The National Clydesdale and Heavy Horse Festival at Werribee showcased a wide range of heavy horse breeds in hand, under saddle, and in harness, judged by international experts including Canadians Ray and Amber McLaughlin. Highlights included Andrew Marriott’s filly Aarunga Goddess winning supreme in the led Clydesdales, Lesley Brown’s Friesian Douvanney Gibson Macshof being named grand champion led exhibit, and multiple awards for harness and turnout classes, with notable performances by Lynette Fritsch and Andrew Marriott’s Aurunga team.

The working draught section emphasized the traditional skills and versatility of heavy horses, with winners including Scott Wells and Tommy in log snig and implement pulling, and Vanessa Wells with her Clydesdale Larvistryn Hunter excelling in obstacle and ridden classes. The event celebrated both the heritage and ongoing capabilities of these breeds, with Chari-lee Zanker named highpoint winner for the working draught section, reflecting the festival’s blend of competition, tradition, and horsemanship.