RDARDA SASA NEWSNEWS Riding for the Disabled Association Inc.

ISSUE NUMBER 32 AUTUMN 2011 Strong support for covered arena recent story in the Victor Harbor and is already before Victor Harbor Council‟s A Development Assessment Panel. Times has sparked some welcome It would be erected at the centre‟s riding area, on community support for a proposal to land sub-leased from Victor Harbor Riding Club. build an all-weather covered riding area The Times story by Anthony Caggiano quoted at the local RDA centre. centre president John Vincent, who said last year they A proposed 20 by 42.5m colorbond canopy with a had cancelled Tuesday and Saturday riding programs soft rubber/sand floor would cost around $120,000 six times because of rain or hot weather. Extreme weather can make things “severely uncomfortable for riders and volunteers,” he added. The Panel is considering possible issues with neighbours, whose backyards abut land on which the arena would be erected. Cr Peter Lewis spoke at the council meeting on March 28, stating he wanted to help the (RDA) group. Support also came from Cr Jim Telfer, who said effects on a newly built house next door would be “negligible”. Council approved the structure provided it met the requirements of the panel. Half the cost of the riding “arena” would come from a State government grant, the balance of around $60,000 being raised by the community. The structure would stand six metres tall and be shared between RDA and the Riding Club. John Vincent said both organisations could use it to conduct lessons and events during any type of weather. John‟s wife, Sue Vincent, centre secretary and coach, said 38 children, living with cerebral palsy, autism and other conditions, attended the riding sessions. “One student‟s sight was affected by the sun; they could only lay on the horse‟s (back) and have someone walking around holding an umbrella to shield their eyes. “You can‟t say to someone with autism „You can‟t go riding today because it‟s raining‟: they don‟t get it. They think, „Okay, it‟s Tuesday, it‟s riding day.‟ “This isn‟t just parading around, it helps them build confidence,” Sue said. Jai Modra, 10, is obviously happy to be at RDA Victor The newspaper story was picked up by a Harbor in fine weather on a riding day. local radio station. Sue said the publicity had – Photo courtesy Sue Vincent – Continued page 2

STATE OFFICE: 215 Portrush Road, MAYLANDS SA 5069

Ph 08 8331 1833,RDA Fax SA 08 NEWS 8331 AUTUMN 1188, [email protected], 2011 PAGE 1 www.rdasa.org.au

Samaritan College students present a donation to RDA just before Christmas. Pictured are, from left: Samaritan College project co-ordinator Heidi Korossy, former RDA rider and current college student Scott Litchfield, RDA coach Jill Warner, RDA horse Wilbur, RDA coach Mandy Manaley and students Lori Waldron, Tim Fulton, Grace Sires and Tyron Burk. Photo courtesy . Continued from page 1 he headline in a December Members of the student group T news story by Jade Walker were Tim Fulton, Tyron Burk, resulted in strong local interest in in the Whyalla News read “A Grace Sires, Lori Waldron and RDA within the community and a Scott Litchfield. flurry of very welcome donations special gift”. It told how a group of students Speaking for the group, Lori from individual people as well as said their display comprised local clubs and businesses. from Samaritan College gave RDA Whyalla a helping hand with equipment from RDA including So well done Sue and John and saddles and stirrups and included all the volunteers at RDA Victor $162.25 towards the cost of new equipment for riders. a slide show and videos of RDA. Harbor, who are doing big things RDA Whyalla coach and for riders with disabilities. It was part of the school‟s personal learning plan, which committee member Jill Warner saw 120 students divided into was grateful to the students and groups of five, each group getting said RDA depended on community involved in community service support and if it wasn‟t for these and researching a voluntary donations RDA would not be able organisation. to provide a service in Whyalla. Co-ordinator Heidi Korossy RDA Whyalla has been said each group presented a operating for 19 years. The display at the school Civic Expo, centre is located on land off with $100 for best display, the Racecourse road, Whyalla Norrie, money to go to the voluntary entirely staffed by volunteers. organisation depicted. RDA and the local SES group Driving forces ... RDA Victor tied for first place and each Harbor coach and secretary Sue received $100. The RDA group Vincent, with her husband John also raised $62.25 in donations to Vincent who is centre president. add to the prize. – Photo courtesy RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 2 Progress slow and steady at new O’Halloran Hill RDA centre

