Students from CQU's Advanced Public Relations class have been running a PR campaign for Rockhampton Horse Riding for the Disabled Association Inc.

RHRDA is a not-for-profit organisation that is currently seeking to raise awareness and funds locally.  The organisation relies solely on generosity from the community as it receives no monetary support from the government or national bodies.

The first stage of the student PR campaign involves a Wine and Cheese Evening on Friday, September 21, at Rockhampton Customs House.

There has been a lot of support from local business for this event and entertainment will be provided by CQU Performing Arts students.

Long-serving volunteer Tanya, aboard Duke with Michelle, Duke's owner

For the past 3 decades, RHRDA has been an inspiration in the lives of members and volunteers who have participated in horse riding on the 8-hectare property every Sunday.

The association began in 1978, when volunteers from the community rallied together to establish a riding ground near Parkhurst, where people with disabilities could focus on their abilities through horse riding.

Numbers of participants and volunteers have risen dramatically from the association's humble beginnings, and there are now currently 25 riders, (not including new riders this year) 26 volunteer staff and 6 horses.

A range of activities are offered to participants, including training, trail rides, games, dressage and general riding, which help to improve skills, abilities and confidence.

RHRDA Secretary, Mark Kennedy, loves seeing participants enjoying the experience and interacting with each other.

"It's great to see the joy and the smiles on the kids' faces when they are on the horses, and seeing volunteers interacting with the kids and helping out".

The RHRDA receives no government funding, so it relies solely on donations, fundraisers and sponsorship within the community to maintain the upkeep of the horses and property.

The organisation is sponsored by 3 local community businesses including Acton Super Beef, Healthy Horses and Rockhampton Veterinary Clinic.

The RHRDA meets every Sunday from 8am to Noon from March through to December (excluding school holidays).

Any community members wanting to volunteer or find out more information on the RHRDA can contact Mark Kennedy on 4928 7240 or mmkennedy@optusnet.com.au.