Riders

In 2011 I received two awards from Tall Timbers. One was expected, the other was not. The 10 years’ service award I knew was coming – Tall Timbers’ Volunteer of the Year blew me away! To the Committee and all the volunteers who supported that nomination, heartfelt thanks – it is an honour that many deserve and which I gratefully accepted.

I started volunteering at TT in 2001. I had just been retrenched and I decided I would take the opportunity to give something back to the community while I had the time. I also had selfish reasons for doing so – I wanted to re-connect with the horse community and I wanted to have some sense of purpose and value while I was job hunting. So I checked out Go Volunteer and found RDA (I had some exposure to RDA when I went to work in the UK for a few years and was living and riding in very horsey country). The ad I saw was placed by Kerry who had just decided to try an online channel to attract volunteers and the rest is history as they say.

I’m not sure I’m a volunteer by nature, but my mother donated an immense amount of time to various charities and I occasionally helped her - there were so many people who needed assistance back in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Maybe some of that rubbed off on me after all.

I started volunteering on Thursdays and I just instantly liked the people I met: Kerry, Wendy, Pip, Kim, Dick and Liz - with occasional visits by the madcap Joy! Butch was around then too – all were so welcoming. The horses were captivating – working with them in this way offers such a different reward to riding yourself. The riders opened my eyes to issues I had previously given little thought to. I went to Nepean to help at Mounted Games and met Denise, Joan and Karen and people from other centres and realised that we all worked well as a team with common objectives, despite our often vastly different backgrounds. I was asked to become a coach after a few months and when I found work I continued to train and soon took on the Saturday programme management when the staff coach running that resigned. Jan Moran was a terrific support in that time and subsequently. Soon I was on the committee too and I was awarded the RDA NSW Volunteer Encouragement Award for the Metropolitan Region in 2004. At one point it all got to be a bit much with working full time, every Saturday at RDA plus many other days and the nights driving out from Cammeray for coach and committee meetings so I stepped back for a while, but couldn’t stay away too long!

I have been at most regional Mounted Games qualifiers and Royals- and State and National Dressage Championships in those 10 years as coach, horse leader, pencilller and latterly, as “the Voice of RDA.” I was a DJ back in Cape Town in my university days and learned to work a mike at all sorts of events. I have been hired out to Hawkesbury Equine Exhibition in exchange for a free stand for RDA and commentated at numerous State Competitions at SIEC and the Royal. I am on the gate at Windsor Polo, making sandwiches and serving teas at Model Railways, preparing and serving lunch and cleaning up at Castle Hill Show. Since I gave up eating meat I no longer do BBQs! I have presented at workshops and trained volunteers. I am your all round RDA Volunteer and I don’t believe I am that unusual.

What keeps me here? Well, there are a whole heap of reasons: the wonderful equine characters I’ve come to love and lament over the years, the riders – some of whom have gone on to ride in open competition on their own horses, some of whom have had smaller, but no less significant, progress in their worlds and some of whom just enjoyed the ride and whose smiles and delight brought such profound pleasure to their families and me; my fellow coaches – many of whom have become real friends, the volunteers, fellow committee members and of course the tireless Kerry – have all become such an important part of my life – my co-travellers on a journey, sharing so many moments of laughter, learning and hope – and just occasionally a teensy bit of stress ! I simply cannot imagine my life without RDA in it now – though, particularly in the first quarter of the year when there are so many events and I don’t seem to have a spare moment, I sometimes fantasise about that!

RDA has given me the opportunity to learn new skills, to go to places I may never have visited otherwise, to get to know a part of Sydney that I didn’t even know existed from my city desk in my first few years in Australia. It has allowed me to broaden my perspective and view life through a different lens. It has spurred me on to a new path studying equine facilitated mental health and learning. It has provided a needed counterbalance to my corporate life – it keeps things real and means I never get too caught up in the trivial trials and tribulations of my life, when I so regularly see people whose circumstances are so much more trying, and who display such courage daily.

RDA has given me a sense of belonging, a sense of purpose and meaning beyond my day job, has made me more accountable in so many ways – and brings me into contact with an ever-changing bunch of new, young volunteers, some of whom give me great hope for future generations. It allows me to believe that teamwork really can exist, and that the sum is greater than the parts, that one person can and does make a difference and that flexibility and resilience really do reap rewards.

RDA also brought my best (horse) friend (Indigo) into my life – why wouldn’t I stay involved?

VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION AWARD - JOHN AND SANDRA WRIGHT

By Karen O’Neill, Hon President

Congratulations to John and Sandra on receiving the Volunteer Appreciation Award for 2011. John and Sandra come as a team. They have been at this Centre since September 2010, attending every Thursday to help as horse leaders and side walkers for our riders, having a great rapport with their fellow volunteers, coaches and riders. They seem to think about RDA 24/7 and their dedication to RDA in such a short time is outstanding.

As well as assisting with the classes they have been involved in many other ways including initiating and running of many fund raisers including Bunnings BBQs, bingo nights, running raffles on rodeo nights or at shopping centres, canteens both new and helping at established functions. They always give out information and promote RDA whenever they are out in the public eye. Neither of them are shy and are very good at speaking to new people to spread information about RDA. Both of them have spent many weeks fixing the electric fencing and have also been involved in numerous working bees including building of the horse shelter sheds.

As well as attending weekly, John & Sandra have joined our committee since March 2010 and they have been very active in establishing new contacts and tradespeople to help with funding and services for us. They are very much involved in the running of this centre. Thankfully they are both retired because else we would be wondering when they have time to sleep!

John and Sandra’s ability to promote and inform the general public about RDA and to encourage more people to become involved both on a day to day basis or as a sponsor has greatly increased awareness of RDA in our region. Benefits through extra funding have flowed onto our riders, volunteers and centre.

“We have always loved and owned horses and when our sons finished riding a few years ago we wanted a good home for our pony you all know as Ozzy.

In August 2010, as a retired couple, with time on our hands, we were looking for something we could both do. We brought some rugs to Tall Timbers and after speaking with Nicole we came home with Savannah

(retired) and a commitment to help out on Thursdays. It was the perfect fit. RDA became addictive. Dedicated staff, fantastic new friends in our vollies, horses and kids that just melted our hearts. It was everything we had been looking for. As the need arose, we gave more time and had great fun at Canteens and BBQ's which turned out to be social events.

New friends made us feel like extended family so we looked forward to any opportunity to help out. If anyone is looking for an organisation that gives back more than it takes, RDA TT is the place to be. Male, Female, Young or Old will find fulfilment from giving a few hours a week. Give it a try and become addicted.”

John and Sandra.

YOUNG VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR - SOPHIE SCARLETT

I started at RDA Tall Timbers in year 10, which was 2009. I attended a week of work experience for my School Certificate, with a friend who was riding at the Centre at the time.

I had always loved horses, but had never been around them. The week flew and was a great experience; never did I think that one person could learn so much in 5 days. Soon after I started my own riding lessons and my love for horses started to show so I never looked back. Since that week I have been attending Tall Timbers nearly every Saturday working with the horses and helping out in lessons. After realising that this was something I wanted to continue, I decided to undertake the Assistant Coach training last year and shortly, after that is completed I hope to undertake my Coach training and become a Coach for RDA Tall Timbers. Becoming a volunteer is definitely something I would encourage everyone to have a go at, even if you don’t know much about horses, it’s a great opportunity to learn lots of new things and helping out in lessons and working with the riders is great fun. Nothing compares to seeing the kids having fun and smiling from cheek to cheek as well seeing them improve their riding skills which is something extremely rewarding.

I would like to thank Nicole for all her patience with my coach training as well as Judy and Kaye, the Saturday coaches, for helping me to broaden my knowledge of horse management and coaching as well as everyone else who has made my time at RDA so enjoyable. I hope there are many more great memories to come! Lastly I would like to give a BIG thankyou RDA Tall Timbers for awarding me with the Young Volunteer of the Year Award for 2011, I hope it inspires others to volunteer and become a part of the Tall Timbers Centre.

CBA WORKING BEE

By Tony Checchia, Commonwealth Bank
Executive Manager, Subsidiary and Balance Sheet Reporting

On February 10^th, my team spent a few hours helping out at the Tall Timbers property in Box Hill. The team of eighteen spent the time applying linseed oil to the walls of the riding arena and undertaking some gardening work on the property. Afterwards we prepared a BBQ and had lunch with the team at Tall Timbers as well as other volunteers.

It was especially rewarding to see a group of children undertaking an orienteering session at Tall Timbers, the smiles on the faces highlighted the impact that a facility like Tall Timbers has on the children’s lives. My whole team had a great time assisting and we aim to continue to our involvement with Tall Timbers.

