Children with physical or intellectual disabilities are being encouraged to saddle up to help develop their balance, core strength and flexibility.
Crowson Park – a branch of the non-profit Riding for Disabled Association of Queensland – offers horse riding lessons at Greenbank tailored to riders of all abilities and ages, helping participants build confidence while improving their physical and social skills.
Club president Linda Gaffaney said the centre currently had space for a few new riders weighing under 40 kilograms.
“Some vacancies have become available for children and small adult riders,” she said.
Crowson Park has been operating at Greenbank for 26 years and runs its sessions on Wednesdays, where up to 14 riders typically take part each week.
Lessons are structured around each rider’s individual abilities and goals, with volunteers working closely alongside them during the sessions.
Each rider is supported by a coach, a horse leader and two side walkers who help guide or stabilise the rider when needed.
“We structure our lessons to each individual rider’s capabilities, and we encourage them to step outside of their comfort zone whilst being supported by our volunteers,” Ms Gaffaney said.
Activities often include games designed to build balance, coordination and confidence. Riders might knock down blocks with foam swords, ride through obstacle courses made from pool noodles and ribbons, or complete puzzle-style challenges around the arena.
“We incorporate games that encourage our riders to strengthen their balance by making them reach and use both hands whilst riding,” she said.
Ms Gaffaney – who has volunteered with the organisation for 20 years – said riding could provide significant physical, mental and social benefits for people with disabilities.
“Horse riding instruction works wonders for riders in assisting them in reaching physical milestones like improved strength and balance, general mobility, postural correction and flexibility,” she said.
She said the rhythmic movement of the horse could also mimic the motion of walking, helping strengthen core muscles and improve coordination while riders enjoyed themselves.
“It’s a form of physiotherapy, but the riders don’t realise that’s what they’re doing,” Ms Gaffaney said.
“It gives our riders social interaction too. A lot of them don’t want to talk or interact at first, but it doesn’t take long being on the horse to break down that barrier.”
Crowson Park currently has four horses used in its program and relies heavily on volunteers and community support to operate.
The centre is also seeking sponsorship for two of its horses to help cover the cost of feed, veterinary care and farrier visits.
Crowson Park is one of many branches across Queensland under the Riding for Disabled Association of Queensland, which has been creating opportunities for people living with disability since 1985.
More information about the program is available at rdaq.org.au.
