Australian Stunt & Film Horses is run by Steve Cox and Nirelle Somerville. Together they have 60 years experience training horses at liberty, stunt work for the film & advertising industries, competitive dressage, showing and campdrafting.
Steve Cox
In 2017 Steve Cox Equine Entertainment was formed to showcase Steves ability to successfully train horses to work softly and obediently regardless of the handler or riders experience, something that is vital in the film and stunt industry. From a young age Steve was mentored by horsemen working with animals for Australian film. He has a lifetime of experience ranging from breaking in and educating young horses to racing and campdrafting with specialist skills in retraining problem horses.
From a young child his passion for horses was evident and he has been on a steadfast path since to continually expand on both his knowledge and the skills of every horse he comes into contact with. In 2023 the business name was changed to Australian Stunt & Film Horses to encompass Steve’s liberty work and public clinics, and the Australian film industry to fill a need for quality, well prepared, educated and experienced film and stunt horses. Over the years Steve has started horses for intended for dressage, eventing, showjumping, reining and campdrafting.
Regular clinics and lessons at the property attract riders and enthusiasts of all levels with the goal of equipping participants with understanding and knowledge so that they may have lasting and rewarding relationships with their horse.
Nirrelle Somerville
Growing up in the Mallee, Nirelle began riding family ponies from a very young age now having over 50 years experience in both training and competing. From humble beginnings with the local Pony Club her eye for detail and love of beautiful horses soon led to competing and winning in the show ring at Agricultural, Royal, Horse of the Year, National and Grand National level. Through her dedication to strong foundation training and a passion for training the high level movements she successfully moved into the Dressage arena and continues to develop horses to reliably succeed in competitions every time they perform. In 2022, Nirelle was awarded the prestigious HRCAV Dressage 100 Point Award with two horses, Wenona of Bella Donna and a friesian gelding Zulu II, who continues to excel as they step into FEI.
With the attention to detail throughout her training, her consistency and perseverance and undeniable skill in the education of young horses, Nirrelle builds strong relationships both with the horses she works with and her clients.
Nirrelle has the ability to build vital confidence in her coaching of riders of all ages and level and coaching actors in a safe and controlled environment. Eight years ago she added Liberty to an already impressive skill set after meeting Steve and the rest is history.