Marilyn Southern

I chanced upon Parelli in 2003 after trying to figure out how to apply a medley of "natural horsemanship" techniques to Ginger, who was to become my teacher and my best friend.  Not having a childhood filled with horses and riding lessons there weren't too many learned behaviours to overcome, all I needed was the savvy to develop a gorgeous relationship and enduring partnership.  Unfortunately, Ginger passed away in 2008, leaving me bereft and not wanting to do anything much with horses. How to fill that huge gap in my life? Thankfully, I already had a young, unstarted quarterhorse who would not be ignored - if I wasn't going to play with him then he was going to outplay me. My journey continues with Sondo Specks Rex, brimming with confidence and his paddock pal, Mulga (Little Leo Lena) who is the archetypal "shrinking violet."

My quest for knowledge and information changed my interest in horses to a passion.  I am aware of how much learning and growth I have experienced over these years, how much my horses tell me about myself and what to do to make sure we all progress. I have learned how to be provocative, playful and nurture the partnership. As my knowledge and confidence increased I have been asked to help a number of people with their horses, all of whom had much longer histories with horses than I did. 

Becoming a Parelli instructor, I thought, was something out of my league.  The realisation of this possibility awakened a whole new spirit of learning and endeavour.    I love the challenge, am discomforted by the continual stretch of learning and how by being sequential and following the pattern steadily and assiduously, can continue this marvellous work and engage in "never ending self-improvemnt." Helping humans to make a better world for horses is a great goal and I am privileged to join this community which always "puts the relationship first."

Born in Western Australia, I have lived overseas and in different parts of Australia.  While raising my 3 children, earned myself a Bachelors Degree, two graduate diplomas and a Masters.  I have had my own successful businesses and was a Montessori educator for over 20 years; teaching in the classroom, educating parents and training teachers. Parelli has a lot in common with Montessori, in both philosophy and practice - individual programs, teaching based on observation, process may not look like the product.

I live in Toodyay and teach in its surrounding areas, and welcome travelling within Western Australia to help humans with their horses. I teach individuals and groups up to 4 people. I can be contacted by telephone on 08 9574 5993, Mobile 0408602330 or email at marilyn.southern@hotmail.com and I am available weekdays and weekends to help you on this amazing journey.