During a recent state parliament session, Member for Northern Victoria Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell steered the reins of discussion towards acknowledging the efforts of local charity Horses for Hope.
The mental health service provides therapy to horses that have experienced physical and psychological trauma, pairing them with individuals who have also endured traumas and are undergoing therapy.
After visiting the headquarters in Mooroopna North and witnessing the cross-species therapy first-hand, Mrs Tyrrell felt compelled to address the outstanding work of Horses for Hope in parliament.
“The combination of having both horses and people working through their challenges together provides an environment that no other type of therapy offers,” she said.
“This is therapy for both the horses and people in need of healing from past and present traumas.”
These horses typically arrive from RSPCA, direct rescues from saleyards earmarked for slaughter, and private owners lacking the resources to rehabilitate their animals.
Mrs Tyrrell highlighted the significant demand for Horses for Hope’s services, which currently sees a waiting list of at least three months for new participants.
She noted that this is a testament to the effectiveness of the program.
“Horses for Hope is an innovative therapy program that is healing both beautiful horses and humans by bringing them together,” she said.
“It is making a significant impact on those people who need help in an alternate setting.”