Up until 1853 there was no reliable, regular transportation in the new colony.
An American, Freeman Cobb,and 3 other American partners decided to establish Australia's first coach service.
Freeman Cobb was a stickler for detail and perfection, and it was under his guidance that Australia's oldest and most respected transport business was established. Ensuring that only the best horses were used for harnessing, and the sturdiest of coaches were used.
Horses were of paramount importance in those days, and generally in short supply. Only 7 horses arrived on the first fleet, and a study of equine records will show that none of these were particularly of good breed, mostly mixed breed.
By 1810, the number had increased to just over 200 listed horses, however, by 1820 there was a massive increase in numbers, totaling around 3,600. Thoroughbred stallions were imported during the first 100 years of colonization to improve the breeds, but these were mostly for racing.
Having established a very successful coaching business and amassing sufficient profits, Freeman and his partners sold the business. It changed hands several times before finally being purchased by James Rutherford and several other partners. Under Rutherford's guidance, they embarked on expansion and the coachline traversed Victoria, New South Wales and finally into Queensland.
Over 6,000 horses daily were being harnessed by Cobb & Co, allowing fresh horses to be available at the designated stops, thus ensuring a regular, reliable service.
One can only imagine the adventures encountered by the coach drivers, in those rough early days, especially considering the number of bushrangers, freely roaming the countryside. This fact alone, would make any trip an arduous one.
The arrival of the motor vehicle, heralded the end of an era of transport by horse and coach in the early 1900's...and the last coach of Cobb & Co to run, was in Queensland in 1924.
Cobb & Co are still operating today, in the southern states of Australia. However, they have exchanged horse and carraige for luxurious and reliable coaches. They hold the honoured title
of being Australia's oldest transport business,
giving over 140 years of service.
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