Marion Sharman
Marion Sharman (nee Macqueen) first began breeding Arabian horses in the 1950’s first at Millmerran, then at Cooranga north. She is the daughter of renowned Australian watercolour painter Kenneth Macqueen and his artist wife Olive Crane. The family lived at ‘Murralah’, Millmerran where Marion first established an Arabian horse stud, her mentor being Mrs. Elwyn Bligh of ‘Bostocks Stud’, Brookstead.
After her marriage to Tom Sharman, the stud moved to ‘Jangharm’. Marion owned one of Australia’s most famous Arabian sires, Royal Domino (imported in utero by Mrs Bligh). Horses bred by Marion held major sway in show rings of the eastern states during the 1970’s and 80’s. They included names such as: Mildom, Arim, Ibn Domino, Royaljan and Domignon.
One of Marion’s major achievements was breeding Trix Silver by Royal Domino; this mare became the dam of the famous Ralvon Pilgrim, International Champion Stallion in the UK in 1978, and Australia’s first internationally decorated Arabian horse.
Royal Domino descendants, some bred by Marion, have successfully raced in the United Arab Emirates and Australia. Royal Domino sons such as Royal Gindi, Domignon and Tallangatta Muftakher, are acknowledged as leading endurance progenitors.
Marion was a foundation member, and is an honorary life member of both the Arabian Horse Society of Australia and the Queensland Arabian Horse Association. She served many years on committees, including organisation of the annual Arabian Challenge Shows. Marion was secretary of the Queensland Horse Council for many years and is a life member. She was also a national panel judge for 15 years. One of her lasting legacies has been her encouragement of younger breeders.
Marion has also incorporated importing stallions from the United States and Russia in her breeding program, successfully incorporating Russian, Polish and Egyptian bloodlines.
Few are more highly respected in the Arabian horse industry than Marion Sharman. Her contribution to the breed for more than 50 years has included an involvement at every possible level.