“It is great to see riders develop confidence as they learn to listen to instructions, translate them into actions for their horse to respond to and then succeed together in the task”
I began volunteering at RDA Northern Area in South Australia in October 2010. I had known Kay Boon for many years and attended a talk she gave at the local Probus Club. She explained that horse riding was not only a great activity for disabled children and adults but was physically and mentally therapeutic as well.
I volunteer at Northern on Wednesday from 7.45am until 1.00pm.
My morning starts with a 10 minute walk to collect horses, followed by grooming, saddling and warming up the horse or pony. The first class starts at 9.00am with 3 more lessons during the morning where I usually help as a leader or sidewalker.
Lessons may be in a sand arena, in the paddock or on a trail ride around the wetlands pointing out ducks, sometimes swans or even pelicans!
It is great to see riders develop confidence as they learn to listen to instructions, translate them into actions for their horse to respond to and then succeed together in the task.
We all help with other tasks during the morning including picking up poo and at the end of the morning, we untack, brush down and sometimes rug the horses and ponies and take them to their paddocks. Watching Jock and Sam groom each other is a treat!
After everything is put away, we all head off, ready to “See you next week”. In addition to volunteering at Northern, I have been lucky enough to be involved in various ways with the State Dressage event held each year in September at Mallala. It is wonderful to see all the riders go through the routines they have spent so long practicing, especially when they are riders from your own Centre who you may have worked with and helped achieve their goals.
My husband, John and I have also been involved with the National Discipline Championships in Werribee, Victoria since 2012. We have helped in various ways including Official’s Catering, setting up the Event Office, PA System and Event Announcing. Last year, I enjoyed operating the arena gate for each rider.
I have thoroughly enjoyed volunteering at Northern on Wednesdays and at the other events run by the Centre. Thanks to Michael and Gloria who keep everything running and manage all the Centre commitments; also to coaches Rachel, Diane and Vicki for all their training and encouragement. I felt very welcomed by everyone when I started and continue to look forward to my day in the best ‘office’ with riders, horses and the other volunteers.