About Us

It all started with a letter to RIDER magazine in October 1976 from Val Collingwood, a keen horsewoman who had rescued a severely neglected horse she named Hope. He was badly malnourished and died three weeks later due to a massive worm infestation at only three years old.

This prompted Val to voice her concerns and reach out with a proposal whereby horses in need could be rescued and rehabilitated. The horse community responded in droves and Val found herself coordinating what became Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria Inc.

Val’s legacy is continuing thanks to the efforts of dedicated volunteers across the state. 

The need for our existence is stronger than ever.

Purposes of Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria

1. Assist horse owners through education, advice and support to rehabilitate their own horse;
2. Rescue and rehabilitate any horse found abandoned, sick, injured, mistreated or neglected or likely to become so in the imminent future;
3. Provide emergency care, treatment and assistance to horses;
4. Educate the community on the plight of neglected horses; and
5. Contribute to the development of improved government legislation and policy relating to the welfare of horses.

PHHWV is a neutral, apolitical organisation that promotes equine welfare. Stakeholder relations have become an increasingly important part of achieving the welfare outcomes that PHHWV is striving for and whilst it is imperative that PHHWV remains independent of other bodies, it is hoped that by developing good working relationships with stakeholders in the equine sphere, improved outcomes for horses entering the welfare system can be achieved. 

Annual Report 2026

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