low progress is being made applications! particularly over winter when the S at the new RDA centre What is the vision? The plan wetted Bay of Biscay soil clags up to developing at O‟Halloran Hill. is ambitious. But if we borrow make horses and people taller. The new home of RDA another analogy, like eating an Wonderful for grapevines and crops, Blackwood moved out of its elephant, it is best done one but not for walking on. temporary “digs” at 6 A fodder shed to store hay Jennibrook Farm during produced on the property. Christmas holidays. “A staged project with 7 An implement shed for Lessons are some time equipment necessary to away. A temporary arena several stages now is being built for riders maintain the property. while works continue on behind us and many 8 Safe car parking. the main arena and 9 Power and water. buildings. 10 An outside arena to use on It is a massive project, more to come” perfect days when outdoors is one of the largest ever best. undertaken by RDA in SA – mouthful at a time. 11 Space for Golden Spur Pony Club probably the largest by the time it activities which RDA riders can join in. is finished. When it‟s “finished” the new centre will have: 13 Happy RDA riders and satisfied “Will it ever be finished?” is a RDA volunteers. question frequently asked and the 1 An indoor arena—larger than the Please donate now. Please give answer is both “no” and “yes”. old one at Craigburn Farm – providing as much as you can as often as “Yes” - it is a staged project year round riding in all weather. No you can to enable our riders to with several stages now behind more cancelling due to bad weather. ride year „round. us, and many more to come. Erection of building frame- 2 A secure waiting area for riders. work last year gave the site a 3 A functional office and kitchen. presence to hundreds of motorists 4 Disability access everywhere. In passing daily along Majors road. 5 Indoor stabling for horses, Since then nothing much seems to have happened – but Memoriam looks are deceiving. In this issue Supervised by a professional RDA Victor Harbor covered arena 1-2 builder, RDA volunteers are now Jai Modra happy young rider 1 David Bowman building a hayshed onsite to store RDA Whyalla – Good Samaritans 2 21 Mar 1957 to 15 Apr 2011 horse feed. O’Halloran Hill steady progress 3 Passed away at Flinders Once completed, attention will In Memoriam David Bowman 3 focus on cladding the admin Medical Centre following a In Memoriam Pam Waugh 3 long battle with cancer. building to lock-up stage, with RDA Pt Lincoln raises $20,000 4 plans and agreements currently RDA staff changes 4 Proud and supportive father of being drawn up. RDA SA State Manager’s overview 5 Paralympic equestrian and RDA The project can be likened to From the State President 6 rider Grace as well as twins the old analogy of a swimming Calendar 6 Emily and Olivia. duck – all serene above the RDA Yorke Peninsula relocates 7 Widely loved and respected. surface but paddling like crazy RDA Blackwood – Halloween & Cup 8 underneath! Vale pony Trumpet after 35 years 8 Will it ever be “finished”? Letters pages 9-11 Yes, but it will take awhile and Looking Back 11 Pam Waugh only be completed after much Night at the Races dinner raises $8K 12 28 Jan 1927 to 19 Sept 2010 fundraising and grant Australia Day honours for Carol & Roy 12 Strongly associated with RDA Quiz night winners 13 SA for 20 years as a donor and Support from Urrbrae student Mae 13 Strategic Plan—the arena vision 14 member and with New Constitution & Agreement 14 RDA Northern Area RDA SA Patrons, Board, Staff, Lifers 14 as a rider. RDA SA 40 years young 15 RDA Riverland Christmas cheer 16

RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 3 “Dinner on the Deck” raises $20,000 RDA STAFF for Pt Lincoln all-weather riding arena DA raised The musical trio “Who let the R more than $20,000 at a Cats in” played throughout the CHANGES “Dinner on the Deck” event at evening. the Port Lincoln Yacht Club on A special promotional feature I n June 2010 RDA Australia March 26. of the event was a collection of 21 relocated to South Australia, Centre fundraising and deck chairs, which had been to share the state office at 215 promotions officer Susan Hooker painted by local Portrush Road, Maylands. said the money would go towards artists and children who donated At the same time two RDA SA the cost of creating an all-weather their time and skills. staff members took on part-time riding arena, so that classes The chairs were judged by roles with RDAA in addition to would not have to be cancelled in popular votes cast in the their RDA SA positions. unfavourable weather conditions. community, the “most popular” Karen Aspery became acting At the dinner centre president gaining 973 votes won by Annette national coaching co-ordinator Jodie Porter presented a moving Kelson. These chairs had been and Theresa Moore was enlisted speech in which she explained the hanging for public viewing on as administration officer, both for health benefits and enjoyment of display in the Rotary gallery at the two days per week. riding for their young clients. civic hall. Earlier this year, Karen was She also thanked people for The deck chairs were also appointed acting national their generous support in sponsored by local businesses and executive officer, and has attending the dinner as well as the were offered by auction at the therefore scaled back her RDA SA ongoing support of the centre‟s dinner. employment as coaching co- local volunteers. The auction was a great ordinator to two days per week. Another feature of the evening success, with all chairs plus two She is no longer the state‟s was wine tasting courtesy of bottles of Penfolds Grange volunteer co-ordinator. David O‟Leary, of O‟Leary Walker (donated by Peter Teakle) sold Theresa continues to work for Wines in the Clare Valley. under the direction of Kevin RDA SA three days per week, The wines complemented a Ayliffe. resulting in full-time employment superb meal put together by a The auction items themselves at the same site for her, albeit for kitchen team of local volunteers raised more than $16,000. two different organisations. led by Deb Forster. Other RDA SA staff are all full- time: Kay Milton is the state manager, Ella Kos the finance manager and doorknock co- ordinator and Rosalee Cearns the administration officer. Ian Beaton continues to assist in a contract position as our grants and promotions officer. Our previous grants officer, Andy Esworthy, relinquished his role after moving to Queensland Volunteer kitchen “staff” at the fundraising dinner from left: above – last year. Paige Forster, Kylie Kotz, Jodie Porter, Mark Thomas, Lisa Wiseman, Kay has been with RDA SA for Selena Sellen and Kerry Casanova; below – Red Aprons from left: Mel nearly nine years, Ella nearly O‟Donnell, Kerry Manthorpe, Hazel Reynolds, Jinny Hussey, Rosy eight, Karen and Ian six, and Rose Crettenden, Ros Trotman, Beth Krushka and Sue Cotton. and Theresa five. Recently welcomed to the RDAA staff (temporarily) is Stacey Seal. So there is a wealth of knowledge about RDA in the office, along with great camaraderie.

RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 4 RDA SA overview With Kay Milton, State Manager ou have to be joking! It was a humble enough Y That was Mark‟s reaction aim: to develop a plan for when I first ran the idea past sourcing an indoor arena for him. every RDA SA centre. Many RDA folk know my Unfortunately, the review husband Mark Boon as he often never progressed beyond draft accompanies me when I visit far- stage until two years ago, when flung centres. A retired journo, the Board initiated a serious he edits this newsletter for RDA update of the Strategic Plan. SA and does other voluntary jobs Centres have been involved in for RDA at state office. updating the Plan at Centres‟ Among his qualities is his Forums since then. possible.” blunt honesty. The most amazing thing to me Quite simply, you have When I told him of my since then has been how much thought about it and decided it is audacious idea he said it was that germ of an idea – seemingly possible. impossible. He thought I was a ludicrous concept – has been Our earlier Strategic Plan joking. But as I told him more embraced by you. (2003-2007) looked at smaller about my idea, he came to see it The RDA SA strategic plan now targets, such as increasing rider as not only possible, but aims for four more covered and volunteer numbers. arenas by 2015. achievable. And we have easily In one sense it was not achieved these increases my idea at all, as it came “You, the members every year since then. from just about everyone The current plan – involved in any RDA centre and volunteers and your Strategic Plan – which has been forced to encompasses this much shut down when it‟s hot, or riders, were telling me larger aim. It‟s a massive wet, or windy. target. The idea came from you, “We need to win cross and you wanted it for your „if only‟ your centre lotto to do this,” one centre. With only one person commented. exception: Mt Gambier. had an indoor arena, In the meantime, And I agreed with you someone else went out and when you said you wanted you would be able to initiated a local effort it for your centre. But I which raised $20,000 wanted to see it achievable operate more often, towards their arena. for every centre. Another has said, “You An all-weather riding more reliably.” had better tell the Board arena – of course! we will be the first to have The idea has been one of those arenas.” Reading this newsletter you And I am aware of another preying on my mind a long time – will see some centres have already since before 2006 in fact, when I three centres with covered, put their names on those arenas. sheltered riding areas high on first included it as a concept in a These centres haven‟t sought revision of our Strategic Plan. their wish lists. permission to see if it‟s OK to In the cold, hard, light of day, You, members and volunteers explore the possibilities – they are and riders, were telling me “if the case for a covered arena has doing it themselves, for their to be strong. only” your centre had an indoor riders. arena, you would be able to You can expect to be They have not waited for me, challenged as to whether it is operate more often, more reliably. or the Board, to tell them to go “Think of all the lessons we worthwhile going to all that and start raising funds or tell investment and effort for “only” wouldn‟t have to cancel,” you told them how to make plans. me. “Think of all that extra x, y or z number of riders. These people haven‟t had to be So have your answer ready. income. We might even attract told how to approach their local more volunteers if we had a council or how to budget, or how comfortable arena.” much money they will need. The more I thought about it, They are simply getting on the better I liked it. And so I left with it, doing it for their riders. the idea in the Strategic Plan All they needed was a germ of review. an idea, something to say, “It‟s RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 5 From the President By Jill Ribbons, State President

was able to visit RDA Port Both documents are important I Lincoln in February and I for the governance of our was delighted to meet in organisation and we encourage as person a number of the many members and interested “team”. parties as possible to have their When I arrived it was lunch say. time on their Tuesday riding day Many thanks to the team who and there was a real “buzz” in the put together these documents - atmosphere – I counted 27 Melisa Kaharevic (RDA SA Vice volunteers (and I may have President), Denise Watkins (RDA missed some) happily munching SA Board Member) and Kay and sharing with me what was Milton (State Manager). happening at RDA Port Lincoln. We have moved to the next I saw the wonderful art work phase of our relationship with on the deck chairs that were to be Special Olympics. Together with auctioned at their next fundraiser the President of Special Olympics SA, I signed a Memorandum of CALENDAR – a very innovative idea. After lunch it was “action Understanding between our two stations” for the next class. Every organisations. 2011 volunteer had a job and knew We can now offer competition what to do and just got on and did pathways and activities for our MAY it. intellectually disabled riders I spoke to teachers who came through SOSA. This is a 4 – RDA SA Annual General with their class and they were significant step with opportunities Meeting for state, interstate, national and impressed that the riding lesson 15 – Mounted Games was developed to match the skills international competitions for of students and at the same time Equestrian becoming available. JULY be a challenge to them. Lastly I want to mention At the end of the lesson I was activities within RDA at the 2 – Quiz Night. greeted by huge “ cheesy grins” national level. We recently had a 29 – RDA Awareness and on the faces of riders who had weekend of meetings in Adelaide Badge Day, Rundle Mall obviously enjoyed the experience which included the national – they thanked their horses, their RDAA Board, State Presidents, AUGUST State Coaching Coordinators and horse leaders and sidewalkers and 13 – Coaches riding skills their coach. It was brilliant to see State Executive Officers/State in action the “spirit” of RDA SA Managers. workshop and what we can achieve. A great There was a lot of frank, open SEPTEMBER job RDA Port Lincoln – keep up discussion focusing on the States the excellent work !! and the national body working 18 – RDA SA dressage state At the recent Centres‟ Forum, together to achieve positive championships management committee members outcomes for Australia as a whole of most of our centres saw for the in the future. I look forward to OCTOBER working with this group of first time the proposed new 15 – Coaches riding skills Constitution for RDA SA and an dedicated volunteers and staff to associated Agreement document “make things happen”. workshop defining the obligations of RDA On the same weekend we held 22 – Centres‟ forum SA (the Association) to centres our annual state fundraiser “A and the obligations of centres to Night at The Races”. One of our NOVEMBER the Association. patrons, John Letts, ably ran a live auction adding his own special 18-20 – Adelaide There was a lot of healthy International Horse Trials discussion and debate about the touch and humour as he can do. Agreement and all comments will Many thanks to all those DECEMBER be taken on board. involved in the event – it was a Revision 2 of the Agreement great night. All funds raised will 2-4 – RDAA meeting in and Revision 1 of the Constitution go into the now “growing” fund Queensland for covered arenas for our will soon be forwarded to centres 16-19 – Annual camp for further discussion and debate. centres. RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 6 BIG PLANS AFOOT FOR RDA YORKE PENINSULA From Lib Bartholomeusz The centre has been operating at This is a young centre, full of the Equestrian Centre (former enthusiasm and energy, providing ast year the Hotel Care racecourse) using existing old a great and caring service to L Community Project buildings, but is now relocating to children and adults with donated portable toilets (for another part of the same property. disabilities in the “Copper people with disabilities) to They are starting from scratch, Triangle.” RDA Yorke Peninsula and but a huge advantage is that the another RDA SA centre. new area will comprise 15 acres, Young Moonta rider Georgia enough land to enable them, for the At Kadina the loo will come in O‟Brien riding RDA pony Lindy at first time, to keep all their horses particularly handy as the centre RDA Yorke Peninsula, assisted by on-site. relocates to a bigger site at the centre president and coach Andy The centre has put aside $3,000 Equestrian Centre between Ford (left) and volunteer Leona from its own funds, to which is Kadina and Wallaroo. Jamieson. INSET: Volunteer added $3,790 by way of a Copper The project, currently under Stephanie Spence inspects a new Coast Council grant for fencing. way, began with local fund portable toilet, one of a number The plan was to have boundary raising by RDA volunteers and a donated through a Hotel Care fences completed in January. grant from Copper Coast Community grant. The “wish list” takes in shelters Council, all directed to creating for horses and riders, two shipping new fencing. containers, water piping, troughs, Now boundary fences are up, rainwater tanks, electrical materials an internal paddock is fenced, and connections to develop an “eco two shipping containers have smart” system. Longer term plans been moved plus a mounting include acquiring a tractor and ramp and a temporary riding slasher. arena only awaits sand for surfacing. A temporary rider waiting area is completed and water has been connected. Local Lions generously donated $4,300 to finish stage one of the project, taking in a horse shelter and finishing the rider waiting area plus some fencing. The total project also includes purpose-built arenas, riding trails, clubrooms and finally a covered arena. It‟s not all going to happen quickly. In fact RDA Yorke Peninsula (YP) has started on what will be a “long haul.” Passers-by may like to watch progress as they travel along Port Road between Kadina and Wallaroo. RDA YP is a small centre which has experienced a very busy time in 2010. It has been a most successful year, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and support of other community groups, local businesses and many individual sponsors.

RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 7 Halloween celebrations mixed with Melbourne Cup Day fun

VALE TRUMPET From Rachel Vincent rumpet sadly passed away on T 29 November, still very fit with no arthritis, but he did have Cushing‟s Disease. He was an Australian Pony, just under 12hh, with a mix of Shetland and Timor, named because his neigh sounded like a trumpet. He joined the RDA program in 1976, starting at the then Crippled Children‟s Centre at Regency Park and over the next 25 years giving welcome rides RDA Blackwood folk all dressed up for some colourful capers on (and later drives as well) at Melbourne Cup day last November. Paracombe, Campbelltown, Houghton and One Tree Hill, only From Wendy Campbell Race 2 was won by a neck, retiring when RDA Northern Area again by Ollie (Pumpkin). moved to Globe Derby Park in 2001. oaches and volunteers Race 3 was won by three horse He trained for harness at age C from RDA Blackwood lengths by Wally (Casper the 19, later adding hippotherapy donned jockey silks and Friendly Ghost). work to add to his wide range of witches‟ hats for a special Race 4 was won by a length by experience and skills. Halloween versus Melbourne Dee (Wicked Witch). PICTURED Trumpet at work with Cup day last November 2. Other horses participating RDA Houghton carries a young were: Blackie (Dracula), Nicky rider assisted by Margaret Lee, They even had a Dracula – not (Spook), Sam (The Dark Knight), Rachel Vincent and Jill Shelton. to mention haunted houses, horse Toby (White Fang), Agro shoes, pumpkins, roses, devil (Zombie) and Macushla (Ghost forks, vampire bats and hobby Rider). horses making up a colourful Riders, coaches and volunteers collection of decorations around enjoyed a fun-filled day. Even the the arena. horses appeared to enjoy Four mini Melbourne Cup themselves. races were conducted. For the Classes just finished at the occasion horses‟ names were centre in time to watch the real changed to “spooky” Halloween Melbourne Cup. And in a names. sweepstake Wendy Campbell won Race one was won by a short first place, making it a nose by Ollie (race name particularly good day! Pumpkin).

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RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 8 Letters

