Riders

Erin Christie has been a rider at Tall Timbers since 2009. In this time she has had many achievements not only from a riding perspective but also personally and as a representative of Tall Timbers.

Erin began riding at Tall Timbers as a very shy rider and would leave each lesson without too much conversation. As Coaches we would find out what she was thinking the following week when we asked her mum. Erin quickly adhered herself to her coach, Denise and fellow rider Josh and the three of them formed a close bond.

Within Erin’s first year at RDA Tall Timbers she participated in Regional Mounted Games in Walk events on her first horse Indi and also competed at the trot in the Regional Dressage and State Dressage Championships on her second horse Pippa. Erin’s disability makes fatigue, balance & coordination a concern so learning to trot was challenging, learning to canter even more challenging. Erin has had 3 different horses so far, each transition has been hard for Erin and came with lots of trepidation. Erin’s primary concern in always for the welfare of her horse and the impact her riding has on them and always does her best to please her coaches.

2011 was a busy year for Erin, competing in the State Mounted Games and the Horse of the Year competition at the Sydney Royal Easter Show where she rode Pippa to win the Horse of the Year competition for the second year in a row! With 6 weeks before the Regional Dressage Competition, Erin had no choice but to change onto a new horse Hannibal. This was a difficult time as her partnership with Pippa had been a couple of years long and it was very sad to make that decision but in the end it was the best decision for Pippa and to allow Erin to progress in her riding. This year Erin also started a part-time job, commenced her Duke of Edinburgh Award program and in the latter part of the year volunteered at RDA two days a month. All commitments which added to her busy school work and her riding commitments. To help in the transition of her new horse Erin began riding twice a week, after school and on the weekend, sometimes two afternoons a week, whatever it would take to get to know her new horse. After a month or so the fatigue started to set in and Erin struggled for a week or so, because of her determination she only let it show for ONE day only. After a short discussion about “Riding is meant to be fun” & “Ride for yourself and not for anyone else”, Erin began to push through the fatigue and got on with it. Her determination and hard work paid off and it culminated in her results at the 2011 State Dressage Championships when she was awarded with the Section C Championship and her horse, Hannibal, was named the SIEC Trophy Winner for the Best Performing RDANSW Horse at the Dressage Championships!

Although the competition year was over for Erin, she continued to ride each week, volunteer at RDA and continue with her Duke of Edinburgh Award work. She attended Equitana as a demonstration rider recently despite not being well and having no sleep and once again did it all in her stride.

If you ask Erin what riding means to her she would say it is something she can do despite her disability. She makes her coaches, Denise & Wendy and all of the Tall Timbers Coaching Team, very proud to have been there with her. Congratulations Erin!

JAYDEN PADDY - AWARDED THE BILL HARVEY MEMORIAL SHIELD FOR THE MOST IMPROVED SATURDAY RIDER

By Kylee and Stephen Paddy

Our son Jayden was born with Down Syndrome. Since a young age we worked with Jayden to ensure his development prospered. We had heard about Riding for the Disabled and the enriched program it provided for those with a disability.

We did our research and Jayden started riding in the Tiny Tots program at Tall Timbers in July 2008 when he was 4 ½ years old. We were so keen for him to start but as we stood and eagerly watched him we began to question if we were doing the right thing. The tears streamed down his little face and all he wanted to do was get off the horse. We got through the first class and vowed to return the following week to give it one more try. Through the amazing work of all the staff at Tall Timbers Jayden began to love coming to riding each week. We are still riding today and Jayden wouldn’t miss it. The improvements he has made are remarkable. His confidence and coordination have increased and the skills he has achieved through the activities provided are fantastic. We were so proud of him when last year he won the Bill Harvey memorial shield for most improved Saturday rider.

Thank you everyone at Tall Timbers for providing such a caring, enriched and stimulating program. We would not have made it through without you. Look out the 2024 Equestrian Paralympics – Jayden is on his way.

JOEL BORG - AWARDED THE LIONS CLUB OF KURINGAI ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD

By Dianne Borg - Joel’s Mum

Joel first started at Tall Timbers in the “Tots on Horseback” program, with Ozzy the beautiful horse and Kim his wonderful coach. Joel still has a photo of Ozzy beside his bed. Joel now attends the Saturday class with his new horse Mr Poppet and coach Judy.

Joel’s diagnosis is Asperger’s Disorder, Anxiety and attention-deficit disorder and a mild language delay. Joel was and still is a very timid and nervous little boy who struggles with new environments, people and change. This program was a great way to start introducing Joel to new environments, people, horses and other children. It has been great for him socially, emotionally and physically. He is learning to follow direction, new skills, balance, talking to both the instructors and horses, at the same time building his self confidence and helping his self esteem.

Last year at RDA 2011 Christmas Party, Joel was awarded the Lions Club Encouragement Award. Joel was so excited to receive his big horse trophy he had a smile from ear to ear. His Mummy and Daddy were both very proud of their little man.

A very big thank you to RDA, the staff, volunteers and the horses. You are all amazing.

JACK LUZAR

By Adrian and Leanne Luzar

Jack started RDA at the beginning of Term 3 in 2011 and attended on Friday afternoons with Riverstone Public School. The first half of the year had been quite difficult with Jack. He misbehaved at school, wouldn’t do as he was told, constantly resisted attending school and was very unsettled. Not only did Jack’s behaviour improve when he started RDA, he became a much more relaxed and confident child. The improvement was dramatic but also continued and we didn’t experience the cyclic downturns in his behaviour that was characteristically Jack.

With the improvement of his behaviour we noticed small victories like Jack ceasing to bite his fingernails. His biting of nails used to be almost constant and we feel that his improved general well-being since starting RDA has eased his stress and frustration. We do not feel Jack’s improved behaviour is coincidental; we are convinced that RDA has had an important impact on Jack’s life and improved ours in turn.

We would like to thank the efforts of everyone involved at RDA Tall Timbers as without their generous support Jack would not have had such a wonderful opportunity.

SHERWOOD RIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL

By Toni Hamber, Teacher

Sherwood Ridge Primary School have been involved with RDA for the first time this Semester. Both teachers and students have immensely enjoyed our weekly riding lessons with Kirsty, Robyn and all the fabulous volunteers.

The children have made huge gains in confidence, communication and coordination and have worked on academic goals in a fun and unique setting. They have enjoyed learning the thumb wiggle dance, the various puzzles, peg and ball games set up in the arena, the follow the leader obstacle course in the outside area and the trail rides around the property.

DSCF3541

I like trail riding the best because I like going near the lake -AIDAN

My horse is Boomerang -Sienna

Hannibal is a nice horse. I pick a flower -Lauren

I ride Ozzie. I do the thumb wiggle dance -Jack

Kahlua and I take the blue ball to throw it in the bucket -Eliot

Pippa and I play with the ball -Matthew

TOTS ON HORSEBACK

By Kirsty Hardman, Wednesday Volunteer Coach

DSCF3481b Shakira, a tiny wriggly blonde bomb-shell, started riding at in the Tots on Horseback Program at Tall timbers Centre in early 2010, not long after turning 3.

Born with a condition which had resulted in severe difficulties controlling her muscles, she had little core strength, trunk control or even neck strength to keep her head up. Even so, she was (and still is) personality plus!!!

With 2 side-walkers supporting Shakira, a horse-leader, an ‘entertainer’ and another volunteer to lead a companion horse, she rode Angel, our gentle grande-dame. Initially the sessions were devised to encourage more trunk control, tracking of objects and turn taking of sound/ movement. Each lesson may have lasted only as long as 10 – 15 minutes with rest breaks. Shakira loved the Big Bird soft toy and would frequently need to use him as a pillow to gather strength for the next few minutes of sitting up straight. She was unable to prop herself on her arms so she was completely supported by those on either side.

