Wilindi Estate is the home of Herd Harmony Equine Rescue. Founder, Miriam Heatherich has a long history of working with both vulnerable children and animals.

Registered nationally with the Australian Not-for-profit and Charity Commission, Herd Harmony operates from Wilindi Estate, at Tyabb on the Mornington Peninsula. At this location, Miriam continues to work with neglected animals and gives her Wilindi Estate guests a unique educational experience and insight into the rescue and rehabilitation journey.

Miriam says “We believe if humans can change their perspective that animals are property, and instead that we are their guardians, It is then we create an opportunity to respectfully, & kindly connect in their way”. This is the key to the Herd Harmony rehabilitation ethos.

“As horses arrive at Herd Harmony, they do so with a history of unknown trauma. After a period of quarantine, medical and behavioural assessment, the rescues’ are allowed time to ‘decompress’ and relax without anything being asked of them.

During this period, Miriam will spend time with them and observe. So much can be learnt through their responses and communication to their daily care. By watching subtle cues, facial expressions and interactions with both the humans and the herd, it is possible to respond to the horses and let them know we are listening.”

Miriam believes, every horses experience is different but all, by nature, seek connection and safety. Providing these animals with time, safety and a willingness to communicate and connect is vital in creating a solid foundation for the rehabilitation process to begin.