The letters page has grown to almost three pages! Many letters published here give special mention to Variety – The Children’s Charity and the wonderful contribution it makes to the ongoing success of RDA. We are delighted to publish them because they tell some wonderful stories. Dear Sue, I would like to Students gain take this opportunity to thank Enjoys rapport you for having me for my work from RDA experience with RDA Victor with riders I would like to express my Harbor from 21st to 25th I RECENTLY COMMENCED as gratitude for the amazing work September last year. a volunteer at the RDA I was able to develop my horse Northern Area centre. RDA SA is doing for children. management skills under the I am a retired Registered Nurse We have been involved with guidance of yourself, John, and have believed for some time (RDA) Northern Area for some Sharon and Fiona. that physical and mental years and without fail we have I enjoyed working with you stimulation plus challenge can seen our students benefit from and Buddy – he really is a frisky improve the quality of life for their time horse riding. character isn‟t he? people of all ages. Students with opportunity to I also enjoyed exercising I have had the opportunity to attend riding sessions improve in Monty, although he was a little regularly lead horses for a couple communication and motor skills, jittery on the day. of clients and am enjoying the gain confidence and even I learnt how to wind fencing developing rapport with them as improve scholastically. wire into rolls at Fiona‟s and how they continue to develop their Thank you very much for what to attach and un-hitch a horse riding skills. you are doing and the support float. The change in another young you give our struggling students. Once again, thank you very rider is most marked. Please pass on our thanks to much for letting me have an As a newcomer, I wish to Variety for their financial opportunity to further my horse congratulate the coaches and support. We hope your service management and stable volunteers for the time, effort, will go on for many years to maintenance skills. expertise and commitment to come. I have found this experience their young clients. extremely valuable in my learning I thank all for their welcome about the way horses are looked Juline Michell and support and look forward to after on a daily basis. Special Ed Coordinator my ongoing involvement with this Craigmore Christian School Maggie O’Moore worthy organisation. Volunteer RDA Victor Harbor Mary Sloggett Thanks for Port Elliott Volunteer opportunity RDA Northern Area (RDA Victor Harbor coach Sue Vincent was so delighted to receive the STOP PRESS following letter from VARIETY the Children‟s Charity (Tent 75 SA) has again come up Maggie O‟Moore that she trumps for RDA in South Australia. sent a copy to RDA state We have been awarded $112,500 for the Variety Horse Maintenance Program for the next 12 months. office to share. We were Variety has supported RDA SA since 2001 through the Horse so impressed we decided Maintenance Fund, which averages around $1,250 per horse per to print it in our “Letters” year. page! Maggie is a We cannot thank Variety enough for their support and teenager who has a commitment to RDA. disability, but is also And thank you to the RDA SA centres which organised an impressive array of messages, letters, pictures and even a poem to enrolled as an RDA support our application. volunteer)

RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 9 AND YET MORE

just did not have the core strength emotional wellbeing this gives Jade at to do it. Gage and his family and friends is Over the past four and a half immense and can only happen years, with support and through RDA and such generous Pt Lincoln encouragement, we have seen funding from Variety. slow and steady improvement in y daughter Jade has his head and trunk control and he M been able to attend the now sits up on his horse „Dancer‟. Amanda Trezise local (Pt Lincoln) Riding for the Gage loves his fortnightly rides Disabled Centre for the last and when he is up on Dancer, and Gage couple of years. with the sun on his back and the Our thanks go out to Jodie wind in his hair, he has a smile Porter and the fantastic volunteers from ear to ear. Caitlin at for giving my daughter a The volunteers give him wonderful opportunity to gain constant praise and attention and confidence and have something he thrives on the bonds he has J’brook Farm really special just for her. formed with the volunteers. Jade looks forward to these He also loves the feel of ur daughter Caitlin was days at school immensely, so Dancer and will nuzzle her with O diagnosed with Autism much so that she bases her school his face and run his fingers just after her third birthday. week around whether it is RDA through her hair; this gives him a It was devastating news for week! sensory feedback. our family and was the start of a There are some sports that my I never realised how much confusing time. daughter is just not able to do, but work goes in to providing him Caitlin started riding at RDA being able to connect with the with a 15-minute ride until I Jennibrook Farm soon after, and beautiful horses, learn about their joined the committee as a parents‟ we were immediately made to feel care and gain wonderful representative. welcome. friendships with the volunteers It was here I learned of all the This was the first place we had and other special needs children behind-the-scenes work that goes taken Caitlin that focused on what is something very special, for into fundraising, applying for she was capable of doing, instead which we are extremely grateful. grants, agisting the horses, horse of what she wasn‟t. These programs are especially nutrition, exercising, maintaining She was introduced to a important in country areas where their hooves and transporting beautiful pony named Casper. access to other services can be horses to the grounds. Over the next six years Caitlin limited compared to the Then there is the mowing, and Casper developed a very metropolitan area. fertilising, weed control and special bond. And many thanks for the setting up the arena for lessons Going to see Casper each week opportunity to voice our thanks according to individual lesson became the highlight of our for this local program. plans for each rider that the calendar. She always walks away coach has planned according to with a smile from ear to ear, Kylie Christie abilities and goals set for each buzzing with excitement. rider. When an invitation to compete Funding Variety provides frees in the RDA mounted games at Mt Gage at up coaches and volunteers so they Barker came in September 2009, can focus on the children and there was no question – Caitlin their needs, rather than wanted to go. Victor Harbor constantly worrying about how We arrived at RDA Mt Barker e write to thank Variety they will raise the money to pay and were in awe of their indoor W for the funding support for everything. arena and facilities. Caitlin felt they provide to our local RDA All the funding and effort that like a celebrity, with all her family Centre at Victor Harbor. Variety and RDA put in has and even a few friends making Our son Gage started riding inspired our friends, family and the trip there to see her and with RDA Victor Harbor as a 5 even one of Gage‟s respite carers Casper compete. year-old. to volunteer – to build ramps, sell She walked away at the end of He has spastic quadriplegia and buy raffle tickets and even fix the day with a 1st place in Texas cerebral palsy, significant hearing horse floats, which makes it a real barrel and 4th in walking trail loss and cortical vision community organisation. events. She was also 2nd and 3rd impairment, uses a wheelchair for We expect Gage will continue in team peg and can races. mobility and does not speak. to slowly and steadily get stronger Adding to the excitement were In the beginning Gage could as he continues to ride. two participation ribbons, a total not even sit up on a horse as he The happiness, physical and of six ribbons for the day. Well RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 10 Letters Looking Back done RDA Jennibrook Farm! everything. To be able to ride a We drove home in awe of the horse is a huge accomplishment 40 years ago (1971) experience RDA had given Caitlin and provides her with such pride Children from Ashford (Crippled and our family. When asked that and a sense of achievement, Children’s Association) begin day what her goal for the future which is something she does not riding at Nanto Riding School. was, Caitlin replied, “I want to get often. This is possible thanks to compete in the Olympics.” We The (RDA) lessons have helped enthusiastic helpers as well as were all so proud. Luca with her sense of balance, the support and teaching skills Within a few weeks it was with maths, as well as enabling announced the 2010 Special her to connect with a beautiful of Nanto owner Mr. G. Olympics were to be held in animal. Willoughby. Soon after, a pony Adelaide. A team of eight RDA The look on her face when she is also taken to both Ashford riders was invited to compete as a rides says it all. Peace. and Woodville Spastic Centre demonstration sport. The RDA centre at Port Lincoln front lawns for children to ride. Caitlin and Casper were on the is amazing and we have nothing Mrs. Baillie's pony “Fortune” is way! Over the next six months but praise for the wonderful literally the beginning of great they trained in rain, hail or shine. volunteers who donate their time things. (Paper presented by Marie RDA went on to host a for children in need. Bury at conference "Rehabilitation fantastic 2010 Special Olympics They are friendly, supportive, through horses" May 1984) for all equestrian athletes and non-judgmental; and they their families (from around maintain a positive environment 30 years ago (1981) Australia). for all children involved. New Mount Gambier RDA Caitlin was the youngest We are very thankful for the group formed at instigation of competitor and carried the RDA opportunities this centre has flag for the opening and closing provided for our daughter. Miss Marion Bailey who brings ceremonies. All this, at the age of experience of RDA in United eight! Kingdom. Nobody could begin to Mark & Rayann First meeting with borrowed understand how proud we were; ponies in a private paddock. and all because of RDA. Semmens Later group moves to Pony We believe in the magic of the Club grounds until Sunnybrae RDA volunteers and horses. Road site is acquired. (RDASA Without the amazing staff and Thanks for newsletter dated May 1982) volunteers at RDA Jennibrook Farm none of this would have newsletter 20 years ago (1991) been possible. RDASA affiliated groups at Thank you RDA Jennibrook THANK YOU for the copy of February 1991: Adelaide Farm. Thank you Casper. Thank your recent newsletter. Driving Group, Alice Springs, you RDA. I was very interested to read Craigburn (Blackwood), about your recent overseas trip and of course the Special Olympics. Houghton, Loveday, Morphett Andrea Appel Vale, Mount Barker, Mount Caitlin‟s Mum Thank you very much for the lovely article Mark put in about Gambier, Murray Bridge, Sunshine Coaches. Sunnybrae, Victor Harbor. Luca at 10 years ago (2001) Sylvia Andersons RDA SA now has 11 centres, CEO 287 registered volunteers, 277 Port Lincoln Variety – The Children‟s Charity riders, 80 horses. Variety SA y daughter Luca has Tent 75 South Australia M Marleston announces it will sponsor each been attending RDA RDA horse with $1,000 for two since she was five. years, total $160,000. She was born with Tuberous Sclerosis, a genetic condition that can affect all body organs. RDA is the one activity in her Items of interest for this column life where she gets complete are welcomed. Contributions of enjoyment and feels free from her interest or historical value should condition. be in writing and, where possible, Luca finds it hard to do quote authenticating sources.

RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 11 “RACES” RAISE $8,000 FOR COVERED ARENAS lmost $8,000 was raised managed the “Tote” along with A towards the Covered volunteers Liz Ball, Richard Ball, Arenas project at the CMV Bev Fogarty, Carolyn Slade, Mary Night at the Races Charity and Elizabeth Sloggett. Dinner on April 2. All 40 racehorses had been Held at the magnificent “sold” by mid-evening, giving National Wine centre in Adelaide, their “owners” a reason to the evening attracted more than barrack even more loudly as the 70 “racegoers”. five races were screened. They included RDA SA Patrons Wine Centre staff went out of John Letts (legendary former their way to assist on the night. jockey) and Gill Rolton AM Many people contributed to John Letts works hard as auctioneer (Olympian), Ambassador Cheree the evening‟s success, and the during the Night at the Races live Gask (the irrepressible), happy atmosphere was evidence auction, aided by palomino Smiley. champion jockey Clare Lindop that the races were again a Below, RDA Australia Queensland (the first woman ever to ride in “winner”. reps Rhiannon Hutchins, Jane Ayre the Melbourne Cup), and RDA Of course, the ultimate and Lyn Crichton, in Adelaide to folk from interstate who were in winners will be RDA riders who attend the RDA national Adelaide for national RDAA benefit from covered arenas now convention. meetings on the same weekend. being planned at several centres. An array of intriguing and high quality items were offered for auction, including several items auctioned live by John Letts, flanked by RDA Smiley horses (Cameron Aspery and Billy Russell). Among prized items sold was a family admission to the Lord Mayor‟s Viewing Box for the Adelaide Christmas Pageant, and a week‟s holiday in Bali. Top marks to Rob Molloy, who

