Life membership for RDA volunteers
From left, Chokita, Dale Jaquiery, Judy Ray, Snow Wells and Maggie Duff. Photo: Em Hofstede.
Last week Judy Ray and Snow Wells were honoured with Life Memberships by the Golden Bay chapter of Riding For Development (formerly Riding for the Disabled Association).
Judy, who owns a small collection of miniature horses, has been volunteering with the Golden Bay RDA for more than 20 years. Someone long ago asked her if she would like to come along.
“So I did,” she says. She began as a volunteer, moved on to secretary, and then went into coaching. Now she is the head coach here in Golden Bay, which has required professional training through NZQA, often in Blenheim, where they have an indoor arena. “It’s great to see the children’s faces light up and watch them achieve the smallest of things.”
Snow Wells has been with the RDA for 16 years and acts as the club’s treasurer.
“We get a lot of support from businesses and the community. People donate hay, and things for raffles, and other people support us by buying raffle tickets,” said Snow.
The function of the club in the culture of Golden Bay cannot be underestimated. Through interaction with supportive adults and quiet horses, children and adults build up self-esteem and confidence while they learn new skills and have fun in a safe, controlled environment.
Currently about 20 children participate in the programme. Kids like Erin Bickley. Erin heard about the club through school.
“My brother Ben started doing it and I got jealous. I like everything, especially vaulting [riding without a saddle]. It’s a lot of fun.”
Kaye Stark, Erin’s mum, says it’s a programme that offers an especially safe place for Erin to ride. She has a genetic condition that makes falling a critical situation.
“Although other stables in the Bay also stress safety, the RDA focuses on an environment that caters to children with special needs. With riding, Erin is able to build her upper body strength and confidence,” said Kaye.
The club is currently located at 66 Long Plain Road, Kotinga, just after the bridge over the Takaka River, and has 10 volunteers. The Pony Club and the RDA lease the land from the TDC jointly. If you are interested in volunteering for the RDA, please have a look at their website (www.rda.org.nz) or contact someone on the committee.
Em Hofstede