After 18 months we have seen a huge change in her body strength and ability to control her muscles on command. Lessons stretched out to 25 minutes with few, if any, rest breaks. She began rocking to communicate that she wanted Angel to ‘walk on’, became far more vocal and made both her pleasure and displeasure quite clearly known. Shakira was able to eye-track objects with ease, and began to reach for them both to the front and to the side, and she began to prop on her forearms so well that on occasions the sidewalkers were bearing very little weight. She definitely became more determined!!

The Tots on Horseback program provided by Tall Timbers is seen as a valuable adjunct to regular Occupational or Physiotherapy as well as offering a physical and social outlet many children with disabilities may never discover. For children such as Shakira the benefits shine out.

We would like to thank all involved with this program, whether it is at a financial or hands-on level, for their invaluable support.

GIRRAWEEN PRIMARY SCHOOL

By Mark Gosbell, Assistant Principal Support

2011 is the first year that Girraween P.S. support class students have had the opportunity to participate in the RDA program. Our first experience of RDA has been overwhelmingly positive. To arrive on that first day not knowing what to expect and to be met by a sea of volunteers all there to help and guide us was a marvellous introduction. We currently have 6 riders attending weekly; Brandon, Kristin, Renee, Sarah, Shania and Strida. Each of our students has been perfectly matched to wonderful horses with incredibly similar personalities.

girraween 069 Brandon-I love horse riding because I have fun and I love Ozzy, my horse.

Kristin-I can now ride a horse by myself, wow! I love Indy, even though he walks slow.

Renee-I love Polly and I love horse riding.

Sarah-Angel is a nice and soft horse and she looks after me. I love horse riding.

Shania- Riding helps me concentrate. Kruger is the best horse. Rod helps me learn where to put my feet.

Strida-I have learnt a lot like where to put my feet and important things about riding and horses. I love it so much.

RDA Tall Timbers has helped all of our students to develop confidence, concentration, respect and determination. We have seen a remarkable improvement in all riders in a very short time and are very proud of their achievements. We are extremely grateful for the time and patience of all those who help us each week. Wednesday has become a favourite day of the week for both students and staff.

Thankyou.

CLASSROOMS WITHOUT BORDERS

DSCF3026 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.

Dr Diana Whitton, from the School of Education at UWS, says CWB requires each student to volunteer for 20 – 30 hours on a community project or within a not-for-profit organisation that directly assists disadvantaged people or minority groups in Greater Western Sydney.

“The program was developed as a means of giving pre-service teachers a strong understanding of the cultures and communities they are likely to work in during their careers,” says Dr Whitton. “A majority of the student placements are within local Indigenous, migrant or refugee communities; however a significant number of students are also working with organisations that assist people with special needs and disabilities.”

Tall Timbers Centre took the opportunity to place two students participating in the CWB program, both students volunteering one day per week with their educational horse riding program for special needs children.

One of the students, Jessica Xuereb, a 21 year old student from Riverstone says the opportunity to do service learning with RDA Tall Timbers has been a great experience that has opened her eyes to the practical side of education.

“It is amazing to see that, by incorporating some simple educational elements to a horse riding lesson, you can not only help young people improve their posture, balance and motor skills – you can also help them to learn Maths and English, “says Jessica.

“That is something that I will really take with me – the knowledge that you don’t have to be sitting in a classroom to be learning and, even within a classroom, learning can be incorporated into so many fun activities.”

COACHES WORKSHOP

WAGGA WAGGA RDA 28-29 MAY 2011

By Kirsty Hardman, Wednesday Coach

A lovely weekend was certainly had by all!!!!

It’s not often that coaches get the chance to get together to socialise and learn. So, when the chance came to attend the RDA coaches Workshop in Wagga, Nicole, Kirsty, Karen, Robyn, Kaye and Judy jumped at it.

Deciding that this was as much a chance for fun as brain storming, many chocolates and lollies were eaten as we meandered out way south via Goulburn and Junee. (The Organice Licorice Factory is an absolute highlight!). Wagga Wagga is a lovely town and certainly provides terrific range of nice food and wines.......as we discovered. But the focus was the workshop!

29052011180 It’s not every day one gets to meet someone inspirational. But Tony Nechvatel, a parent of twin autistic boys was just that! Having taken over the role of full-time carer he blew us away with the extent to which he and his family support the boys communicatively (with visual aids all over the house) and socially through involvement in such activities as RDA and music lessons.

An equally lovely session was watching the development of a bond between horse and person using elements of touch and movement. There is something magical about seeing such a large animal walk off-lead with a trusted human, moving around and over obstacles because their faith in that person is complete. Let’s hope that with the development of EFMH more people can get to experience that magic first hand in a way that promotes healing and well-being.

Over the next day and a half we moved from mental health to dental health (equine, of course), horse handling to carriage driving, choosing the horse and equipment for people with specific disabilities to choosing correctly fitting equipment - a hugely varied, well put together and extremely well presented range of talks reinforcing previous knowledge and providing new information to think about and learn from. Sustained always with ample country cooking and yes.........more chocolate!

A new section introduced this Workshop was the Coaches Innovation Award to be voted for by the Coaches attending. Games and equipment were proffered, displayed and explained. Cage stirrups and The Shopping Game were demonstrated but the winner this year was Kirsty Hardman for the Visual Display Vest which acts as a portable visuals display board when worn by a horse leader. A huge thankyou to Robyn Given for her sewing skills which turned a plan into actuality. Kirsty’s prize of a $50 gift card from Horseland was very much appreciated. Runner up was Central Coast RDA for a set of multi-coloured reins which assist in achieving correct rein length much more easily.

Many thanks to Wagga RDA for providing such an excellent and professional workshop. We learned a lot, certainly ate well and had a great time into the bargain. We’re looking forward to the next workshop already!

SYDNEY ROYAL SHOW

By Judy Brightman, Tall Timbers Coach

IMGP0390 Easter long weekend. I took a day off work – as I’m sure others did – but I have to say it was kind of nice to be there with fewer crowds (after the games had finished and before we could bring the transport in for the horses!).

The weather gods were kind again – thankfully – as we were lacking in a couple of other areas! Our own Joan Edwards had unfortunately broken a collar bone a few days earlier and Wendy Torr needed to take care of family business – so our two Royal Easter Show stalwarts and experts were suddenly out of the equation! In true RDA fashion people rallied and Karen O’Neill, Nicole King and others did a super job.

The day commenced with a riding demonstration by Lucy and Nicholas Lakeman of Tall Timbers Centre.

We were once again privileged to have Peter Carn officiating – on his birthday ! This was whispered to me by someone in the know as we were doing the morning presentations for the State Mounted Games – and so we sang “Happy Birthday” – much to Peter’s embarrassment. I understand this may have been Peter’s swan song – if so – Peter you have been brilliant and will be hugely missed – thank you!

The entries were down this year – tough economic times? – but we had good representation from Tall Timbers, Tumut, Wagga and Nepean. Nepean deservedly won best turned out team – boy did they look smart and so well co-ordinated! Terrific effort! Cheval and Shannon could have been a fabulous pas de deux too – so alike are those two horses! This was once again kindly judged by Graham and Marjorie Wallace .

The competition was strong in the walk and trot sections of the Mounted Games. The walk section was won by two Nepean riders and the trot resulted in Natalie Gross equal first and Erin Christie equal second.

The canter section was hotly contested too – by Jacob Chapple, who, despite not having his mum to race this year, went out of the gate like he was running a 1000 metres at Randwick! He put on a great show on Charffie, proving to us all – with sighs of relief – that he did have brakes as well as steering! Well done! Jacob took out the Champion’s trophy for the day.

