Horse Deals Bushfires Blog

Fran Adam Photo's

2009-02-27T09:36:00.000+11:00

My name is Fran Adam retired photographer and contributor in the past to Horse Deals magazine.

I would like to offer those unfortunate owners and victims of the Victoria fire & Queensland flood victims a chance to retrieve their Photos of horses taken by myself from 1979 to year 2001 free of charge.
I still have my stock of negatives (not digital) of clients horses photographed at various Shows in NSW & ACT during those years.
I would like to offer those victims the original negatives, at no charge at all, so that they can have their loss reprinted. Many photos will have got burned or flooded and so ruined. As I am now retired and no longer do the printing (at 84 years of age) the best I can do is pass on those negatives to those previous clients.
They would know who they are and I have the negatives well documented and if it was "Fran Adam" who took the horse photo at any of those times and so could inform me of their needs regarding the horse photos.
I would need to know: The Show or Stud, approximate date and year, name of Owner or handler, address where proofs were sent to at the time. Also horse name if possible.

My postal address is: Fran Adam, P,O, Box 275, Warilla, NSW 2528
Email address is : franadam@optusnet.com.au
Telephone number: 02 4295 4807

Yours Sincerely,
Fran Adam Photographer (retired)

Bushfire doggies HAVE ALL FOUND HOMES

2009-02-20T10:07:00.011+11:00

ATTENTION: ANYONE LOOKING FOR A NEW DOG!

Following the recent fires around Gippsland there has been a lot of stray dogs collected by the Pound. These dogs are housed for about 8 days in the hope they are adopted. If after 8 days they have not been adopted they are then euthanased.

Obviously it would be lovely to find them all a new home. Therefore I thought I would send this email around to everyone in the hope that someone may be interested in adopting a new pup/dog. As outlined in the description below they all have nice temperaments but require desexing, microchipping and vaccinating at your cost.

I have also enclosed photos of all the pups/dogs with a brief description.

Please let Pauline (below) know if you are interested or if anyone you know may be interested.

Puppies: four females, approx 10 weeks old, short hair, mostly black but some with white on chest or collar, probably kelpie or border collie cross. Arrived with Sheila (see below) so might end up looking like her. Due to be euthanased if home not found in next four days.

Sheila: was admitted with pups and thought to be mum. Probably not likely as no sign of milk. Female, short haired, maybe 8-12 months, probably kelpie cross, seems very quiet and sensible but a little shy. Very, very thin so needs some TLC. Also has 4 days to find a home.

Jake: very tall crossbred male, probably wolfhound. Coarse, short hair, sandy coloured, maybe 12-15 months. Nice temperament, very safe but big and needs to learn some manners on lead.

Jack: male Jack Russell or Jack Russell cross. Seems fairly sensible and quiet. Probably older dog. No time left to find home. Will disappear as soon as rangers get around to picking him up.

Chico: very, very cute scruffle-headed poodle or poodle cross. Black male. Small and seems to have lovely temperament. Has 2 days to find home.

Jasmine and Sarah: both black lab females. Both seem nice to handle and friendly. Youngish but adult. Sarah has 4 days left and Jasmine 6 days.

Please help if you can.

------------
Pauleen Bennett, PhD
Pauleen.Bennett@med.monash.edu.au
61 03 9903 1144
Anthrozoology Research Group
www.animalwelfare.net.au/arg/
Animal Welfare Science Centre,
Department of Psychology,
Monash University, Caulfield campus
900 Dandenong Road
Caulfield East,
Victoria 3145, Australia

BUSHFIRE RELIEF PUB RIDE

2009-02-20T09:45:00.001+11:00

Saturday the 7th of February 2009 will forever be remembered as one of the worst bushfire days in our history.
Our thoughts are with those who have lost their homes, possessions or loved ones.

THEY NEED OUR HELP!!!!!!!

We are organising a fundraising ride to the Bannockburn Pub.
All you need is a horse or a bike and a donation; all money raised will go directly to the Bushfire Fund.

DATE: 22nd FEBRUARY 2009
TIME: Leaving from Teesdale Equestrian Center by 9:30am

Lost- Spyrow and Shimmer

2009-02-20T09:34:00.004+11:00

Sharon Waters: 8c Emily street Seymour Vic.

Spyrow: Chestnut Gelding 8 years old Branded SW near shoulder 1over 0 off shoulder. 3 white half stockings star and snip.

Shimmer: Chestnut Mare 7 years old 3white stockings blaze Not Branded.

Both horses were together at a property in Reedy Creek we have been down to see if we can find them and asked all around but havent found them. The fences had been cut so I'm hoping they might have got away from the fire's but it dosent look good for them.
I can be contacted on 57922213 or 0409210463

Horse Gear Collection for VIC Fire Victims- Feb 2009

2009-02-19T19:24:00.004+11:00

Well I started this as a small collection at the SEC T-Shirt day which was scheduled for the 15th Feb. I sent out an email asking for people to donate items they have in their tack room but no longer need to be transported down to Victoria to help people out with replacing some of their lost horse gear. The email very quickly spread and we had to set up over ten collection points in NSW, from as far south as Wagga Wagga to Coffs Harbour in the north. It was a much bigger task than I had initially planned so I had to organise four days off work to collect the gear, sort, wash and pack, all in 6 days! We had everything donated from electric fence gear, feed tubs, saddles, bridles, halters, rugs, riding jackets, boots, jodpurs, helmets, saddle cloths, fly masks, vet products, dog and cat food & equipment, etc. There was a lot of gear donated which had to be sorted. All rugs were washed if needed and individually packaged with sizes marked, I don’t think I’ve ever done that much washing in my life!!

In summary, over 350 rugs were sent, over 200 halters and leads, 9 large boxes of vet supplies, about 90 saddlecloths, 150 feed bins, 100 bridles, 120 fly masks, 60 grooming kits, boxes of jodpurs & riding boots, helmets, show jackets, whips, spurs, chaps, work boots & bandages, plus a lot of other stuff! There was also over 200kg of dog & cat food, dog beds, leads & toys donated. We still have approx. 40 saddles, more bridles and also the winter rugs to sort through and send. Pick-ups still need to occur from Wagga Wagga and Coffs Harbour to bring home and be sorted out, I haven’t had any volunteers for those runs as yet! One truck left on Monday 16th with Sydney Horse Transport destined for Melbourne, where the gear is being distributed through Ascot Saddlery, the EFA and Project Hope to Kilmore, Kinglake and Whittlesea. The second truck will be going down soon with the rest of the gear.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO TOOK THE TIME TO DONATE GEAR!!

The below businesses have all contributed to this worthwhile cause:
Sydney Horse Transport
Southern Cross Horse Transport
Triple Crown Horse Wear- Ourimbah
Saddleworld- Tuggerah
Sydney Equestrian Supplies- Ebenezer
Horseland- Tuggerah
Horseland- Maitland
Horseland- Moss Vale
Horseland- Raymond Terrace
Horseland- Dural
Horseland- Coffs Harbour
Horseland- Wagga Wagga
Horseland- Narellan
Horseworld- Cessnock
Mosman Park
Emmas Show Horses
Coast Kids Horseriding
Mini Jump- Tuggerah
Michelle’s Horsey Bits- Tuggerah
Pankhurst Equestrian Services
Camelot Horse Rugs- Castlereagh
Terrace Saddlery- Raymond Terrace
Hopkinsons Coaches
Plastic Sales Pty Ltd
Zoomates- Narellan
Kirkwoods- Rutherford
Furneys Rural- Rutherford
Kincumber Pet & Produce
Visual Vinyl
Hunter Natural Horsemanship Centre
Mcgraths Stock feed- Tuggerah
Stable 8
Lake and Valley Leisure Craft

The below organisations have also contributed:
Somersby Equestrian Club
Central Coast Dressage Association
Alexander Park Dressage Club
Northside Riding Club
Zone 24 Pony Club
Zone 25 Pony Club
Central Coast RDA

Special thanks to the below individuals who have helped out for this cause:
Mum & Dad, my sister Bec, Jamie & Naomi Martin, Carol D’Silva, Jacinda Condon, The Robb family, Lyn Butler, Sue Douglas, Jackie Hill, Page Coulson, Robert Pankhurst, Chris Donnelly, Carol Heuchan, Patti Soloman, Michelle Johnston, Michelle Siroky, Ben Watson, Darren Piper and Cindy Meadows

Leonie

My story

2009-02-19T19:20:00.002+11:00

Hi my name is Meegan and i had my horse advertised in your February issue but sadly he was killed and obviously can no longer be for sale.
He was killed in the bush fires and here is my story.

Firstly just wanted to say how sorry i am to everyones loses whether it be family friends relatives houses anything i am so sorry but i wanted to share my loss and I am not being selfish just expressing my feelings and I truly am sorry to everyone who has lost my heart breaks for you all and good luck to everyone as well in the up and coming fires and i hope everyone pulls through.

Just wanted to let everyone know i am beside myself we tried to save all the horses but my boy bear died Sad. He ran up the hill and into the fire with 9 other horses.
He saved me after my brother died he was my rock and he helped me through everything i am heartbroken and don't think i can recover from this one.
I found the bodies as well.

I also saw women and children dead and the elderly.
I tried to save as many animals as i could dogs, cats and horses.
One horse i had to put down myself. We had no help except for the locals in our little town of Flowerdale and everything is gone apart from the pub and local store cause the boys worked their asses to save those 2 heritage places.

My farm is gone along with my beautiful boy bear and 9 other horses agisting but 3 of my horses survived (my old standy 25) (my donkey 10) (and my new boy clydie x jenson 3 yrs old) They are hiding in my dam and my dad and bf are fighting their asses off to save what little bit of farm we have left.

Me and my mum had to get evacuated out of their because my mum wasn't breathing properly. She is ok now and safe and we are in Melbourne.

My dad and boyfriend got back last night and are ok just resting and recovering before we head back up again on Friday to start repairing our farm. Our shed was saved thanks to the fellas from Flowerdale that came down and put out fires around it. And we do have some supplies left so thank you to everyone that has offered things but we are ok.

I just feel so awful for all those families that have lost everything. They have lost their families, friends, neighbors, animals, and houses. If I can do anything please let me know cause I know what it feels like to lose family and animals to tragic circumstances.

I just wanted to say my heart is broken and R.I.P to my beautiful man you are gone but never forgotten Sad. I will miss you forever and i can't wait to see you again one day standing next to my brother and my grandpa and everyone else I have lost in my life.

