Up for the ride of their lives

By Kara Irving
THERE was no horsing around at Rideability Victoria’s Doveton branch last week.
Starting the New Year with a name change from the Riding of Disabled Association of Victoria, the not-for-profit organisation was back in business last Thursday.
Under its new name Rideability Victoria Doveton centre, the association is providing horse riding activities aimed at encouraging therapeutic development and social activity for children and adults with disabilities.
Riding coach Joan Occhipinti emphasised the importance of teaching motor and social skills through horse riding, while at the same time building self esteem. The association mainly deals with children and adults suffering from cerebral palsy.
“While riding a horse, the rider learns hand-eye co-ordination, how to stop the horse, how to hold the reins and the left from right,” says Ms Occhipinti.
Before riding solo, students are assessed on their overall ability to control the horse through a tailored lesson plan, which involves students being led through a maze to learn left and right turns.
A group of specially trained horses are also selected to ensure children and adults form a positive relationship with the animals.
Lessons run for one hour each week, with almost all riders improving riding ability, motor and social skills after a number of sessions.
“Seeing the look on the children’s faces when they learn a skill- it’s amazing. It raises their self esteem and overall enjoyment”.
“We work on the ability not the disability,” Ms Occhipinti said.
Having just celebrated their 25th year, the organisation is currently looking for volunteers.
Anyone interested in volunteering at the Rideability Victoria Doveton Centre should call June on 5942 7345 or Coosje on 9707 2301.