In the afternoon it was on to the Horse of The Year competition and this year the theme was “The Universe “ so our riders had to head out for a journey though the stars to the moon, collect some moon rocks and head back to earth! All competitors did well. Then came the Coaches’ turn to ride a similar course at different speeds. To our great delight Pippa took out the title of Horse of the Year for the second year in a row and Ishmar as second!! How thrilled we were! Well done Pippa, Erin and Denise – and to Josh and Ishmar. It was lovely to have the support of Ishmar’s”Mum” – his owner, who came to watch. We were very proud of our horses and riders and grateful thank to Chanida as always for getting them there looking so smart and with such clean tails! A terrific team effort by Chanida, the coaches, riders and horses – well done!

Julie Higgins had once again kindly come to the Easter Show to judge the Horse of The Year competition – thanks Julie – always great to see you and have your support. To all the spectators, competitors - human and equine - and support crews – thanks so much – and of course to The Royal Agricultural Society and the Easter Show committee – grateful thanks for taking care of us. See you next year!

holly 005 TOTS ON HORSEBACK - HOLLY

By Georgie Bennett, Holly’s Mum

Holly is going into her 3^rd year with Tall Timbers. She began in the Tots on Horseback Program.

Holly loves her riding. I think that it gives her a sense of freedom that she can’t get from just being pushed around in her wheelchair; with riding it has helped Holly’s balance improve. She loves to sing & giggle when she’s riding, she’s formed a real bond with Kim, Linda & Charlie who take holly for her weekly ride, and she gets very upset if one of them is away. I love that Holly was lucky enough to part of Tots on Horseback - it’s nice to know that at least one of the therapies that Holly has to have, puts a big smile on her face. Thanks to all of the staff & volunteers for making it all possible.

BILL HARVEY MEMORIAL TROPHY FOR THE MOST IMPROVED RIDER OF THE YEAR

GEORGIA GROOM

By Kim Sindel, Georgia’s Mum

sat xmas party 014 Our family attended the Riding for the Disabled Tall Timbers’ Christmas Party in December at Box Hill. This was an exciting time for us, especially for our daughter Georgia as this was her first Christmas Party at RDA. During the presentation of the awards, our daughter was presented with the Bill Harvey Memorial Shield for the Most Improved Saturday Rider. This was a complete surprise to us and we were not expecting this excitement. We were happy enough to share in the festive activities of the day, but the pride I experienced in watching my daughter receive this award was unbelievable.

This is the first time Georgia has been officially recognised for her hard work in an activity outside of school. We are very thankful for the opportunity Georgia has to be involved with horses and riding at the RDA. The presentation of this award has given Georgia so much confidence and pride, this is something that we, as her parents are unable to give her and the benefits of this are immeasurable. We would like to express our sincere thanks to the RDA and the Saturday Volunteers for their endless efforts with Georgia and the other children in the program and for the donation of this wonderful shield.

KINGSDENE SCHOOL FAREWELL

By Kerrye Katz (Kingsdene PE Teacher)

It was a very sad Wednesday in July when the Kingsdene children and staff said their goodbyes to RDA at Box Hill. Unfortunately due to the closure of Kingsdene School at the end of 2010 we would not be attending the fantastic facilities at RDA in the future.

kingsdene2 008 The Kingsdene horse riding adventures began in the 1980’s. Our records are a bit sketchy but the few photos of our earlier students show the elation and enjoyment that they experienced with RDA. They show a different venue with basic facilities that over time have now become world class. At Kingsdene we have had several staff that were responsible for the horse riding program who have shared their highlights over time. My time with horse riding began approximately 7-8 years ago at the present venue that has seen many changes. I remember my first day - it was raining. We parked in the top car park and tried to get the children (including a wheelchair) to the shed in a dry state. Some friendly volunteers greeted us and I was introduced to our wonderful coach. It was a fantastic experience for all. To see the joy and exhilaration on the students faces, the tension leaving their bodies and the emotion as they experience their weekly activity. The picture was priceless and it remained on the faces of children for the following years and as an imprint on my brain till this day.

Each year we have been able to take up to 6 students for terms 1 and 2 of the school year. Over the years we have had countless numbers pass through this wonderful program that has enriched their lives. This program has had countless volunteers that have given up their time and provided our students with memorable experiences and opportunities. Many of our children have been non-verbal but a smile, a laugh or a high five has been their way of saying thankyou for the wonderful times. There are too many volunteers to name but they are all remembered for their generosity in giving of their time to make this program succeed – for without volunteers this program would not function. We have wonderful memories with the staff and the administration of the program is a great credit to the organisation. At the core of Kingsdene’s horse riding success have been the tireless efforts of Nicole and her band of staff and volunteers. The Kingsdene group always appreciated the innovative program that always met the needs of our students and the variation. We have many memories. The birds dropping their business on you just as a student was mounting a horse, the birth of the kittens, the long open air walks and trail rides, Bob the builder music, rolling the dice, stop and go games, troop lines, rider of the week and the list goes on.

Although Kingsdene will close and our students will move on there will always be the fondest memories in our hearts of our wonderful time at RDA. We know that many more children will experience the fantastic opportunities and we sincerely thank everyone at RDA for our time there. As one door closes another door opens - for a new school to be able to take advantage of the opportunities that RDA have to offer. They too will be touched like we were. THANKYOU RDA

GREYSTANES HIGH PARTICIPATION IN THE NSW PREMIER’S STUDENT VOLUNTEERING AWARDS PROGRAM

greystanes 002 Every Friday we (Tim Massard, Max Clark and Nathan Pevey) go to Tall Timbers at Box Hill to assist in RDA programs that cater for people with intellectual disabilities, physical disabilities, injuries resulting from accidents, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Down syndrome, visual and hearing impairments, autism and amputees.

A typical day at RDA is as follows. We arrive at 9:30am, where we are met by Paul the groundskeeper who has the duty of looking after the property. We then go down to the main building and sign in. We help Paul tend to the gardens of Tall Timbers for about 45 minutes before we are greeted by Nicole who welcomes us and asks us to retrieve the saddles and bridles for the horses riding in the first class. Our next task is to set up the activities for the day’s arena lessons with the disabled children. At 11:00 the children arrive. As the disabled children get ready, we are briefed by the lead horse trainer on how the class is going to run. We then go to our stations where Max is the gatekeeper, Nathan is the ball giver and Tim is the Toy Supplier. After the kids’ class finishes we pack away the unneeded horse utensils. Then we sign off and come back to school.

We volunteer our time to gain memorable experiences with horses and disabled children. We thoroughly enjoy this experience as it gives us opportunity to work with elegant animals and help support disabled children and provide them with opportunities they normally would not have. We would like to thank Mr Brown, Mr Parnis and the Tall Timbers staff for giving us this valuable opportunity.

THANK YOU TO UNITED WAY SYDNEY

united way logo In 2010 a grant of $10,000 from United Way Sydney funded 12 riders in the RDA Tall Timbers Riding Program. The costs of running the program include horse related costs such as feed, farrier and veterinary as well as Coach and insurance expenses. Feedback showed that the classes provided many benefits such as improved self esteem, mobility, improved co-ordination, development of muscles and increased fine and gross motor skills. The riders’ improved communication and increased confidence promoted self sufficiency and improved behaviour and living skills.

Thank you RDA, as we have told you before RDA has improved her life, her self esteem and has given her a great interest in life. She has made new friends and it is a great opportunity to practice her communication skills. It is an activity that is nothing like anything else she does in her life. The connection with the horses and socializing with the staff and volunteers is very important to her.

RDA is providing therapy for the children by the activities they do on a horse.

Thank you to all the people involved in this program, we think you are all wonderful. Thank you for making my son happy.

I like everything about the service; it is a fantastic experience for our kids. The children are happy and feel safe around the horses and the instructor. The happiness on their faces says it all.

Physically it is good to stretch legs, improves core strength and more chance to sit up straight. Intellectually it is stimulating his mind and he has to remember things such as which rain to pull, what to say to the horse and to be quiet. It is also nice to have a special thing to look forward to.

