36 Michael Shanahan was 44 years old when he enlisted. An age when he should have been at home, enjoying the fruits of his labour, not going off to war. However, off he did go, and into a unique place in Australia’s heritage. A carpenter from Roma QLD, he was a fine horseman as well. He additionally possessed the patience and perseverance to slowly and methodically, win over a cantankerous rogue horse, appropriately named Bill the Bastard. Bill was a man hater. He would concede to pack horse duties, but woe betide the man who tried to ride him. To the disbelief of all around him, Shanahan finally won Bill over and what a fearless combination they became. In the battle of Romani in 1916, the Allies were desperately defending the Suez. Four Tasmanian Light Horsemen had their mounts shot out from under them. Under heavy enemy fire, Bill, the horse that would only let one man ride him, suddenly let four more pile on, and took them out of harm’s way. Later in the same battle Shanahan was shot in the leg. Fighting on, continually losing blood, he eventually passed out in the saddle. Bill, sensing a lack of direction from above, slowly walked him back to the lines, and took him to the vet. Shanahan lost his leg and the war was over for him. Back to Australia and long term employment as a lift driver in a Brisbane department store. Not a just and fitting ending for a war hero, but there weren’t too many jobs for one legged men, and sadly plenty qualified for the job. We are extremely pleased to welcome Michael Otago, Great Grandson of Michael Shanahan who has travelled from central QLD, here today to present the trophy to the winning connections. Michael Shanahan, we salute you. Better late than never. The story of By Bill Gibbins MICHAEL SHANAHAN
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