Hoofbeats Sanctuary is an initiative of Kanyini Connections Ltd (KCL). Since 2019, the Sanctuary has been a safe space for those experiencing mental health challenges resulting from trauma to come together in a supportive, non-judgemental environment, free from all forms of pressure, to learn to heal, grow and flourish.
We run a variety of trauma-informed therapy programs, taught by qualified practitioners with a history of lived experience. We make these programs available to those who need them free of charge, or we provide partial scholarships to reduce those costs to a level where they are affordable. We believe that mental health supports should be available to all, not just those who can afford it. In doing so, we are the only organisation in Australia providing free equine therapy.
We focus on the gaps in existing health and wellbeing system. Many of our clients are at the “end of the line” – they’re tried counselling, therapy, group programs and other supports, without much improvement. Nothing has worked. We find that over 12 weeks, the standard length of our equine therapy programs, our clients have a new outlook on life and are well on their way to recovery.
We receive no ongoing government funding for the work we do, relying entirely on donations and grant funding.
Established in 2009, KCL is a not-for-profit mental health charity (operating as a Australia Public Company Limited by Guarantee) fully endorsed as a Public Benevolent Institution, Deductible Gift Recipient and Tax Concession Charity.
KCL is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and is a member of the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health.
Our History
Throughout the years, the foundation has looked for the most vulnerable members in our community – those who are falling through the gaps of our existing health and welfare systems.
Our Vision and Goals
Our ultimate goal is a much larger Sanctuary, where people and animals that have experienced trauma can come together to heal, grow and flourish.
Our People
We consist of approximately 50 beautiful, kind, gentle and talented people – almost all of whom are volunteers.
Annual Reviews
Each year we publish a look back at the year that was, detailing the major updates and sharing how we’ve been able to help.