ASH raising money for the Victorian members affected

2009-02-18T14:10:00.002+11:00

VICTORIAN BUSHFIRE DISASTER
More than 180 lives lost. Australian Stock Horse members have been either directly or indirectly affected by the disaster with ruined properties, destroyed fencing, burnt out pasture, fodder storage ruined and the like. The Society through its Members, Branches and Management Councils are offering assistance to affected members with a FUNDRAISING RAFFLE in an effort to support those members needing to coming to terms with the disaster and support them with the continued care of their horses.
How will the money raised be used?
• All monies raised will used to support affected ASH Members and branches, individuals or groups, as a result of the recent bushfires in Victoria.
• The West Gippsland Branch of the Australian Stock Horse Society will manage the funds raised and oversee the distribution of funds.
• NO fees will be deducted from the funds raised for administration costs.
• Affected members must contact the West Gippsland Branch to report their situation.
• The donation is not tax deductible.
Initial plans for distribution of funds could include:
• Assistance in obtaining access to livestock supplies to the region, feed and hay.
• Temporary accommodation for horses in affected areas where no boundary fences exist.
• Assisting with transport of horses where owner’s transport has been destroyed.
• Locating and uniting lost horses with their owners.
THE AUSTRALIAN STOCK HORSE SOCIETY
PO Box 288, SCONE NSW 2337 ABN 35 001 440 437
Telephone: 02 6545 1122 Website: www.ashs.com.au
Facsimile: 02 6545 2165 Email: info@ashs.com.au
BUSHFIRE FUNDRAISING RAFFLE
Peter and Kerri Allan of Emu Creek, QLD have donated a yearling gelding
STOCKHAVEN LUCKY STAR – Reg. No. 187926 to be raffled, with proceeds
going to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.
1st Prize - STOCKHAVEN LUCKY STAR
Registered Australian Stock Horse - 187926
1yo Brown Gelding by BLUFF DOWNS JAKE, out of HAMILTON PARK SPRINKLE.
YALLATUP RIVOLI REX - IS
YALLATUP SIMON
YALLATUP SELENA
Sire: BLUFF DOWNS JAKE
neron 02
BLUFF DOWNS BEAUTY
bluff downs mare 01
STOCKHAVEN LUCKY STAR
COMARA ABBEYS CATTLE KING - IS
KYABRA CATTLE BARON
KYABRA LADY KAREENA
Dam: HAMILTON PARK SPRINKLE
ABBEY - FS
COMARA SUNDANCE
SUN SHOWER
His sire, BLUFF DOWNS JAKE was a successful performer in Led classes, Futurities and Campdrafts. He has produced
a number of successful Futurity and Campdraft winners. Progeny of Jake have been noted for their good temperament
and trainability and he has produced the following outstanding horses:
• MORTIMERS KERRIE ran 2nd in the Cloncurry Challenge - beaten by half a point. This mare was
sold at Dalby ASH Sale in December 2008 for $23,000.
• STOCKHAVEN RHYTHM was the High Point 3yr old and 4yr old in the South East Queensland futurity
series.
YALLATUP SIMON for many years was the resident sire at Bluff Downs Station in North Queensland. Simon sired many
good campdraft horses in North Queensland. Simon is by YALLATUP RIVOLI REX, who is by RIVOLI RAY.
His dam, HAMILTON PARK SPRINKLE, is a good producer with a filly from her selling for $7000 at the National Yearling
Sale. Sprinkle is by the very well known KYABRA CATTLE BARON and her dam was by ABBEY. Sprinkle was a very
successful campdrafter in juvenile events in her younger days.
The owners believe that Lucky Star is a show quality gelding. The owners plan to show him at several shows prior to
attending the Championships in Scone in May 2009. His breeding indicates that he should perform well once started
under saddle. He should mature between 15 - 15.1 hands.
Tickets: $5.00
Tickets available: Australian Stock Horse Society, PO Box 288, SCONE NSW 2337
Drawn: Australian Stock Horse Championships – 22nd/24th May 2009.

Bushfire donations STOP!!!!!!

2009-02-17T13:50:00.000+11:00

Please note we cannot accept any more goods donations. We are overflowing!!!!!
Money donations are still needed so we can supply products in sizes/styles that are suitable for each person/horse.
Nothing is to be sent to us without prior authorisation. We now need to understand that local businesses and transport companies need to earn an income to stay afloat.
Many Thanks,
Highlands Saddlery & Produce Store

Temporary or permanent home

2009-02-17T13:37:00.000+11:00

Hi i am writing to offer a home tempory or permanent for a small pony all expenses paid. My horse lost his two mates in the fires at Taggerty and is looking for a new mate, any age not for riding just as pal. Im located at Talbot 60 km's from Ballarat, will pickup and hopefully I can help someone out who has been affected by the bushfires and is looking for a home for their pony my number is 03 54632347.

Taking Hay to Victoria for Rescued Horses

2009-02-17T13:18:00.016+11:00

I know a lot of you were keen to hear about my trip on the weekend – so I thought I’d send out an email letting you know what happened and attach a few photos.

Just to recap… following the devastating fires in Victoria, there was an urgent request for hay, chaff and horse supplies. Many of the areas where the fires passed through have been completely wiped out. There is no feed for the animals because all the grazing has gone, many of the property owners have lost everything including feed supplies and there are many animals in need of constant care. A number of dedicated people managed obtain huge quantities of donated feed, a large transport company offered to pay the costs for two trucks to take over the feed and two truck drivers donated their time.

I went over in one of the trucks to help with the coordination, and a friend of mine (Aleathea Howard who pulled a lot of this together) went over in the other truck. In the two trucks we took 750 bales of hay, approximately 100 bags of chaff and many horse rugs, fly masks etc.

We loaded the trucks up on Friday evening and made an early (4:30 am!) start on Saturday morning. We drove through to Toolern Vale (about an hour beyond Ballarat) where we met up with up our Victorian Coordinator who told us he would be escorting us to a farm just outside Whittlesea. This farm was being used as a refuge for horses that had escaped the fire but, due to the devastation of the land, had nowhere to go. He told us they currently had 26 horses there. Although several of the horses were suffering from smoke inhalation and mild burns, none of the seriously injured horses were being kept at the farm – those with serious injuries were being kept with the vet where they were receiving 24 hour medical attention. However, he told us that our supplies would not only be used for the horses currently on the property, they would also be passed onto people who desperately needed help.

We arrived at the property at 3:30 pm. We were greeted by a group of people who treated us like old friends. They were so grateful for the help they were receiving. Everyone pitched in to unload the trucks and we shown many of the rescued horses. My particular favourite was a pony called Napoleon who was suffering from smoke inhalation and a few burns. He was the most seriously injured of all the horses on the property. He was receiving a lot of medical attention from the volunteers at the farm and was enjoying all the attention – although he wasn’t too keen on receiving his injections and taking all the medical paste.

The most amazing thing that struck me was how positive everyone was. We heard some incredible stories. One couple had lost everything – their house was totally gone. Yet they laughed when they told us that the one thing they didn’t like about their house was two pine trees on the property. When they returned to their house a few days ago everything was gone… except for 3 pottery items, the two pine trees and their horse float (which was parked under the pine trees). They thought it was so ironic that the pine trees had survived – but they told us they were happy because their horses and dogs were safe.

A mother and daughter had 3 horses at the farm. They told me they were so worried because they were told that when the fire came through, all the gates on the property had been opened so the horses had the best chance to escape. Maddie (the daughter) was worried because she had visions of one of the horses running in front of a fire truck. They knew that some of the horses had survived, but some hadn’t been so lucky but they weren’t allowed to go and check their horses until the following day. They told me that when they found their horses they were in a paddock that was completely burnt out – there wasn’t an area that had escaped the flames. Yet somehow, their horses had escaped almost unharmed (except for smoke inhalation, singed eyelashes and singed whiskers).

The lady running Merri Park was incredible. Her name was Sammi and she was part of the horse care charity called Triple R. She was constantly helping people and administering care to injured horses – I was amazed by how much energy she still had! She had arranged for a BBQ for the 4 of us (Ally, myself and the two drivers) and for the people who were looking after the horses. Everyone was so kind to us, yet some of them had lost everything. During the BBQ there was even birthday cake for Stuart (one of the people who had lost everything in the fires). There were no candles so we had to put a match in the cake… everyone joked that we ought to be careful as perhaps a match in a birthday cake could have been responsible for the Kinglake fires. It was incredible to see how positive and happy everyone was. They even offered us rooms in the farmhouse overnight (which we gratefully accepted).

We left Merri Park at 4:30 am on Sunday morning and arrived back in Adelaide around 2:30 pm. In total we had covered almost 1600 km. It was an exhausting weekend, but it was an incredible experience. I feel privileged to have met such wonderful people who showed me that possessions are not the most important thing in life. Instead it’s the internal spirit, knowing that your loved ones (including your animals) are safe and the support of people around you that counts.

People and Companies that contributed to this mission include:
· Dean Lewis – Dean is a farrier from Victoria who sent out the request for assistance and was our coordinator.

· Aleathea Howard (Ally) – Ally organised the two trucks, two drivers and the feed

· Eric and Geoff – Our 2 drivers who volunteered to make the trip from Adelaide to Victoria

· Visyboard – Visyboard allowed the 2 trucks to be used and paid for all petrol

· Marlborough Park – Marlborough Park helped supply a lot of the feed and also offered feed and equipment at cost price so proceeds raised by could be used to purchase additional feed and equipment to come on the trucks

· Sammi Whitehead – Sammi looked after all the horses at Merri Park and was doing most of the medical work. She was part of the horse welfare organisation, Triple R.

· Triple R (http://triplerequinewelfare.org ) – the horse charity helping with the homeless and injured horses.

Regards
Cheryl Burke

Healesville Sanctuary temporarily closed

2009-02-17T12:54:00.001+11:00

On advice from the CFA Incident Controller, Healesville Sanctuary remains closed to the public this weekend. The closure is a precaution for tourists visiting the Yarra Valley and will allow staff to focus on the needs of the animals to ensure their safety.

While there is still fire activity in the region from the Maroondah/ Yarra Complex Fire, it is currently not posing a threat to the Sanctuary.

All animals are safe and staff have been working hard monitoring the property for smoke and burning embers and caring for critically injured wildlife at the Sanctuary's Australian Wildlife Health Centre (AWHC).

Only essential staff - keepers, veterinarians and curators - remain at the Sanctuary

The Sanctuary has been heartened by the messages of support from across the globe. If you would like to help native wildlife injured in the bushfires, please donate to the AWHC Bushfire Appeal in one of the following ways:

1. Calling 9285 9406 during business hours.

2. Donating online to Zoos Victoria Foundation here.

3. Mailing donations to: Zoos Victoria Foundation 2009 Bushfire Appeal PO Box 74 Parkville Vic 3052

Please be sure to specify '2009 Bushfire Appeal' when you are making your donation. All funds raised through this appeal will directly support the work of the Australian Wildlife Health Centre.

Clean rugs and gear only, Thank you

2009-02-17T12:24:00.001+11:00

All horse gear including rugs must be in good, clean and useable condition, apparently Highlands saddlery received some rugs that they had to throw out.... Remember people do not have washing machines and things to clean gear and rugs.

Housing for your animals

2009-02-16T13:50:00.000+11:00

Hello Everyone!

With the support of Dog Listeners Australia and a number of pet service providers, Fun4Paws is in the process of coordinating foster home care for the animals of the bush fire zones. Luke Williams and the team at Fun4Paws are now visiting fire affected areas to facilitate assistance for the animals as it's required.

An overwhelming response has been received from people wishing to volunteer to provide temporary emergency care for displaced animals (well over 10,000 emails and 500 calls per day). We are extremely grateful for these very generous offers to provide assistance and now have a tremendously long list of volunteer animal carers and will be in touch if an animal becomes available in your area.

