Landmarks and Buildings

On October 31, 1917, the 4th and 12th Australian Light Horse Regiments made history in what would become Australia’s first great WWI victory and the last successful cavalry charge. Armed only with bayonets, these horsemen stormed through Turkish defences at dusk to capture the strategic town of Beersheba.

What many don’t know is that numerous horses carrying these brave soldiers were bred right here in the Upper Hunter Region—a testament to our area’s storied heritage as premier horse breeding country. his striking bronze sculpture commemorates the battle’s centenary, capturing both the rider’s determination and the courage of the horses that carried them into legend.

Award-winning artist Brett “Mon” Garling has created more than a monument—he’s frozen a moment in time. His talents extend beyond sculpture to landscape painting, showcased at the Garling Gallery he established in 2004.

Located in a restored century-old shopfront in Wongarbon near Dubbo, the gallery features his paintings and a sculpture garden that brings Australian history to life—a worthy addition to your Upper Hunter Region cultural journey.