The volunteer, non-profit centre is hosting a quiz night on Saturday, August 23, to raise money which will go towards the horses’ feed and general maintenance.
RDA committee member Liz Bonker said 98 riders attend Oakford RDA on a weekly basis and looking after the 12 horses, at the centre, is costly.
‘We receive very little money, but we are really lucky to have the support of the community and the volunteers,’ she said.
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READ NOW‘Our new horse shelter (built in April) was all done by volunteer work.’
As part of RDA awareness week, July 28-August 3, which coincided with the horse’s birthday on August 1, RDA Oakford aimed to draw attention to the work it does to improve the mental and physical wellbeing of children with a disability.
Mrs Bonker said there were numerous benefits that disabled children experienced when they worked with horses.
‘A lot of kids with a disability have bad balance; riding a horse helps with muscle strength and posture. If they can’t walk, it gives them the ability to move.
‘Psychologically it’s good for their confidence; they feel good about themselves because they’re outside and doing something different. It gives them such a great sense of enthusiasm.’
Tickets for the RDA quiz night are available by email rdaoakford@live.com.au or 0439 927 910.