The completion of a covered arena, staging area and a makeover of the existing infrastructure marks a significant milestone in the Whakatū Group Riding for Disabled’s (WRDA) future for its staff, volunteers, clients and its horses.
Immediate Past President, Bill Colgan says, “This project was a goal in our 10-year plan but seemed largely beyond our reach because of our lack of familiarity with the regulatory process and a major construction project. So, it was suggested we approach Rotary for help.
“The Rotary Club of Nelson came aboard and pulled together a project team to scope and deliver the project. They also brought together a network of contacts, suppliers and contractors committed to delivery.”
‘Project Cover Up’ as it is called, is made up of a new 880sqm Durobuilt kitset shelter budgeted at $346,000 (including ancillary works) which has been erected over the WRDA’s main arena in Tantragee Road, The Brook. It has been funded through WRDA-initiated grant applications from Lotto NZ, the RATA Foundation, the NZ Community Trust and Rotary plus funds raised through Port Nelson charity days and supporters.
Locally, numerous companies, professionals and tradespeople have provided significantly discounted or pro bono assistance which has ensured the project could be completed on time and under budget. The Nelson City Council which owns the land the WRDA is sited on, has also provided significant support including through its regulatory arm.
Currently 10 carefully selected ponies and horses and 61 riders are cared for by two paid coaches and numerous volunteers - there is a growing waiting list of potential riders. But, 330 individual riding sessions were being lost each year due to hot sun or pouring rain making conditions too difficult for the riders, horses, the coaches and the volunteers.
Some clients live mainly inside and direct sunlight is damaging and unsettling for them. Others are immune-compromised or on medication which requires them to be shielded from sun or adverse weather. The horses are also affected by sun and rain, as is the riding equipment.
The Rotary Club of Nelson led the development, with support from the Rotary Club of Nelson West. Managing Project Cover Up from start to finish took 30 months. On Friday March 6 the arena, plus ancillary work, was officially opened for use.
The President of the Rotary Club of Nelson, Russell Maxwell says “We were pleased to be able to contribute to delivery of such a key project for Whakatū Riding for Disabled and one that will secure their viability well into the future. WRDA was great to work with and the partnership which has developed is shown in the results.”
Since the inception of the project 30 months ago 1081 hours of voluntary time has been committed by WRDA staff and supporters plus Rotary members. This includes fundraising, scoping, design, tendering /negotiation, and delivery of the project.
WRDA is known nationally for the good work it does and a massive community effort in Nelson bears testimony to this.
