The theft occurred around February 20.
Volunteers were devastated to find nine children’s helmets, halters and lunging gear had been taken, which is equipment the group cannot operate without.
RDA Seymour is desperately seeking donations to replace the stolen equipment.
“Helmets that comply with the current Australian safety standards are about $90 each. We welcome any donations from the community to help us pay for new helmets,” secretary Sally Wilson said.
“Donations of $90 will cover the cost of one child’s helmet. You can sponsor a rider for $155 to cover the cost of insurance and $50 will cover the cost for a term of lessons.
“Or you can sponsor a horse for $250 a year. We need to pay farrier costs, teeth and vet bills. We cannot run our program without our special horses.
“And if anyone wants some exercise and manure for their garden, we can supply bags for you to collect it.”
RDA Seymour is under new management, with new head coach Kirsty Adamson having more than 20 years of riding experience.
Kirsty is a para rider and is in training to join the Victorian Para Riding team. She also volunteers for the Seymour Health Social Support Group.
RDA Seymour president is Ron Hutchins, treasurer is Vicki Abery and Sally Wilson is secretary.
“We are a harmonious and fun place to volunteer. We welcome any new volunteers, no horse experience necessary, just a current Working with Children Check,” Ms Wilson said.
“Much satisfaction is gained from seeing the difference we make to the lives of the children who have lessons with us.
“We offer lessons during school terms, currently every Wednesday afternoon and every second Thursday from 8 am to 12.30 pm.
“RDA Seymour provides lessons to 16 children from Seymour College, seven children travel by bus from Nagambie Primary School thanks to Seymour Coaches and (there is) a child whose parents bring her from Kilmore.
“We are currently expanding our program to offer lessons to adults from Goulburn Options and others from up to two hours away. We are working on finding horses suitable to carry an adult.
“We would like to thank all those in the community who have continued to support RDA Seymour, especially Seymour Coaches and the Railway Club Hotel.”
If you would like to help, phone Sally Wilson on 0412 075 774.
For banking details, phone Vicki Abery on 0438 323 320 or email rdaseymour@gmail.com
If anyone saw any suspicious activity in the area behind the cutting yard next to the dog walking park, contact RDA Seymour or Seymour police on 5735 0200.
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