We can ride a horse and the instructor makes it fun for us to learn. I enjoy riding my horse Kruger and doing the activities.

Socially the student is relating to others better and is calmer. Also better focus for tasks and is gaining new concepts. He has also developed confidence and independence.

ROUSE HILL PUBLIC SCHOOL

By Nicole Mannix, Special Needs Teacher

rouse hill cowboys 044

This semester Rouse Hill Public School was fortunate enough to participate in the Riding for the Disabled horse riding program. This was our first time at RDA and the students and staff were very excited to be part of this fantastic program.

The program has been wonderful for developing confidence, self esteem, social skills and living skills.

Our first visit was full of excitement and anxiety as this was the first time most students had been this close to a horse. As the weeks went by six smiling happy faces would meet me each morning extremely eager to arrive at RDA.

The staff and volunteers at RDA provide the most wonderful program and should be commended for their commitment and dedication to the program. The achievements the students have made are extremely rewarding. They are able to change into their boots and helmets, wait quietly for their turn, mount and dismount their horse with ease, communicate with the staff and volunteers, give instructions to their horse and have huge smiles on their faces.

Finishing the program this week was full of happiness for the fantastic achievements they have made and sadness as we said goodbye to our horses.

Rouse Hill Public School would like to thank all the staff and volunteers at RDA for their patience, dedication and commitment to this fantastic program that made some very special students smile.

kpmg 003 KPMG CORPORATE COMMUNITY WORK

By: Rachel Merton – KPMG Government Relations Manager and Natalie Causley KPMG External Communications Manager

On Monday 21 June, we left the bright lights and tall buildings of the city and made the hour drive out to Box Hill to visit Riding for the Disabled (RDA).

KPMG, one of the world’s leading professional services networks is committed to communities and their wellbeing. KPMG encourages us to volunteer time and skills to non-profit community organisations that they are passionate about – we are passionate about the work RDA is doing and have a love of horses.

RDA "Tall Timbers" Centre is situated on acres of beautiful land and the centre provides people with a disability the opportunity to ride and enjoy all the activities connected with horse riding. The setting and landscape is beautiful.

We were greeted by Kerry Souter and other friendly and dedicated volunteers who made our stay very pleasant. Our task of the day was to assist Paul Akers in his preparation of a sensory garden and this involved painting some of the recycled fence palings.

The work RDA is doing to make the lives of those with disabilities better is very admirable and making a difference. On watching some the sessions, it was clear that the students get so much enjoyment and encouragement during their time at RDA. It is a real credit to all the volunteers and you can feel a real sense of pride in the work that they are doing – it is clearly a very rewarding path to take.

We thoroughly enjoyed our day at RDA and will be back to visit – we look forward to seeing the sensory garden complete!

COMBINED AGM AND STATE WORKSHOP

By Joan Edwards, RDATT Senior Coach and State Assessor

This workshop was hosted by RDA NSW Orange Centre on 1^st and 2^nd May

Theme: Team work at RDA enhances abilities

orange 100b On the Friday afternoon seven RDA Coaches and one Trainee left Tall Timbers in two vehicles heading for Orange with all our warm clothes. We arrived safely and over the following two days Orange turned on beautiful weather so no need for all the winter woolies.

After we found our way to “Crystal Springs” we completed our registration and inspected the Centre. The Workshop was officially opened and as this workshop had two sections, a Coaching Section and an Administration Section, we formed into our respective groups, being a Coach I will comment on this part of the proceedings.

Saturday was a busy day, before Morning Tea we listened to a talk on “Good & poor Conformation and the effect on Riders” then outside for a practical demonstration and discussion about Mounting and Dismounting. After Refreshments we were back to the covered arena to watch Demonstrations on ”How to progress your Riders” and then “Taking the fear out of Dressage”. These 2 demonstrations involved RDA Riders riding unfamiliar horses and proved challenging for at least one of the presenters with all Riders coping well. We were shown various plans of riding exercises which involved Dressage movements in fun activities.

After a delicious lunch, provided by the Orange volunteers, we took part in an interactive session an appreciating what we have, then a talk on Epilepsy, ending up with lots of tips about making a Video .

The RDA NSW AGM which always commences with the Banner Parade and Official Opening preceded the Official Dinner, where good food and wine was consumed, and announcements of the State Awards applauded.

Sunday we were back to the Centre where we heard about overcoming the fear factor for new riders, Issues

on Horse Welfare from a local Vet, then a talk about managing Challenging Behaviours from an Aspergers support group member. Finally an update on RTO and the requirements for Coach Training and Supervising Coaches.

Thank you to Orange RDA and all their volunteers for a most enjoyable weekend where old friendships were renewed, new ones made. We were provided with lots of information, and a chance to see how another Centre operates which may appear to be different to how ones own Centre operates but the outcome is the same - Our Riders are Safe, have Fun, and learn Skills.

Thank you to RDA NSW Training Fund and RDA Tall Timbers Committee for their support for this event.

BILL HARVEY MEMORIAL AWARD FOR THE MOST IMPROVED RIDER OF THE YEAR 2009

PETER PEROSH

By Maria Perosh, Peter’s Mum

horse 003 Peter is aged 11 and has cerebral palsy. His muscles were constantly tight yet too weak to fully support his body weight and he walked in his walker with a severe crouch.

Following 9 Botox Injection treatments over 7 years to help relax the muscles in his legs and the deteriorating issues with his hip, it became necessary for multi-level surgery in Oct 2008 which consisted of a left hip reconstruction, hamstring and calf lengthening and both feet having to be reconstructed with bone being taken from his pelvis to make up the shortfall from his feet. The physiotherapy and hydrotherapy was intense and ongoing over the next year.

Peter had been horse riding with RDA for a few years prior to his surgery and in February 2009, we had decided it was time to get Peter back in the saddle. Horse riding assists with his posture, balance, trunk strengthening and hamstring lengthening. Although initially painful to be sitting on “Angel”, Peter persevered.

In December 2009, Peter was awarded the ‘Most Improved Saturday Rider’. He was so proud, as was the family, although Dad felt he should have been awarded the medal for taking him every fortnight and coping with all the whinging.

Thanks RDA.

LISA AT RDA TALL TIMBERS

By Jillian McCarthy, Support Worker

lisa 008 Lisa lives in her Marsfield home, run by Seton Villa, with three friends. She works at New Horizons three days a week and was looking for something to do on the other days. She loves animals but doesn’t have one of her own.

In Semester 2 Lisa started at RDA – not riding but working with the horses, getting them ready for their daily lessons.

If you ask Lisa what is the best thing about RDA she will tell you “Joan”. Joan is one of the volunteer Coaches and is there to meet Lisa every Monday. Joan tells Lisa what her jobs are for the morning and helps her along the way. Lisa says she loves all the horses but her favourites are Angel and Ishmar. Lisa’s jobs each week including taking off Ishmar’s rug, brushing Ishmar and Angel and getting out any gear from the tack room. Lisa is learning to lead Ishmar and each week she takes Ishmar for a walk with Joan. Lisa finishes off by washing all the feed buckets. After Lisa finishes her work she always sits down for morning tea at the tables overlooking the arena and watches a group of children have their lesson. Joan gives Lisa homework which she is very keen to do as soon as she gets home. Recently Lisa brought a shirt just like the volunteers and wears it each week. RDA for Lisa is not only being able to be around the horses which she loves, she has had the opportunity to learn new skills and meet new people and enjoys sharing her stories of RDA with her friends.

Thank you to everyone at RDA.

