Diana Mathewson has dedicated her life to the relationship between people, animals, and landscapes. Born in Texas, she spent time in New Mexico where she became part of the early community at Synergia Ranch, the Institute of Ecotechnics’ first demonstration project. There she emerged as a leader among the group trained to develop and manage new ecological projects.

In 1976, Diana became part of the founding team that established the IE-supported operations at Quanbun Downs, a large pastoral station in Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Bringing her expertise in horses, animal husbandry, and land management, she developed the station’s horse-breeding program, introducing colonial Arabian bloodlines to create Quarabs—a cross between Quarter Horses and Arabians—adapted to the tropical savannah environment.

For many years, Diana played a central role in the life and development of Quanbun Downs, combining practical skills with careful observation of animal behavior and ecological conditions. Her work reflected the Institute of Ecotechnics’ approach of learning directly from complex living systems and adapting practices to local environments.

Today, Diana continues her lifelong work with horses through her breeding and training program in southern Western Australia. She is also the author of Reminiscences of Another Day and The Horse & I, sharing insights gathered from more than half a century of working alongside horses and the landscapes that sustain them.

As a Fellow of the Institute of Ecotechnics, Diana Mathewson represents the enduring value of practical knowledge, patience, and deep connection with the living world.