New disability-compliant amenities are underway at PENDER (Peninsular Developmental Riding Centre Inc), a voluntary-run charity providing therapeutic horse activities for people with disabilities.
The RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) centre at the Redcliffe Showgrounds received a grant from City of Moreton Bay, co-funded by the State Government, to build the facilities.
President Jane Sayer said the amenities block was the realisation of a 20-year dream.
“Our kids’ dignity, anxiety, (and) safety will not be a worry with accessibility toilets close,” she said.
“We are enormously grateful to Council and our parents, who were able to explain to our Councillor, who made himself so available.”
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said the new facility would enable PENDER “to better cater to the needs of its participants so they can continue experiencing the joy of horse riding at Redcliffe Showgrounds.”
The amenities block includes a fully compliant People With Disability (PWD) toilet, two additional ambulant toilets and a 9m2 storage room.
Councillor Karl Winchester (Division 6) said the accessibility and location of the site was a win-win for Council, inclusion and the equestrian community.
“I’m told that PENDER previously had to turn potential participants away due to the old toilet block being unable to cater to their needs,” he said. “Through the delivery of this facility, we are not only giving PENDER an opportunity to grow, but also other community groups who use Redcliffe Showgrounds.”
Therapeutic Riding, Community Support and Challenges
PENDER’s program currently has three ponies, Bullseye, Sunset and Miffy.
Jane said children who use wheelchairs often show courage and confidence on horseback, while older participants learn to care for and understand their horse.
“There is a relationship between horses and people throughout history,” she said. “The ability to do things with a horse for sport, work, recreation and therapy provides learning of cooperation (and) respect.”
Participants can self-refer, but most referrals come through health professionals, as equestrian activities are not funded by the NDIS. Jane said this created financial challenges for the centre.
“Horses are expensive as they need to be fed and cared for every day, plus have health needs, vaccinations, teeth, hoof care,” she said.
“We are hoping to get our three horses sponsored this year to help guarantee feed and health care for them.”
Jane thanked volunteers and community groups, including the Lions Club of Redcliffe Central, for their ongoing support of PENDER.
For more information, email penderriding@gmail.com.
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