PROJECT LOCAL ROUSE HILL TIMES

Project Local is a new community initiative brought to you by your NewsLocal newspaper.

Thank you to everyone who voted for our project “Solid Footing for All” in the Rouse Hill Times Project Local competition.

We won $2500 to construct some paths to improve access around the property and to our Sensory Garden.

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ST GEORGE FOUNDATION ASSISTS RDA TALL TIMBERS

RDA Tall Timbers Centre has been lucky enough to be granted the support of the St George Foundation; this will help the centre with our plans for expansion.

St George Foundation helps build a secure future for disadvantaged children. – “We do this by funding programs run by the smaller charities who are truly close to the families they help but who don’t attract funding from government and who aren’t big enough to generate significant fundraising income. Since 1990, we have partnered with over 700 community organisations across Australia and invested more than $17.5 million to improve the lives of Aussie kids who are physically, socially or economically disadvantaged. In 2011, this commitment to the little guys saw us funding projects in 123 different communities and delivering programs worth over $1,8 million to the kids who need them most.” http://www.stgeorge.com.au/about-stgeorge/sustainability-and-community/stgeorge-foundation

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LIFE MEMBERSHIP JOHN AND CARMEL NORRIS

Congratulations John and Carmel on receiving Life Memberships. Both John and Carmel have actively been involved with RDA Tall Timbers for well over 10 years. John began as a Saturday volunteer more than 10 years ago. Although John is a “quiet sort of guy” he is always willing to get involved in all aspects of RDA Tall Timbers Centre. After retiring he joined the volunteers each Thursday helping in the riding classes. As well as the classes, the Thursday “gang” often get together to assist the Centre with working bees at which John has been a keen participant.

When the call went out for a new Centre Committee John & Carmel enthusiastically volunteered. This involves monthly meetings to help with the running of the Centre and at the time to assist with the new development. John & Carmel have now been very involved in fundraising for our Centre for over 5 years. Both of them took over the organisation of the Model Railways canteen fundraiser which involves co-ordinating Lions Club of Kuringai and RDA volunteers, shopping for supplies, running the canteen and selling raffle tickets. This is one of our largest fundraisers every year.

If that was not big enough, Carmel and John also took on the task of co-ordinators for the Castle Hill Show which is a large 3 day function with organisation for dinners and lunches for officials, stewards and stall holders and our volunteers to help with this task. Again much planning and behind the scenes activities are required which both Carmel and John do cheerfully.

For many years John’s Lions Club have supported the Saturday rider’s Christmas party with gifts for the riders. John has attended these parties on behalf of the club and assisted with the gifts and trophy. They both have a keen interest in our riders and how to better our centre for the smooth running of our programs. Carmel is a legend when it comes to baking cakes and slices for functions which she does even though she is still working full time.

Also they have been involved with the start up of Bunning BBQs again after the Centre had a short break from this event. They have attended nearly every BBQ at Dural and have the routine set up for new volunteers to fit in easily. Thank you for the significant contribution you make to Tall Timbers, above and beyond the call of duty.

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CASTLE HILL RSL GIVE BACK AWARD WINNER – PIP LOVELY

DSCF9698 (640x480) Pip Lovely was announced as a quarterly winner of Castle Hill RSL’s community initiative Give Back which recognises people who contribute to the community. It gives Castle Hill RSL the opportunity to give back to the community members who give so much to others.

RDA Tall Timbers nominated Pip as she contributes so much, not only for our Centre, but in so many other facets of the community.

We can always count on Pip to help out wherever necessary and always with so much energy and enthusiasm. Thank you Pip – a very deserving winner.

Pip is pictured receiving a certificate from Castle Hill RSL Chairman Warren Glenny

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UWS PARTNERSHIP – CLASSROOMS WITHOUT BORDERS

STe091211_173 We were very pleased to receive a Certificate of Appreciation from UWS for our partnership in their Classrooms without Borders Program.

Postgraduate students from the University of Western Sydney are making a big difference in their communities, by assisting local organisations that care for children with special needs. The cohort of Master of Education (Primary) students are all participating in the university’s innovative Classrooms without Borders (CWB) program. Classrooms without Borders is supported by the School of Education and UWS Engagement. RDA Tall Timbers hosted 4 students from UWS during the year.

