Bits-N-Pieces-Summer

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Riding for the Disabled Association NSW

Summer/Autumn 2012

Editor: Lyn Lazarus RDANSW PO Box 710 SYDNEY MARKETS NSW 2129 RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

RDA 40 NSW RDA(NSW) 40th Birthday Celebratory Dinner

What a great way to celebrate the first fabulous forty years of achievements with RDANSW hosting a very successful Celebratory Dinner at the Macquarie University Atrium Room on Saturday night May 5, 2012.

Around 170 people attended the evening including our invited guests The Hon. John Alexander MP, Member for Bennelong, who officially opened the evening’s festivities and The Hon. Greg Smith, MP, Mayor of Epping, Attorney General of NSW, The Hon Victor Dominello MP, Mayor of Ryde and Minister for Citizenship & Communities and both retired and present RDANSW Life Members. ……A special thank you to “The Tokens” who supplied the musical entertainment. They had many jive - happy dancers up on the floor!!

What made the evening complete was sharing this great occasion with the many members and their friends from 15 of our Centres who were very enthusiastic revellers!!!

Our Chairperson, Jaci Armstrong welcomed all and invited The Hon. John Alexander MP, to officially open the evening’s festivities

There were many special moments throughout the night beginning with our Banner Parade that was, as always, spectacular with members from our Centres proudly parading their Centre Banners………Being invited to represent our Volunteers, alongside Jan Pike who represented our Riders, to cut the Celebratory Cake….. The presentation of awards including winners of the State Awards…. RDANSW Life Membership awarded to Bev Amery and the Pearl Batchelor Medal, presented by Bob Talbot, awarded to Wendy Torr……Plaques presented to two Centres for their many years of service to RDANSW, RDA Young Centre for 20 years of service and to “Tall Timbers” Centre for 40 years of service…. A special plaque was also presented to “Tall Timbers” Centre recognising the name of the property at West Pennant Hills where RDA first commenced in NSW.

The other special moment was Kay Wye officially launching the RDANSW book “40 Years of Riding for the Disabled Association in New South Wales”…. Kay spent the past two years editing and organising the printing of this book…..We also acknowledged “Flagstaff Print and Mail” for the printing and graphics required and for the many donated hours of their staff time lending this publication their professional expertise.

We hope you enjoy reading the great stories on the histories and achievements of our Centres. There are also wonderful stories from Riders and interesting “tails” of our four legged friends, without whom, RDA would not exist

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Many books were sold on the night but if you know of people who wish to purchase a copy for $25.00 plus postage, please contact Lucy at State Office. The book has 312 pages including photos both in colour and black/white.

The raffle drawn on the night was a tremendous success raising $803.65….. Wendy Moorland won the painting by Judith Adam “High Tea in the High Country"….. Barbara Davies won the 1hour Tennis Lesson for 2 people at The Next Generation Club, Ryde, donated by John Alexander MP and …the 1 night’s accommodation for 2 at the Novotel Manly Pacific Hotel was won by Jan Sharp.

RDANSW has come a long way and has much to be proud of thanks to the decisions made over the past 40 years that have been based on a keen desire to protect the core values of RDA(NSW) ……having a strong commitment to our Riders, Horses, Volunteers, Coaches and Staff alike.

Working as a team we have shown that we can achieve our goals and dreams.

On behalf of the Directors, thank you all for sharing this milestone occasion with us.

Director/Marketing/Promotions,

RDA(NSW)

Margaret Norman, The Hon. John

Alexander MP, and Karen O’Neill

from “Tall Timbers” receiving the

plaque to celebrate “Tall Timbers”

being the founding RDANSW Centre

Jaci Armstrong and Bev Amery RDANSW’s new Life Member

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Wendy Torr receiving the Bev Amery, Jaci Armstrong and Wendy Torr Pearl Batchelor Medal from Bob Talbot

RDANSW Board Members at 1988

Margaret and Jan Pike cutting the birthday cake

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

RDA NSW FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY COACHES WORKSHOP 5 May 2012

Our little Bathurst contingent was very impressed with the new Ryde Centre, with it’s spacous grounds, immaculate gardens, large covered arena, seven woodchipped horse yards with shelters, concrete walk ways, inviting trail ride, and spotless feed room containing purpose made lidded, wooden feed bins. Not surprising their horses are in such good condition with Dr Caroline Foote, B.Sc.(Hons)M.App.Sc. Ph.D. scientifically formulating each individual ration, including her beneficial feed balancer pellet Head To Hoof. Ryde Centre was opened 26th November, 2011 and is situated on 5 acres.