As we have limited email and phone capacity, kindly refrain from sending any further offers for foster homes for animals at this point in time. Should we require more carers in the future, we will certainly let you know via our website www.fun4paws.com.au

For those of you who have family or friends affected by the bushfire that require assistance in temporary care for their domestic pets please contact Fun4Paws at:
contact@fun4paws.com.au
0447 115 594
0408 122 974

With Sincere thanks
Luke Williams and the team at Fun4Paw

Fun4Paws is now accepting donations to support the pets in need. Anyone wishing to make a donation to assist with the care of animals of bushfire victims. Details as follows:
Bendigo Bank (Fountain Court, Bendigo VIC)
Account Name: Emergency Animal Respite Care
BSB: 633000
Account Number: 136252087

Donations received will be utilised for the costs of caring for the animals in respite care and also wildlife animal victims

If you are seeking assistance with housing for your animals please contact Fun4Paws on 0408 122 974 or 044711559

Our sincere thanks,
Luke Williams & The Fun4Paws Team

RSPCA in urgent need of horse feed

2009-02-15T07:59:00.000+11:00

Our greatest need at RSPCA Victoria is now financial donations to support our emergency relief work.
100% of donations will support animals affected by bush fires.

*

Donations can be made online or by phoning 03 9224 2222.

*

Please forward cheques / money orders (payable to RSPCA Victoria) to:
Bushfire Appeal
RSPCA Victoria
3 Burwood Highway
Burwood East VIC 3151

*

Bank transfers can be made directed to our bank account:
RSPCA Bushfire Appeal
BSB 083-153
A/c 868326451
Please email accounts@rspcavic.org.au with your contact details (name, address, date and amount donated) to ensure we can issue a receipt.

*

We still need donations of the following animal supplies:
* Horse products
* Vet supplies, specifically for burns
* Supplement Horse Feed in bags - lucern, chaff, gum nuts, coprice etc.
If you are able to donate these items, please email jnoye@rspcavic.org.au.

*

If you are able to donate hay and fodder, please call 1300 882 833.

Free To Good Home

2009-02-14T20:37:00.001+11:00

Hi,
I understand that many people have lost horses to the bushfires and I would like to offer one of my horses free to a good home. He is a 21yo black t/b gelding 15.3hh. He would make a good companion horse or paddock mate. He has done PC and ARC but would need an experienced and confident rider. If there is anyone who has lost a horse to the fires I would be more than happy to give them Magic. My phone numbers are 56648347 or 0437746865 and I live just out of Mirboo North in Gippsland.

Regards
Marie

What we need most!

2009-02-14T20:35:00.000+11:00

I need to say a big thankyou to everyone who has contacted us with well wishes and contributions. The response is uplifting.

Everyday we have another person come in with a story of loss and it so good to be able to give them something to help.

The most needed gift from Saddlery is a rug, halter, lead, and a couple of brushes, some burn cream and of course the Nature's Botanical Fly Barrier.
Produce is hay, pelleted and soft feed for those with burnt faces plus lots of electrolites and immune supplements. The funding/donation for those additives would be most appreciated.

The next thing that will be needed is stable & farm tools. Will keep you posted.
Again thankyou for your help so that we can help our friends and community.

Peter & Bronwyn Kennedy
Joanne Archibald
Sam & Larry
Highlands Saddlery & Produce Store
125 Northern Hwy Kilmore Victoria
03 5781 0901
www.highlandssaddlery.com.au

Gear to Donate

2009-02-14T17:35:00.001+11:00

Hi
I have some horse gear that I would love to donate. I have listed it below. Can you put me in touch with someone that needs it? I would love to help someone who lost their gear in the fires and if possible, meet them/hand it over in person.

17" wintec dressage saddle with irons etc
Black sheepskin numnah
White dressage saddle blanket
Green show jacket, check vest, white shirts...ladies size 10-12 approx
Black velvet show helmet
Wooden saddle stand
Bucket, brushes etc
Black false tail
Black brown double bridle
Navy wool show rugs with green trim to fit 15hh horse
plus more bits and pieces

Thanks
Angie Armstrong
0412516038
Ocean Grove

Barastoc Service to be held

2009-02-13T17:21:00.001+11:00

During the 2009 Barastoc show there will be a mass/ service held on the Friday evening of the event at approx 6pm with Father Joe Giacobbe, This is to be conducted on the Main arena in Ring 1 at the Werribee Park National Equestrian Centre in Werribee.
This will be a time to reflect on those that have not only suffered during this tragic event but also have lost there treasured pets. It is a time to reflect on those people affected by the Victorian bush fires and many that will no longer be able to take part in the event.
During the event Equestrian Victoria and Barastoc Committee will be collecting relief for the bush fire victims. Barastoc HOTY has been running as scheduled, and chairman of the Barastoc committee Mr. Reg Cleland as been overwhelmed with the competitor’s generosity towards this tragic event.
At this stage in regards to refund of entries from this year’s Barastoc event no discussion has been entered into, this will be addressed case by case scenario.

Victorian Bushfires Lost and Found Registry

2009-02-13T17:20:00.000+11:00

PHHWV has launched a Bushfire Lost and Found Registry for Horses. This registry is for the hundreds of horses that have been misplaced during the recent Victorian fires.
We have received many calls from people who have had horses wander into their properties after the fires. Thankfully these people are happily taking care of these horses and have contacted us to help the horses be reunited with their owners.
PHHWV aims to identify surviving horses and match their details to their owners using the information listed on the registry. The registry will also enable us to tend to horses whose owners are injured and unable to look after them or whose owners have sadly passed away.
We are also aware that some horses have been removed from fire affected areas for veterinary treatment and in some cases the owner has yet to be located. We encourage these people, and the veterinarians who may have re-located horses, to register as soon as possible.
PHHWV is blown away by the support shown by the horse community. Donations of goods are coming from all round the country and we have been inundated with calls offering assistance from all around Victorian and interstate. We are pleased to say that we have close to 950 offers of temporary agistment for those in need.
If you have large quantities of feed and or hay that you would like to donate please contact us directly to make arrangements for delivery.
On behalf of the PHHWV Committee and the horses and owners affected by these fires we thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
If owners require more advice, assistance or donated goods please call PHHWV 1300 881 606 or visit our
web site www.phhwv.org.au

Drysdales Chaff Mill generosity

2009-02-13T14:33:00.003+11:00

Drysdale Chaff mill are supplying $15,000 worth of chaff to Whittlesea, the delivery is currently on it's way!

Out of the Ashes

2009-02-13T09:19:00.004+11:00

My retired horse is pictured in 'Out of the Ashes' we went up with the convoy from vichorse on Wednesday and got our horses out. My two horses, Molasses and Lexie who were in Kinglake are incredibly lucky to be alive. They are getting used to life with singed tails, manes, no eyelashes, whiskers or ear hair but they are okay. They have both been seen by vets and one is on antibiotics for smoke inhalation the other seems okay. We are so lucky to have them down.
These pictures show just what miracles these two are. They were in with two other horses- one is now dead, the other burnt- Mo and Lexie are okay!!!
Maddie

Fun4Paws

2009-02-13T09:16:00.001+11:00

Fun4Paws is currently offering emergency respite care to the animals affected by the bush fires, however there are many more animals than we have carers. There are large numbers of owners with nowhere to place their dogs. If you are able to offer a place to a dog in your home, please contact myself of Lynne Fitzsimmons and we will coordinate. Luke - 0415 104 044 contact@fun4paws.com.au Lynne - 0428 844 810 or lynne@fun4paws.com.au
If you are interested please let us know when your home would be available (dates) and if you have any other pets for us to consider when placing. Dog Listeners Australia wide have pledged $1000.00 the assist in the costs of food, petrol etc. so we hope that all costs of looking after a dog will be covered. Please assist us by forwarding this email on to all of your contacts so that together we can help the hundreds of dogs in need of temporary homes.
Luke Williams
Proprietor - Fun4Paws
0415 104 044
contact@fun4paws.com.au

Free Photos

2009-02-13T09:13:00.000+11:00

To families and friends of people who fell victim to this terrible disaster and have lost their homes and precious photos in the fires.
I would like to help in a small way by making available free replacement photos.
My kept records go back to Aug 1995, unfortunately there were no record of names kept, all of the pre 2004 photos are in negative form and will be difficult to identify. However, if by some miracle you have proof numbers the job is reduced to seconds in finding the image, if not then any information i.e. event year would be of help, at least you know the records do exist, 2004 onward can be sited on my website www.MorrieMathews.com all contact numbers can be founds there as well.
All photos will be supplied free of charge, to people who have lost their homes, they will be supplied on a CD in high resolution, to enable you can get your prints easily be made.

Best Wishes
Morrie
Morrie Mathews Photography
P.O.Box 4050
East Burwood 3151
Pn: 03 9802 2430
www.morriemathews.com
Fx: 03 9887 8135
Mb:0414 5017 44

Help offered

2009-02-12T15:34:00.001+11:00

Hi, we would like 2 help but not sure it will b of use. We have room 2 accomodate 6 horses and/or ponies temporarily. We have stables if any need medical treatment. No charge. Just how we can help. We don't have transport facilities though. LOCATED IN N.S.W (south west of sydney) BARGO. Name: Tara-ann cassidy and vicki hall. Address: 115 bargo rd Bargo n.s.w 2574 contact no.: 02 46 842196 or 0429 193002

Western Horse Forum taking donations

2009-02-12T14:50:00.002+11:00

VICTORIAN FIRE APPEAL PRESS RELEASE
The Western Horse Forum, an online network of like minded horse people Australia-wide have gotten together to try to do their part in helping the Victorian Fire Victims. Together with Mitchells at Helidon who have kindly donated a truck to deliver goods, the Western Horse Forum and its members are calling on the public to help out with donating
goods to send down south.
Items like toiletries, tooth brushes, hair brushes, socks, underwear, baby goods, pet food, halters and leads, fencing supplies, hay etc are all desperately needed by humans & animals alike. So far we have donations from all around the country, not only from our forum members, but locals in the areas where they live.
If you would like to help this cause we have numerous drop off points available.
NOTHERN AREA - Rayview Produce at Woodford
(Contact Sharon Adams 0417 647347)
WESTERN AREA - Gatton Saddlery
115 Spencer St Gatton
(Contact Leanne Gidman (07) 5462 8000)
IPSWICH AREA - Ipswich Showgrounds
Between 3pm - 6pm 13-14th February.
81 Warwick Road, Ipswich (main entrance)
So if you would like to show your support please contact one of the above or below for more information on where your closest drop off point is.
Melissa Cruden
Administrator- The Western Horse Forum
07 3294 7353
admin@westernhorseforum.com
www.westernhorseforum.com
Please note- 100% of all donations will be sent directly to the Victorian Fire Victims.

Bunyip Ridge Fire

2009-02-12T12:17:00.018+11:00

Australian Stock Horse exhibitor, Jenny Cooper contacted us to let us know how supportive the Australian Stock Society have been to all their members. Local Branch member, Ted Walker has been co ordinating the aid, whether it be feed, or financial assistance for fencing or vet bills. We drove down to affected areas in Jindivic, Drouin West and Labertouche, to see the shocking aftermath of the fires and visit Stock Horse members, Sally Fay and Greg Hollis, Kym Robinson and Ken O'Hagen and Jenny and Brian Cooper. They all suffered, but thankfully they, their children and animals are safe.
Thanks must go to Darryn Andrew, a friend of a neighbour, who not only came to help fight the fires, but had a cool head and steady hand to take the Jindivic fire photographs.

