Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive. Feel free to send us a message if you don’t find the answer to your question here.
Volunteering
Is there an upper age limit for Volunteers?
No. We can usually find something for everyone to do! We have several volunteers in our team in their 70’s and two in their 80’s who help with our fundraising events.
However, to work with or around the horses, you need to have an appropriate level of fitness and mobility so that you can keep yourself safe. Horses can be unpredictable, no matter how quiet their temperament is. Volunteers must be nimble enough to move out of the way quickly.
Is there a minimum age limit for Volunteers?
Yes. The minimum age for Volunteers is 17yo.
Do you have opportunities for Volunteers with special needs or disabilities?
Safety is always our primary consideration at the sanctuary and being able to work independently and safely around horses in a herd is a requirement for all Volunteers.
If your disability doesn’t compromise your safety around the horses, we would encourage you apply.
I am a Support Worker and my client loves horses. Can we Volunteer together?
Unfortunately not. NDIS clients that need the support or supervision of a carer are usually not able to independently keep themselves safe. It is not possible for a carer to adequately monitor their client and a herd of horses at the same time. This poses an unacceptable level of risk.
Programs
Do you offer group programs?
No. Most of the clients we support have experienced significant trauma. They often struggle with issues relating to self-worth and do not feel comfortable in group settings. Our program trials showed clearly that 1:1 programs were far more effective for clients than group programs.
Who are your programs for?
We offer a range of programs for a range of different clients – please visit the Programs page for more information.
Most programs are designed for those living with the mental health challenges of big life stressors. They are also suitable for those that are finding it difficult to navigate life’s challenges without experiencing anxiety and depression.
Our Program Facilitators are not trained to support clients with high-level needs due to physical or intellectual disabilities. Neither are they trained to support clients that are not able to self-regulate their behaviour.
Do you have any program vacancies at the moment?
When we have program vacancies there will be an application form link on the Program page. Please check that page. We also announce program places on our Facebook page so please follow us on Facebook as another way to keep up to date.
Our Horses
Can you take my horse?
Sadly no. Every horse that joins our herd is with us for life. We do not ever sell, lease or adopt out any animals. Being on a very small, council-owned facility as a temporary home, we do not have the space for more horses.
Do you offer horse riding lessons?
No.
I’m looking for a quiet horse/pony – do you sell, lease or adopt horses/ponies?
No. Every horse that joins our herd is with us for life – we don’t ever sell, lease out or adopt out any animals.
Visiting the Sanctuary
Can we visit the Sanctuary?
Visits are strictly by appointment only. There are program sessions running at various times of the day throughout the week and it is critical that we provide clients with the utmost privacy during their sessions.
If you were hoping to visit to see if this is somewhere you might like to volunteer, go to the Volunteer page to apply. The first step in our process is to arrange a Meet & Greet with you at the Sanctuary. We do that only after you’ve completed an application form.
Can I hire your arena?
No. We don’t hire out any facilities at the Sanctuary. If you are looking for a venue to host a clinic of some kind and are willing to do that as a fundraising event for the Sanctuary, please contact us to discuss.