Our sincere thanks to Jenny Armstrong and the Ryde team for their warm hospitality and delicious variety of food and beverages throughout the weekend.

I feel very privileged to be a part of these wonderful workshops, and to be tutored by such outstanding presenters, including Scientists, Vets, Farriers , Physiotherapists, experts in many fields of study, and insights from parents of children with disabilities.

Dr Paul McGreevy who is a highly qualified Veterinary Scientist specializing in horse welfare and behavioral medicine, will stay in my mind for a long time to come. How refreshing to know such great minds are endeavoring to lessen the plight of our long suffering horses.

There is so much misunderstanding and cruel practices involving horses.

On Saturday evening we celebrated the Fortieth Anniversary Dinner, in the Atrium at Macquarie University. We all felt very special, as the organizers had gone above and beyond, with beautifully decorated tables, classy cuisine, wine and band The Tokens.

A bevy of eager waiters and waitresses looked after our every need.

We were all joined by Hon Victor Dominello MP, The Hon Greg Smith SC MP, Attorney General of NSW John Alexander MP and many other special guests. Congratulations Wendy, on your award, the Pearl Batchelor Award for distinguished service to RDANSW, and judging by the tumultuous accolade you are held in very high esteem.

Congratulations to all of the other recipients.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Congratulations to Kay Wye, Margaret Norman and the team on the production of the Fortieth Anniversary Book. What an amazing achievement and wonderful legacy for all of us and those who will follow.

Blessings from

Lyn Doherty and the Bathurst Contingent.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

“bits ‘n’ pieces” 20 A bit of history......

Heather Baker of RDANSW

Wagga Wagga Centre founded the “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” newsletter in 1992.

Left is the original cover.

Below is the Editorial from the second issue –

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Kerry Souter from RDANSW “Tall Timbers” Centre took over

the editing of the “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” newsletter in 1996.

Below is the cover of the newsletter then, and the President’s

Report

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Below is the next generation of the “Bits ‘n’ Pieces”

edited my myself, Lyn Lazarus.

These days instead of all black and white,

we can enjoy colour in our newsletters

Below is a report from Margaret Norman in 2002

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

2012 National Para-Equestrian Squads

2012 Para-Equestrian National Elite Squad

Rider Horse Owner Grace Bowman Kirby Park Irish Joy Grace Bowman Hannah Dodd Waikiwi Victoria McBeath

2012 Para-Equestrian National Elite Squad - HOLD

Rider Horse Owner Sharon Jarvis Applewood Odorado Sharon Jarvis

2012 Para-Equestrian National A Squad

Rider Horse Owner Chelsea Higgins Holstein Park Comedian Chelsea Higgins Elizabeth (Anne) Skinner Aubaine Cossack Elizabeth Skinner Elizabeth Sobecki Ponderosa Stud Lucarno Elizabeth Sobecki Fleur Litster Penroban Augustus Fleur Litster Jan Pike Pinky Catherine Shelley Joann Formosa Worldwide PB Joann Formosa Jan Pike Pinky Catherine Shelley Lesley Smit Willow Tree Serendipity Lesley Smit Nicole Blanks Just A Gem Veronica Steward Nikki Doogue Ricacho Nikki Doogue Rob Oakley Statford Mantovani Jose Mendez

State Branches

Congratulations to all the above people who have worked so hard over the last four years to hopefully qualify to ride in the 2012 Paralympics. Our very best wishes go to the ones who are going to make the trip to England and especially to our own Hannah Dodd – well done Hannah!

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

The Telegraph Friday, May 18 2012

WANTED

Pony 13 – 14 hh

for purchase or long loan/lease

RDA Ryde Centre is in need of a pony to join our team of four horses. We would prefer a gelding but if someone has a mare of the size, and suitable temperament for RDA work we would be happy to accept her. The pony would have its own yard and stable. If you are able to help please contact RDA Ryde at [email protected] or phone RDA Ryde Centre on 9868 2223

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

RDA NSW State Dressage Championships – by Joan Grant, RDA Ryde Centre

RDA NSW conducts an annual dressage competition, and similarly to the Mounted Games, riders from the various RDA NSW Centres first qualify at their Regional Dressage event and, if successful, then go on to compete in the State Championships, which are held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC) at Horsley Park. Our region is the Metropolitan, and the 2012 Regional Metropolitan Dressage Competition is being held at RDA “Tall Timbers” on Sunday 24 June—all welcome! Then the 2012 RDA NSW State Dressage Championships with be held at SIEC in November, well after the Paralympics are over, so we might well see Jan Pike & Hannah Dodd in action. Again, everyone is welcome, both as a spectator and helper—it is a great day.

