The newly-released documentary, which was the brainchild of Ross Harmer of West Wyalong, features historic and current footage to depict the horse industry in this region.

With the script crafted by accomplished agricultural journalist and story teller, Kim Woods, the movie promises to please. 

For a chance to win visit The Rural’s website www.therural.com.au and follow the links to this story. The first four entries will receive a copy of the DVD and the competition will be finalised on May 15. To be in the draw email amanda.brown@fairfaxmedia.com.au and include Aussies in the Saddle in the subject line. 

Mr Harmer said the most challenging aspect to making the movie was deciding what to leave out and what to keep in.

He said the people who were interviewed were extremely passionate about the horse industry.

And after making more than 20 documentaries, most which have a rural feel, he conceded this was the most challenging so far.

The first official screening of the movie took place at the Forum 6 Cinemas in Wagga and Mr Harmer said the feedback was excellent.

He was really pleased with what people were saying and the fact that the documentary appealed to all different age groups from pony club riders through to people who remembered sowing winter crops with heavy horses. 

“It was a very trying project but it was also very rewarding,” he said. Some of the talent for the movie was lined up purposefully and other legendary anecdotes were stumbled upon along the way. “The relationship between Australians and their horses is something that had to be explored,” he said.

One of the more touching moments of making the movie was when the journalists interviewed his father Fred Harmer, 92. Another well known character Doug Hope, 90, also features on the movie. “Because it is just so close to home for me I had to make sure we got it right,” he said.  

Mr Harmer didn’t just draw on his own knowledge he brought the professions in to produce a polished product. 

The movie was presented by equestrian coach and writer Rebecca Ashton. 

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