Project Warhorse

Open Door’s Project Warhorse invites veterans to engage in archaeological research and fieldwork at Glenthorne National Park at O’Halloran Hill in South Australia, the former home of No.9 Remount Depot where more than 18,000 horses were trained before being sent to the frontline in World War 1.

“I think archaeology has so many benefits for veterans; you’re often outdoors, keeping busy, and it’s very procedural based – so whether you’re Navy, Air Force or Army, we do have a lot of similarities,” said Dr Daryl Wesley, Senior Lecturer in Archaeology and member of Open Door.

The multilayered project encouraged veterans to learn about the war horses at Glenthorne while exploring and connecting meaningfully with their own service to Australia. They gain hands-on archaeological experience including surveying, excavation and mapping and are encouraged to develop peer support networks to enhance their mental health.

Veteran Bradley Mazzaferri who participated in the program said “I learned a lot during my time in the army and today, I was utilising those skills. This project has given me more confidence and now I’d like to study.”

“If I had to describe this in one word, I would say therapeutic. Up until two days ago, I was the only person in the world with PTSD. I had no communication, no association with anybody else with illness. And after meeting these guys, it’s been so great to meet other people in the world who are very similar to me,” said veteran Phillip Montiadis.

The interdisciplinary project combining archaeology, anthropology, history, mental health, sociology and military studies provides an Australian framework for other successful international models. It follows a partnership between Flinders University and the Defence Force Welfare Association and is led by Dr Daryl Wesley and Professor Ben Wadham.

For more on Project Warhorse contact Dr Daryl Wesley at daryl.wesley@flinders.edu.au.

Dr Daryl Wesley, Senior Lecturer in Archaeology and member of Open Door