This is the first in a series of photographs taken of the Bunyip Ridge Fire as it impacted on Sally Fay and Greg Hollis' property at Jindivic. Threatening, but seemingly a long way away still.

The fire is moving rapidly and looking more and more menacing.

The smoke becomes more menacing on the horizon.

Fuelled by strong winds the fire approached very quickly. It was about an hour from first sighting to actually having to fight the fires.

This was taken at five in the afternoon.

The eerie glow of the fire rapidly approaching.

This is what Greg, Sally and their neighbours had to contend with. Smoke on the distant horizon to this in an hour.

Greg and Sally managed to save everything, including this little fellow, except the fences. The horses were evacuated the day before and earlier in the day. They did everything right and it paid off. Greg, who works for the DSC was quick to point out that this was a grass fire and although rapid in onset, did not have the terrifying magnitude of a forest fire, as was experienced at Kinglake. Sally took this photograph on Sunday morning.

Kym Robinson and Ken O'Hagan were not so lucky at Drouin West. They evacuated the horses, dogs and children and managed to save the house, but not as you can see the stables, which were about ten metres from the house. Ken and Kym are pictured 'at the stables' with their daughter, Esther.

Kym and Ken's neighbour, Bill Foster was described as a "life saver". He ploughed up the ground around the house, which helped save it and the following day was back to plough in some smoldering hay. Thankfully there are quite a few Bill Fosters around, heroes every one.

The remains of a hay shed in the Labertouche "dairy" country.

Jenny Cooper thought with justification that her horses would be safe on the property at Labertouche. It is flat dairy country virtually cleared of all trees.The four geldings in one paddock just suffered a singed tail, however, this Australian Stock Horse mare, 'Gee Jay Impressions' and foal did sustain some burns, but the vet is optimistic that they will recover.

Jenny Cooper's Australian Stock Horse, 'Gee Jay Basil' looks none the worse from the ordeal a couple of days ago. With just a bit of his tail singed, he is back in his rugs and wondering what we had for him.

The blackened dairy flats of Labertouche.

This hay shed at Labertouche was still smoldering on Wednesday after the inferno of Saturday the 7th.

Horses reunited with owners

2009-02-12T10:09:00.007+11:00

These are some photos of the horses on Coombs Road on Sunday. How they survived we don't know! but they stayed near the ruins of their owners house, even though the fences were gone. We caught them and took them back into town and reunited them with their owner, she thought they were dead so it was a moment of joy amongst the horror. Juliet.

Helping horses affected in the bushfires

2009-02-12T10:07:00.001+11:00

Morning everyone
This morning while I was watching Sunrise, they mentioned that they are needing halters to catch horses. People have lost everything, including their halters, saddles etc. I was hoping we could all forward this email onto all our horsey friends and see if we could help in some way. I have found a website http://www.phhwv.org.au/emergency.html Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria where people can make direct donations. http://www.phhwv.org.au/emergencyform.html
This link is where you can sign up to offer help of any kind. I know we live in Queensland, but I am sure that there is something we could all do to help. Thanking you
Genine Jackson

Horse Gear for Victorian Bushfire Horse Owners

2009-02-12T10:04:00.000+11:00

Saddleworld Stores around Australia are in the process of collecting new and used basic horse gear to distribute to horse owners affected by the Victorian Bushfires. What is needed in the short term are: halters, leads, cotton rugs, flyveils, feed bins, water buckets, brushes. Any used gear needs to be clean and useable. If you can help with new or used goods please contact your local Saddleworld store. All these items will be distributed via our Saddleworld Stores in Victoria. Click below for our store listings for drop off and pick up points.
http://www..saddleworld.net.au/index.php?option=com_content&task=category§ionid=4&id=13&Itemid=41

News from Kinglake

2009-02-12T10:02:00.000+11:00

Hi All,
Please feel free to pass this email on to anyone that may be interested. I have spoken to a couple of friends that are currently up on the mountain with their horses. Some have lost everything some have escaped damage. They have heaps of stuff up there that has been donated like headstalls etc and they really don't need more. Also in regards to feed they have had a lot of that delivered too and as there is very little in the way of shedding and storage areas for the fodder they are asking people to hold off on donating more. It would be ideal if anyone wanting to donate fodder could hold back for a few weeks and then touch base again when hopefully there will be somewhere to put it and things will be a bit more settled. The other thing is that a lot of the horses are leaving the area. A lot of the societies are setting up to help members so ideally it would be great for people to go
through them rather than just send random stuff. That way it will get to the people that need it most. Donating money through the red cross etc is really the best way people can help - particularly those from afar.There are now a lot of other areas effected by the fires so it would be great to spread the donations around. Thanks to everyone that keeps offering support,everyone up in Kinglake and around the area of Wandong etc are really appreciative and overwhelmed by it.
Vicki

Out of the Ashes

2009-02-12T09:57:00.004+11:00

Please find attached uplifting photographs taken from Kinglake earlier today (11/2/09) CLICK ON EACH IMAGE TO ENLARGE. This beautiful picture is proof that even during the worst times in Australian History, everyday Australians band together and get the job done.
A group of volunteers coordinated by animal welfare organisation Pet Haven (www.pethaven.com.au ) travelled in a convoy of horse floats up the mountain to Kinglake. Once there, they assisted bush fire victims in removing their horses from their devastated properties and getting them to safety in Whittlesea.
The convoy of floats was largely made up of members of an equine internet forum, who had been waiting for the roads to open in order to assist friends within the Kinglake area. Numerous trips up the mountain were made and over 30 horses bought down to safety.
It appears the demand for additional help from the volunteers will be needed over the coming days, as word spread throughout the Kinglake community that their horses were able to be safely evacuated from the area.

Free Agistment 18km from Yea in Highlands

2009-02-12T09:51:00.002+11:00

I have a horse stud 18km from Yea in Highlands and can offer free agistment for horses affected by the fire in large paddocks, private paddocks and stables stallions are welcome as we can accommodate them safely we have a vet on call 24/7
Owners are also welcome to stay with their horses as we have a large house with alot of spare rooms. Contact Debbie 57969343

Saddlery and equipment drive to help the bushfire victims and their horses in VIC

2009-02-12T09:37:00.004+11:00

There is an appeal for donations of suitable saddlery, particlarly halters, lead ropes and rugs for the horses affected by the
Victorian bushfires.
As a SA Central Branch member, we are calling on you to help our interstate ASH members, friends, family and also those
people that we do not know by donating any saddlery items that is in good serviceable condition.
Any suitable halter and lead rope will mean such a lot to people who have lost everything and now have nothing left to start again.
So now is the time to clean out the tack room and do something for others in their time of need.
If you can assist, please drop off your pre-loved gear to:
The Adelaide Polocrosse Club Grounds, Lobethal Recreaction Centre at the Polocrosse Club Rooms from Friday evening until
Sunday afternoon this weekend (14th & 15th February).
The will be a Goldners truck leaving on Saturday with a load of gear, so if you cannot get there by then, please still drop your gear
off as there will be more trucks making the trip during the week.
Yes, there is a polocrosse tournament on too, so why not stay and have a look at the sport that so many ASH members are a part of.
We will have SA Central Branch members on hand over the weekend, so you will see a familiar face as you drop
off your gear..
Please help, as this will only take a few minutes of your time and mean so much to someone else and their horse.
The rest is up to you.

Agistment for horses-Yea

2009-02-12T09:37:00.002+11:00

I have a horse stud 18km from Yea in Highlands
and can offer free agistment for horses affected by the fire in large paddocks, private paddocks and stables stallions are welcome as we can accommodate them safely we have a vet on call 24/7
Owners are also welcome to stay with their horses as we have a large house with a lot of spare rooms
Contact Debbie 57969343

FREE REPLACEMENT OF PHOTOS

2009-02-11T19:45:00.004+11:00

To friends and family of people who lost their homes in the fires. Julie Wilson Equestrian Photography is offering free replacement of photos for people who have lost their homes. We will also provide photos to people who have lost their homes and who have proofs on our website. We realise it is too early for people who have lost their homes, to be looking for photos but it may be something family and friends can organise.

We have all negatives and digital files back to 1994. We have records of people who have ordered photos from 2000, so we can find their proof numbers. Digital proofs are on the website back to July 2002. It is a great help if you can either supply proof numbers or as much information as you know. All photos will be supplied free of charge, to people who have lost their homes, on CD as high resolution files, so prints can easily be made.

Just click here for a special order form.

Julie Wilson Equestrian Photography
PO Box 382
Gembrook 3783
03 59 677 066
0408 547 378

2009-02-11T19:12:00.000+11:00

Hi Horsedeals

I am a member of Yarrambat Adult Riders, we live on 25 acres at Cottles Bridge. (about 4 km from St Andrews and 5 Km from Arthurs Creek). We are happy to accomodate dogs, horses, and people. We have good horse paddocks, a large fenced dog paddock (it keeps in my friendly border collie), and a office that could be converted to a bedroom.

Any other assistance that you need - just ask

Sue McKinnon mckinnonsue@optusnet.com.au

Help for animals

2009-02-11T19:10:00.000+11:00

The bushfires in Victoria have created a natural disaster of epic proportions. The loss of human life is difficult for us to appreciate.

AHIC, on behalf of the national horse industry, extends our sincere condolences to all those who have lost family and friends in this terrible tragedy. That so many people could lose their lives in only a few hours is incomprehensible. Many more people have been injured physically, and the mental traumas will go on for a while.

At this time access to the affected areas remains difficult. Much of the area has been declared a crime scene as authorities comb the rubble for victims. This is a very necessary step in coming to terms with the loss of human life.

There have also been significant impacts on animals unfortunate enough to have been caught by the fires. There is little information currently available on the effects of the fires on the many horses, cattle, sheep, goats, dogs, cats and wildlife in the area.

I have spoken with the Victorian Chief Veterinary Officer and with veterinary practitioners who service the areas to the north of Melbourne. There are sufficient human resources available. Many people are donating fodder and agistment. Halters, lead ropes, rugs and other basic needs have also been provided. All of this is being co-ordinated by the Victorian Department of Primary Industries. You can access their web site for information at www.dpi.vic.gov.au

Currently there are about 300 horses under treatment for various injuries, mainly superficial burns. In bush fires it’s the lower limbs and facial areas that suffer the most. Life threatening injuries are those that involve the feet because these can lead to destruction of the affected horse.

Internal injuries are caused by the temperature of the air near the fire front (often many hundreds of degrees Celsius), and the smoke and other debris that accompany the fire. These combine to cause injuries to the lining of the lungs which can result in another major cause for illness and death after fires. There have been many donations of veterinary supplies and bandaging materials which have assisted the veterinarians and carers considerably in these initial stages.

We need to remember that there will be no paddock feed in the affected areas for months. There will be an ongoing need for agistment and routine feeding and watering of livestock for many weeks to come. Local property owners are generously allowing extra animals in their properties at the moment. It is likely that others will also have to help for the future.

AHIC will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available. In the meantime AHIC is working with authorities to ensure that the needs of affected horses and their owners can be met.

RSPCA is providing temporary accommodation to animals at their shelters across Victoria. If your pet needs emergency accommodation - please phone 03 9224 2222. They are delivering emergency pet food to relief centres across Victoria including food donated by Hill's Pet Nutrition. If you wish to donate items such as pet food, bedding, leads and bowls you can deliver these to your local RSPCA.

