RIDING for the Disabled Association of Western Australia has announced a new name and new look this week.

President Jo Williams said the change in name to HorsePower Australia was due to a number of factors.

“Forty-six years ago participants were predominantly children with physical disabilities who benefited from the therapeutic movement of horse riding,” she said.

“Today participants range in age from 1 to 80 years and have diverse abilities including physical and intellectual.

“The terminology disabled is becoming less desirable within the community and it no longer truly reflects the programs that we provide which includes horse riding, carriage driving, hippotherapy, vaulting and a mental health program called walking with horses.

“We also provide programs for youth at risk and people with mental health conditions.”

Ms Williams said every day they saw the difference their programs make in participants’ lives.

“We’ve seen children take their first steps and speak their first words, adults’ bodies strengthen after debilitating illnesses and we have seen the joy our participants experience when they come into our centres,” she said.

“Participants tell me that their centre feels like home and this I feel is due to the incredible passion and dedication of our volunteers and coaches. ”

HorsePower will continue to be a volunteer, community-based organisation that relies on the support of the Western Australian community.

HorsePower affiliated member centres are located in Bakers Hill, Brigadoon, Perth Hills, Orange Grove, Baldivis, Rockingham and the Swan Valley.