'The Healing' to screen at the Bowlo

A powerful documentary about a thoroughbred trainer who works miracles with humans and horses will screen at Wombarra Bowlo on Sunday, 6 March

Last September’s 2508 District News featured the story of thoroughbred trainer Scott Brodie, who helps veterans of the military and the racetrack via an equine therapy program run out of Kangaroo Valley and Helensburgh.

Scott – a former mounted police officer – has saved hundreds of old race horses through retraining programs. Seven years ago, he started roping in army vets, with remarkable results.

“It’s about a real journey, where people learn horsemanship skills and see the changes in the horses as they see the changes in themselves,” Scott told 2508. “Veterans get into some pretty down places, medication doesn’t always do the trick and they’ve all been therapy-ed out.

“I just can’t tell you how many people have told me that I’ve saved their lives.”

When the Wombarra Bowlo’s Marketing Manager Jo Reed read about Scott’s work, and how Victorian filmmaker Nick Barkla had made the subject of a documentary called The Healing, she was touched and wanted to help.

“I think what he is doing is amazing and it touches all of us in one way or another. To be able to see possibilities or a way out when you think there is none, that’s pretty powerful to someone in a difficult place – and we need to start having those conversations” she said.

When Covid restrictions eased, Jo contacted Scott and organised a fundraising screening.

Scott is “very, very proud” of the film. His tip: “Get a box of tissues. When I watched the film, I was very choked up with some of the stories.”

The Healing will screen at the Bowlo at 2pm on Sunday, 6 March on the centre green under a marquee. Entry is free with a ticket, book via
bowlo.com.au. Donate at horseaid.org.au