The RSPCA will be working to reunite lost pets with their families.To support our emergency relief effort in other ways, please complete RSPCA _assistance form http://www.rspcavic.org/campaigns_news/bushfires_help_offer.htm detailing the the support you can offer.

Animal Aid in Coldstream is caring for domestic pets affected by fires Animal Aid has available boarding facilities that it has made available and has cancelled all private vet consultations to deal with injured pets in their vet clinic. Currently looking after dogs, cats, guinea pigs, rabbits, chickens, rats and some small livestock.

Animal Aid also distributing donations of pet food and has a list of people willing to agist larger animals Anyone wanting to assist can donate funds to assist with the boarding o animals and for vet care. Contact:- Lesley Humphreys, Trustee, Animal Aid, 0418982070

Wildlife Victoria (www.wildlifevictoria.org.au ) is responding and coordinating treatment and rescue of wildlife affected by the bushfires.

DOGS Victoria is a source of assistance re dog accommodation and minding - visit http://www.dogsvictoria.org.au/

The Help for Wildlife response team are based in the vicinity where the Kinglake/Healesville fires occurred are on standby waiting to enter the fireground when safe to rescue injured wildlife.

HELP FOR WILDLIFE - PO Box 181 COLDSTREAM 3770 Ph 0417 380 687 http://www.helpforwildlife.com/

The Cat Protection Society would like to offer the following assistance and use of equipment (subject to availability) for people around the Greensborough area that are affected by the bushfire:

• Veterinary treatment of cats

• Use of 22 hospital size cages

• IV drips and giving sets

• Bandages

• Antibiotics

• Transport vehicles and facilities

• Boxes

• Contact details for a local cattery that is also able to provide accommodation for cats.

CPS does not have appropriate facilities for dogs, only cats. The clinic has limited opening hours, so it is essential to phone prior to visiting, on 9434 7155 or 9434 7255.

Pet Industry Association members also have more than 850 dog boarding places and 550 cat boarding places donated by members - all details on Pet Industry Association website www.piaa.net.au

The Lort Smith Animal Hospital at 24 Villiers Street in North Melbourne is offering free medical treatment for pets affected by the bush fires. Please contact the Lort Smith Animal Hospital, 24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne on 9328 3021.

For people who would find it easier to get to our clinic in Mill Park please contact the Lort Smith Plenty Valley Veterinary Clinic on 9407 2030,

The Greyhound Adoption Program kennels in Seymour are also taking in any greyhounds who have been affected by the fires. They can be contacted on 5799 0166 for assistance

Temporary agistment - Albury

2009-02-11T19:05:00.000+11:00

Hi
We are located just north of Albury and would like to offer temporary agistment, we are on approx 100 acres. Please contact us for more details.

Kerrie and Geoff
E wyndhamhill@dragnet.com.au

A convoy of floats

2009-02-11T19:04:00.001+11:00

A convoy of floats are moving into the Kinglake area this morning to bring the injured animals back down to Kilmore. Thank god the injured are finally receiving treatment, its a longtime since the fire went through. This is just the beginning of the healing process for these poor unfortunate animals but at the same time they are fortunate to have made it this far. I just hope and pray that the emotion and interest from public continues over the next few months. This is just the first step in a very long journey on the road to recovery. God bless those wonderful souls collecting and treating the injured. Australia make sure you keep the support going for many months to come.

APRIL
Victoria

Shp at Coles on Friday

2009-02-11T19:03:00.001+11:00

Hi All,

If you can hold off until Friday to do your shopping, Coles supermarkets will donate all profits from that day to the bushfire appeal.

Please pass on to friends, family and colleagues

See the link below for more details.
http://www.coles.com.au/about/news/documents/Coles%20bushfire%20appeal%20donation.pdf

ACT REGION HORSE GEAR COLLECTION

2009-02-11T19:02:00.001+11:00

ACT REGION HORSE GEAR COLLECTION

Collection times:

Thursday 12 Feb 6-9pm CRC- Corner Randwick Road & Barton Highway, Lyneham

Saturday 14 Feb 10am- 2pm Hall Pony Club (Instructors school running)

Sunday 15 Feb 10am-12 pm CRC (NCEC dressage event)

Monday 16 Feb 6-9pm CRC

Business hours- Canberra Equestrian Centre- Chapman

Horseland Belconnen & Fyshwick

Items urgently required:

Halters and leads
First aid items- filterbac, gauze, bandages, burn cream, Manuka honey, Septicide
Salt licks
Electrolyte paste
Temporary fencing gear like pickets and bunting
Work gloves
Fly veils
Rugs
Insect repellent
Buckets (small for feed and big for water) someone went to Macca's and got us a whole lot of pickle buckets that were invaluable.

Old towels

Also very welcome:
Saddles
Saddle cloths
Joddies
Boots
Bridles
Grooming Gear
Hay nets

Please make sure items are in good condition. Packing boxes for sorting the above categories will be at collection points.

All items are being transported to Victoria by Star Track Express and going to a central point in Bendigo for further distribution by Triple R Equine rescue in conjunction with vets and the Victorian DPI.

Dogs In Need

2009-02-11T17:27:00.000+11:00

Hello all,
Fun4Paws is currently offering emergency respite care to the animals affected by the bush fires, however there are many more animals than we have carers.

There are large numbers of owners with nowhere to place their dogs. If you are able to offer a place to a dog in your home, please contact myself of Lynne Fitzsimmons and we will coordinate.

Luke - 0415 104 044 contact@fun4paws.com.au
Lynne - 0428 844 810 or
lynne@fun4paws.com.au

If you are interested please let us know when your home would be available (dates) and if you have any other pets for us to consider when placing.

Dog Listeners Australia wide have pledged $1000.00 to assist in the costs of food, petrol etc. so we hope that all costs of looking after a dog will be covered.

Please assist us by forwarding this email on to all of your contacts so that together we can help the hundreds of dogs in need of temporary homes.

Luke Williams
Proprietor - Fun4Paws

0415 104 044

contact@fun4paws.com.au
www.fun4paws.com.au

URGENT REQUEST FOR WHITTLESEA

2009-02-11T16:00:00.002+11:00

Horse Deals has received an urgent request for Bags of Feed for injured horses in the Whittlesea area. Drop off point is the Veterinary Clinic near the Oval at Whittlesea. A container must be filled by 8pm tonight as the road to the horses will be closed this evening due to issues with looting within the area!

Some Fantastic News

2009-02-11T15:54:00.002+11:00

Information has been received today that a large mob of horses has been sighted above Kinglake. It has been reported that the horses have obviously joined up from different properties when owners cut fences to allow the horses a chance of escaping the blaze. A number of horses have phone numbers spray painted on them. Hay has been dropped by air to the mob this afternoon. This is fantastic news.

To send product or feed

2009-02-11T12:28:00.004+11:00

Please send product or feed feel free to send it to Highlands Saddlery 125 Northern Hwy Kilmore 3764. (03) 5781 0901

Donations in the Penola area

2009-02-11T11:07:00.002+11:00

Please pass this message on!
Collection of secondhand or new horse equipment for the bushfire victims needed.
Things such as Halters, leads, rugs, bandages, ointments and other main necessities.
A main drop off point is Castec Penola and they will be parceled and sent up for “ Project Hope” to be distributed to those that need it.
The delivery of these items will be sent on Friday 13th February 2009.
Thankyou for your generosity.
Regards,
Jessica Mulraney
Penola Pony Club Inc.

Helping hurt and scared kids after a traumatic disaster

2009-02-11T11:06:00.002+11:00

By Dr Janet Hall
Clinical Psychologist:
Author: Fear-free Children, Fight-free Families, How to be Boss of Bedtime.

Children are able to cope better with a traumatic event if parents, friends, family, teachers and other adults support and help them with their experiences.
Help should start as soon as possible after the event.
It's important to remember that some children may never show distress because they squash it inside, but it may begin to ooze out in uncharacteristic changes in behaviour after several weeks or even months. Other children may not show a change in behavior, but may still need your help.
Children may exhibit these behaviors after a disaster:
1. Be upset over the loss of a favorite toy, blanket, teddy bear or other things that adults might consider insignificant, but which are important to the child.
2. Change from being quiet, obedient and caring to loud, noisy and aggressive or may change from being outgoing to shy and afraid.
3. Develop nighttime fears. They may be afraid to sleep alone at night with the light off, to sleep in their own room, or have nightmares or bad dreams.
4. Be afraid the event will reoccur.
5. Become easily upset, crying and whining.
6. Lose trust in adults. After all, their adults were not able to control the disaster.
7. Revert to younger behavior such as bed wetting and thumb sucking.
8. Not want parents out of their sight and refuse to go to school or childcare.
9. Feel guilty that they caused the disaster because of something they had said or done.
10. Become afraid of wind, rain or sudden loud noises.
11. Have symptoms of illness, such as headaches, vomiting or fever.
12.Worry about where they and their family will live.

Things Parents or Other Caring Adults Can Do
1. Talk with the children about how they are feeling and listen without judgment. Let them know they can have their own feelings, which might be different than others. It's OK.
2. Let the children take their time to figure things out and to have their feelings. Don't rush them or pretend that they don't think or feel as they do.
3. Help them learn to use words that express their feelings, such as happy, sad, angry, mad and scared. Just be sure the words fit their feelings - not yours.
4. Assure fearful children that you will be there to take care of them.
Reassure them many times.
5. Stay together as a family as much as possible.
6. Go back as soon as possible to former routines or develop new ones.
Maintain a regular schedule for the children.
7. Reassure the children that the disaster was not their fault in any way.
8. Let them have some control, such as choosing what outfit to wear or what meal to have for dinner.
9. Help your children know that others love them and care about them by visiting, talking on the phone or writing to family members, friends and neighbours.
10. Encourage the children to give or send pictures they have drawn or things they have written to family and friends.
11. Re-establish contact with extended family members.
12. Help your children learn to trust adults again by keeping promises and including children in planning routines and outings.
13. Help your children regain faith in the future by helping them develop plans for activities that will take place later - next week, next month.
14. Children cope better when they are healthy, so be sure your children get needed health care as soon as possible.
15. Make sure the children are getting balanced meals and eating enough food and getting enough rest.
16. Remember to take care of yourself so you can take care of your children.
17. Spend extra time with your children at bedtime. Read stories, rub their backs, listen to music, talk quietly about the day.
18. lf you will be away for a time, tell them where you are going and make sure you return when you promised or call at the time you say you will.
19. Allow special privileges such as leaving the light on when they sleep for a period of time after the disaster.
20. Limit their exposure to additional trauma, including news reports.
21. Children should not be expected to be brave or tough, or to "not cry.
22. Don't be afraid to "spoil" children in this period after a disaster.
23. Don't give children more information than they can handle about the disaster.
24. Don't minimize the event.
25. Find ways to emphasize to the children that you love them.
26. Allow the children to grieve losses.
27. Develop positive rituals and "anniversary" activities to commemorate the event. Help children understand that these events may bring tears, but they are also a time to celebrate survival and the ability to get back to a normal life.