Picture: Pip, Kerry and Karen at the Presentation.

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HILLS KIDS CUPCAKE BAKEOFF

RDA Tall Timbers Centre was delighted to be nominated as a beneficiary of the proceeds from the Hills Kids Cupcake Bakeoff which was hosted by Glenorie Bakery. Over two Sundays Tall Timbers volunteers assisted with a variety of aspects of the event. It was great fun and also a good opportunity to create awareness of our Centre. There were some fantastic cupcakes made by talented kids – the finalist’s creations being judged by Adriano Zumbo (Masterchef) and Andrew Morello (The Apprentice). After the awards an Auction was held with Andrew Morello as the auctioneer. Items on offer included, dinner at the Rock Pool Sydney, Biviano Restaurant at Windsor, a signed Wallabies Jumper, Golf day with the Mayor of Hornsby and bread baking class for 4 at Brassiere Bread among other items. Thank you to everyone who supported this event and a special thank you to Rob Pirina, Managing Director of Glenorie Bakery.

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NRMA INSURANCE WORKING BEE

By Mariana Cidade, Consumer Public Relations Manager, DIGITAL & DIRECT MARKETING NRMA INSURANCE

DSCF3415 The NRMA Insurance Marketing team returned to Tall Timbers Riding for the Disabled centre to once again lend a hand. This time the team came on two different days to tackle anything from gardening to painting the fences with sump oil.

The first group went in August and worked hard painting and gardening in the sun. Some of the team rode on mowers while others yielded the whipper snippers. Another team planted a sensory garden in the shape of a smiley face for the kids to appreciate when they’re not with the horses. Group two visited in October and spent some quality time painting the first building people see when they come to the centre – the large Manager’s cottage and horse ‘sick bay’ stables. The fences got a good coat of sump oil and the garden got some more TLC.

Both groups enjoyed a sausage sizzle for lunch and some cheese and dips for morning and afternoon tea. The best part was the opportunity to watch some of the classes with the kids and see how much they benefit from horse riding and how happy they look. It was great to hear from RDA’s staff how horse riding helps kids with a wide range of disabilities from developing their core muscles to increasing their confidence.

Everyone had a great time; it was very rewarding to spend the day out working in the sun and bonding with team mates over a good cause.

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TRIVIA NIGHT

By Pip Lovely, Hon Vice President

DSCF3467 This year we made the decision to hold our Trivia Night during the warmer months so chose October 29th. We hoped that more people would brave the warmer conditions but unfortunately that did not prove to be so. Luckily 100 keen trivia buffs were there to have a fun night with lots of trivia and games. I don't think the questions were that hard as most tables got quite good scores each round and made up points by participating in the extra paper activities such as "remember these Quotes from movies" and "name the country by their flag". Each of these activities had 15 to choose from...the flags had one blank space (for ease of scoring) so one inventive table decided to try for an extra point by answering that the country was Antarctica in a blizzard!!

My Thanks go to Kerry, Nicole, Kirsty (for being markers), Karen, Judy and Fran for all the help setting up and supervising the half time games, Elsa for helping put chairs out and being an enthusiastic participant, Dennis for helping set up and organising parking and to all the people who helped at the end of the night to stack and collapse the tables. Thanks also to Carmel for baking the delicious cakes for supper.

We made just over $2000 and had a ball doing it.

Thank you to all the Sponsors and Supporters: Harrison Carpentry, Featherdale Wildlife Park, Cellarmasters, Hidden Beauty Northmead, Brook’s Tyre, Brake and Steering Service, Hair Stylz and Wigs – Windsor, Vogue Hair Designs- Windsor, Hoyts, Mornings with Kerri Ann, Richardson & Wrench Dural/Kenthurst, All Clear Pools – Windsor, Smiths Snack Food Company, Unilever, Australian Rugby Union, Bunnings McGraths Hill, Rouse Hill Fruit Barn, The Cheeky Bull Butchery, Rouse Hill

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ROTARY CLUB OF GLENHAVEN QUIET ACHIEVER AWARD

By Kerry Souter, Administrator.

DSCF0680 On Tuesday 10^th May the Rotary Club of Glenhaven held its annual award night at Springfield House to recognise people in our community. Paul Akers was presented with the Quiet Achiever Award. He well and truly fits the criteria for this award which recognises those who see a need and fulfill it, without seeking personal glory or financial reward. Their satisfaction is gained in a job well done and receiving a smile or a thank you. Karen O’Neill, Hon President and I went along with Paul and his wife Virginia to the Award Night. Karen was happy to have the opportunity tell the Club Members and visitors about all that Paul has done for our Centre.

