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.
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Participant Achievements
2022 RAS 200th Anniversary Sydney Royal Easter Show where HRH Princess Anne attended - RDA (NSW) Goulburn presented in the showcase with RDA (NSW) Tall Timbers.
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​2022 RDA (NSW) State Dressage Championships Sydney International Equestrian Centre - RDA (NSW) Goulburn placed 7th in the Prix Caprilli Dressage Test and 3rd in the Rider in Action course.
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2022 RDA (NSW) Regional Mounted Games -
RDA (NSW) Goulburn hosted the games.
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2023 RDA (NSW) Musical Ride Video Competition
RDA (NSW) Goulburn Won the Musical Drill Ride Led Section - Theme Trolls
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2023 RDA (NSW) Goulburn Centre won the Musical Ride Video Competition in UK.
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2023 Goulburn Centre attended the annual Goulburn Show 6 participants 5 horses in led and agility course
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2023 RDA (NSW) State Championships Mounted Games held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre - Goulburn won Best Performing Centre 2023.
RDA (NSW) Goulburn had 6 participant riders and 4 horses, all winning place ribbons including overall Champion Rider over the 4 games.
RDA (NSW) Goulburn's horse Toby won best Performing horse and Robbi Sox won best Presented horse of the competition.
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2024 RDA (NSW) Mounted Games & State Dressage Championships held at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre- Goulburn won Best Performing Centre 2024.
Champion Junior Rider & 2nd Rider in Action
Champion Trot Rider & 1st in Rider In Action
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State Dressage 2nd place in the Prix Caprilli & 1st in Rider In Action.
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2024 Lilac City festival Goulburn won the Best Float in Parade and won the Rosie Johnson memorial trophy.
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.