Historical re-enactment units.

Canungra 14th Light Horse Troop

 

 

As history records, in November 1934, a meeting was convened in Canungra to consider the formation of a Light Horse Troop drawn from not only Canuungra but also the District. Interested personnel reportedly met in the railway yards, where one Captain W. White inspected the horses and enrolled the members. During the war years the Canungra Troop was stationed in North Queensland. In July 1941 the last major parade was held in Beaudesert (Queensland) with approximately 1 400 Light Horse personnel involved. This, due to the mechanisation of warfare, was the 'Last Hurrah' for the horse mounted Light Horse. The units were subsequently disbanded and the Troopers traded their horses for Bren Gun Carriers. Now some 57 years later the Troop is back in Canungra.

The Troop is led by Sergenat Peter Hilder (ex National Serviceman) who's  Grandfather Thomas Alexander Jenkins (a farrier) was an original Light Horseman from WW1. Peter is ably supported by Corporal Ken Reese, another dedicated member. Peter stated "There has been a great resurgence of interest in the Light Horse and the Army (Land Warfare Centre - Canungra) have been particularly supportive here in Canungra, as have the Members of the Canungra RSL".

The Troop aims to be as historically correct in dress and drill as time and finances allow. The kit for the horses and troopers is not only expensive but difficult to obtain in the 1990's. Members at this stage are required to fund their own outfits and supply a suitable mount. External funding at present is non-existent. The Troop takes part in trail rides, sporting events and in particular ANZAC Day Parades. They also train in tent pegging, Sabre Drill and Barrel Racing. Some members also train in the discipline of Dressage.

Like his Grandfather, Peter is a skilled horseman with a love and respect   for the Light Horse Troop. The Troop train at Peter's property near Tamborine Village. The open flatlands are ideally suited to the training of both horses and riders in the drills of the Light Horse.

 

RSL Services Club Incorporated Canungra
Pine Street
CANUNGRA QLD 4275
Ph: (07) 55 435 524