17 June 2009
Spirit of Tasmania donated $1,000 to the Riding for
the Disabled Association Kalang Inc at 11.00am today to assist in
providing horse activities to people with disabilities.
The Tasmanian Riding for the Disabled Association Inc (TAS RDA) is
an entirely voluntary, not for profit organisation. RDA Kalang Inc
is a member of TAS RDA whose aim is to provide horse riding and
carriage driving to people of all ages with disabilities.
Recently the centre, which opened in February 1991, had seven
break-ins resulting in smashed and damaged items. Several horses
were traumatised and extremely distressed from being chased by
intruders while other horses had ropes tied around their neck and
front legs. Sadly, these horses were left to fend for themselves
until found by the volunteers of the organisation, hours
later.
Cathy Bantick, Centre Coordinator, Tasmanian Riding for Disabled
Association, said, "These horses are very much loved by everyone
involved and do not deserve to be treated in such an inhumane
way.
"Our volunteers were so upset that they were prepared to camp out
at the complex to ensure safety of the horses and property."
The ordeal equally upset employees from Spirit of Tasmania so it
was decided that RDA Kalang would receive the $1,000 donation. The
contribution occurs as part of a safety initiative, Lost Time to
Injury (LTI), which aims to increase awareness of workplace safety
so crew members maintain a safe working environment at all
times. Crew on board Spirit of Tasmania I achieved 45 days
LTI free.
The Tasmanian Riding for the Disabled Association operates five
centres in Burnie, Launceston, St Helens and two centres near
Hobart. Currently the organisation caters for over 80 participants
to enjoy safe stimulating, healthy therapeutic activities such as
horse riding and carriage driving.
"Currently we have gained two out of three grants to roof the
preparation area and need funds to help with the walling of this
area to make it secure for the horses and also give more security
to the tack room, office and volunteer's lunch room.
"The donation from the Loss Time Injury Program of $1,000 will
help us secure this area and we are very thankful to all involved
on Spirit of Tasmania for helping us achieve this," said Ms
Bantick.
Spirit of Tasmania is proud to continually help Tasmanians and the
community through the Lost Time to Injury program.
-ends-
Contact:
Soniya Fernandez, Corporate Communications Coordinator
Spirit of Tasmania
03 9206 6220
0438 393 898
saf@spiritoftasmania.com.au
