Sultan
Sultan the Black, a striking, gleaming stallion of pure, solid black, reigns over the wild, open, mountainous terrain of Kosciuszko National Park. His powerful presence is matched only by the flowing mane that drapes almost to the ground, a testament to his untamed beauty and strength. Sultan is a solid, commanding figure, seldom seen, and when he disappears into the mountains he calls home, he remains unseen for months, not unlike the legendary Paleface.
Interestingly, Sultan did not receive his name until well after the fires of 2019/2020. Before that, he was simply known as "the black," a mysterious figure roaming the mountains, his identity as enigmatic as his presence.
Known as one of the most cautious stallions in the mountains, Sultan is a master of his domain, moving with a silent grace that makes him nearly impossible to track. When Ian ventures into the mountains for his regular hiking trips, he hopes for a glimpse of Sultan and his mob. But despite his efforts, Sultan remains elusive, evading even the keenest eyes.
Our connection with Sultan stretches back to before the devastating fires of 2019/2020. After those fires ravaged the mountains, Michelle and Ian made their way up to document the aftermath. The relief of seeing Sultan alive amidst the charred landscape was indescribable. Ian captured an extraordinary photo of Sultan standing proudly in the burn, a moment of pure joy and hope in the midst of devastation.
Ian has been following Sultan for several years, but the stallion has never fully let him into his circle. There was one rare occasion when Ian managed to get within 40 metres, the closest Sultan has ever allowed. Any attempt to get closer results in Sultan leading his mob away, disappearing into the wilderness. One of Sultan's buckskin mares, named Kiandra by Leisa, once approached Ian out of curiosity. Sultan watched her closely, his protective eyes never leaving the scene. Gradually, the rest of the mob followed, creating a rare and blessed experience.
Over time, Sultan has come to recognize Ian's voice. There’s a quiet understanding between them now, a mutual respect that allows Ian to sit quietly among one of the most beautiful mobs in the park. Sultan leads a small, close-knit mob of eight, each member a part of this wild and free family, thriving under his watchful gaze in the heart of Kosciuszko.