Activities for Children
1. Encourage the children to draw or paint pictures of how they feel about their experiences. Hang these at the child's level to be seen easily.
2. Write a story of the frightening event.
You might start with: Once upon a time there was a terrible ___________ and it scared us all_________. This is what happened: ____________
Be sure to end with, "And now we are safe."
3. Playing with playdough or clay is good for children to release tension and make symbolic creations.
4. Music is fun and valuable for children. Creating music with instruments or rhythm toys helps relieve stress and tension.
5. Provide the children with clothes, shoes, hats, etc. so they can play "dress up" and can pretend to be adults in charge of recovering from the disaster and "being in charge."
6. Make puppets with the children and put on a puppet show for family and friends, or help children put on a skit about what they experienced.
7. Read stories about disasters to and with children making sure to talk about how people coped and recovered.

Please pass this on to a friend who needs it.
Onward and upward!
Dr Marc Dussault
P.S.
Please take the time to help those in need when they need it most. Forward e-mails like this one, give blood, donate food and clothes to the relief agencies, volunteer time... Do anything you can - it will help.
Every little bit helps - together, we can make a difference.

Bendigo Racetrack to establish our headquarters.

2009-02-11T11:04:00.002+11:00

Breaking News ˆ T.R.E.W have received confirmation that we have full use of the Bendigo SHOWGROUNDS to establish our headquarters.

The facilities include 230 stables, flood lit areas, water and importantly, secure storage sheds for feed and housing of the donated goods that are pouring in from all over the country. We have a vet committed to being on site 24/7 - who is geared up and ready to treat injured animals.

The immediate threat to horses left stranded in burnt properties is damage to hooves. Prolonged exposure to hot ground will cause a low grade overheating, that develops into heat induced laminitis. The prognosis for horses suffering this condition will be extremely poor. It is imperative the we move swiftly to relocate horses off burnt properties. Food and water intake is critical at this point to ensure that these horses, who have survived the fire, do not fall victim to dehydration or colic.

We are liaising with DPI and other organisations to facilitate this process, but for now, in most areas, no traffic is allowed into the worst affected areas.

Please communicate this news throughout the horse community - within 24 hours Bendigo SHOWGROUNDS will be the primary hub for Equine Relief. This is a major breakthrough and a big step toward our ultimate goal of preventing any unnecessary losses of horses during this terrible tragedy.

Details of assistance available and the Equine Relief effort can be found on the T.R.E.W Site.

Kind Regards

T.R.E.W Committee
Triple R Equine Welfare Inc.
www.triplerequinewelfare.org <www.triplerequinewelfare.htm>

Qld People wanting to donate

2009-02-11T11:02:00.000+11:00

Bushfire Appeal

In response to the devastating bushfires in Victoria recently, Queensland businesses and individuals have banded together in an attempt to fill a truck with hay, chaff, horse feed, veterinary supplies etc. to send down to those in need.

Headed by Nicole from NoBit Bridles and assisted by QHC, we are seeking donations of the above mentioned items AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. We are hoping that a truck can leave in the next 2-3 days and therefore it needs to be filled in the next 1-2 days.

Over the coming days and weeks charities will help those who have lost everything but unfortunately the conventional charities are not equipped to provide the much needed support to horse owners who need basic horse equipment, horse medical supplies and feed. Many groups have formed across the country to donate equipment and feed and we would also like to help where we can as well. We have arranged for a transporter to take much needed feed from Brisbane area to Melbourne. Once there, it will be distributed to those who need it by "Project Hope". Project Hope are an experienced organisation who will make sure that it gets to the right people.

How can you help?
You can drop items off at our collection points at Waterford (call or email for details)
You can donate items and we will pick them up.
You can nominate your property to be a collection point for donations.
You can donate your time by driving to collect donated items.

The fantastic people at Equilibrium have started the ball rolling with a donation of 200 bags of product. Thank you for this very generous offer.

A big thank you to Phil & Kelly Maas of Maroon who are donating hay (as well as getting other growers in the area on board).

Value Plus will be providing bandaging material.

Transportation

SCT Logistics have kindly provided transportation of the supplies to their warehouse in Victoria. Project Hope are working out of part of SCT Logistics’ warehouse in Victoria, showing the commitment this company has in the bushfire appeal.
SCT have also provided a drop off point for donations in South East Qld.

Equipment Donations

If you have spare horse equipment (bridles, saddles, rugs, halters) in good condition that you would like to donate, simply take to one of the two drop off points for horse equipment that have been established. Please ensure that any donated equipment is in safe and workable condition and take to:

Aitkens Saddlery:
Unit 6 / 1 Bryants Rd
Lognanholme
P: 07 3209 7506

Edwards Saddleworld Toowoomba:
152 Taylor St
Toowoomba
P: 07 4633 1480

Both stores have offered 15% discount on all purchases made in store and left for donation to the appeal.

If you are able to help please contact:
Nicole 0414 320 974/ help@nobitbridles.com
Fiona 0423 662 338/ fiona.thompson@dpi.qld.gov.au

FIRES - COMPASSION

2009-02-11T10:38:00.003+11:00

In the midst of hell he finds a friend.
Stezlecki Highway Mirboo North
This photo is so cute. Was forwarded to me and then I realised the Firey is our next door neighbour, Andy Lane.

LOL
Joan

Flight over Victoria

2009-02-11T10:29:00.005+11:00

Just wanted to share some pictures taken on a flight back from Sydney on Sunday afternoon after being on holidays and coming back from the fires. These pictures were taken as we were flying over Victoria.

Also wanted to say that I hope everyone stays safe and their horses too at this horrible time.

Jess

Urgent request to soft horse food and feed bins

2009-02-11T10:07:00.002+11:00

This morning we have had an urgent request from the Kinglake/Kilmore area. The horses from the burnt areas are now being brought out to safe places. Many of these horses have burnt faces and will not eat hay, as the sharp grass hurts their noses. People are in urgent need of SOFT HORSE FOOD, FEED BINS and SMALL HAY BALES. Large amounts of round bale hay has been donated but this is not so suitable for horse people to deal with. If you have these item to donate please arrange to deliver them to ;

Highlands Saddlery;
125 Northern Highway
Kilmore 3764
Victoria Australia
Tel 03 5781 0901
Fax 03 5781 0395
Email Us info@highlandssaddlery.com.au
Website: www.highlandssaddlery.com.au

If you can not deliver goods but would like to donate, you can purchase the items from Highlands Saddlery and they will make sure they get to the most needy.

Our bank details are as follows -
Highlands Saddlery Pty. Ltd. BSB 063 698 Acc No 1020 1787
Please reference as Donation - Bushfires and we will send you a receipt.

They also need rugs as it is so cold, cotton rugs for burnt horses, halters and leads.

Crisis Network - Please submit your offers of agistment here

2009-02-11T09:45:00.001+11:00

This network is a register of horse people who are prepared to assist with temporary housing and/or transport of equines in the case of catastrophies such as bushfire, flood, or circumstance where the lives of equines are endangered by threat of natural disaster.

If you are in a crisis situation where you need to relocate your Horses/Ponies under threat of fire or flood, and there is an option below that would work for you, please contact the T.R.E.W Network Coordinator, who will put you in touch with the individual offering the housing and/or transport. No personal details will be listed online in any circumstance.

http://www.triplerequinewelfare.org/main/page_resources_crisis_network.html

http://www.triplerequinewelfare.org/

Triple R Eqine Welfare - Hay Drive

2009-02-11T09:43:00.000+11:00

Triple R Eqine Welfare

We have an offer of 100 bales of good quality lucerne hay which is available to be picked up between now and Friday from CLYDE, near the Bunyip fire area. We need someone with suitable transport who can pick this up - and is able to help with loading and unloading at each end. If you can help, please email Kay vicfirehorses@yahoo.com.au

http://www.triplerequinewelfare.org/

THANKS to you al

2009-02-10T15:21:00.000+11:00

To every wonderful person that donated something for Becky Allen Fundraiser, I am so sorry that you may not have heard from us, and how the fundraiser went. We spent the week following the night recovering!It was fantastic, and we raised enough to take both horses, THANKS to you all. I was preparing addresses and letters to you all. Our friend Colleen Ray, a much more computer expert than me! was coming over to paste it all together, then post,BUT,we have had a slight interruption with a fire!! We have had a direct threat, and are still in danger, so we must keep our wits about us, and stay focused on protecting the horses and property. I will eventually get to writing to you all , but in the meantime, we have to stay safe, and also have the GST done by the 28th, so please be patient, and I will get around to telling you all the news. Horses are booked on the plane on the 8th March at 11.30 PM, so it is all systems go. Thanks again, I will return,

Regards,

Sarah, Becky and Robbie Allen

Paddock to 2 horses or ponies - Tamworth

2009-02-10T15:14:00.000+11:00

I am in Tamworth and relise I am a fair distance away, but I would like to offer my paddock to 2 horses or ponies. I know it is far away but I can promise you that your four legged friend will be great hands. I will help to feed them as best as I can. I will love them as thou they were my own. I own a 1 horse and 1 pony who are very friendly and would not so no to company and they are very spoilt. I also send my thoughts and prays to all that have lost and are suffering.

Mel
maerc@bigpond.com

Are you OK, please let us know?

2009-02-10T13:44:00.000+11:00

Hi there,

I realise many horse owners have tragically lost homes, horses and pets and my thoughts go out to you.

However I would love to know or hear from places/people that are ok, have heard that Tonimbuk is ok, Hidden Valley and the AEBC.

What about Russell Johnstone and the Allens that are in the affected areas to name a couple. Perhaps if people know for sure studs etc are ok they could post something on here.

For instance I heard a rumour that Whisper the stallion was gone and Mayfield Farm all gone, now apparently untrue..!!!!??

Kind Regards
Katherine

DPI ON STANDBY TO HELP WITH FIRE AFFECTED LIVESTOCK

2009-02-10T13:41:00.001+11:00

DPI ON STANDBY TO HELP WITH FIRE AFFECTED LIVESTOCK

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) is mobilising teams to assess the impact on livestock of the weekend fires, the Executive Director of Farm Services Victoria, Ron Harris, said today

The teams will comprise government animal health officers, people from other agencies and private veterinarians,

“Teams have already begun assessing the damage in the Horsham area and the west of the state,” Mr Harris said.

“As soon as it is safe to do so we will send in teams to all the other fire-affected areas and to make contact with affected farmers over the next few days.

“We will also be undertaking an assessment of other agricultural losses and are working with the Victorian Farmers Federation to arrange emergency fodder.

“Anyone wishing to donate fodder should call the VFF on 1300 882 833 from tomorrow or email www.vff.org.au

“If farmers need urgent assistance in assessing burnt livestock they should register their needs by calling the DPI Customer Service Centre on 136 186.

“These farms can be visited when it is considered safe to enter the areas but, if access is limited, farmers may need to use their own resources or local networks to prevent unnecessary suffering.”

Senior DPI veterinarian and Manager of Animal Health Field Services, Lloyd Klumpp says farmers have three major options.

• Destroy immediately – if the animal is down, unable to walk, has excessive burns, swelling of limbs or difficulty breathing.

• Keep and nurse – if the animal is mobile and alert or has burns to less than ten per cent of its body. These animals will need shade, water, feed, daily inspection and veterinary advice and treatment. They will also need constant reassessment.

• No apparent damage – Livestock will still need shade water and feed and they will also need to be reassessed.