Whyalla honours for Carol & Roy he good news just keeps year every Christmas season T coming from RDA wearing a bright red suit and hat, Whyalla, with two invaluable great fluffy white beard and volunteers presented with happy smile, riding a motor cycle Community Service awards at as – you guessed it – that cheerful chappy from the North Pole. the Australia Day celebrations. At RDA Whyalla, Roy is a kind Carol Spargo‟s dedication to of general fix-it man, barbecue RDA over 20 years is not her only chef, you name it. He has had a interest in the community. busy involvement with the local According to the Whyalla community over many years, News, she finds time every most of his activities aimed at Thursday to do duty with Whyalla helping children. Sea Rescue Squadron, operating Roy told the hyalla News two-way radios and keeping reporter he felt the best thing he‟d watch for any boating mishaps in done volunteering had been or near the marina. laying tyres at the Whyalla We like to think her great love marina. is RDA and she certainly spoke to “We would spend hours at the the newspaper about her dump finding old tyres,” he said. Roy Davenport and Carol Spargo experiences at the local centre. with their framed certificates “Then we laid them all at the For 32 years Roy Davenport marina as a stopper for boats.” presented at Whyalla‟s Australia has averaged 20 appearances a Day awards ceremony. Well done to both of them. RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 12 invitation to take on the role again. His work will again Mae and Darcy include researching and preparing all questions (he has staunch RDA agreed to make them not quite supporters so challenging next time!). So for a great night doing something different mark the date in your diary and watch our website www.rdasa.org.au. Or for more information email us at [email protected] In the meantime, special thanks to the following for generous donations of prizes: Braydun Hill Wines, Chapel Hill Winery, Coriole Vineyards, Quiz night winners Melisa Dog Ridge Vineyard, Fox Creek Kaharevic and Pauline Wines, Haigh‟s Chocolates, McLoughlin with the magnificent Hugo Wines, Kay Brothers trophy won by their table team Amery Vineyards, McGuigan named “10 percent”. Wines, Rosemount Estate, Ryecroft Winery, Samuels hallenging questions and Gorge Winery, Scarpantoni C an evening of fun helped Estate Vines, Settlement Wines, make the inaugural RDA SA Tapestry Wines, Wirra Wirra quiz night on October 23 at Sport SA, West Beach, a great social occasion. RDA SA NEWS And it raised money for RDA Official newsletter of Riding for the SA centres and the Indoor Arena Disabled Association SA Inc, Fund. distributed free to members and Host Philip Moore (husband supporters. Current circulation of staff member Theresa approx 1,500. Mae White, an Urrbrae College Moore) did a superb job and Editor Mark Boon. Printers: Eureka Print, student who has been busy proved popular and Kidman Park. collecting money for the RDA entertaining, as 10 tables Contributions welcome and should be forwarded to State Office by mail to 215 cause. Mae‟s horse Darcy competed for the RDA SA Quiz Portrush Road, MAYLANDS SA 5069 or fax (registered name Dvocean) is 14 Night Trophy”. 8331 1188, or email to [email protected]. years old – he is a 16.2hh An of other prizes included Opinions expressed in RDA SA News do thoroughbred gelding. Mae got great wines from McLaren not necessarily reflect the views of the Editors him after the sudden death (from or of RDA SA. heart failure) of her previous Vale and the Adelaide Hills. E&OE: Every care has been taken in the RDA centres raised funds horse, who was only 7 years preparation of RDA SA News. However no old. Mae and Darcy are planning for themselves by providing liability is accepted for any errors. to compete at dressage. items for a silent auction, Acknowledgment: Articles from RDA SA which also proved successful. News may be reproduced in other forums, so long as they are printed in full with SANDERS BROS The “10 percent” table team acknowledgment of the source. For variations won the trophy and have to that rule contact the State Manager. Grain and Fodder indicated they will be keen to Privacy statement: RDA SA uses personal defend it at the next quiz night, information to distribute RDA SA News. This information is strictly confidential and will not on Saturday, July 2 at a venue be disclosed to any external party. If you no to be announced. longer wish to receive RDA SA News, please GAWLER Quizmaster Philip Moore contact the State Office to have your name has graciously accepted an removed from the distribution list. Phone 8522 4450 RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 13 RDA SA PATRONS John Letts “Vision” for covered arenas Leigh McClusky – RDA SA Strategic plan at work Pat Roberts Gillian Rolton OAM ncouraging and helping all centres having gained such AMBASSADOR E centres achieve covered facilities by 2014.” Cheree Gask riding arenas is part of the Several centres have already RDA SA BOARD current Strategic Plan for RDA embraced this aim and started SA. planning and designing covered Jill Ribbons arenas, with RDA centres Victor (President) The plan was developed by the RDA SA Board in consultation Harbor and Port Lincoln now Melisa Kaharevic actively raising funds (see pages 1 (Vice President) with staff and delegates at the bi- and 4 this issue). Karen Mugford annual centres forums in 2009 What appeared an ambitious – (Executive Member) and 2010. It is regularly reviewed even outrageous – plan some Viv Pippan-Brown and renewed, the current plan years ago suddenly appears (Treasurer) extending to 2015. Julie Burnes Central to values expressed in attainable for at least two centres. the plan is Professionalism, staff Horse riding is generally Dennis Hall regarded as an outdoor activity Denise Watkins and volunteers expected “to display the highest levels of and centres can survive by Wendy Scullen operating in the open. But the fact Deb Ophof professionalism towards riders, their families, each other and so many lessons are cancelled due RDA SA STAFF RDA SA resources.” to adverse weather – hot or cold, Kay Milton Our values also express the wet or windy – places RDA (State Manager) importance of volunteerism in services at considerable risk. Ella Kos RDA SA, expressing gratitude to The only centre relatively (Finance Manager & Doorknock Coordinator) volunteer contributions to the unaffected by weather is Mt Karen Aspery Gambier, with its purpose-built (Coaching Coordinator) organisation. Aside from values, numbering fully enclosed arena. Locals still Rosalee Cearns say it can become extremely cold (Administration) five in total, are several key objectives. in the arena and it has high Theresa Moore annual maintenance costs. (Administration support) One that has captured centres‟ imaginations is an aim “to So much forethought must go Ian Beaton into planning arenas to ensure (Grants Officer) encourage and help all centres they meet our needs and are not LIFE MEMBERS achieve sheltered and shaded riding arenas, with at least four going to be expensive white June Boscence elephants to maintain. Marie Bury June Champion de Crespigny Diana Dahms New Constitution drafted for RDA SA Margaret Dent members and each centre for Sarah Dridan sub-committee of the A wider consultation over two or Lorna Ellery RDA SA Board has drafted a new Constitution, based on a three months. Pauline Eitzen It is proposed both documents Helen Fry template provided by the Office for Recreation and are to be ready for final sanction Lew Gardiner at the Centres‟ Forum in October. Ann Grear Sport. Then they will be presented to the Brenda Harding A new Agreement for centres RDA SA AGM in May 2012. Bob Lemmon has also been drafted to formalise Comments and submissions Joan Lemmon the legal relationship between are invited from anyone Vicki Lovegrove RDA SA (the Association) and its interested in ensuring RDA SA has Alice Mibus Centres. the best possible governance Gillian Mitchell Both documents were documents to take it forward for Judith Munro discussed at the Centres‟ Forum in the next decade. Dorothy Roberts March, the agreement generating Contact State Office to register John Rowe lively conversations in discussion your interest in receiving a copy Jill Shelton groups. of the discussion documents, and Once the sub-committee has Gloria Sztekel your preferred method of delivery finished reviewing the Michael Sztekel (e.g. email or post). Constitution and Agreement, The drafts will also be placed Rachel Vincent taking into account ideas raised at Pat Warde on the RDA SA website during the the Forum, the documents will be consultation period, which will Vivienne West sent out to RDA SA voting Phyll Whellams close on August 31. RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 14 RDA 40 years young in SA

