Meeting Report 3306
Riding for the Disabled
The Rotary club of Murray Bridge had a Breakfast Meeting at the Riverview Café in the Mall overlooking the River yesterday morning. Our guests were Ella Nance, Lisa Brinkworth, and Kathy Angel and the focus was on the Murray Bridge Riding for the Disabled Program on Coolabah Drive Eastside in Murray Bridge. Ella Nance has 5 acres and runs the Program with volunteer supporters, starting some 32 years ago. There are about 20 riders currently in the program with programs running on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. The children learn new abilities and build confidence within themselves while being able to bond with the horses. The horses also provide physical therapy. Being able to see the difference in the rider development is what drives the volunteers. NDIS supports the riders and has encouraged all Riding Schools to participate in Mounted Games with their students with the first of such games to start soon at O'Halloran Hill. Ella has stated that all the increase in students is wonderful it also means more problems. The riding school desperately needs another arena as 20 students on horse back is over crowding the single arena in use at the moment. To do this will require approximately $1000 in fencing materials plus the erection of the fence itself. President David mentioned that it sounds like a great project for Rotary to take on and get their hands dirty. There is also a great need for volunteers on Tuesday at 1pm till 2pm and Thursday from 10am till 11am. Full training is provided for all volunteers and it is a fantastic way to get some exercise while also helping children in need. For more information please contact Ella Nance on 0437590850.
