Lesley Hewitt
Daylesford Riding for Disabled (RDA) finished up a successful 2025 with a Family Day at the Glenlyon Recreation Reserve on Sunday 14th December. Making use of the new accessible mounting ramp, ten riders of our 15 riders took part in various equestrian games and followed up with a trail ride around the challenging cross-country course. Riders, volunteers, family and friends then enjoyed a BBQ provided by Daylesford Rotary. Daylesford RDA president Pia Barber presented ribbons to participants noting that all had developed their riding skills during 2025. Pia also handed out RDAV service awards to volunteers and thanked them for their service. These included 30-year badge – Wendy Hogben, 25- year badge – Lesley Hewitt, 15-year badge- Jan Mahony, 5- year badge – Lauren Eagle, Jen Goldrick, Katie Topp, James Foster, Garry Ralfs and 3-year badge – Tilly Dooley.
Wendy Hogben, who is a foundation member of Daylesford RDA was named 2025 Victorian Volunteer of the Year for her services to RDA Victoria. Wendy, who is also an RDA Coach and St John’s volunteer is widely respected and loved throughout RDA for her commitment to doing the best for riders. David Rak, another volunteer won the 2025 RDA Victoria Behind the Scenes Hero Award for his role in assisting with horse welfare (farrier, equine dentist etc) outside RDA hours. Congratulations to both, continuing the tradition of Daylesford, a small centre, punching above its weight at state and national level.
Nine riders participated this year in the 151st Daylesford Agricultural Show – a great opportunity for riders, horses and volunteers to show the skills that they have developed from year on year. And a big shout out to the Daylesford Agricultural Show Committee who walk the talk when it comes to inclusion, doing what they can to make sure our riders and horses can participate.
And finally, a big thank you to those who support us – there are numerous individuals, but groups include the Bendigo Community Bank Daylesford, Daylesford Rotary, Glenlyon Sports Committee and of course a massive thankyou to Brendan and Teresa Cook from Boomerang Ranch who provide us with a venue and horses.
We will be back on 6th February 2026 and if you are interested in riding or volunteering email rdadaylesford@gmail.com and meanwhile wishing everybody a Merry Christmas and New Year with family and friends.
