Brumbies in Australia evolved from domestic horses that either escaped into the bush or, for various reasons, were abandoned. In this region, in times of drought, horses and cattle were often turned out. Others would escape the muster and join the brumbies.  Some well-bred horses were ‘bushed’ to live out their lives when thorough-bred racing was abandoned 40 years ago.  Others escaped their paddock and covered brumby mares.  Today the ‘common’ land that was once available has considerably diminished.  It is now freehold or leased by way of Stock Grazing Permits. The majority of the land (about 70%) was cleared and planted to pine.  These changes together with more settlement has meant an ever-diminishing area is available for our remaining brumbies.  Regardless of the challenges, small numbers of wild horses still roam free in areas such as the Tuan Forest.  They can often be seen grazing by the road side.