Paul Akers has been with RDA Tall Timbers Centre at Box Hill since May 2009 and has had a huge impact on the appearance and smooth running of the Centre. Before Paul arrived we had large areas of clay and mud after our building development had finished. Also there were huge banks of shale and rocks around our outdoor area. With his interest in gardening, Paul has transformed the Tall Timbers’ property with lovely mulched native gardens which makes a wonderful first impression for new visitors. It also makes Tall Timbers a pleasant place of work and recreation for everyone. Paul has literally moved mountains of mulch, planted hundreds of plants, installed watering systems and is constantly banishing weeds. We are sure he has the Council mulch people on speed dial. He has also initiated and designed a sensory garden, and although it is not finished yet – we have had children and adults alike enjoying this colourful area, trying to find the steps that chirp or twitter when you step on them. As a handy man, Paul is also happy to help out with all those odd jobs and small repairs which constantly crop up. As well as all this Paul also helps out each Friday with the riding classes, leading horses for the riders and assisting where necessary. He has a great rapport with the riders and other helpers. He encourages and challenges the riders with kind words and funny jokes - all to help them enjoy and gain benefits from their riding experience. He also helps out when he can with our fundraising.

Congratulations Paul on winning this Quiet Achiever award. It is well deserved.

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CASTLE HILL RSL GIVE BACK AWARD NOMINATION – LYNN WHITE

DSCF3301 Give Back is a program of the Castle Hill RSL Club which is designed to foster a vibrant and sustainable Hills Community. It recognises people that make a difference, give back and contribute to the Hills community.

Tall Timbers Centre nominated Lynn White for this Award. Lynn lives in the Hills District and has been a volunteer since March 2006. She has become a valuable part of our Centre and assists in the riding program and horses each Monday. Lynn has also taken on the responsibility of organising the Devonshire Tea fundraising at Castle Hill Show each year, personally making all the scones. She has also been very involved in Book Fairs, Windsor Polo, Joan’s Open Garden and the Sydney Royal Show and has represented us at community events and attended as a speaker.

Thank you Lynn – a well deserved recognition!

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OUR FIRST BINGO NIGHT

By Sandra & John Wright, Committee

DSCF3036 We would like to say a big thank you to all of the people who supported our first Bingo Night on the 6th May, which raised over $1200. About 65 people attended, filling the volunteers’ room and creating quite a Buzz.

We had lots of winners, with 37 prizes going home with those lucky people and a further 6 as door prizes. Prizes ranged from wine, chocolates and tee-shirts to full hair treatments, pedicures and even a body piercing! There was a great selection, for men, women and the kids, thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, many of whom are located in Windsor Township. Nibbles on the night were cheese, dips, cakes and drinks courtesy of Castlebrook Memorial Park and also a variety of chips donated by Smiths Snackfood Company. A big thank you to Kerry, Karen and Nicole for setting up and helping with parking and entry on the night.

I am happy to say several people commented at the end of the evening at what a fun time it had been and asked when the next one will be, which has given us a lot of encouragement. Keep your eyes peeled for the dates of the next Bingo Night and book early!

We are most grateful to all of the following companies and individuals for their donations. Not all donations were used at this event but please be assured they will be used in other fundraising activities.

Soul Pattinson Rouse Hill, LM Style Hairdressing, All Clear Pools, Rouse Hill Irrigation, Wilkinsons Real Estate, The Shop of Lollies, Jennas Country Spa, Fitzgerald Motors, Diamond and Gold Shop, A Farmers Daughter Vintage Shop, Country Essence, Simons Coffee Lounge, Cafe Red, Smik Surf Shop, Windsor Jewellery Shop, Riverview Florist, St George Bank Windsor, NAB Windsor, Arabian Horse Society, Bunnings McGraths Hill, Cassies Room for Beauty, Castlebrook Memorial Park, Chattering Scissors, C & N Trading, Cutcliffe Real Estate, Dee Luca Hair, Everything Educational, Gorgeous Beauty Spa, Hair Stylz and Wigs, Ivy Western Wear, Louise Markus MP, Lynwood Country Club, New Street Cafe, Newmarket Saddlery, PRD Nationwide Rouse Hill, Smokin Coyote Clothing Co. Hargreaves Nursery.