TOTS ON HORSBACK

EARLY INTERVENTION PROGRAM

By Kim Kozis, Volunteer Coach

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As Coaches, volunteers, parents and carers, we have often seen the amazing results that RDA produces through the medium of the horse. Just as often we have discussed what further improvement we might have seen, if the rider had been able to start the program at an earlier age. It was with this thought in mind that the “Tots on Horseback” program was started. In essence, an early intervention program for pre-schoolers with disabilities, to maximize the benefits of horseback activities. As this was a small section of the community that we had not yet provided for we were excited at the prospect of what the program could offer.

Apart from the exercise and the sheer joy of being on a horse we are hopefully helping the youngsters to cope with new situations such as accepting people outside the family circle in an environment away from their comfort zone. Because the sessions are conducted on a one-to-one basis there is a required level of interaction providing an opportunity to improve language and listening skills. Additional benefits are learning to accept and follow instructions and developing hand/eye coordination and motor skills through games and activities. For those Tots requiring the absolute physical therapy of riding the younger start will hopefully go a long way to assist with muscle development, establishing balance, core strengthening, improved circulation and relaxation.

Beginning with just 2 riders in July 2008 the program has proved popular and over the last 12 months has expanded to include a total of 7 riders one of whom has since graduated to a group session. It would be nice to see this growth continue but, as with all things RDA, we our limited by our resources and finances but do what we can given the constraints.

Tots on Horseback is a valid program and one that it is a privilege to be part of. Ask any member of the Tots team - it is such a rewarding experience with absolute job satisfaction!! The kids enjoy it too!!

WARRAH SCHOOL

Warrah students have been attending riding lessons with Riders for the Disabled since the days of the Galloping Housewives in a Kenthurst paddock, in fact well before the current crop of riders was born! We teachers observe improvements in things like balance, coordination, concentration, social skills and independence - in outlook in life. But the feedback from the students of their positive experiences, are very much the same as those of the riders in the early years. The following comments of our latest group reflect the common experience of those who attend classes at Tall Timbers. Sue, Teacher

warrah 007 “I love going to learn to ride at Tall Timbers. Before I started, I was afraid of lots of animals, like cats! I first rode Indi and now I am riding Kruger.” – Julian, 14.

“I like horse riding. I’m now going with Sue and Liz’s classes – the older ones. I’ve ridden Angel, Indi and now I ride Savannah. I like the games. I like best to ride on the trail around the dam. Sometimes we see swans and water hens. I love it when I win Rider of the Week!” – Lara, 11.

“I ride Floss. Floss is lovely and quiet and looks after me. There was a time when I stopped, but now I found my courage. I love horse riding. It’s lots of fun and I like the games – there’s barrel racing, four leaf clover, stop-start, fast and slow. We ride out into the paddocks and around the dam. We learn to look after the tack and the horses.” – Jamyma, 14.

“I love horse riding and I like Pippa. I started off learning to use the reins on the lead, and now I am off the lead. I like my leader Nicky and I like the games we do. I got to go in the Regional mounted games. I really hope I can go in the Royal Easter Show! Thank you very much for teaching me, RDA.” – Justin, 12.

“I ride Ishi. He is a pure Arab. I have been riding at the RDA for a few years now. I first came when I was much younger. I ride privately after school. I ride with Erin. At the Mounted Games last year I got two seconds and two firsts, and this year I got a first and three seconds. I’ve ridden at the Royal Easter Show! I won first place in the overall score last year. I will soon be learning to canter. Not even the sky is the limit for me!” – Joshua, 14.

“I love riding at RDA! I like the races best and riding outside. I like my leader and the coaches, Kirsty and Nicole!” – Alethea, 16.

“I ride Angel. Angel is white. I like the music and rhythmic things we do. I love the horses!” - Sarah, 16.

“I started coming to RDA when I was little! I can ride off the lead, and trot. I could learn to canter! I like the games we do, like keyhole and bending and flag races. I like Apex, he is big.” Chris, 18.

“I love riding Boomerang. Boomerang is spotty! I ride around.” – Sam, 7

“My horse is called Floss. I say ‘Walk on!’ Sometimes I watch the pigeons in the rafters! Riding horses helps me focus and listen.” – Enrico 12

“Horse riding at RDA is the highlight of my week! I look forward to it all week and it’s all I talk about, nearly! I love my horse, Apex. I like the games like flag racing and I always remember to say ‘Walk on’. I would like to be riding for the rest of my life! It’s good for my head! I ask about horse riding at RDA from Christmas to July!!” – An, 14

ROSELEA SUPPORT UNIT AT TALL TIMBERS

Roselea group

Over the past two terms, students from Roselea Support Unit have been enjoying their horse riding lessons with RDA.

Despite the cold weather this term, it has been a day we have really looked forward to each week.

We love the trail-riding, especially on warm sunny days and like to watch each other and look around when we are out in the paddock.

James has never been horse riding before. We’ve all noticed how his strength and balance has improved. He has managed very well riding a big horse called Apex. Jenessa has very ably ridden three different horses – Jet, Kruger and Angel. Tiana and jack love to play the games when Kim (coach) throws the ball for us to catch and always wait patiently for their turn. Every Thursday, Abby and Luke have been eager to see if they will be chosen as Rider of the Week.

Going out to “Tall Timbers” is also a highlight of the week for Mrs Heydon (Kathy) and Ms Pendergast (Carmel). We would like to thank all the volunteers for providing such a valuable learning experience and the opportunity to have a lot of fun while enjoying the country air.

RICHMOND PUBLIC SCHOOL

AUTISM SATELLITE CLASS

By Marie Gough & Katherine Jones

richmondautism 001

Our Autism classes based at Richmond Public School have been coming to RDA Tall Timbers Box Hill for a number of years. The children were very disappointed last year when they couldn’t attend riding because of the horse flu.

The staff and volunteers are very patient, kind and caring and relate well to our boys. Because our children are visual learners, the staff decided to use visual cues, pictures or symbols, during the instruction section. We are very impressed that they took on board the suggestions that we made regarding less verbal instruction and more visual instruction.

Children with Autism generally have poor muscle tone and co-ordination. Sitting on the horse correctly and maintaining correct posture has had a beneficial effect for all the students. The fact that the children are learning in a stress free, happy environment, has meant they are attending for longer periods and remain focused for a longer time than normal.

Children with Autism have difficulties socially. They do not like change, or unfamiliar settings or people. So it is wonderful to see our boys relating so comfortably to new people, new surrounding and to their horse. They constantly talk about “their” horse, and have a genuine affection for it. They don’t want to stay home on Monday, even if they are really sick, because they would miss riding.

The whole experience of horse riding with RDA has been beneficial to the parents as well. It has shown them that their child is capable of trying something different and that they can achieve so much emotionally, socially and physically.

For us as teachers, RDA has complemented the individual education programmes that we have in place. There are many facets to our programming, including activities set by our Occupational Therapist. The horse riding has integrated many of these activities in a positive manner.

We would like to thank RDA for the opportunity they have given us to let our boys attend the lessons each week.

LALOR PARK PUBLIC SCHOOL

By Cathy Pearsall, Special Education Teacher

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My name is Cathy Pearsall and I am special education teacher at Lalor Park Public School. Students from our school have been involved with the Tall Timbers Centre Riding for the Disabled for many years.

I have had the pleasure of being the accompanying teacher this year with a group of six students from our school. I have seen first hand the immense enjoyment and many benefits experienced by the children.

Lalith, 7 years old, only speaks when echoing adults, arrives at school on Wednesdays and says “Wednesday, ride a horsey”. When we arrive at Tall Timbers he chuckles with delight and shivers with excitement while waiting to mount his horse Boomerang. He grins from the time he sees Boomerang and follows all of the instructions from the coaches and volunteers at the Centre. He now knows to say “walk on” and “whoa” – a wonderful achievement for Lalith.

