The Agriculture and Animal Science Department is a major player in the Equine Studies industry offering training in Horse Studies and Breeding, Stablehand/Trackrider, Farriery and Racing.

Northern Lodge

Located 40 kilometres north of Melbourne in the beautiful foothills of Victoria's Great Dividing Range is NMIT's 320 hectare farm, Northern Lodge at Eden Park.

The stud provides dedicated training for two of Victoria's prospering industries; thoroughbred racing and viticulture.

Northern Lodge Stud

Since its inception in 1993, Northern Lodge has gone from being eroded land worth $450,000 to a spectacular 60 hectare stud valued in excess of $4 million.

Its lush pastures, first-rate stables, horse walker, a covering barn, menage, teasing facilities, a 1400 metre running track, a sand roll and state-of-the-art scanning equipment make Northern Lodge one of the finest thoroughbred training properties in Australia.

Teachers include acclaimed retired jockey Roy Higgins.

See also: Equine Studies - Higher Education which has details on the Bachelor of Equine Studies.

Available Courses (7)

Certificate II in Racing (Stablehand)

Gain the practical experience and knowledge required for employment as a stablehand in a harness or thoroughbred racing stable.

Certificate III in Farriery

The Certificate III in Farriery (Trade) delivers a comprehensive range of topics designed to provide the skills necessary for prospective employment in the horse industry as an accredited farrier. The course is designed to equip participants for accreditation as recognised farriers.

Certificate III in Racing (Advanced Stablehand)

These courses deliver a comprehensive range of topics designed to develop the skills and knowledge required for a career in the thoroughbred horse racing industry. Participants enrolled in these programs will utilise NMIT's own modern Thoroughbred Stud, Northern Lodge, Eden Park and selected metropolitan and regional racing stables and trainers.