About
Samford Riding for the Disabled (RDA) is a voluntary and not-for-profit organisation, which provides both therapeutic and recreational horse riding programs for children and adults with disabilities.
The centre provides riding and other horse-related activities that will benefit people with disabilities including intellectual, specific learning disorders, injuries from accidents, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, visual and hearing impairments, autism and many more.
The therapeutic benefits gained from horse riding are many and varied. They affect our riders’ lives in many ways including: improving core strength and stability, developing co-ordination and balance, enhancing speech and communication skills, building confidence and enabling social interaction. In addition, horse riding provides a fun outdoor activity for people who may find it difficult to participate in mainstream sports.
We operate from our purpose built, covered arena, The Jenny O’Malley Arena in a leased area on the Samford Showgrounds, Showgrounds Drive, Highvale.
We have 11 special horses in our herd who are our most valuable asset.
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See our recent story on ABC https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-03/riding-for-the-disabled-samford-helps-dozens-overcome-challenges/101196834
"In riding a horse, we borrow freedom."
- Helen Thompson
Our Mission
“RDA enables people with disabilities and volunteers throughout Australia to experience enjoyment, challenge and a sense of achievement through participation in equestrian activities, resulting in the development of life skills, improved quality of life and attainment of personal goals. We are dedicated to providing these services through an organisation that is relevant, innovative, effective and rewarding.
Operated by trained and caring people committed to our aims now and in the future, RDA is recognised as having active involvement within the equestrian and general communities."
Lessons
We conduct our classes in a fenced, covered arena and surrounding areas at the Samford Showgrounds, Showgrounds Drive, Highvale. Our centre currently conducts lessons three days a week:
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School programs – Disabled riders participate through their school or adult care group, and ride on either Wednesday or Friday mornings.
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Non-school lessons – Disabled riders enter the program independently and are grouped according to their skill on horseback. These lessons are held on Friday and Saturday mornings.
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Horse riding is a therapeutic activity which benefits riders in all facets of their lives. Each rider has personal goals set for them, including physical, psychological or social goals. RDA firmly believes that all riders should actively take part in their ride.
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There are many benefits to be gained from riding and being involved with horses. The following list names just a few.
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You or your child will enjoy:
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fun
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social interaction
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freedom
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physical therapy
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improved balance
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greater strength
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independence
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something special and a personal challenge.
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For more information about our lessons, contact us on email rdasamford@gmail.com or 0458 246 883.
Please be aware that we currently have quite a lengthy waiting list for places at our centre.