RDA NSW State Mounted Games

It comes around this time every year—the RDA NSW State Mounted Games, held in the Schmidt Arena at the Sydney Royal Easter Show since 1998. This year, seven RDA Centres competed, each team having previously qualified through barrel race their respective Regional Mounted Games competitions. The RDA Centres they came from were: Kempsey-Macleay, Manning Great Lakes, Nepean, Raymond Terrace & Lower Hunter, “Tall Timbers”, Tumut and Wagga. If you’re interested in finding out a bit more about these Centres, and of course all the other RDAs, just go to the RDA keyhole race NSW website: www.rdansw.org.au and you’ll see what a wonderful organisation you belong to. Before the Mounted Games began, the Teams all lined up to be judged for the “Best Presented Team” for 2012. Wow, did everyone look neat and tidy! After a lot of careful inspection, our long- time judges in these matters, Betty & Graham Wallace from Wollondilly RDA, made their flag race difficult decision and walked towards “Tall Timbers”, who looked splendid in their aqua/turquoise colours and gleaming tack, and

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012 presented them with their trophy. Mind you, from where I was standing, I think Kempsey-Macleay in their mauve/purple gear and Manning Great Lakes with lovely yellow/gold halters and lead ropes, would have come a close second. But this time, “Tall Timbers” won the day, and they were flag race warmly congratulated by us all. Then the Mounted Games began, with riders from these Centres competing in flag races, bending, the barrel race and the keyhole, at walk (led and independent), trot, and canter. The organisers did a wonderful job, with experienced help (expert with the stop watch!) from five of us “Ryders” and others from “Tall Timbers”. Everything ran smoothly and on schedule—all skilfully managed by Peter Carn from Wagga Wagga RDA, accompanied by professional commentary from “The Voice of RDA”, Judy Brightman from “Tall Timbers”. In no time, the ribbon presentation was upon us, with Graham and Betty again doing the honours—the 2012 Champion Mounted Games Rider with the highest overall individual score was from Wagga Wagga RDA Centre.

The Ryde & “TT” workers then set up the Horse of the Year Competition to follow after lunch, plotting out the course according to the Mud Map plan with a theme of “The Sky”. Tarnee Robertson Champion Rider RDA Wagga Wagga Centre

RDA NSW Horse of the Year Competition

After lunch, five horses from Kempsey-Macleay, Manning Great Lakes, Nepean, Raymond Terrace & Lower Hunter and “Tall Timbers” competed for the Horse of the Year Perpetual Trophy. The Horse of the Year Committee organisers had devised a fairly difficult course, with lots of trouble spots and distractions in the form of shooting stars, rocket ships, space junk and thunder, so the horses would be fully tested. The idea is that the horses each go through the route twice, firstly with an RDA rider and then with an able-bodied rider, and they are judged on their ability to navigate the course cleanly and calmly to show what a good RDA horse they are—no mean feat at the Showground with the strange noises from all the other horses, cattle and people around, not to mention very loud and unexpected machines.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

And the winner was… “Hannibal” from “Tall Timbers”!!

“Hannibal” had two wonderful rounds and, as judged by dual gold-medallist at the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games, Julie Higgins OAM, he came out on top and was crowned 2012 RDA NSW Horse of the Year. After the presentation of the trophy and much cheerful applause and clicking of cameras, “Hannibal” led the other horses from the arena proudly wearing the winner’s ribbon tied round his

neck.

Then it was pack-up and heading home time. The State Mounted Games and Horse of the Year will be on again next year, and spectators are always welcome—you can combine it with a visit to the Show. And who knows… there might be a “Green Team” (RDA Ryde Centre) competing next time! We certainly have a position to uphold: Rebekah Davies on “Major” was the 2003 & 2005 Champion Mounted Games Rider, and our Boys “Bud” and “Major” won Horse of the Year in 2001 & 2004!

The Metropolitan Regional Mounted Games is due to be held later this year, and teams from five RDAs (Blue Mountains, Illawarra, Nepean, Ryde and “Tall Timbers”) can compete to represent their Centre at the 2013 Show. Up the Greens (Ryde)!

“Hannibal” being presented with his trophy by Julie Higgins RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Monday 30 July to Monday 6 August 2012

Each Centre will receive a poster and a pack of fun activities for the riders. Watch for it in the post soon....