Zaina is 6 years old. The volunteers have to hold her back because she wants to mount Pippa as soon as Pippa comes to the mounting area – there is no stopping Zaina who wants to be on Pippa’s back and off riding. Zaina uses very little language at school and shows little emotion. Once she is riding she grins, waves, gives the volunteer a high five, pats Pippa constantly and gives all the verbal commands.

Jye, 9 years old, is a whirlwind on legs. He talks about his horse, Ishmar, at school and can’t wait for Wednesdays so he can go horse riding. During the lesson Jye is calm and listens carefully to all the instructions. He is so proud of himself that he can ride a horse and loves Ishmar.

Christopher is 9 years old. His parents were very reluctant to give permission for Christopher to attend the horse riding. They were fearful of him being injured, but have recently written me a note saying how grateful they were that I talked them into letting Christopher attend the horse riding as he absolutely loves it. He tells them it is fun and he rides Indy who is brown and white. Christopher is a child of few words so for him to give them that much information means that horse riding has made a huge impression on him.

Tom is 9 years old. He tells everyone at school he loves Murphy, the horse he rides. As Tom dismounted Murphy after riding him for the first time he said “Thank you Murphy, that was great” and gave Murphy a pat. Tom has very poor muscle tone and slouches even when standing – but not when he’s riding Murphy. The volunteers showed Tom how to sit tall and I’m amazed every week how well Tom sits while riding.

Danny is 5 years old. He is non verbal and continually stims to make sense of his world. Danny rides Angel, she is so gentle and seems to sense Danny need extra help. He makes noises, and takes his hands off the rein and Angel never startles. I was so surprised and pleased when I heard Danny say to Angel, “walk on”. This week Danny was cuddled into me at the horse riding as he needs to feel physical contact. Nicole asked, “who is this coming, it is Angel”. Danny immediately lifted his head and smiled, walked to Nicole eager to see and ride Angel.

RDA Tall Timbers is such a unique and wonderful experience for the children. It allows them a freedom they don’t normally have as they have coordination difficulties. The horses are gentle and patient and the children have an instant connection with them.

I am aware that RDA Tall Timbers runs on donations and voluntary help, please assist them with funding so that they can continue their magnificent work with the people with disabilities. The above is just a sample of the results achieved by them for one group of children.

REGIONAL WORKSHOP - SUNDAY 2 NOV

By Judy Brightman, Saturday Coach

workshopbm 011 With immaculate timing I followed Karen into TT on Sunday morning just after 8 am to find Wendy was just opening the second gate and Chanida was starting up the Jackeroo to drive us up to Blaxland. It’s Chanida’s old stomping ground so we figured we were in safe hands and happily chatted the journey away to find we were there in a flash.

Walking down the drive the first thing everyone noticed was the new roof over the arena: it looks so smart and I’m sure it makes a huge difference to the riders, volunteers and horses at Blue Mountains – congratulations!

Nicole and Kaye were already there, along with representatives from Ryde, Nepean and Blue Mountains of course. Kim soon arrived so the TT contingent was strong. A warming cup of tea/coffee and an enthusiastic welcome from the Blue Mountains team including Maxine’s dog Prince and all the horses who were finishing brekky and we got underway.

The opening session was presented by Sharyn Gregory who explained her role as International Para equestrian Classifier along with the rules and regulations for classification. This was very useful and Sharyn went into some detail of the compensating aids that are allowed and explained that she, along with others internationally, aim to compile a list and photos of some of the compensating aids commonly and currently in use to be posted on the FEI website. She did emphasise that less is more when it comes to aids – whilst many may be allowed, the fewer a rider can use the better. Sharyn also urged us to contact her early on when working with riders who may have the ability and desire to ride at state, national and ultimately perhaps international level so that acceptable aids are used form the get go rather than having to change them later when the rider is comfortable with them Sharyn had some super examples to share with us post her recent experiences in Hong Kong and I’m sure everyone found those examples inspiring.

For those interested the classification rules are outlined on the FEI website – copy this link:

http://www.fei.org/Disciplines/Para-Equestrian/Pages/Classification.aspx

The second part of Sharyn’s talk concerned cerebral palsy. As a physiotherapist Sharyn has worked extensively with CP and her insights were illuminating and the opportunity to ask specific questions about particular riders and common issues and concerns we had was invaluable. Wendy Torr had gathered questions from various centres and will no doubt be able to share Sharyn’s responses for everyone’s benefit.

After morning tea Wendy Torr explained the implications of RDA NSW becoming a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Essentially it’s all good! No change for qualified coaches or those training to be assistant coaches in the future, just some minor ones for future coaches and a fair bit of admin for Nicole in her new, additional role as RTO officer which will add a few more hours of paperwork to her busy weeks! Being recognised nationally as an organisation providing high quality training and certification that may enable people to demonstrate certified competencies relevant to other roles is a great endorsement for RDA NSW. Assessors need to undergo some additional training (Cert IV in workplace training and assessment) and this is underway. Both Wendy Torr and board member Jaci Armstrong assured everyone they were available to answer any questions re the RTO initiative but I can confidently say it’s a positive step for us.

Monica Morris then spoke to us about equine guided therapy. Monica ha been involved with RDA programmes both here and in New Zealand and is also a life coach and reiki practitioner. Monika took us through some beautiful slides and described experiences of guided equine therapy talking of how horses’ prey animal instincts make them super sensitive to changes in the environment, both physical and emotional and how they thus pick up on human emotions and mirror those back to people often resulting in breakthrough moments for people. I may have imagined it but I’m sure Maggie May, who had been listening in all morning, pricked up her ears even more when Monica spoke J

We broke for lunch, the Blue Mountains volunteers having slaved away over the Barbie and in the kitchen. Conversation was buzzing but eventually Maxine and Monica got us to the arena where Monica was demonstrating some work she had done with the horse Amber and to illustrate some of the body language (human and equine) examples we had discussed before lunch.

The final session saw Amber put to work to demonstrate some natural horsemanship techniques and Parelli games. Sat (short for Satinita – sorry if spelled incorrectly!) has worked with Monica in the past and had met Amber just once before. Amber is a very pretty, young (certainly very young by RDA standards!) chestnut Arab mare. As an Arab of course she displays high sensitivity and a strong flight response which she was very keen to demonstrate. At times she looked like she may well have aspirations to join the field on the first Tuesday of November and show those Thoroughbreds a thing or two! However, she provided a very clear and useful demonstration of the techniques of, without force, becoming the alpha in the herd and a worthy leader for the horse by using his own language and a lot of love.

That energetic session ended the day – bang on time – well done Blue Mountains! Sadly the sun didn’t come out and we didn’t get to see blue sky and breathe in crisp mountain air – but it was a very useful day and a great opportunity to catch up with friends.

SIX WEEKS IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE

By Belinda Bonnette, Student UWS Bachelor Animal Science

belinda With nervous anticipation I arrived for day one of six weeks at Tall Timbers. Then in a blink of an eye it was all over. They say time flies when you’re having fun but I’ve never known time to go so quickly. Although this experience was an important part of my studies and there was plenty of work to be done and plenty more still to do, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to be.

From day one I was thrown in the deep end and I loved it, from the grooming, tacking up, setting up and packing up the arena, leading in classes, helping clean the barn, worm th e horses, feeding, rugging, oh and I can’t forget the obligatory manure removal and the pulling of fireweed at any opportunity, there wasn’t a thing I wasn’t allowed to try and for that I am grateful.

I would love to mention all those horses who I fell in love with and their own funny habits but it would take forever. I do have to mention some!!! Like the old faithfuls Indy, Boomerang, Angel, Ishmar and Apex, who bring themselves up for breakfast everyday and wait patiently for their day’s duties, and special mention to some of the new and up comers like Jet and Diesel who helped to re- ignite my enthusiasm for my own two horses.

