Valley Riding Develops Abilities

At RDA, time with the horse is just the start of the benefits riders gain.

Our programs can help riders improve balance, strengthen muscles, increase coordination and range of motion, support respiration and build sensory integration skills - all while having fun with horses.

To learn more about riding with RDA head to:
https://www.rda.org.au/ride-with-rda/

RIDER PROFILE | Meet Xander. For the past 8 years, Fridays have meant one thing for Xander, horse riding. And if he’s paired with Nugget, even better. Riding helps strengthen Xander’s core, improve flexibility through his hips and legs, and build confidence, but most importantly, it makes him happy.

From sword games and ring challenges to his favourite, What’s the Time Mr Wolf?, Xander loves every moment in the saddle, especially when he gets to zoom away on Nugget before he gets caught. We’re so proud of the progress Xander has made and love seeing the joy riding brings him each week.

We’re celebrating Nature Photography Day this week by sharing a collection of stunning images captured by our volunteers, showcasing the local wildlife that peacefully shares the paddocks with our horses. It is a quiet reminder of how closely connected life is in this space and how much beauty surrounds us every day.

RIDER PROFILE | Lloyd has been riding with us for 12 years, first joining at just 4 years old, and has grown alongside the horses, volunteers, and community that support him each week. Riding is a highlight for Lloyd not only for the connection with the horses and volunteers, but also as an important form of therapy that supports his hips and core strength.

He especially loves his favourite horse Nugget, along with games like What’s the Time Mr Wolfie, bean bag, dice, and sword activities, and he always enjoys riding alongside his favourite volunteers Luiz and Gail.

Celebrating an incredible milestone, 11 years of riding with us for Lucas.

When Lucas first started at Valley Riding Develops Abilities, he couldn’t sit upright for an entire lesson and would often rest on his horse’s neck. Today, he rides confidently throughout his sessions and even trots on his favourite horse, Sir Victor, who has been by his side for the entire journey.

To mark the occasion, Lucas enjoyed a horseshoe cake, one final ride on the horse that started it all, and a special farewell surrounded by his family, friends and the RDA community. A wonderful celebration of determination, growth and the bond between horse and rider.

This National Parents Day, we recognise and celebrate the incredible parents and caregivers who support our riders every step of the way.

Your commitment to bringing riders to lessons each week helps create opportunities for growth, confidence and connection. Thank you for the vital role you play in making these life-changing experiences possible.

Celebrating the achievements of our incredible riders, proudly presented with certificates by Riding Coach Shirley Jacobs at Valley Riding Develops Abilities.

Progress goes far beyond riding skills, with every session helping to build concentration, memory, confidence and motor skills in our talented riders.