Farrier Mark

I was brought up in  Scotland with my parents and older sister. We have had ponies and horses in the family since early childhood. I became interested in farriery at an early age while watching and chatting to our farrier at home.

 

In 2003 I undertook an entry to farrier course at Oatridge Agricultural College and in 2004 secured an apprenticeship with Dave Wilson AWCF in Balmulo, Fife. During my apprenticeship not only did I have a very committed mentor in Dave Wilson who took great pride in his work, I was also very fortunate to have the support from his father David Wilson (senior) BEM.FWCF,AWCB who lived on site and was always available to give advice on developing my skills. David Wilson (senior) is a world class farrier and has been a judge for the world championship blacksmith competition on four occasions.

 

During my apprenticeship I competed at both local and national farriery competitions successfully winning the 3/4th year apprentice competition at The Royal Highland Show Edinburgh. I successfully gained my diploma in Sept 2009 and from then to 2011 continued to work as a farrier consolidating and developing my skills with all types of equines.

 

During this time I applied for and successfully gained a place on the Edward Martin Cultural Exchange Scheme to work with world class farriers in various parts of America for 3 months. I competed successfully in Madison and New Mexico and at Oklahoma successfully winning three 1st places, one 2nd place and the Silver Belt Buckle for the three man team competition.

 

It had always been my ambition to come to Australia and in April 2011 I left Scotland on a working visa to see Australia. I have worked for various farriers in Melbourne, Bendigo, Queensland and Sydney and have now worked with Mr Steven Head at Stepahead Farriers for the past two years.