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kerrianne 015 THE KERRI-ANNE SHOW FILMS AT RDA TALL TIMBERS

By Kerry Souter, Administrator

Our Centre is always keen to increase awareness for Riding for the Disabled so when the producers of The Kerri-Anne Show contacted us we jumped at the chance for some exposure.

It was an exciting day at RDA Tall Timbers when Jamie, Stephanie, Ben and Steve came to film an episode at Box HillillHHH. The volunteers and staff were all looking splendid in their jade RDA TT polo shirts and best jeans and some excited riders (and teachers) arrived to make their Television debut.

There were close-ups, interviews and action shots taken in the indoor arena, grass arena and around the dam with Jamie Malcolm joining in the fun.

Click here to see the segment.

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NRMA MARKETING DEPARTMENT WORKING BEE

By Mariana Cidade, NRMA

iag 044

On December 10^th the Marketing department of NRMA Insurance had an Away Day to give back to the community and support a very worthy cause. W e visited the Riding for the Disabled “Tall Timbers” Centre.

We were all really excited to hear from the RDA team, who explained to us how the organisation supports disabled children of all ages. When we were told we’d be doing a ‘backyard blitz- style’ makeover of the centre we were all pumped. It was a great chance to give back to the community and to a particularly wonderful organisation.

Everyone was divided into three teams to tackle different parts of the complex – gardeners, builders and painters. Those of us with a green thumb made up the gardening squad, tasked with mowing the lawns and tidying up the grounds. The handymen (and women) among us were tasked with putting up shelves in a store room. The painters in the group, keen to stay out of the sun, were given Linseed Oil and Turpentine for the indoor arena while those keen on the outdoors were given Sump Oil for all outside fences and wood.

What came next was a flurry of activity as we all got busy with our tasks. The centre has fantastic facilities and it was good to get stuck in do our bit. The ride-on mower and whipper-snipper got a workout while the wooden beams for the fences, horse yards, paddocks and arena walls were all given a fresh coat of oil, protecting them from the weather over the coming months.

It was a fantastic day for all of us. We all felt really privileged to be there and lend a hand to such a good cause through our small contribution. We had a lot of fun along the way, and most importantly we were happy to be able to help the RDA team. We are really supportive of the work the Tall Timbers Centre does, and hope to come back again with some more elbow grease. Though our contribution is really small, we hope it goes a long way to help the Centre and the team that do such valuable work every day.

A huge thanks to the team at the Riding for the Disabled “Tall Timbers” Centre for giving us such a great opportunity to help out and for all they do.

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LIFE MEMBER – PHILIPPA LOVELY

By Karen O’Neill, Hon President

vol lunch 024 Pip is a lady with many talents and we are grateful that she has brought her enthusiasm and dedication to RDATT. She started with RDATT in the early 1980s helping with the horses, riders and classes. Pip was involved with Sue -Ellen Lovett’s "A Ride for Mobility" in 1988 raising funds and awareness for the Blind Society and RDA. This fundraiser started in Cairns and finished at Surfers Paradise going down Highway 1. As Pip wrote in the “Tall Timbers’ Times” previously “The whole experience was hard work, very tiring but very rewarding as I learnt a great deal about how much you can do if you commit to a cause”.

As well as being regularly involved with classes, Pip has helped many new volunteers by being their “buddy” and passing on her experience and knowledge.

She also is very active with promoting our Centre by speaking at service clubs, functions and promotional stands and encourages other organisations to support us by assisting the Centre financially and in other ways such as attending working bees. Pip is always involved somewhere with fundraising including Trivia Night organiser, obtaining prizes, working bees, garage sales, lamington drives, chocolate drives, raffles, book fair, workshops, catering and Bunnings BBQs. Also Pip has been involved with property maintenance and as a sign writer, has produced signs for the property and events. Her husband Dennis, family members and friends have also been encouraged to help RDA Tall Timbers in many ways and we appreciate their help as well. She is also a valued member of RDA Tall Timbers Committee as Hon. Vice President and Treasurer.

For Pip variety is the spice of life - as well as giving so much of her time to RDA Tall Timbers she is also involved with other organisations including Girl Guides Australia and the Rotary Club.

Thank you Pip for all that you do for RDA Tall Timbers and the people involved. Your Life Membership award is well deserved.

