The Tweed Valley’s Riding for the Disabled group is now delivering therapeutic horse-related activities year-round thanks to the all-weather arena at its Murwillumbah home and has places open for more participants in its programs.

Operating for more than 30 years in the local area, the group has previously battled through flooding and seasonal weather to meet client demand, but now with $407,975 from the NSW Government they’ve been able to extend and resurface the main arena and build a roof.

Lismore MP Janelle Saffin, who is also Minister for the North Coast, congratulated Riding for the Disabled Tweed Valley President Leonie Dunne, her committee, and contractors – ABC Sheds and Uki’s Hardings Earthmoving -- on completing the major project.

“Providing consistent activities for all members of the community is key to inclusivity,” Ms Saffin said.

“This project will ensure people with disabilities can participate in enriching activities that boost their well-being with equity and dignity, and they won’t have to miss out on a key social activity in their lives due to weather.

Ms Dunne said the upgrades will be life-changing for program participants.

“Many people with disability have difficulties regulating their body temperature in heat and cold, and any rain makes riding boggy, slippery and dangerous – now we can keep classes going in all weather,” Ms Dunne said.

“We believe riding develops abilities and benefits of the program include improved coordination, muscle power and balance, relaxation, outdoor activity, decision-making, communication, making friends, self-confidence, and importantly having fun.” 

Classes were limited to fine, clear days, and early mornings to keep clients comfortable, but now the community group will be able to run more classes each day, and that means supporting more people.

With more than 20,0000 people in Tweed Shire living with disability, the ability to expand its offerings has been a long-term goal for the non-profit group.

Emma Butler’s daughter Meg began riding with the group at the age of 11, and at age 20, she’s now volunteering and helping others.

“For us personally, it’s been amazing; the horses themselves are great for building confidence, and then you see the participants grow new skills helping others with a disability, I’d recommend it to anyone with a child looking to make a connection,” Mrs Butler said.

“The covered arena means you know it’s going ahead, too. Most of these kids thrive on routine, and you can pretty much guarantee it’s going ahead.”

The Tweed Valley group is part of Riding for the Disabled NSW (RDA) and runs a range of programs for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities.

As one of the only equine facilities in the region with a covered arena, Tweed Valley Riding for the Disabled hopes to partner with other horse-related groups for events and arena hire to bolster funding for a future program delivery.

Riding for the Disabled Tweed Valley has been operating in Murwillumbah since 1989. If you’re interested in participating in activities or volunteering with the group, you can go to the RDA Tweed Valley Facebook group for more information.