Anthony Desreaux grew up in the Corner Country of far north-west New South Wales on Mount Wood Station, just 27 kilometres east of Tibooburra. Horses have always been a central part of his life, and from an early age he spent every spare moment in the saddle, developing a passion that would eventually become his life’s work.
After years working in stock camps and riding countless nervous, difficult and inexperienced horses, Anthony began to question the traditional methods of horse training. He believed there had to be a better way. That belief was reinforced when respected horseman Gordon McKinlay visited to teach horsemanship, giving Anthony his first glimpse of what was truly possible through understanding, communication and feel rather than force.
While Anthony has a lifetime of practical horse experience, it is over the past two decades that he has dedicated himself to continually refining his craft. He has started thousands of young colts, rehabilitated troubled horses, and ridden everything from challenging, unconfident horses through to naturally gifted performance horses. Every horse has added another lesson, and every day in the saddle has strengthened his belief that great horsemanship is a lifelong journey.
Anthony has also travelled to the United States to study under some of the world’s most influential horsemen, including Ray Hunt, Buck Brannaman, Craig Johnson and Pat Parelli, as well as spending time with accomplished horsemen who continue to shape the future of horsemanship in America. These experiences have helped shape the philosophy he teaches today.
Although Anthony has competed successfully in rodeo, gymkhanas and has even ridden racehorses, competition has never been his primary focus. His passion lies in helping horses become willing, confident partners and teaching people how to develop that same relationship. His goal is not simply to create a horse that performs, but one that genuinely trusts its rider.
Anthony believes true horsemanship is measured by the ability to take any horse—regardless of its breeding, background or previous experiences—and build a relationship based on trust, understanding and clear communication. A horse should willingly accept its rider, its saddle and its work without fear, intimidation, anger or cruelty.
In May 2015, after more than a decade managing one of Australia’s largest cattle stations in far western Queensland, Anthony made the decision to leave station management and pursue horsemanship full time. Throughout his years in the cattle industry, horses were an essential part of daily operations. He not only relied on them for mustering cattle but also trained young horses and mentored staff in horse handling and colt starting.
What began as teaching horsemanship between mustering seasons soon evolved into a full-time career as demand for his clinics continued to grow. Today, through Reata Ranch, Anthony teaches clinics throughout Australia and internationally, helping horse owners develop safer, more willing and more enjoyable horses.
Anthony’s clinics are built around creating a welcoming, supportive and equal learning environment where every participant, regardless of experience, has the opportunity to grow in confidence and develop their horsemanship.
Whether your goal is to build a better relationship with your horse, gain confidence in the saddle, start a young horse correctly, or prepare for competition, Anthony is committed to giving you the knowledge, understanding and practical tools to help you and your horse reach your full potential.
There is no pressure to rush through a program and no expectation that every horse learns at the same pace. Anthony believes the best results come from taking the time it takes to build a genuine partnership based on trust, communication and understanding.
Once that partnership is established, the possibilities are endless. Whether your passion is working cattle, campdrafting, cutting, trail riding or simply enjoying your horse, the foundation remains the same.
Anthony’s goal is simple—to help people create horses that are willing, confident and enjoyable to ride, while giving owners the skills to continue learning long after the clinic has finished.
“The journey of horsemanship never ends. Every horse has something to teach us, and the greatest reward is earning their trust.”
We hope to see you on your journey.