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ROUSE HILL TIMES BUSINESS ACHIEVER AWARDS

RDA TALL TIMBERS ANNOUNCED WINNER IN THE COMMUNITY SERVICE/NON PROFIT SECTION

Awards At the Rouse Hill Times Business Achiever Awards Presentation Evening RDA Tall Timbers Centre was announced winner in the Community Service/Non Profit Section. The Business Achiever Awards honour excellence and acknowledge the significant contribution of small businesses to our local community. The judging process involved becoming a finalist from supporters’ votes, then the completion of a comprehensive business questionnaire and a mystery shopper audit - so to win is a great achievement and will increase awareness of our organisation. Thank you to everyone who voted for us and who support our Centre. Pip Lovely and Wendy Moreland are pictured at the Awards.

About the Awards:

The Business Achiever Awards program is more than just a popularity contest. It is about delving deep inside a business and finding out what their strengths and weaknesses are, meeting them face to face and examining their work ethic, customer service and knowledge plus so much more. This in depth process is what sets our awards apart from the rest. Working with the Department of Industry and Investment and Access Management Solutions, the Business Achiever Awards have put together an in-depth judging process with the aim of getting businesses to think about their impact on their workers, the environment and its customers. Businesses are then mystery shopped during work hours by Ganador Management Solutions to help them translate shopper insights into sell-through strategies for increased productivity. Ganador Management Solutions are completely independent of the awards program. As a business, the Business Achiever Awards program is your opportunity to show the community who you are and why you’re the best.

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FINALIST IN FABO AWARDS – KERRY SOUTER, OUR ADMINISTRATOR

Group at Fabo The Finance, Administration and Back Office (FABO) Awards recognise the contributions of people who work in the less-visible, back office positions in Australia’s Not for Profit organisations and social enterprises and are hosted by Matrix On Board, an organisation that specialises in providing financial management, management support and training and development to NFP organisations across Australia.

Kerry Souter, Administrator of Riding for the Disabled, Tall Timbers Centre at Box Hill was nominated by RDA for the Administrator of the Year Award. Out of over 300 nominations overall Kerry was one of 6 finalists in the category of Administrator of the Year.

The winners of the 2010 inaugural FABO Awards were announced at a Gala Dinner at Watersedge Restaurant by the Rocks at Sydney Harbour.

“Unfortunately I didn’t win but we had a fabulous evening at the Awards. There are so many worthy organisations that do great things in our community and theses awards are a wonderful way to recognise the people behind the scenes in the non profit sector.

It was just really nice to be nominated and then to be a finalist was very exciting. I am very fortunate to be part of a wonderful team of volunteers and co-workers who do something so beneficial for people with disabilities. It’s reward enough.”

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TEN YEARS OF TALL TIMBERS AT BOX HILL/SUPPORTERS DAY

By Ray Williams MP

Saturday the 30th October marked the tenth anniversary of Riding for the Disabled moving to its current address at Box Hill. I had the great pleasure of attending the community morning tea with my wife Wendy, as we toured the grounds and watched this operation first hand, marking this memorable occasion.

supporters 061 The 'Tall Timbers' facility as it affectionately known is a vastly different place to that of ten years ago. The centre now boasts wonderful new buildings, a kitchen, storage rooms and concrete paths for safe access, plus a host of other attractions that add to this remarkable facility. Another new addition is the outside arena where participants benefit from a range of activities including horse and buggy displays. The special interaction between a horse and rider can also be achieved with participants sitting in the buggy while the horse pulls them around an obstacle course. The therapeutic benefits of this personal connection between humans and horses has long been recognised and dates back to Roman times when the simple task of riding horses for pleasure was used by convalescing soldiers. The broad smiles across the faces of children with disabilities as they learn to ride are truly remarkable to witness. However the facility could not operate without the thousands of hours spent by enthusiastic volunteers who dedicate their time on behalf of those who derive great benefit through their partnership with our four legged friends.

To everyone at Tall Timbers RDA, thank you for the special care, dedication and commitment you provide on behalf of people who continue to prove its ability, rather than disability that really matters.

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quilt 002 QUILT FUNDRAISER

This beautiful handmade quilt was lovingly sewn by one of our Volunteers. It has a horsey theme and also has some charming hand embroidered Australian and horse theme motifs. Size 148cm wide x 157cm high. Red border, reverse gold coloured patterned fabric. It would make an excellent gift as it is unique and a keepsake for generations to come.

