By LAUREN MITCHELL
BENDIGO’S Riding for the Disabled now boasts one of the country’s best facilities.
The group moved from its showgrounds home to the Mandurang Recreation Reserve this year, and celebrated the move in grand style last week.
RDA chief executive officer Sha Cordingley travelled to Bendigo for the launch, to join with local members in thanking the businesses and volunteers who contributed to the move.
“It’s pretty top class. It’s a really great example of what a group can do when they put their mind to it,” she said.
“I take my hat off to them.”
The move included building a $27,500 storage shed, made possible thanks to local donations of cash, materials and labour.
RDA Bendigo secretary Rosie Dean said it was the children who used the service who made their way into the hearts of those who helped out.
“Our view is that they can see that a group of wonderful volunteers providing a fantastic therapeutic horse riding and harness program for children and adults who are less fortunate than themselves,” she said.
“With other recreation activities for children such as soccer, netball, tennis the parents are usually involved with umpiring and committees.
“With RDA, the volunteers are not parents of the participants, just willing people who are prepared to give their time and dedication to help people with disabilities experience some beneficial and enjoyable recreation.”
Rosie said the move to Mandurang means the group will be able to expand its services, with trail riding and dressage now on the cards.
