Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Alice Springs is a busy, family-orientated centre providing horse riding lessons and horse husbandry to riders of
varying abilities.

About Us

RDA Alice Springs aims to promote social and emotional wellbeing through strengthening pathways to care and supporting people at risk. Our programs offer a unique approach to helping people with mental, physical, emotional, social and learning disabilities or disadvantages.

We are creating significant shifts in community inclusion, access and quality of life for many people in Alice Springs. We use personalised, best-practice methods, which are designed to promote a high level of independence. We provide a structure and model that supports people to further these lifestyle changes and create more opportunities where their abilities can
be celebrated.

While the benefits of therapeutic services, such as Riding Develops Abilities, have been medically documented, statistics alone cannot fully describe the value of this service to the community. The program is characterised by relationships that are, at their core, supporting the whole person in increasing their self-esteem and developing skills that will enable them to make
positive choices.

To put it simply; the RDA program works and the benefits are ongoing.

Our Programs

Testimonials

RDA is one of those hidden gems in Alice. Our youngest with disabilities has gotten stronger, increased his skills & has more stamina. My teen & I have been able to be part of this amazing community through volunteering. It has been a great resource for
our family.

Krystal – proud parent & volunteer

Horse time – it makes me feel relaxed, & my coaches laugh at my jokes, which makes me feel good at the end of the day. I love coming out to RDA.

Fred – child rider & up-and-coming standup comedian

The uniquely caring & individual horse personalities wrap me in comfort. Under the sun & shadow of the McDonnell ranges, my equine therapy sessions are a valued part of each week for me.

Cathryn – Walk 'n' Groom participant

We elected riding lessons over physiotherapy sessions to develop a sense of what can be achieved – without being reminded of what is 'wrong'. Our son confidently rides & handles his own horse, tacks up, walks, trots & is nearly ready to canter. Along the way, his muscles have compensated resulting in an 'even gait' for our rider, too.

Brad – proud parent

RDA has been fantastic for providing equine therapy for all our children. They love riding, they love all the horses & they really look forward to going every week. I go riding as well, it really helps me keep on track after a week at work...I'm a police officer and it works for me.

Matt – Parent