To all the volunteers who guided me through the “RDA way” and helped me with my studies I have to say a very big thankyou. Also a big thanks to all the riders, carers and parents who let me share their experiences, it was amazing to watch the riders improve in ability and confidence and to see how much the kids loved riding and loved the horses.

Finally, a huge thanks to Kerry, Nicole and Chanida. To Kerry and Nicole who work so hard to keep Tall Timbers operating yet so willingly and patiently answered all my questions. And to Chanida who shared her passion for horses (and all animals) with me, and allowed me to be a part of her RDA life.

Many thanks to all

Belinda Bonnette

RIDER PROFILE – HARRISON LUKE

My name Is Harrison Michael Luke I was born on 6^th July 1996 - this is my story.

When I was approx. 2 years old, my Nanna took me to visit her cousin Joan. Joan started by introducing me to horses then to riding. At first, it was very confronting but with time, I got used to it. When I rode Monty we usually did steering, trotting, small jumps and wonderful trail riding. I felt so happy & excited whilst trail riding.

As I got older, I met and went to Jane @ Riverstone, we worked on my steering skills and she gave me many obstacle courses but not many trail rides. Anyway, the horses that I rode were Tinkerbelle and Kentucky. I mostly rode Tinkerbelle because she was easier and had a beautiful bayish palamino look.

At about the age of four I started riding at Tracee’s. My first horse there was Vivian a big grey Arab stallion, on him Tracee taught me how to trot and how to go up and down hills. We also went on dozens upon dozens of trail rides. In addition, I also got to ride Mushroom a grey gelding which was a borrowed horse when Vivian was injured chasing a cow out of its paddock. Duchess a chesnut Shetland pony, who was evil and Bozzy a gentle natured grey gelding who I would go bush bashing with and had my first taste of cantering. I also rode Memory a bay Arab mare and we would only do wild man from snowy river stuff. Tracee said she could see the whites of my eyes quite a bit when we got right up the top of the mountain.

Later my name came up on the waiting list at RDA, Mama enrolled me straight away, and lessons with Tracee were only the first two terms of the year. At RDA, I was able to interact with other riders as well as with my riding coach (Judy). Mamma says it was good for me to learn to be patient with others. It was very frustrating waiting my turn and waiting to see if I would win rider of the week. The first horse I rode was Sheba then Sherry then back to Sheba. Judy was so wonderful; she was always so patient and supportive.

When at RDA I played various games on the horses including egg and spoon races, flag races. This prepared us for mounted games. These competitions made me feel very nervous and jumpy. When Judy left, Nicole came along giving us dressage tests, which definitely tested my abilities. It was demanding but was a perfect way to put all the skills I had learnt over the years. Nicole was always positive and enthusiastic about my riding and was ever so chirpy, it was infectious.

When she left, Kaye came to Saturdays involving everyone in dressage tests and Mounted Games. Kaye was amazing she was very tough with me, but I knew it was for my own good. This is where Pippa, Strawberry Roan Welsh Mountain Pony, came into my life after a certain mishap with Polly (my old Horse.) However, very quickly Pippa and I won a few competitions and we got along just fine. After qualifying for the regionals I became friends with Barbara, who filled me in about Pippa’s life before RDA. Kristyna (Pippa’s mum, owner) also supported my adventures with her horse all the way from Ireland. As Pippa and I became the greatest of friends, we accomplished something I never thought possible.

The Easter Show came along; I was definitely surprised when I won ‘Best Presented’ (Luck of the Irish.). I also was proud that I came second in ‘Horse of the year’ I was very, very happy but scared on the day but Kaye, Barbara, Grandma, Mamma, Ashley (my sister), Dad and all my past and present coaches from RDA were there to cheer me on.

The next big thing was State Dressage, in which I had heaps of training from Wendy. Wendy was so helpful, knowledgeable and organized. That definitely prepared me for this competition. A big surprise was that I had to do both Dressage Tests on the day, which gave the audience and me huge shock.

Nevertheless, it all worked out I got two 1^st place ribbons. A Perpetual trophy to keep for one whole year for NSW RDA JUNIOR DRESSAGE CHAMPION.

Then for a whole week we looked after the horses because of the Equine Influenza ban on movement (trust me it was not as good as you might think.) We had to feed them, we took out their (I will be polite) manure/urine and the good parts were washing them and walking, Riding them for their exercise. We sometimes rode in the Staff Buggies to get around to paddocks where horses were sometimes kept. We had board games to play when we had our lunch breaks. To me it was the life of a farmer. It was simple, fun and good for my strength. I loved it.

At some point, they changed the protocol, said no one was allowed in or out of SIEC so we left and listened to the news, and waited like everyone else. I was so worried for Pippa and her friends. After a month and a bit, they finally were allowed back home to Tall Timbers only to be infected. Another anxious time ahead. As they are slowly recovering Barbara, Kristyna (who is now back in Australia for a visit) and my family are pretty happy.

Who knows what the future brings, as long as I’m riding, I’m happy.

Thanks RDA.

CONGRATULATIONS AMANDA ON BECOMING A

‘DYNAMIC ACHIEVER’

By Lesley Wilson, Amanda’s mum.

On September 14^th, Baulkham Hill’s Shire Council presented Amanda Wilson with the 2007 ‘Dynamic Achievement Award’ at their annual ‘Excellence in Youth Awards’. This was a wonderful community honour for her. The award was presented to her by the Mayor of Baulkham Hills at a gala dinner, the ‘Evening of Excellence’, held at the Castle Grand.

The preamble for the award states that, “it is given to a young person who succeeds and strives for excellence no matter what obstacles they need to overcome to achieve their goals. The obstacles may be hardships or disability and their achievements inspirational”.

There were over 10 nominees for the award and 7 finalists were chosen. Amanda had to attend two interviews at Baulkham Hills Council Chambers and answer questions from a panel of 3 judges in each interview. I accompanied her to the interviews and listened with pride to her responses. In her discussions she did not focus on her competition achievements with RDA but chatted about all the wonderful things that happen at ‘Tall Timbers’. She talked about all the different horses and about her routine in catching, grooming, saddling and warming-up her horse ready for her lesson. She discussed all she learnt and practised in her lessons and she even explained all about the different gaits in riding and transitions in Dressage. The judges were amazed and educated at all that is involved! Amanda’s wonderful love of horses and her appreciation for ‘Tall Timbers’ shone through! Added to this, Amanda also explained that since 2005 she has shared the story of her riding interests to help support ‘Vision Australia’ nationally in their publicity and fundraising campaigns, and while she is very ambitious for her own equestrian future she also loves using her riding interests to try and benefit others.

At the awards ceremony Amanda received a superb golden trophy and a cheque for $400.00 which she has put into her savings towards one day buying her own horse. In front of 200 guests, including Federal, State and Local politicians, as well as prominent members of the Hills Shire business community, Amanda thanked everyone who supported her, adding:

“I love horses and I love riding. They are a huge part of my life. I love sharing my riding successes with other young people and I like showing them that having a disability doesn’t have to stop you from pursuing and achieving your dreams. Some directions in life have to change when you have a disability but you still can achieve some inspiring things. I encourage young people in the community, with or without disabilities to follow their dreams whether they are in sporting or in other fields of endeavour. My message is to look at what you can do, not what you can’t do and then go for it!”

Amanda delivered her speech with both courage and grace.

To our surprise and delight Amanda was also awarded Highly Commended for ‘Individual Junior Sport’. This is the first year that Baulkham Hills Council have awarded Highly Commended, (second place), in a category, and shows their wonderful acknowledgement and recognition of disabled sport.

Through her riding, Amanda has shown a real heart for community and she is becoming a lovely role model for young people with disability. I would like to thank ‘Tall Timbers’ for supporting Amanda as a nominee for the ‘Dynamic Achievement Award’ and for all the encouragement and kindness the Centre always shows her.