everal activities are “in the This would be in addition to Crippled Children‟s Association), S pipeline” to mark and the regular twice-yearly Centres‟ who agreed to be part of a trial celebrate the 40th anniversary Forums, and would involve a full involving children. of RDA in South Australia in program of activities and speakers Also pre-dating the official 2012. over a weekend. RDA people start of RDA SA, Marie Bury Early in the year a family from all centres, plus interstate, became a volunteer with the afternoon is proposed, to be held will be invited. Sheoak Riding School at Belair in at a central location. This will PIONEERS 1970. She later joined RDA and involve as many riders and their So, who are the originals, the over many years made a massive parents/carers and volunteers – initiators, the people who started contribution to RDA at both state past and present – as we can RDA here all those years ago? and national level. muster. We‟ve compiled a list of some of Today Marie is a Life Member A race day is also on the cards, them, from old records and lists. of RDA SA. She served as State in conjunction with the SAJC. The list is not comprehensive President and Board member, Throughout the year, centres or complete, but it does contain volunteer, newsletter editor and will be encouraged to hold their the names of some of those who in many other roles, wherever the own celebratory events, like open were in at the start of things in need arose. days or gymkhanas, in their local SA. Mr G.J. Willoughby was the areas, again engaging as many And it has to start with Alison owner and operator of the Nanto people as possible from past McMichael (nee Bonython) who, Equestrian Centre in the Adelaide ranks, as well as those currently in 1969, visited Britain where she Hills. In 1971 he hosted the first involved. met and was inspired by RDA officially recognised program of An anniversary dinner may be people. She brought back ideas horse riding for disabled children. held towards the end of the Year. and enthusiasm, gathered friends The forerunner to RDA SA, Special guests would be key and arranged for children with “Riding for the Handicapped” was people who helped establish RDA disabilities to be given horse formed at the Nanto property. four decades ago, plus dignitaries riding activities. And we haven‟t even got to representing government and One of those friends was 1972 – the year RDA SA was sport. physiotherapist Ann Priddle, officially formed! CONVENTION another was social worker Diana Do you know of anyone who Although not an official Angus (later Steidl). was involved prior to 1972? If so, anniversary event, RDA SA may In 1970 the three friends please let us know, as we‟d love to also run a volunteers‟ convention approached Dr C. Turner at add their names to a growing list. in 2012. Ashford House (of the then GET WELL WISHES TO HER SPECIAL COACH RDA Victor Harbor coach Sue Vincent had a bad fall from a horse in a riding lesson prior to the April coaches‟ workshop, breaking a collarbone and some ribs. Rider/volunteer Maggie O‟Moore (14) sent the following get well wish to Sue. We share Maggie‟s thoughts and wish Sue a full quick recovery. Dear Sue, it a “demonstration on what I was really sorry to hear NOT to do”. about your accident. But apart from that, it all Buddy‟s a real ratbag isn‟t went off without a hitch. he? I hope you get better and We all missed you on aren‟t in a heap of pain. Saturday, but the drill went When you get back from the pretty well – all except my horse-pital (ha ha) you know if starting it. What happened you ever need a hand with was .... you know how I was anything, I‟ve got two. meant to track right to start it? I really, really, really, really, Well, I was thinking so really, really, really, really, much on how I wouldn‟t go really, really, really, really, left. And you know what really, really, really, really etc. happened? hope you get better. I went left. Lots, no LOADS of love and I stuffed it all up and was fondest wishes. heaps embarrassed, so I called From Maggie Trumpet at work serving RDA. RDA SA NEWS AUTUMN 2011 PAGE 15 RECOGNITION AND CHRISTMAS CHEER FROM RDA RIVERLAND A wonderful occasion for riders of RDA Riverland was a combined Christmas party and trophy presentation. Here are some of the riders and a few of the volunteers, at the party, clockwise from top left: Tamara; Angelo on pony Buddy led by Les Woods with sidewalker Tahlia Clermont; Jamie with Father Christmas; Mary Wagnitz and Jodie Pearn with the hairy fella; Steven; Seema; Alyx; volunteer Samantha Pearn.

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