University graduates up for auction

Twenty University graduates will be auctioned to the highest bidder on November 16 - all of them 'perfectly trained and eager to please'.

Having undergone intensive training at Gatton College, the graduates have been described as 'suited to any line of work'. They are, however, horses, not students.

Organising the inaugural Gatton College Graduation Horse Sale, Horse Unit manager Peter Scott said the horses, ranging from yearlings to 18-year-olds, were 'top quality riding horses'.

Many had been raised and educated by students as part of the two-year associate diploma of applied science/horse husbandry.

'It's an idea we've been trying to get going for a few years now, and hopefully the auction will become an annual event,' Mr Scott said.

'All the horses are perfectly sound and have had nothing but the best care and education. In fact four of the horses didn't make the catalogue - they have already been bought by students.'

Mr Scott said the diploma course had become so popular that a new three-year bachelor of applied science animal studies (specialising in equine and recreational animal management) would be offered in 1998 with a quota of 35 students.

Meanwhile, the current diploma course will be re-named diploma of applied science/equine studies with a quota of 30 students (internal or external).

The Graduation Horse Sale starts at 11am at Gatton College Equitation Training Ground. The horses will be available for trial and inspection from Friday, November 14.
For more information telephone Peter Scott on 3365-0145