Amanda was thrilled to receive the award and she joins another ‘Tall Timber’s’ rider, Natalie Fulton, for winning this same award in 2002. The ‘Tall Timbers’ community must be very proud of their ‘Dynamic Achievers’!

AMANDA ACHIEVES HER SECOND COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT AWARD

By Lesley Wilson.

On October 2^nd, Amanda was granted her second Australian sporting award. ‘The Australian Government Sport Achievement Award’ was presented to her by Dr Brendan Nelson, member for Bradfield, at a ceremony held at Ravenswood School, Gordon. The award states that it has been given to Amanda “in recognition of her outstanding Equestrian achievements”. It was an exceptional honour for Amanda to receive this prestigious award for a second time. Her first was awarded to her by Mr Phillip Ruddock in 2005.

The MC of the ceremony was Mr Ross Symmons, past ABC and Channel Seven newsreader. Jaci Armstrong from Ryde RDA was on hand to tell Mr Symmons all about Amanda and her achievements. In return he entertained Amanda with his very funny and very uncomfortable ‘one and only’ horse riding experience!

Amanda was thrilled to meet both Dr Nelson and Ross Symmons and thrilled to receive her second National award. A big thank you to Jaci Armstrong and Amanda’s school, St Edmund’s School for the Blind and Vision Impaired at Wahroonga, for organising Amanda’s nomination for this Award.

MY EXPERIENCE AT TALL TIMBERS

By Kristi Mrish, Holroyd SSP Student

I have been going to RDA for three years. During this time I have made some good friends including Chanida who takes care of all the horse and Nicole who coaches the riders.

Kristi I have a fantastic time every week whether it is cleaning feeding or grooming horse. This is definitely my favourite activity of the week, even the weekend. I have a lot of experience working with horses and really enjoy leading horses down to the paddocks. To begin with it was a little confusing trying to remember all the bits that go on a horse. Now it is quite easy to remember.

I have two favourite horses, Ishmar with white and brown spots and Angel a beautiful white horse with a lovely smile. I would like to thank all the volunteers who have helped me this year and I would recommend this experience to anyone.

Many thanks from Kristi Mrish.

EMMA BASHA

By Ken Basha, Emma’s Dad

Emma has a rare metabolic condition known as Non-Ketotic Hyperglycinemia (Late-onset). The condition came on at the age of two and a half and is a deteriorating condition that to date has affected her mobility. Emma gets around in a wheel chair or walks short distances with the use of her frame.

The prognosis is unknown and while there is no real cure we know that many forms of physio as often as possible is really good for her. So, on the advice of Emma’s doctors from the Children’s Hospital at Westmead Emma has weekly Physio, Occupational Therapy, Swimming and now Horse Riding.

Emma’s name was put down for Horse Riding at the age of three as the advice was that it was excellent physiotherapy. To our delight Emma got a place at RDA Tall Timbers just after she turned five!

Now I probably should first frame this story. Emma has never been fond of any animals or strangers and really is a very, very shy girl. We were expecting some problems when day one of horse riding came and it was Emma’s turn to hop on Bonnie.

Well, Emma did not let us down!

To the surprise of everyone (including us to a certain extent) Emma was totally petrified in a way we have not seen her before and almost screamed the arena down. There was no way she was going to go anywhere near Bonnie or any other Horse. Emma was extremely upset; some of you in a 2 kilometre radius may have heard her screaming that day!

After a lengthy period of screaming it was clear that this was going nowhere. We thought about putting off for a week or may be even a year as Emma was so distressed. Just as this thought was entering the mind Nicole said to me that this was not all that unusual and we could bring her back next week or perhaps be brave and place her on Bonnie and see what happens.

I thought to myself, what’s the worst thing that could happen?

So, I took Nicole’s advice and put Emma on Bonnie where she rode around for 5 minutes crying her little heart out. Thank goodness Bonnie was such a great horse!

Some 15 months on, that was the last time Emma cried riding a horse!

I can not explain what has happened, all we know is that at the next riding session Emma went on no fuss and completed the class and she did that for the remainder of the year.

A small detail we should also make mention of is that Emma is yet to look any Horse in the face or pat them on the nose, however, mid way through the term while riding she did manage to pat both Bonnie and Angel (mid way through the year Emma transferred to Angel) on the back of the neck while no one was looking - except for Dad who was there in case anything went wrong.

So, day one was an absolute disaster where we thought we would never return and we look back at the end of the year and see how far Emma has come. Emma now rides no problem, while still being led Emma knows how to use the reins to turn and stop and to say “walk on” to get Angel to walk. Emma also learnt some basic caring for the Horses.

What is Emma’s favourite part of the lesson – there is no doubt it is when they go for a trot along the arena!

Emma had a sensational first year at RDA Tall Timbers where her confidence grew in a way we never thought possible, Emma had the ever so important physiotherapy benefits from Horse riding and was proud as punch when she was awarded the Bill Harvey Memorial Shield for the most improved Saturday Horse rider. If you could have only seen her take her Trophy in to school to show her friends for news!

As parents we too were proud in way that we probably never felt before. To see Emma come such a long way in herself and to pick up a trophy at the end of the year was fantastic.

The year of Horse riding has had nothing short of an amazing affect on Emma and our family.

Something we probably did not think was possible, however, it was and it did happen. We would be kidding ourselves if we did not think this totally due to RDA Tall Timbers and to the work Kaye, Nicole, Kerry and Jan did with Emma – there patience, support and benefit it has brought to Emma we could never repay. A big thank you must also go to all the volunteers who led Emma around the arena on Bonnie and Angel.

THE ALICE BETTERIDGE SCHOOL (RIDBC) AND RDA- A GREAT PARTNERSHIP!!!

By Celia Vild, Senior Classroom Teacher, RIDBC

The Alice Betteridge School that is part of the Royal Institute for Deaf and Blind Children supports children ranging in age from 5 to 18 years old with a significant sensory impairment, intellectual disability and/ or physical disabilities. The students and staff at the Alice Betteridge School have been participating in the riding program at RDA for over 15 years. In that time many students have gained a variety of skills that have enhanced their everyday lives.

This year another six students have attended RDA once a week during term1 and term 2 of the school year. George who started out being scared of horses is now riding confidently and participating in games and trail rides.

Niall has learnt to sit up straight on the horse and follow directions. Brittany has been working on improving her balance which has assisted her with walking and moving over different surfaces.

By maintaining a good seat on her horse Melissa’s posture has improved, along with her confidence in new social situations. Although Ahmed missed out on several weeks of riding, once back in the saddle he showed that he had maintained many of the skills he had slowly acquired over several months of attending RDA. This includes grasping a variety of items during games and motor planning skills when mounting and dismounting his horse.

When Stephen started riding at the beginning of the year he was quite unsettled and was not keen to stay on the horse. Now he is following directions and participating in the whole session with enthusiasm.

The students would not be able to achieve their goals without the dedication and expertise of Joan and the many volunteers who turn up each week to assist the students. We all learn so much from these sessions and it is great for the students to have the opportunity to learn in such a lovely outdoor environment.

Finally I would like to acknowledge the horses. They are so gentle and cope so well with the different characters they have on their backs!!!

Thank you to the horses, the volunteers and the staff, their patience and perseverance as it is this combination that makes riding such a great activity for all to enjoy.

TALLOWOOD

TALLOWOOD RIDERS

AT RIDING FOR THE DISABLED

By Emily Denyer, Teacher Tallowood School

Throughout the first semester of 2007 six of Tallowood School’s students have been enjoying many activities at RDA. They have been learning to mount and dismount horses safely and correctly with support and have been playing many games that include choosing colours and numbers as they ride. They have been pretending to plant flowers and riding to music around the arena. They have even been able to trot at times, which they really love! When the weather is lovely and warm we go for a trail ride into the breeze to explore our surroundings.