Episode 334: Scott Brodie

This is the first podcast we’ve conducted with a non racing participant, but the man in question rates among Australia’s best horsemen. Scott Brodie begins by explaining his role as manager of the Prestige Equestrian Training Centre at Helensburgh. He outlines the facilities available on the property. Scott talks of the riding instruction component of the operation, and the therapy he supervises for Australian Defence Force personnel whose involvement in war zones has left them with emotional problems. He has no doubt some kind of therapeutic benefit evolves when a person suffering from stress or depression has contact with horses. Scott gives his interpretation of the reasons why. Scott talks about the wonderful results he’s had with inmates of correctional institutions who are struggling with life. He reflects on his early connection with horses. Scott looks back on his many years as an active member of the NSW Mounted Police. He talks of the unique Redfern stables where the unit has been based since 1907. He pays tribute to the remarkable horses who earn their place in the unit. He talks of the discipline of the horses involved in street demonstrations. Scott responds humbly to mention of the awards he was accorded during his years as a “mountie” in Sydney streets. He’s still called upon for assistance from the Mounted Police Unit. He says he’s never had time to consider a racehorse training role, but has had an involvement in the breaking process from time to time. The master horseman says he gets to work early enough to work a few special horses before he begins his tutorial role at Helensburgh. For a man who’s spent a lifetime around horses, it’s surprising to learn his most serious injuries were sustained in a boating accident. Scott talks of his recent experience as co-author and co-publisher of an enthralling booklet called “Conflict To Hope”- a chronicle of the history of the horse and a look at the help these “four legged equine therapists” are providing for people with a broad range of emotional difficulties. He pays a special tribute to his co-author Dr. Mel Baker who speaks from personal experience when she outlines the wonders of equine therapy. The book features quotes from several people who’ve benefited from Scott’s programmes. Scott acknowledges a former racehorse of very limited ability who is now the Phar Lap of the therapeutic team. He has never forgotten the first time he mounted Bazaconi. It was one helluva ride! This is a lovely yarn with a gifted horseman who spends much of his life helping to make people feel better about themselves. Nobody does it better than Scott Brodie.