Heidi Mackay’s name is synonymous with dedication, patience, and a passion for animals - qualities that have shaped her 29-year career as an animal trainer in Australia’s entertainment and film industries.
Today, as the Equine Manager at the Australian Outback Spectacular, Heidi’s journey is a shining example of the Australian spirit of hard work and resilience.
Heidi’s love for horses began in her childhood, where she competed in Pony Club events, eventually deciding to turn her passion into a career. After refining her skills under top trainers in the USA, Heidi returned to Australia, landing a job as an animal trainer at Warner Bros. Movie World on the Gold Coast. It was here that she found herself auditioning for what would become her dream job - riding in the first-ever Australian Outback Spectacular show.
For the past 17 years, Heidi has been an integral part of this iconic production, where 25 cast members, 80 horses, and countless other animals create a breathtaking portrayal of life on the Australian land. The show’s sophisticated projection mapping system transports audiences through a changing Australian landscape, providing an authentic backdrop for the stars of the show. Preparing for each performance is no small feat - it takes over a year of preparation to seat a 1000-strong audience. And at the heart of this preparation is Heidi, guiding the equine performers to deliver their best.
Heidi’s rise to the role of Equine Manager, following the passing of the original horse trainer Tony Jablonski, was a bittersweet milestone. “I was really gobsmacked when it got offered to me; I couldn’t believe they would think that much of me,” she recalls. Her modesty aside, it’s clear that Heidi’s skill, determination, and hard work were what truly led her to this position. She’s quick to credit being in the right place at the right time, but anyone familiar with the demands of animal training knows that success in this field is far more about dedication than luck.
This unwavering dedication and passion for the craft resonate deeply with us at Kendor Distillery. Just as Heidi nurtures each horse to its full potential, we pour the same dedication into every bottle we create. Our spirits are crafted with 'Patience and Passion,' because, like Heidi, we believe that the best things in life always take time.
At Kendor, every drop of our spirits is a reflection of the meticulous effort and craftsmanship that goes into their creation. We understand that achieving excellence is not about shortcuts; it’s about putting in the hours, honing the craft, and believing in the cause. This approach mirrors Heidi’s mantra - excellence through patience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
Though Heidi Mackay and Kendor Distillery work in different realms, the core values that drive us are remarkably similar. We both understand that true greatness is born from dedication, and that the journey to mastery is as important as the destination. As you enjoy a glass of Kendor’s finest, know that it embodies the same Australian spirit of hard work, dedication, and passion that Heidi Mackay brings to the Australian Outback Spectacular. Cheers to the spirit of Australia, and to the people like Heidi who exemplify it every day.
Product featured in the above video is Kendor Distillery's Signature Gin. Try it for yourself.
Comments