There was a sense of relief outside 550 Moorooduc Highway this week as part of the Mount Eliza horse rescue, where RSPCA Victoria carried out a major horse seizure, removing 35 horses from the property of disgraced former racehorse trainer Maxine Fraser after months of Mornington Peninsula protests.
For protest organiser Carly Wines, the moment was hard to put into words.
“The feeling is surreal. Nothing more, nothing less,” she said. “This would never have happened without the peaceful protestors. That’s not me saying it — those were the words of the Senior Sergeant at Mornington Police Station.”
Mornington Peninsula protests lead to Mount Eliza horse rescue
Last week’s seizure was months in the making. Since April, community volunteers have gathered at the gates every day, logging injuries, filming conditions, and sending reports to the RSPCA. This is in addition to the protests held every weekend. Many locals doubted anything would change, but Wines said the plan was always clear: gather the evidence, push quietly, and give inspectors the case they needed.
It worked.
When the trucks and floats rolled in, the horses — despite years of neglect — loaded calmly.
“These horses knew this is what rescue felt like,” Wines said. “They trusted people because protestors had been there, softening them with kindness every single day. The heroes are the ones who stood there in the rain, checked on them at midnight, and never gave up.”
Stallions, goats and dogs remain at Maxine Fraser property
While 35 horses were saved, not all animals have left the Maxine Fraser property. Several stallions remain, along with around 20 goats and a number of dogs. Activists are now pressing DEECA and Mornington Peninsula Shire Council to step in.
Protestors say they’ll keep watch until every last animal is safe.
Community asked to support the rescued horses
Wines has also encouraged supporters to help provide feed for the horses that have been removed.
“Call John from Liken (they’re a stockfeed place in Hastings) we can make a donation to horse feed for these horses specifically by asking to make a contribution to Mt Eliza Horses. Their number is 0419 223 449 to call during business hours,” she advised
Mornington Peninsula protests continue after horse seizure
The protestors continued on Sunday 28 September, with fresh signs and renewed energy.
“Lives have been saved, but this isn’t finished,” Wines said. “We’ll be here as long as it takes.”
For many who’ve stood on the ground for 22 weeks straight, last week was proof that persistence works — and that community pressure can move mountains.
