorsemanship.com.au/
Kate encourages people to leave a message if she misses the call, as she may be working or out in the paddock with horses.
Final Thoughts
The Wild Beginnings: Introduction to Pack Saddling Workshop is more than just a clinic — it’s an invitation back into the Australian bush.
For anyone dreaming of travelling with horses, learning traditional bush skills or simply experiencing the freedom of the trail, this workshop could be the beginning of something much bigger.
