Award-winning filmmaker, author and equine advocate Ashley Avis has arrived in Australia to lend her voice to growing calls for an immediate halt to the aerial culling of wild Brumbies in Kosciuszko National Park. Best known for her acclaimed documentary Wild Beauty: Mustang – Spirit of the West, Avis has spent years documenting the plight of America’s wild horses and advocating for their protection. The film received widespread praise for its breathtaking cinematography and powerful storytelling, with critics applauding its exploration of the challenges surrounding wild horse management while celebrating the enduring bond between horses, people, and the landscapes they call home. Now, with global attention turning to Australia’s Brumbies, Avis has travelled to Australia to independently document and help amplify this animal welfare crisis for the Brumbies. Avis will engage with local photographer and long-time Brumby advocate Kiki Sjoberg (@brumby_strong), whose powerful imagery and on-the-ground documentation have brought the reality of the Kosciuszko National Park Brumbies to audiences across Australia and around the world. After learning of the current aerial culling program, Avis personally reached out to Sjoberg to see how she could assist efforts to protect the iconic wild horses.
“The stories of America’s Mustangs and Australia’s Brumbies are separated by geography but united by many of the same challenges,” Avis commented. “Wild horses are deeply woven into the history, identity, and spirit of the landscapes they inhabit. It is important that we continue to seek humane, science-based solutions that respect both conservation outcomes and the lives of these animals.”
As debate surrounding the Brumby cull intensifies, Avis is supporting calls from local advocates and community members for an immediate halt to the aerial culling and a request for an independent count of the remaining horses in Kosciuszko National Park. Many locals who spend significant time in the park believe the number of Brumbies remaining may be substantially lower than official estimates, with some suggesting there could be fewer than 1,000 horses left in areas currently subject to culling operations. Supporters fear that without an independently verified population assessment, the current cull could eradicate the last remaining Brumby mobs from parts of the Snowy Mountains.
“Before irreversible decisions are made, it is vital that we have an accurate understanding of the numbers and explore every available humane management option,” Avis commented. “There should be transparency around population estimates and confidence that decisions are being made using the most accurate information available.”
Sjoberg, who has spent years documenting the Brumbies of Kosciuszko National Park, welcomed the support.
“Ashley’s work has inspired people around the world to see wild horses differently,” Sjoberg commented. “Having someone of her international standing come to Australia and witness what is happening here sends a powerful message that people everywhere care about the future of these horses.”
For Avis, the issue extends beyond Australia. Around the world, wild horse populations face increasing pressure, and she believes the fate of the Snowy Mountains Brumbies will resonate with people far beyond Australia’s borders.
“The Brumbies are part of Australia’s cultural story and deserve thoughtful, humane management,” Avis commented.
During her visit, Avis will meet with advocates, photographers, horse trainers and community members while learning more about the challenges facing Australia’s wild horse populations.
“For Americans or Australians alike, who have the gift of wild horses on their landscapes, we must ask – what kind of legacy are we going to leave behind?” Avis commented.