Some stories are too good to let fade — and Drayhorse Shires is one of them. The story begins in Kent, England, where Nara and Gavin started with just two Shires and a single carriage. Over the decades, their small dream grew into one of the busiest carriage services in the south east of England. They supplied teams for weddings, funerals, film sets, and royal-style events, often with multiple trucks out every day.
A crowning moment came in 2012, when their horses took part in the London Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. It was a feat of calm, training and trust before a live audience of thousands — and millions watching around the world. “They said it couldn’t be done,” Nara recalls, “but we knew our horses could handle it.”
After decades of long hours and countless celebrations, the pair decided to chase a quieter life. They moved to Australia — briefly “retiring” — before realising they missed the rhythm of harnesses and hoofbeats. Within months, they began again.
Rebuilding on New Soil
From their new base in Queensland’s Scenic Rim, Drayhorse Shires slowly grew back into a thriving enterprise. They imported carriages from Poland, rebuilt their herd, and quickly became known for their professionalism, presentation, and kind, steady horses.
The business today serves Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, northern New South Wales and beyond, offering an elegant slice of tradition that fits seamlessly into modern celebrations.
Passing the reins
This spring marks a special moment — the handover of Drayhorse Shires to new owner Casey Armstrong, supported by her partner Michael. Nara and Gavin remain close as mentors, ensuring the heritage and high standards carry forward.
Casey’s own connection to the brand runs deep. A career paramedic, she first encountered Drayhorse Shires at her own wedding in 2017 and was instantly captivated by the magic they created. Years later, when the opportunity arose to take the reins, she jumped at it.
“For someone not to continue this legacy would’ve been such a loss,” she says. “We’ve got shire-sized shoes to fill — but we’ll do everything we can to keep the heritage alive while bringing in some fresh ideas.”
What the Next Chapter Looks Like
Weddings
From an elegant pair turnout to the storybook Cinderella, Drayhorse Shires offers arrivals, photo sessions and a ridden bride option for those who wish. The team works closely with venues to ensure safe access and smooth coordination, managing details like gradients, gates and set-down points so the day runs seamlessly.
Funerals
Their black hearse, flat bed and brewer’s dray provide a dignified farewell, guided by experienced coachmen and impeccably trained horses.
School Formals
A horse-drawn carriage is the kind of arrival no one forgets. From the polished pair to the Cinderella coach, it’s a timeless way to celebrate a milestone.
Cobb & Co Lunches and Farm Experiences
Guests can visit the shire horse farm in the Scenic Rim, meet the mares, stallion and foals, and take a Cobb & Co carriage ride before enjoying a hearty two-course lunch. Overnight farm stays are available for those wanting a full country experience, complete with verandah views across the paddocks.
A Working Venue
Couples wanting everything in one place can host their ceremony, photos and accommodation all on-site — with the horses and carriages right at hand.
The Breeding Heart
Drayhorse Shires isn’t just a carriage business — it’s also a guardian of the rare Shire breed. There are only around 350 Shires in Australia, and each foal born at the farm represents a small victory for the preservation of this gentle giant.
The breeding program focuses on temperament, soundness and careful handling from birth. Visitors who time it right might even meet King, the resident stallion and local celebrity, or see one of his newborn foals taking their first steps.
The Next Chapter
As Casey and Michael steps in and Nara and Gavin step back a little, the spirit of Drayhorse Shires remains unchanged. Well-mannered horses in polished harness. Carriages that fit the moment — whether laughter on the lawn or a quiet final journey. A venue that welcomes guests with horses grazing nearby.
It’s a legacy of craftsmanship and care, passed from one set of reins to another — and a reminder that some traditions are worth keeping alive.
Because while times change, the magic of a Shire horse never goes out of style.