Generally the Australian horses were well bred, but couldn't match the quality of the English horses because they spent more than double on their horse flesh. The Australian horse was, however, very well trained.

The nature of the terrain in South Africa meant the only feasible transport for Boers and troops alike was the horse, but often the perils for these animals started before they arrived.

"Flames began to break out of the hold where we knew all the hay and chaff was kept. So we knew our position was very serious a while the order came out for all the boats to be lowered at a moment's notice. We could see the flames rising out of the hold but there was nothing for us to do, only stand by and keep our horses quiet. The poor beggars could feel the heat just as much as ourselves therefore they were very restless. Well presently the flames began to subside and we knew they were getting the fire under control. All that next day the next week were engaged in dumping all the burnt stuff overboard. That meant the horses had to be put on half rations for the rest of the voyage."

TROOPER RICHARD HENRY EDWARDS, DATE FRIDAY 11 APRIL, 1901

Conditions were rough and unhealthy enough for the troops but were equally treacherous for horses, particularly as they were a large target when under fire.

EXTRACT OF LETTERS FROM PRIVATE WALTER POPE

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The horse was more than a mate. It meant mobility, protection, shelter and more often than not, a bed. Soldiers often had to sleep in the saddle, even while on the move night and day, not dismounting until their commanding officer said so. It was a tough life for horses. There was no time for acclimatisation to the harsh South African conditions - hot during the day and often cold at night. Many were killed by artillery, disease and the exhausting long treks across the veldt.

Of the 25,000 horses sent from Australia alone, thousands did survive but they never came home. One hundred years ago, Australian quarantine regulations were as strict then as they are today.