November 22nd, 2024Gypsy Cobs, a new feature at the Daylesford show

Set for tomorrow, this year’s Daylesford Show will have its first ever Gypsy Cob class competitions in the Horse Section. 

Organisers say this is very exciting as, while Gypsy Cobs are in the show circuit, there are not a lot competing yet because they are still relatively new to Australia. 

Gypsy Cobs arrived as a breed in Australia in the early 2000s so introducing people to this remarkable breed is wonderful. 

Gypsys are a type of draught horse with lots of mane, tail and feather (leg hairs), that were originally bred as a family horse that pulled the vardo or gypsy caravan of Irish and English travellers. 

After a day of travelling the Gypsy Cob was unhitched and then the kids had their fun with their furry friend.

Due to their sensible and calm temperaments, and beauty, they were much cherished by their owners who had a saying “Gypsy gold does not clink and glitter, it gleams in the sun and neighs in the dark”. 

There are many names for the Gypsy Cobs including Gypsy Vanner, Gypsy Tinker and Gypsy Cob. There are even miniature Gypsy Cobs being bred now.

The average size for a Gypsy Cob is 13-15hh and they are fast becoming much loved family friends. As a breed they are extremely versatile and are happy trying different activities. 

Gypsy Cob crosses are very popular as they combine the intelligence, tractability, muscular strength and strong bone of the Gypsy. 

Teresa Cook from Daylesford’s Boomerang Ranch remembers seeing the Gypsy Cobs when holidaying in Ireland and there will be a talk with both Teresa and Gypsy Cob owner Rebecca McLennan about Gypsy Cobs at 150th Daylesford Show on November 23.