Lesley Hewitt
Daylesford RDA (Riding for Disabled) celebrated 30 years of operation at Boomerang Ranch on 29th November 2024. Current riders demonstrated their riding skills to over sixty former riders and volunteers, friends and family members and community supporters.
It is well recognised that participation in sport and recreational opportunities has a positive impact on people’s physical and mental health. It is also well recognized that children and adults with a disability have fewer opportunities to participate in these activities than the general community. For 30 years, RDA Daylesford have provided this opportunity.
The Daylesford RDA was established at Boomerang Ranch in 1994 by Stephanie Ashley, the Integration Co-ordinator at Daylesford Secondary College and supported by Wendy Hogben and Chris Clare. Wendy Hogben has been a volunteer for all of those 30 years, a remarkable effort. “I wouldn’t have kept coming for all those years if I didn’t get as much or more out of it as what I put in,” she said.
Founding Coach, Steve Clare (front left) with, Amber Jepsen and (Back L-R) Wendy Hogben, Lainey Curr and Lesley Hewitt.
Steve Clare was the foundation coach, retiring in 2014. Steve’s significant contribution to RDA was recognized on 27th November when he was awarded life membership of RDA Victoria.
Wendy, Steve and Stephanie were all pleased to catch up at the 30 year celebration with Robbie Carman, one of the foundation riders.
Daylesford RDA has always punched above its weight. Although a small centre, riders have been included on Victorian teams at RDA Australia National competitions, Special Olympics National Games and at the Hope Cup in Taiwan. Three Daylesford RDA volunteers have also been state presidents – Lesley Hewitt, Jan Mahony and current president, Tanya Twaits.
Daylesford RDA would not have been able to do this for 30 years without the support of the local community including the Cook family from Boomerang Ranch, Rotary Daylesford, Glenlyon Sports Club, the Community Bank Daylesford, Murrell Osbourne from Glenlyon, U3A, Freemasons, Megan Evans from the Farmers Arms and now the Guildford Hotel, the Daylesford Foundation and lots of individuals in our local community.
President Pia Barber said, “We are so grateful for all our past and present members and supporters. Without them all we would not be able to offer this unparalleled and vital service to our athletes and their families. I look forward to being part of the team that continues to provide this inclusive and wonderful programme.”
