Tucked away in Marsfield is a remarkable organisation doing amazing things – the Ryde-Marsfield Centre of Riding for the Disabled (RDA).

Over the last couple of years, Community Bank Epping has built a great relationship with the volunteers who make the RDA Centre come alive. The Centre is totally reliant on volunteer time and energy, and community funding. It runs regular riding programs for a wide range of children and adults with disabilities. Whether it is a local special school, classes from public schools, young people or adults – RDA classes open up a new world to participants increasing confidence, resilience and fun! Watching a child conquer their fears to sit and ride a horse is an amazing experience.

The bank first became involved in 2023 through a grant for solar panels on the roof of the arena. We then assisted with funds to support transport for children from special schools.

2024 Projects

In 2024, they approached us for help with two different projects. They badly needed to make improvements to their horse holding area. These yards are just beside the arena, and are where horses waiting between classes. But it was open to rain and sun so they really wanted to weather proof it to ensure no classes get cancelled.

The Centre has huge demands on its services – with a long waiting list. They approached Community Bank Epping for sponsorship to add an additional horse (and thereby open up more riding opportunities). How could we say no? After months of patient training by the Centre’s horse whisperer Megan, this horse has being introduced into the classes. Renamed Bendigo (or Bendy for short!), she is a beautiful calm presence. She is quickly learning her place alongside her stablemates.

2025 Projects

A more recent project has been to open the Centre up to more horse interactions through using a grassy area at the front of the site. This needed to be made accessible. It needed to have temporary fencing that could be set up for open days and other events. This allows more people to meet the horses and have a fun interactive experience.

Through all of this, day in and day out, an army of volunteers enable rides, assist with the horses, and help the Centre run. Last year, we acknowledged two of them, Tina Clifton and Ron Marton, with Community 2121 Awards for their dedication and work.