Volunteer Horse Riding Assistant - Woodcroft RDA: Jennibrook Farm
About this opportunity
Volunteers can assist with:
- preparing horses for lessons
- leading horses in lessons
- working with riders with disabilities.
Be part of the wonderful experience it is for a person with a disability to ride a horse.
All training provided.
You will need a basic level of fitness as some jogging may be necessary.
Additional volunteers will assist with the leading of the horses.
ROLES OF THE VOLUNTEER INCLUDE:
- Greet and escort the rider from/to the mounting area.
- Assist the rider to correctly fit their riding helmet.
- Check that the rider is correctly attired for riding (jackets to be buttoned/zipped and not flapping, closed in shoes are worn). Alert the coach if clothing is not appropriate.
- Some riders require special equipment to be fitted to their horse. Ensure that special equipment is available and correctly fitted.
- Assist the rider to carry out the coach’s instructions.
- Walk level with the rider’s body, do not drop behind.
- Monitor your rider for fatigue or discomfort and alert the coach.
- Complete some basic paperwork as instructed by the coach.
VOLUNTEERS will be taught :
- How to fit helmets, adjust stirrups and other equipment.
- How to assist a rider at the mounting ramp or when using a hoist.
- Safe transfer techniques.
- Appropriate handholds for supporting a rider e.g. open hand, changing position frequently.
- To recognise common signs of fatigue, illness and onset of seizure activity.
- The correct methods to be used when feeding a horse.
Additional requirements
Covid-19 vaccination . National Police Certificate *. Working with Children Check *.
Experience with horses and people with disabilities is desirable but not essential.
Training is offered in the variety of roles that you may perform at RDA.
RDA welcomes volunteers between the ages of 12-85 years of age.
Volunteers must demonstrate that they are physically capable of performing the duties they are allocated.
At least the 2 doses Covid-19 Vaccinations required with proof provided. Vaccine Booster recommended.
Depends on location / role. Programs throughout term consist of: Jennibrook Farm - Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 8.00am to 1.00pm. O'Halloran Hill - No timeframes listed Southern Fleurieu - Fridays 3pm to 6pm Saturdays 7.30am to 4.30pm
Suitable for- Work Experience
- Younger Volunteers, under 18
- Companionship & Social Support
- Disability Support
- Working with Animals