Rotary boost for community organisations

A PAIR of highly esteemed community organisations received a cheque last week from the Ocean Grove Rotary Art Show committee.

The presentation took place at the Ocean Grove Bowling Club on February 11, with both Barwon Riding Develops Abilities (RDA) and Ocean Grove Disabled Surfers Association appreciative of the additional financial support.

President Di McCann of Barwon Riding Develops Abilities (RDA) accepted the $2,500 cheque alongside fellow RDA member Betty Minogue.

“This will go towards the costs of running our program. RDA has sizable annual costs and due to government policy, funding was cut this year,” Ms McCann said.

“This money will go towards our many costs such as horse hire at $20.00 per horse per child each week and replacing equipment such as hard hats which have to be replaced every second year to conform with OH&S regulations.”

Ms McCann said the helmets alone are $2,000, defibrillator $700, plus costs associated with additional first aid equipment and training for coaches.

“We are very grateful to receive this cheque; it will go towards making our children achieve things they didn’t think possible.”

Each week between 12-30 children from the Geelong and district schools participate in the RDA program with coaches achieving “amazing results” and terrific feedback from schools.

“It builds up their confidence and ability to communicate with the coaches and the horses, it sends them on an adventure that they haven’t experienced before,” Ms McCann said.

Phil Christie accepting the second $2,500 cheque on behalf of the Ocean Grove Disabled Surfer’s Association (DSA).

“We began five years ago with 40-50 participants. Our next event is on Sunday, March 1 and we have 150 registered,” Mr Christie said.

“All of the money goes towards putting on these events. Any equipment brought is shared with other branches. The Ocean Grove DSA is all about putting smiles on dials.

“Our goal is to provide an inclusive experience for all people with any disability to experience the rush of riding a wave. We have world class beach facilities that help make your experience be as inclusive as possible.”