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Experience the freedom of taking the reins.
We work with a wide range of disabilities and support needs, including physical, developmental, cognitive and learning disabilities, in both children and adults.
Through our structured equestrian programs our participants gain in areas such as increased self-confidence, motor coordination, core strength and increased capacity for forming bonds and social relationships.
The sessions are supervised by nationally qualified coaches and assisted by our specially trained volunteers who work together to deliver the best possible experience and help our participants reach their goals.
Horses provide a partner for physical therapy and cognitive improvement in a unique format that is effective and inspiring.
Our participants’ families, coaches and volunteers see the growth, they take great delight in watching their self-confidence bloom.
Participants are accepted with a variety of disabilities including; intellectual, physical or behavioural disabilities.
Please view our Contraindications list in the resource section at the bottom of this page for conditions that may restrict your participation in an RDAV program.
https://www.rdav.asn.au/app/uploads/2022/08/Participant-Contraindications.pdf
We accept participants between the ages of 3-85, however, this is dependent on your centre having the appropriate horse. More information about this can be found on the individual centre pages in “Find a Centre”.
Footwear should be sturdy and enclosed. Thongs or sandals are not suitable.
While waiting for a session to commence a sunhat or rain jacket may be handy or warm clothing in winter.
Dress for physical activity, long pants are best. Shorts or skirts are not suitable.
All RDAV programs are developed and supervised by specially qualified coaches, using RDA accredited horses and trained volunteers. Coaches also assess every individual to ensure safety for all riders—across all our activities.
Most Centres offer weekly or fortnightly programs. Riders benefit most from regular attendance, and we appreciate advance notice of absence.
There’s a waiting list of 1 to 3 years for all metropolitan Centres, particularly for Saturday sessions. Most Regional Centres operate only on weekdays and may have waiting lists.
Sessions will be cancelled when the temperature is over 30 degrees. Sessions may also be cancelled for other reasons; for example, on days of extreme fire danger, particularly in rural areas.
No programs are provided during school holidays.
Are you or your child looking to get involved in an RDAV program? Follow these simple steps:
Fill out the form and nominate up to two centres then send it into the state office.
*Centre in the Metropolitan area has significant waiting lists of 1-3 years particularly for the weekend or after school programs.
