The people and purpose behind Bluewater Brumbies

We are a small, dedicated group of volunteers who could not stand by while the free-roaming horses of Bluewater Park struggled to survive. This is our story, our mission and the values that guide every rescue.

Brumbies grazing in the dry grassland surrounding Bluewater Park

The herds of the Bluewater region

Our Story

It started with a single wandering horse

For years, brumbies have roamed freely through Bluewater Park and the surrounding country north of Townsville. As the seasons turned harsh and development crept closer, more and more horses began wandering onto roads and neighbouring properties in search of food and water.

Concerned locals began leaving out feed and water, keeping an eye on injured animals, and calling for help when a horse strayed onto a busy road. What began as informal acts of kindness grew into an organised, registered charity — Bluewater Brumbies Inc. — so we could respond properly, work with landholders and vets, and give these horses a real future.

Today, we monitor the herds, respond to sightings, and step in whenever a horse needs rescuing. Our work is entirely powered by volunteers and the generosity of our supporters.

Our Mission

To provide food, water and veterinary care to horses found wandering in Bluewater Park and surrounding areas — and to rehabilitate and rehome them safely, reducing the risk to both the animals and our community. We believe every horse deserves the chance to live free from hunger, injury and neglect.

Our Vision

A region where no brumby goes hungry, no horse is left injured on a roadside, and every rescued animal finds a safe, loving and permanent home. We work towards a future where the welfare of these horses and the safety of our community go hand in hand.

What We Stand For

The values behind every decision we make

Compassion first

Every horse is treated as an individual with its own needs, history and temperament. We put the animal's welfare and dignity at the centre of everything we do.

Calm, low-stress handling

We use patient, passive methods to bring horses into care. No chasing, no fear — just steady, respectful handling that builds trust over time.

Transparency & trust

As a registered charity run entirely by volunteers, we are accountable to our supporters and community. Donations go directly to the care of the horses.

Community partnership

We work alongside local landholders, veterinarians and volunteers. Keeping horses off busy roads protects the whole community, not just the animals.

Where We Work

Rooted in the Bluewater and Townsville region

Our work is focused on Bluewater Park and the surrounding areas north of Townsville in North Queensland, where brumbies most often stray onto roads and private land. We respond wherever a wandering horse in our region needs help.

Bluewater Park

Our home base, where herds roam freely and where most of our rescues begin.

Surrounding roads & properties

We respond to horses that wander onto roads and neighbouring land, guiding them back to safety.

Our recovery facility

A dedicated rehabilitation location, away from public roads, where horses regain their health.