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

NEWS FROM THE CENTRES

Wollondilly

Jean McAinsh and Graham Wallace seen here receiving their Life Membership Awards. Both have been at Wollondilly Centre since its beginning 25 years ago and their help and expertise have been invaluable to our helpers, riders and the functioning of our Centre.

Seen here are 10 original members of Wollondilly RDA receiving their 25 year awards. Wollondilly RDA celebrated 25 years in 2011.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

NSW Sports Federation

Volunteer Awards 2011

Warren Cohen attended the NSW Sports Federation Volunteer Awards on Wednesday, 7 December held at "Waterview" at Sydney Olympic Park. It's been a busy week for Warren and wife Aileen.

Twenty one winners over seven categories were acknowledged for their outstanding volunteer contribution during 2011.

All eighteen winners will be considered for Sports Volunteer of the Year (three winners are in the Management category which is awarded to a club/organisation). The successful volunteer will be announced at the NSW Annual Sports Awards Presentation on 16 February 2012.

RDA NSW nominated Warren, taking into consideration his level of commitment, impact on RDA, and his initiative and teamwork. Others nominated in Warren's category (Outstanding Volunteer) represented the State Life Saving Organisation and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance.

Warren's efforts at RDA have been well rewarded, as he said the wine was excellent and the food was lavish and he enjoyed the opportunity to meet other nominees.

Opting to be interviewed, Warren noticed that his explanation of the Hippotherapy programme kept the audience rapt - he was sought out by the Minister for Sport, the Hon. Graham Annesley MP, who congratulated Warren and RDA, for the work they do, as did several other people.

Warren returned with a plaque and souvenir programme to share with RDA friends at Raymond Terrace and Lower Hunter Centre.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012 Wagga Wagga May & “Mecome” Reunited After 33 Years Apart

THERE is no better example of the enduring love which exists between horse and rider than that heart- warming tale of stocky pony “Mecome” and former Wagga women May Henning. On Tuesday, Former Wagga horse breeder May Henning was the elderly woman was reunited with reunited with gorgeous pony “Mecome” at Wagga her beloved pony at Wagga Riding for Riding for Disabled. RDA Coach Darren Judd and the Disabled – 33 years after she gave young rider Olivia witnessed the happy reunion on him to the not-for-profit organisation. Tuesday.

May, who bred “Mecome”, broke him in and prepared him to be ridden, donated the good- natured gelding to RDA when he was just two years old. According to May’s niece, Joy Ball, the pair shared a special bond which was forged while “Mecome” was just a young foal. “He was named “Mecome” because wherever May would go he would follow,” she said. “If he saw May going somewhere he had to follow... It was a bit like, if you go, I come. That’s where the name “Mecome” came from.

“The well-known Riverina equestrian identity operated three riding schools in the region – including a school at San Isadore. “There was actually a period of time that the Wagga Riding for Disabled relocated to her property when their lease expired,” Joy said.“They moved out to her property so they could continue offering classes. “When May closed down her riding school at San Isidore, she made the decision to donate “Mecome” to RDA because she felt he had the characteristics needed to enrich the lives of those who access the disability service. “He was a lovely pony,” Joy said. “We have been told he is everyone’s favourite horse at the RDA and that he is just adored by the children who ride him.

“After the death of her husband, May spent a period of time living in Riverina Gums before failing eye-sight forced her to relocate to the Adventcare Nursing Home at Nunawaddin in Victoria 10 years ago.

While home to celebrate her 96th birthday with family, May was eager to pay a visit to “Mecome” and see if time had wearied her old friend.“We had actually been told “Mecome” had been retired from work at the RDA so we were all very surprised to see him still in action,” Joy revealed. “He seemed to be just as spritely as he has always been. “May was so surprised and happy to see he still has children learning to ride on him.“We were given such a wonderful reception by everyone at the RDA. “There were holiday classes going on so we got to watch eight horses in action.“May gave “Mecome” a carrot which he ate very happily.”

from Wagga Wagga’s community newspaper, “The Leader” April 2012

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012 HAPPENINGS AT “Tall Timbers” CENTRE

As usual it’s been a busy 1st Semester at RDA “Tall Timbers” Centre. Fundraising is off to a great start with Castle Hill Show catering, Model Railways canteen, Bunning’s BBQs, Bingo, Raffles, Glenhaven Rotary Golf Day, Ride-a-thon and a chocolate drive. The Centre has also been very fortunate to have been granted support from the St George Foundation as well as the Riverstone Memorial Club this year. We also won a grant from Project Local and Rouse Hill Times for a new path which was completed during the April school holidays to improve access from the car park.

