RDA NT

RDA Northern Territory has two centres, one in Darwin (The Top End) and the other in Alice Springs. RDA North also has 2 fully accredited National Assessors.

Riding for the Disabled in the Top End

If you wish to be involved with the wonderful organisation please contact the following;

T: (08) 8931 0093      E: rdanorth@bigpond.com

Riding for the Disabled in the Top End enables people with disabilities and volunteers in the greater Darwin area 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 the attainment of personal goals.

We are dedicated in providing this service through an organisation that is relevant, innovative, effective and

rewarding. Our Coaches and Volunteers are committed to achieving these aims now and in the future. RDA in the Top End is actively involved within the equestrian and general community throughout the greater Darwin area. The Centre has:

• Up to 150 riders
• 11 horses (the centre is currently seeking more horses)
• 2 Level 1 Coaches, 2 Level 2 Coaches and 3 Coaches in training – OTC & Level 1.

The centre is open 6 days a week. It has a full size indoor arena & 1 outdoor arena, clubrooms & offices and occupies 38 acres in Marlow Lagoon on the fringe of Darwin. RDA Darwin also caters for able bodied riders, with group sessions (max. of 5 riders per session) and private lessons.

Contact Details for RDA in Top End and RDA NT State Office

RDA Alice Springs Inc.

RDA Alice Springs is a busy and personalised Centre providing horse-riding and horse husbandry for riders with disability, disadvantaged and able-bodied riders.

RDA Alice Springs is committed to removing wherever possible the barriers faced by people with disability, maximising the wellbeing of individuals, families and the community. We have a fabulous mix of cultures here, with 25 different aboriginal languages spoken here as we have a high number of indigenous kids in our program.

Benefits of Riding Therapy at RDA Alice Springs

The Riding Therapy concept allows our riders with/out disabilities to ride and work with our very special horses with whom they create a common bond of trust. The horse has the natural power to connect, nurture and heal. In our classes, through the natural therapy of the horse's movement, we are improving the riders’ skills, helping riders achieve a more independent way of life. All our riding activities relate to life skills. We work closely with the children’s teachers, carers and parents to:

• Develop & improve learning outcomes
• Teach the ABC's and the 1,2,3's - spelling, counting & various other activities
• Develop decision-making skills
• Teach sharing & good sportsmanship

As well as these very important learning outcomes, our sessions provide ‘freedom of movement’ which many riders do not experience in their normal day to day life; as well as a fun and active way of learning and improving. The Centre has:

• 43 (30 on waiting list due to lack of coaches & horses)
• 4 horses (we need 4 more horses 12hh - 14hh; 2 narrow build)
• 2 Level 1 coaches and 6 OTC coaches

The Centre is open weekdays (Mon-Fri 9.00am - 4.30pm) and weekends (Sat 9.00am - 12.30pm; Sundays by appointment). If you wish to be involved in this family friendly group please contact Karen Eva-Stirk on:

T: (08) 8952 3838           E: rda.alicesprings@bigpond.com

Contact Details