Equine Scientist | Trainer | Author | Advocate for Animal Welfare
Dr Andrew McLean is internationally recognised as a leading figure in equine behaviour and learning theory. Winner of the prestigious Eureka Prize for Science, Andrew has reshaped the global understanding of how we interact with and train horses.
As the founder of the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre (AEBC) – once the largest behaviour modification facility in the Southern Hemisphere – Andrew has authored six influential books (including an international bestseller) and published over 55 peer-reviewed journal articles on equine cognition, learning, and welfare.
With over 40 years as an accredited coach, Andrew has competed at FEI level in Dressage and Eventing, represented Australia in Horse Trials, and trained horses across disciplines including Grand Prix Show Jumping. He has also held a racehorse owner/trainer licence and competed in bareback racing in both Australia and New Zealand.
A co-developer of the academic field of Equitation Science, Andrew has delivered lectures and demonstrations across Europe, North America, Africa, New Zealand, and Asia. His research has not only improved training practices for horses but extended to elephant welfare through his not-for-profit charity, HELP Foundation (Human Elephant Learning Program), which applies humane, evidence-based training to working elephants in Southeast Asia.
Andrew is a founding board member of Pony Club Australia, where he helped modernise the national syllabus to reflect current science in learning and welfare. He also serves on the Equine Welfare Advisory Council for Racing Victoria, advocating for improved standards in the thoroughbred industry.
Driven by a lifelong curiosity about the animal mind, Dr McLean is dedicated to improving the welfare and ethical treatment of animals through science, education, and practical application.
We are honoured to have Dr Andrew McLean join us on the judging panel for Legacy of the Horse 2025.