WINNING BID WAS $400 BY HOLLY BENNETT

Thank you for supporting this fundraiser.

NVW_Logo_2010 NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK 10-16 May 2010

Volunteering: Now, more than ever

National Volunteer Week (NVW) began in 1989 and was the first collaborative attempt to promote volunteering nationally.

Volunteering Australia (VA) is the national peak body for volunteering and as such is responsible for setting the date and theme for NVW and providing a range of resources and promotional items to members, usually in partnership with NVW sponsors. VA drives the overall strategy assisted by the current NVW partners, NAB and the Department of Families, Housing, Community Services & Indigenous Affairs (FaHCSIA).

Historically, NVW has focussed on recruitment and provided a national focus for volunteer based organisations wanting to recruit volunteers. However, extensive research after NVW 2007 saw the focus change to be one of Joan G 010 celebrating volunteering and thanking volunteers, with recruitment a natural by-product.

Organisations that have volunteers, including organisations with a corporate volunteering program, are encouraged to embrace NVW and celebrate the achievements of their volunteers.

As volunteering continues to grow we need to be more aware of the need to recognise what volunteers contribute to our world. There are many charities that would struggle to survive without the contribution of their volunteers.

During the week we presented our Volunteers with lapel pins which were kindly distributed by Volunteering Australia.

Congratulations to Joan Guppy and Mary Crowe who were recipients of Volunteer Recognition Awards at their local shopping Centres. Joan Guppy was an outstanding Volunteer in the local area of Rouse Hill Town Centre and won a $200 GPT Gift Voucher. Mary Crowe was an outstanding Volunteer in the local area of Carlingford Court and also won a $200 GPT Gift Voucher. RDA Tall Timbers will receive a $200 donation from each of these Shopping Centres. Thank you to GPT, Carlingford Court and Rouse Hill Town Centre for organising these awards.

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Joan Edwards – winner of a Seniors Week Achievement Award for service to Riding for the Disabled Tall Timbers Centre

joan 013b On Sunday 21^st March, at an award Ceremony to celebrate the commencement of NSW Seniors Week, Joan Edwards was one of the sixty award winners from across the State to be presented with an Achievement Award. Her award was in the category of Community Service/Volunteering. The NSW Seniors Week Achievement Awards are a prestigious recognition of NSW seniors for their contribution to the development of our community, for their leadership and for their initiative. The awards provide an opportunity to formally thank older people for the contributions that they make to the quality of life in our state.

Joan Edwards has been a dedicated and reliable volunteer at Riding for the Disabled, “Tall Timbers” Centre for 33 years. She volunteers each Monday at the Centre at Box Hill and assists when other coaches are unable to attend. Over the years she has taken on the extra responsibility and study to joan bridling become a Senior Coach and RDA NSW Assessor and has been a member of the Tall Timbers Committee. She has devoted countless hours to fundraising. The Centre can always count on Joan to be there and to do things for us when necessary. She is reliable, knowledgeable and a great friend and inspiration to all.

Her award was presented to her by Ita Buttrose and Graham Ross who are Seniors Week Ambassadors. Family and friends attended the ceremony which was held at the Sydney Recital Hall.

Congratulations Joan and thank you from everyone at RDA Tall Timbers.

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OUR CENTRE IS ON YOUTUBE.

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Listen to an interview by Gordon Allen of 2CCR FM 90.5 with Nicole King, Staff Coach of Riding for the Disabled Assoc NSW Tall Timbers Centre. There's lots of information about the Centre and you can watch the slideshow as you listen.

Click here to listen to the Interview

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RAFFLE RESULTS

ROTARY COMMUNITY CHEST TREASURE TROVE RAFFLE

Result of the draw of the Rotary Community Chest Treasure Trove 2010 drawn At the Burwood RSL at 6PM on Wednesday the 19th January 2011.

1st - Toyota Yaris Car - J. Pascoe- Murrumbateman

2nd - Netbook Computer - J. Brackman

3rd - $1,000 worth of jewellery - G. Mitchell – Winmalee

Thank you to everyone who supported the raffle. The raffle raised $3800 for our Centre. A special thank you to Sandra and John Wright who organised a stand at Windsor Shopping Centre to sell tickets and to those volunteers who helped to man it. Also thank you to Lynne Booth who was also a major ticket seller.