“For livestock at risk of impending fire it should, where possible, be moved to safer areas such as recently cultivated paddocks, bared-out or irrigated paddocks or stockyards with bare or ploughed surrounds,” Mr Klumpp said

“People should remove halters, fly-veils and anything else that can burn the animals, they should not be let out onto public roads.”

Any injured wildlife should be reported to Help for Wildlife on 0417 380 687 or Wildlife Victoria on 0500 540 000.

NSW Drop Off Point

2009-02-10T13:36:00.002+11:00

Can you please add the below drop off point to my post:

Sydney Equestrian Supplies
Post Office Road
Ebenezer NSW

Trading hours:

8:00am to 6pm Mon - Fri
8:00am to 5pm Sat

Can you please also add that if people can't make it to the stores, perhaps they could ring and purchase an item from one of the listed drop off points to be donated?

Thanks
Leonie

50 acres in Canberra

2009-02-10T13:35:00.000+11:00

I live on the outskirts of Canberra and have 50 acres of feed that I'd love to offer for any horses (place only set up for horses) that need relocating. I know its a long way from the fires but I am sure that it would suit anyone with horses in need at this devastating time.

Kim

Email: kim.martin2@defence.gov.au

Red Cross Fire Appeal

2009-02-10T13:34:00.001+11:00

If you're planning your grocery shopping this week you might like to do it at Coles this Friday as they're donating all profits to the Red Cross Fire Appeal. Please forward on 2 maximise donation!

Emmie Schmul

Bush fire help for our fellow VIC horse people!

2009-02-10T13:02:00.001+11:00

Dear Friend - Please forward this email to all your contacts and ask them to forward to all their contacts.

As you would now be aware the bush fires over the weekend in VIC have been devastating, words fail to describe the loss of life, homes, animals and livelihoods. Our fellow Victorians & equestrians need our help, please donate cash to https://www.redcross.org.au/Donations or blood donateblood.com.au these are the 2 most urgent things that will best serve the majority of survivors.
I am sending you all this email in a bid to quickly get donations of saddlery, vet supplies, hay & feed, anything you think our fellow horse owners in VIC may need to get them on the road to recovery. From cyber horse forum please read below
"Saddleworld Tuggerah on Central Coast NSW is a collection point for HORSE GEAR IN GOOD CONDITION ONLY
Must be delivered by this Saturday as transport to Vic leaves on Monday (denoted by Sydney Horse Transport)" Feed, hay, rugs, halters, leads, vet supplies will be a great help
Saddleworld Tuggerah contact details 1/11 Mildon Rd, Tuggerah, 2259 Telephone: 02 4353 1922 Facsimile: 02 4353 1942 Email: \n wyong@saddleworld.com.au
I have recieved an emailed reply from Saddleworld Tuggerah for details on what they are accepting (i.e. they can take feed & hay as well as vet supplies, saddlery, rugs, flymasks, halters, leads, if it is in good condition they will take it). It would be wonderful to fill the truck and send it down there bursting with goodies. Please go through your tack shed, buy something from the saddlery or produce and donate it to the survivors of this horrendous disaster, we can make a difference. I am happy to be a drop off point to take a float load of stuff to Tuggerah, please email me de@goldenpark.com.au . Hopefully this is the first of many trucks that make the trip to Vic full of hope and much needed goods for everyone to start over again. If anyone else has a truck willing to donate it to make a trip down to VIC please email me. Maybe other saddleries/produce companies in the area can also be drop off points and we can organize a second truck later the following week. Everyone knows someone that can help, lets all pull together now and make a difference.
I have been speaking to people in VIC that have survived and it is absolutely numbing what they are going through and the death toll unfortunately is going to climb higher. From a friend of mine not far from the worst fire effected area, "nothing is alive up the mt or down in the valley, everything is dead". Think about that while you go about your normal life today.
We are also contacting vets in the Whittlesea area this morning to see what vet supplies they need. Please dig deep and donate something, every little bit helps, every little bit gives hope, every $1 helps a person on the road to recovery. Cash donations are tax deductable so you will get a refund in your tax return and you get to directly help desperate people in extreme need.
Thank you in advance for your generosity!
De

Escaping the fire in Kinglake West

2009-02-10T12:37:00.008+11:00

We received this email about a horrific escape from Kinglake West, we'll let Juliet tell the story

Juliet.......
"I am sure you have all seen the news.
Poncho and I are both safe. It was the scariest day of my life and we are very VERY lucky.

The fires started in Kilmore at midday and I could see them from my house. The ABC news reported there were no urgent threats. I watched the smoke get bigger and began to worry.
My friend rang me to say she was on her way to my place to help get the horses out and we were going to leave.
She arrived at 3, by the time she got out of the car the wind turned to gale force. Trees started to fall around us and leaves were flying up into the air. It was at this point we heard the fire and as we did so felt the heat of the flames on our faces.
We couldn’t see the flames but the noise of the fire was haunting, we realised it was too late to try and leave. I live along a long dirt road surrounded by trees, the risk of getting lost in smoke and caught in the fire was too great. Luckily my friends brother and father had arrived to help at this point and told us there was no way out, the fire had crossed the road behind them.
We turned on the fire sprinkler system on the roof and realised our only hope was to battle the flames as they came close to the house…. It was a matter of minutes before the power cut… and as my water supply is pump driven the hoses stopped. We were left to rely on the sprinklers on the roof.
We tried to call the emergency services and let them know we were there but we couldn’t get through.
We were extremely fortunate that a helicopter monitoring the fire front flew over the house and saw us. It circled low over the house and acknowledged us before leaving. 5 minutes later another helicopter arrived. It hovered over the house and a policeman was lowered to the ground on the winch. He put the winch strap around my waist and with poncho in my arms they started to lift me up… the helicopter was 2 storeys above the ground. But poncho wiggled and I dropped her…. I undid the winch (I was only a foot off the ground at this point) and ran after her. I know you guys would never have forgiven me if I left her to die.
As quickly as the winch had been lowered it was pulled away from us. The policeman on the ground informed us the fire front was too high for the chopper and it was getting closer. They had to abort the resuce. Our only hope was to get in the cars. With the policeman with us.
With the helicopter hovering directly above us, their radio contact was going to guide us through the fire front.
Priscilla wouldn’t leave her horse…. So we got in the car with the window open and held the horses bridle as out of the window. With the horse galloping next to the car (and poncho safely on the back seat) we drove into the fire. The helicopter keeping us informed of which directions to take in the thick smoke. We drove through the flames and just prayed the horses rug wouldn’t ignite Around us the animals where panicking. Deer were running through fences and up the road. Koalas were running up the road and falling out of trees. Lizards were darting in and out of view and the sound of the chopper over head was the eeriest soundtrack.
When we got to the bottom of the hill we found a clearing near the golf course and we stopped. We could see my house up the mountain surrounded by flames, and although we could see the fire sprinklers on the roof still working it was like throwing a tea spoon of water onto a bonfire. The flames were 200 feet high.
As it went dark I watched the flames pass over my house, I retreated to the safety of town thinking everything I owned was gone. When I managed to fall asleep I dreamt of flames.
When it went light we ventured out again to try and get back to the house. The roads were closed and the fire still burning… I ignored the road blacks, took the back road and drove through a fence (not in the Peugeot) to try and get back to golf course and see if there was anything left of my house.
It is nothing short of a miracle, but my house is still standing, the fire seemingly tracing a path around it. I can only assume it was the fire sprinklers that saved it I can’t get up there yet, but hopefully tomorrow will be safer.
Every house in my street has been burned to the ground and a number of my neighbours never made it out alive (including Brian Naylor and his wife) trapped by the flames the appeared so suddenly in all directions Burnt horses lie on the sides of roads and the street of Whittlesea are filled with people wandering aimlessly clutching the only possessions they managed to save.
I am still not sure how process this experience, but will hopefully wake up tomorrow with a clearer mind and decide what to do to help this small community that has been almost wiped out within 3 hours.
Thank you all for your messages and thoughts. I have attached a few images of the experience to try and help you understand,

Juliet.

Highlands Saddlery Co-ordinating relief

2009-02-10T12:12:00.004+11:00

Hi Horse Deals,

This is list of donations received so far. We have e-mailed it to local council and vet clinics to use as they see necessary. It will be updated later today and our website will have an up-to-date list.

Our bank details are as follows -
Highlands Saddlery Pty. Ltd. BSB 063 698 Acc No 1020 1787
Please reference as Donation - Bushfires and we will send you a receipt.

Suppliers have been very generous as well as freight companies donating transport costs. As this was only kicked off yesterday, we aren't listing product until it actually arrives in store. Product that is not used / left over will be raffled and all proceeds donated to the Bushfire Cause. We hope to be able to co-ordinate this through Horse Deals.
A donated load of hay has arrived this morning, too large to back into the Produce store so it is being unloaded outside and fork lifted into the store. Freight for this was also donated. Extra hands have turned up and offered help to unload.
There is a shortage of towels for both the vets and people who have lost everything. Have just heard on the grapevine this morning that people showering at Whittlesea were having to share towels.
A delivery has just been sent to Kinglake Community of donated products. Goods selected were leads, spray bottles, World's Best Hoof Oil and Dog Toys. Small animal, cattle, horse and poultry feed donated by Peter and Bron who own Highlands Produce was also sent.

Please find attached a list of the donations received by us so far, we will update as more come in. We are also keeping a list of agistment that has been offered for displaced animals.
Website: www.highlandssaddlery.com.au
Office Hours Phone - (03) 5781-0901
Will keep you informed as more information comes in.
Cheers,
Joanne Lee-Archibald

HIGHLANDS PRODUCE & SADDLERY PH (03) 5781-0901

PRODUCT SIZE QTY SUPPLIER
Lucerne Hay Sml Squares Mark O'Shea
Cotton Cool Mesh Fly Sheet 6'0 6 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'2 6 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'6 5 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Cotton Day/Night Sheet 6'4 15 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'6 3 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Nylon Stable Sheet 5'8 1 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
5'10 4 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'0 3 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'2 4 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'4 4 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'6 3 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'8 3 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
6'10 5 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Canvas Lined Rug 5'0 1 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
5'3 4 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Deluxe Standing Bandage Set 4 6 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Bandage Rollers 6 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Rubber Covered Stall Chains 13 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Worlds Best Hoof Oil 500ml 12 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
250ml 24 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Fly Mask XL 1 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Small Dog Lead 3 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Medium Dog Lead 2 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Large Dog Lead 2 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Dog Lead wih Handle 2 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Jolly Rope Dog Toy 1 Worlds Best Hoof Oil
Breathe Formula Unknown HiForm Australia
Professional Advice HiForm Australia
T Zon Equine Dermal Care Cream Unknown Unicorn Products
Tea Pro Equine Wound Spray Unknown Unicorn Products
Tea Clenz Anti Microbial Concentrate Unknown Unicorn Products
Professional Advice and Product Supply Victoria Ferguson, Herbal Horse

Hay Drive to help feed the stock

2009-02-10T09:17:00.002+11:00

I like many others are sitting here thinking of those who have lost their lives - of those who have lost their loved ones and their homes and properties.
Having gone through Ash Wednesday I saw the devastation that comes out of a fire and the loss.
Human life loss comes first but to see animals standing in paddocks still alive but burnt so badly they can not move.
A very dear friend of mine lost many of her show ponies and breeding stock, cattle and sheep!
We are all sitting here thinking of what we can do to help - we can give money and know that we have helped someone - but lets try and do more.
Come on Mount Gambier why cant we organise a Hay Drive to help feed the stock that is still alive!
Surely with all the trucking companies we have in this town we can get someone to take up the hay!
If Allan Scott were still alive I know he would have been the first to put forward these vehicles.
Horse Deals each day is read by many on-line - come on everyone why cant we organise a meeting somewhere and try and get something going.
Hay drive, gear drive (who hasn't got the old bridle or headcollar laying around) this has to be a South East effort. Horse riders, trainers, owners and animal lovers.
Please let me know if I can do more.
If I knew that I would have support I would take ute and float load up just to try and help someone!
Kris Meyer

Encourage everybody to donate

2009-02-10T09:14:00.000+11:00

No doubt most of you will have been appalled at the horror of the fires in Vic & NSW and the floods in North QLD over the weekend. It has now been confirmed that well over 100 have lost their lives in the fires, with more to come as the searches commence.