We had a great day at the Sydney Royal Show Mounted Games Competition. Our riders rode beautifully and we came home with Best Presented Team as well as “Hannibal” as the Horse of the Year. The programme has expanded with more riders in the Tots on Horseback Programme and with Carriage Driving commencing at Box Hill as well as the usual programme at Rossmore. We currently have four trainee Coaches and a trainee Driving Whip ... we hope these trainees will assist in the expansion of our programme.

Our Coaches attended the State Workshop at Ryde and we also enjoyed catching up with everyone at the RDA NSW 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner where John and Sandra Wright were announced as winners of the RDANSW Volunteer Encouragement Award. We also received a lovely plaque recognising “Tall Timbers” as the founding Centre. Most recently we celebrated Volunteer Week with all volunteers receiving a National Volunteer Week Badge and many of our Volunteers also attended movie or theatre nights compliments of The Hills Shire Council. Our Tuesday volunteer, Mary Crowe, was recognised by Hope 103.2 who provided the volunteers on her day with a delicious morning tea courtesy of Helen’s Catering. Behind the scenes we are organising our 40th birthday celebration and plans are underway to improve the horse yard area for both our horses and volunteers’ welfare. Kerry Souter, Administrator

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

volunteer gets vote

for Community

Hero award

Founder of Reach for the Rainbow and volunteer with Hear the Children, Yvonne Keane of Kellyville, was announced as the Peoples’ Choice Community Hero winner, the category nominated and voted by the NSW public. Congratulations Jenny on being named as a finalist. RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Winners of AGM Awards 2012

Award Winner Centre Region

Pearl Batchelor Enid Scobie Wagga Wagga Riverina

Volunteer Encouragement John & “Tall Timbers” Metropolitan Sandra Wright Rider of the Year Angus Webb Coffs Harbour North Coast & District Young Volunteer of the Year Mikhalia Bedgood Wagga Wagga Riverina

“Shush” Horse/Pony Memorial “Mecome” Wagga Wagga Riverina

Photographic Competition Illawarra Metropolitan

If you choose a job that you like, you will never have to

work a day in your life...

Confucius

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Gerard Murphy OAM Director/Secretary RDANSW

The day after the RDANSW 40 Anniversary Dinner At Macquarie University Atrium Room, On Sunday 6 May Gerard had a devastating horse riding accident which put him in the Royal North Shore Hospital for some weeks.

Gerard is now at Newcastle, closer to home, for continuing rehabilitation.

We wish Gerard a full and speedy recovery.

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

From “Talking Horses” Equestrian Edition 27, 2011 By John Kohnke BVSc RDA

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Poets’ Corner

I’m on a Committee

Oh, give me your pity, I’m on a committee

Which means from morning to night

We attend, and amend, and contend, and defend,

Without a conclusion in sight.

We confer and concur, we defer and demur,

And re - iterate all of our thoughts

We revise the agenda with frequent addenda

And consider a load of reports

We compose and propose, we suppose and oppose

And the points of procedure are fun

But though various notions are brought up as motions

There’s terribly little gets done

We resolve and absolve, but we never dissolve

Since it’s out of the question for us

What a shattering pity to end our committee

Where else could we make such a fuss

Author unknown Reproduced from “History” a magazine of the Royal Australian Historical Society

RDANSW “Bits ‘n’ Pieces” Summer/Autumn 2012

Nostalgia

I remember the cheese of my childhood,

And the bread that we cut with a knife When the children helped with the housework, And the men went to work, not the wife.

The cheese never needed an ice chest, and the bread was so crusty and hot The children were seldom unhappy, and the wife was content with her lot.

I remember the milk from the billy, with the yummy cream on the top, Our dinner came hot from the oven and not from the fridge in the shop.

The kids were a lot more contented, they didn't need money for kicks, Just a game with our mates in the paddock, and sometimes the Saturday flicks.

I remember the shop on the corner, where a pen'orth of lollies was sold. Do you think I'm a bit too nostalgic, or is it....I'm just getting old?

I remember when the loo was the dunny, and the pan man came in the night, It wasn't the least bit funny, Going out the back with no light.

The interesting items we perused, from the newspapers cut into squares, And hung on a peg in the outhouse, it took little to keep us amused.

The clothes were boiled in the copper, with plenty of rich foamy suds, But the ironing seemed never ending, as Mum pressed everyone's duds.

I remember the slap on my backside, and the taste of soap if I swore. Annorexia and diets weren't heard of, and we hadn't much choice what we wore.

Do you think that bruised our ego, or our initiative was destroyed? We ate what was put on the table, and I think our life was better enjoyed.