Benefits of RDA (NSW) Programs
Horse riding and interacting with horses, as well as being enjoyable, has many benefits.
These include:
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improved balance and posture
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the development of fine and gross motor skills
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promotion of decision making and thinking ahead
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motivation and learning – encourages reading and speech through games
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development of hand and eye co-ordination
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development of language and communication skills
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memory improvement and concentration
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personal challenge leading to achievement
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new mobility and access to new areas
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social integration
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mental stimulation
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increased self-esteem
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learn the value of rules
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promotes a general feeling of well-being
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For many of those with physical disabilities, the benefits from riding in terms of exercise and improving posture are obvious. Exercises, usually tedious, on horseback become fun and are performed with renewed vigour and interest.
The coach works closely with the rider’s teacher or carer to reinforce their literacy, numeracy or social skills. This is achieved simply by using the motivational factor of the horse and riding in the learning process.
The benefits of riding combine both physical and psychological aspects. It is a valuable segment of rehabilitation programs because, as well as having a therapeutic value, it is a stimulating and enjoyable activity.
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It can also be used to provide sporting and recreational programs to those whose opportunities for these may be limited.
Language skills are developed by bringing language into games and exercises. In many cases, being with the horses seems to unleash some rider’s inhibition about talking.
Individual programs are developed for each rider and progress is monitored. The classes are varied and include the use of games, music, co-ordination exercises, trail rides and most importantly having fun.
All coaches with the RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre are qualified and participate in ongoing training. RDA (NSW) Coaches have skills in horses, safety, medical knowledge, first aid, teaching and the selection and training of horses.
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre Participant Achievements
2025 RDA (NSW) State Mounted Games Championships
Sydney International Equestrian Centre
Champion Horsemanship Assisted
Champion Horsemanship Free Junior
Champion Horsemanship Free Open
Champion Led Junior
Reserve Champion Led Junior
Champion Assisted Junior
Champion Led Open
Champion Canter
2024 RDA (NSW) State Mounted Games & State Dressage Championships
Sydney International Equestrian Centre
Best Performing Centre
Champion Junior Rider & 2nd Rider in Action
Champion Trot Rider & 1st in Rider In Action
State Dressage 2nd place in the Prix Caprilli
State Dressage 1st place in the Rider In Action
2024 Goulburn Lilac City Festival
Goulburn Centre won the Rosie Johnson memorial trophy for Best Float in the Parade.
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre participant also was crowned Lilac Queen. ​
2023 RDA (NSW) State Mounted Games Championships
Sydney International Equestrian Centre
Best Performing Centre
6 riders and 4 horses winning place ribbons
Overall Champion Rider over the 4 games
2023 RDA (NSW) Musical Ride Video Competition
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre Won the Musical Drill Ride Led Section - Theme Trolls
2023 United Kingdom Musical Ride Video Competition
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre won
2023 Goulburn Royal Show
Goulburn Centre attended with 6 participants and
5 horses in led and agility course
2022 Royal Agricultural Society
200th Anniversary Sydney
Royal Easter Show
HRH Princess Anne attended and RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre presented in the showcase with RDA (NSW) Tall Timbers.
2022 RDA (NSW) State Dressage Championships
Sydney International Equestrian Centre
Placed 7th in the Prix Caprilli Dressage Test
Placed 3rd in the Rider in Action course
2022 RDA (NSW) Regional Mounted Games
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre hosted the games​​