Our thoughts are especially with those whose families and friends have lost their homes or are still in danger.

In the first instance, the public has been asked to donate blood as supplies are short for burns victims. Even if you are not a regular blood donor, you may like to make a donation in this instance. To find your nearest local blood donation centre, please go to Australian Red Cross Blood Service and enter your postcode.

On behalf of Saddleworld Maddington and staff we will be donating $1500.00 to the Red Cross Appeal.

We would encourage all of our valued customers to try and help in some way if possible.

We would encourage everybody to do whatever they can as many people have lost everything.

Kristina Parthezius
General Manager
Saddleworld Maddington

Room for 4 horses - Tatura

2009-02-10T08:08:00.001+11:00

I have room for 4 horses I have yards with shelters every think you need

24 hour care if thay are injured will help as much as posible

Hope this helps we are near Tatura.

phone 58548201 sue

GRAND VALLEY SHOWJUMPING

2009-02-09T21:07:00.001+11:00

URGENT NOTICE
GRAND VALLEY SHOWJUMPING
FEBRUARY 14th & 15th

Due to the current bushfire situation the YVJC Committee have been advised not to hold large events in the Yarra Valley

A number of committee members are also directly affected by the current bushfire situation.

Please Note: that further communication will be made with regard to re-scheduling.
Feel free to forward this email to anyone you think may need to be advised.
Any queries, please reply to this email address… the_oaks1@yahoo.com.au

Gear that is urgently needed

2009-02-09T21:05:00.000+11:00

I'm collecting any horse gear that people don't need and it is being trucked down by Sydney Horse Transport to a collection point in Victoria next Monday 16th Feb. The gear collection is happening on the Central Coast NSW.

They gear that is urgently needed are rugs, halters, lead ropes, jodpurs, bridles, brushes, towels etc- anything you can spare that is in reasonable condition would be much appreciated. If you don't have anything in the tack box, perhaps you could buy a brush and donate it!

There are a couple of ways to get the stuff to us:
1) Saddleworld Tuggerah has kindly offered to be a drop off point.
2) You can bring it to the dresssage day at Somersby on Sunday and I'll pick it up.
3) If you can call me on 0416 292 021 and I'll come and pick it up if needed.
4) Triple Crown Horsewear has kindly offered to be a drop off point at Ourimbah

Any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated. As stated above, the truck leaves next Monday so we only have 6 days to gather as much as possible.

These are being delivered to Ascot Saddlery, Flemmington VIC and are being distributed through the saddlery and Project Hope.

Thank you
Leonie Wiggins
leoniewiggins@hotmail.com
PH: 0416 292 021
Woodbury park

Agistment no charge in Gisborne and Nagambie

2009-02-09T21:04:00.000+11:00

We can offer agistment no charge in Gisborne and feed if required for 1 - 2 horses and / or bedroom for single or couple in the house. On 10 acres - pets welcome too.
Also have 300 acres turnout paddock at Nagambie with good grass & stubble for horses or cattle (no loading race that's all, can be walked to one nearby).
Cathy 0412 211115 & Rex 0418 315352. bravereject@gmail.com

Equine Fire Relief Appeal

2009-02-09T17:33:00.001+11:00

Capalaba Saddlery is putting out the call for all horse owners to donate any horse equipment they are no longer in need of to send down for much needed relief in the fire ravaged state of Victoria.

Donations of rugs, halters, bridles, feed, bedding and medical supplies will be greatly appreciated.

A shipping container has been donated by 'Container Sales Australia' (much appreciated!) and it will be onsite as at Tues 10th Feb.

Drop off your donations to the saddlery at

3247 Old Cleveland Rd
Capalaba Q 4157
ph 07)3245 6411

Any cash donations will be put towards purchases of feed and hay.

Our only ask?? That the gear you donate be in good working condition....

Thankyou!!!!!!

Headstalls, leads, rugs, feed, fencing equipment, needed

2009-02-09T16:33:00.000+11:00

Highlands Produce Store & Highlands Saddlery

125 Northern Hwy

Kilmore Victoria

Phone: Produce 03 5782 2166/Saddlery 03 5781 0901

9 February 2009

As you are no doubt aware our Kilmore community has been devastated by fire this weekend.

Our main customer base is in the Kilmore, Wandong, Kinglake, Whittlesea areas which have been the worst hit of all, with fires still out of control. Over the past six years these people have become friends as well as loyal customers. Many have lost everything, including loved ones, there is an overwhelming need for goods to help rebuild.

It will take a long time for those affected to recover, to help them we are asking for your assistance in donating items such as veterinary items - bandages, ointments, etc. Headstalls, leads, rugs, feed, fencing equipment, clothing and footwear, basically anything else you feel able to give. Cash donations can be given to the official charities.

We are contacting local authorities this morning to offer our help in supplying goods to those in need.

Please consider this plea urgently and give generously to those have supported both our businesses and yours.

We will be posting a special page on our website dedicated to this cause and all donations will be advertised.

Yours truly,

Bronwyn & Peter Kennedy

Joanne Archibald

Co-ordinate a list of people offering temporary homes and transport

2009-02-09T13:27:00.001+11:00

The recent fires in Victoria have placed even more demand of PHHWV resources. As many owners in these highly populated horse areas are allowed to return home (once the threat has passed) many will have nothing and will need help if their horses have survived.

Many members and general public have contacted us wanting to know if they can be of assistance. PHHWV is very mindful of the demands and the responsibility taking on such a coordinating role can place on us but we will all we can where possible.

We are working with authorities and have agreed to coordinate a list of people offering temporary homes and transport as well as coordinate the donations of feed and horse related goods to be distributed to areas in need.

For more information on how you can assist please visit www.phhwv.org.au

Likewise, if you are in an affected area and need help please call or e-mail us and we will assist you where possible.

Thank you for your assistance and please feel free to pass this e-mail on to anyone you think can help or may require help.

Regards

Samantha
Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria Inc.

Victorian bushfires 2009 - Appeal

2009-02-09T12:43:00.001+11:00

The 2009 Victorian bushfire Fund to assist individuals and communities affected by devastating bushfires in Victoria has been launched by the Premier John Brumby in partnership with Red Cross and the Federal Government. A number of corporate organisations including NAB, ANZ, CBA and Wesfarmers have also contributed to the fund.

As of 11:30am on the 9th February, the Fund had received $2.5 million from over 14,000 people through the website and phone, with governments including the Victorian Government and Federal Government and corporates pledging additional sums. Donations are still continuing to flow in.

An independent panel made up of community leaders will oversee the appeal Fund's operation. Criteria for assistance will include the extent of the hardship covered and the extent to which a person's livelihood has been impacted.

Donations can be made using our secure online donations form or by phoning 1800 811 700. Click here for more information .

Donating essential horse items

2009-02-09T12:23:00.001+11:00

Hi Horse Deals,

Zone 16 Pony Club would like to help by donating essential horse items- rugs, halters, joddies, boots, grooming gear etc. We will gather gear in the ACT and work out how to get it to Victoria.

Are there any other essential items needed? Perhaps bandages for burn wounds on horses?

Please let me know.

Rosemary
Ph 0405 442 814

Campaign for stockfeed

2009-02-09T11:38:00.000+11:00

With the devastation of the fires people are doing everything they can to help those affected.

With direct impact on my family in Kinglake everyone is doing what they can to help. With human life the most important issue we are thinking of what is to come in the next few days.

Believe it or not, large numbers of life stock have made it, especially horses including many who sit in my sisters burnt out 140 acres. Their condition is unknown but we are prepared for the worst and have much support from local vets and their staff.

I am now starting a campaign for stockfeed. I am pleading for pledged donations of stock feed for the remaining animals. Nothing will be rejected. I have organised a central drop off point in Whittlesea so if you can help please call.

Unfortunately we do not have the man power to come and pick it up, we ask you to deliver it.

Please call Angela on 0400021235

State Overview of fires within Victoria.

2009-02-09T11:21:00.001+11:00

State Overview of fires wiithin Victoria.
09/02/2009 2.30 am TODAY. Click on the map to make larger.

Assistance offered

2009-02-09T11:02:00.000+11:00

I have room and plenty of hay for 2 horses or a small flock of sheep 6 kms south of Mount Gambier SA for anyone seeking emergency accommodation for their animals. I can also take in a dog or 2 and could assist with transport if there are no other options.

I can be contacted on (h)0887268185 (w) 0887214484 or (m) 0429479962.

Thanks

Meredith

EFA BUSHFIRE ASSISTANCE

2009-02-09T10:50:00.000+11:00

EFA members' affected by the bushfires who require assistance please contact EFA asap on 0400 917 037, we will do whatever we can to help in anyway.

Any member who can help with agistment of horses or feed please contact EFA on info@efavic.com.au or phone 03 9013 0707 Ext. 400

Help for fires

2009-02-09T08:47:00.000+11:00

I have a vacant holiday house on the Murray River which is 10mins from my house.I have stables,paddocks and sand arena.I could take 2 horses here.It would suit someone who has lost all infrastructure but wants to keep working competition horses.I could also take 2 paddock horses.

Debbie

Please contact Horse Deals if you would like to contact Debbie; 08 87254744

Property Saved

2009-02-08T16:37:00.000+11:00

We would like to confirm the Tonimbuk Equestrian Centre, Hidden Valley Equestrian Centre and the Australian Equine Behavorior Centre (Andrew and Manuela McLean) are all safe. However, Andrew and Manula have had extensive damage around the major complex.

Offer help

2009-02-08T16:18:00.000+11:00

If you would like to offer help, of agistment, feed, gear and anything else or just add a comment to this post supping your area and offer. We are working on a way to supply these offers to the relevant people but still protect your privacy.

Email address for stories and photos.

2009-02-08T15:43:00.000+11:00

If you have a story or photos to share or comment to make, simply email bushfires@horsedeals.com.au (To ensure your submission is posted please include your full name.)

Share your stories, photos and offers of help.

2009-02-08T15:26:00.000+11:00

We have heard unconfirmed accounts of great loss and Horse Deals is at the moment considering how best it can help. Full details of what we can do to assist those desperately in need will be posted shortly. However, in the mean time we would like to provide an area so you can share your stories, photos and offers of help. Just email bushfires@horsedeals.com.au