The story of 
Bill the Bastard

Join Carl in his warehouse directly behind the life sized sculpture of Bill the Bastard, as he takes you back in time with the powerful and moving story of Bill the Bastard, Australia's Greatest War Horse. 

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Come hear the story of Bill The Bastard, told in a way that only a man who has immersed himself in sculpting every curve of his powerful body could. 

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Hear Carl Tell The Story

Bill the Bastard, a legendary war horse, etched his name in the records of Australian military history during the tumultuous years of World War I. Born in 1916, he was a magnificent Australian Waler horse, standing out from the rest with his immense size, strength, and spirited personality.

Bill's story unfolded on the battlefields of the Middle East, where he became a beloved companion of the soldiers. His quirky traits quickly gained attention, earning him the nickname "the Bastard." Yet, despite his cantankerous reputation, Bill proved himself to be an extraordinary partner and a force to be reckoned with.

During the Battle of Romani in 1916, Bill was entrusted to Major Michael Shanahan of the 2nd Light Horse Regiment. In the face of fierce machine gun fire, Bill fearlessly charged forward, carrying Major Shanahan through the chaos. He became a symbol of unwavering bravery, inspiring his fellow soldiers with his undaunted spirit.

Bill's endurance and resilience were unparalleled. He thrived in the harsh desert conditions, covering vast distances on grueling patrols. Even in the face of extreme heat, thirst, and hunger, he pressed on, outlasting other horses and becoming an icon of strength and perseverance.

The pinnacle of Bill's heroism came during the Battle of Moreuil Wood in 1918. As part of the Australian forces engaged in the larger German Spring Offensive, Bill charged ahead amidst heavy fire, demonstrating unwavering courage and determination. His actions uplifted the spirits of those around him, embodying the indomitable spirit of the Australian Light Horse.

Bill survived the war but was unable to return to Australia. He died in 1924 at the age of 21 and is buried at Walker's Ridge in Gallipoli.

Bill's memory lives on, reminding us of the sacrifices made by both soldiers and animals during times of war. The life-sized sculpture in Harden Murrumburrah, NSW, stands as an enduring symbol of resilience, bravery, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their noble steeds.

There's so much more to the story, come along and hear it told as only Carl could tell it. 

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The Stories That Inspire His Work

THE STORY OF 

THE JERICHO CUP

the story of

BOOFHEAD THE DOG

MEMORIES FROZEN IN TIME 

A GRANDPARENTS LOVE

MEMORIES FROZEN IN TIME 

THE TALE OF GALLIPOLI

THE STORY OF THE 

BALANCING ROCKS

All Sculptures by Carl Valerius