General News
16 February, 2023
Donation funds safety equipment upgrade
HAMPDEN Social Club members have made a difference to local’s lives thanks to a donation.
HAMPDEN Social Club members have made a difference to local’s lives thanks to a donation.
Club president Laurie O’Neill presented Just Horses owner Andrea Bell with a cheque for $1000 recently, which will be used to purchase a variety of items to benefit clients.
“On this occasion it’s great to give the kids a lift with safety boots and riding boots,” he said.
“Just Horses do a great job with the kids and the program puts a smile on their face.
“I want to give a special thank you to Andrea for her hard work.”
Just Horses is a registered NDIS registered equine-assisted therapy facility located at Naroghid.
The program allows participants to interact with horses and a wide variety of other farmyard friends in a healthy, accessible, safe, supported space.
D’Arne Paton said her 11 year-old son Thomas Mitchell had been taking part in the program for about two and a half years.
“He gets a lot of enjoyment out of seeing all the animals,” she said.
“He’s gotten more confident and his speech and strength is increasing.
“I’ve noticed a massive growth in him. He’s grown in confidence and independence as well.”
Mrs Bell thanked the Hampden Social Club for its support.
“I’d like to thank the Hampden Social Club for their extremely generous donation which is going towards updating safety equipment including boots, helmets and vests,” she said.
“I’d also like to thank the surrounding communities for supporting the program.”
Mrs Bell said Just Horses had been running as a NDIS program for children and adults for three years.
“The animals play a major part of the program and act as co-facilitators helping to build confidence, balance, strength and trust,” she said.
The Hampden Social Club meets each Friday night at the Hampden Hotel in Camperdown between 5pm and 7pm.
Mr O’Neill encouraged community members to consider signing up, with the group making regular contributions to community groups throughout the year.
“We do raffles, finger food and cheaper beer,” he said.
“It’s great fun; we just get together and have a laugh.”
Membership is $50 for a single, $70 for a family.
For more information and to get involved contact Laurie O’Neill on 0434 513 610.