History of RDA (NSW)

1972: The Founding of RDA (NSW)

• October 23 – With the combined interest and commitment of Pearl Batchelor and Nan Everingham the inaugural meeting was held on 23 October 1972 and RDA (NSW) began.
• Riders from Northcott School Parramatta and Crowle Home were the first to participate.

1975–1978: Growth and national recognition

• 1975 – At Expo ’75 RDA riders put on an exhibition and the Australian RDA Council was formed. Daphne Pagnamenta from RDA UK accredited centres Tall Timbers, Throsby Park, Samurai Park and Hunters Riding Lodge.
• 1977 – With personal financial backing from Pearl Batchelor and Josephine MacWilliam, RDA (NSW) purchased 5 acres at Kellyville, for its new Headquarters. Pearl generously donated ponies, riding gear, and equipment.
• 1978 – RDA (NSW) became a registered charity, received a $30,000 grant from the Raymond E. Purves Foundation, and constructed an indoor riding arena, officially opened by the Governor of NSW, Sir Roden Cutler.

1980s: Expansion and incorporation

• 1981 – The State Board was formed, and RDA (NSW) expanded to 20 groups across NSW.
• 1987 – The RDA (NSW) HQ property grew to 15 acres, further expanding services for riders with disabilities.
• 1988 – A workshop was held at Tall Timbers, Kellyville, introducing the first wheelchair-accessible Darent cart for carriage driving. This initiative led to the development of RDA Carriage Driving programs across Centres
• 1989 – The State Training and Safety Panel (later renamed Coaching and Safety Panel) was also formed.

1990s: Competitions and national events

• 1990 – RDA (NSW) introduced Mounted Games based on Pony Club rules for riders with disabilities.
• 1991 – NSW competed in the National Dressage Championships in South Australia, with Dressage becoming an official discipline of  RDA (NSW).
• 1995 – Pearl initiated State Competitions as a pathway to National Championships.
• 1997 – RDA (NSW) Carriage Driver Greg Pike represented Australia at the Inaugural World Carriage Driving Championships.
• 1998 – RDA (NSW) held its first Mounted Games State Championship at the Royal Easter Show.
• 1998 – State Office moved to Ultimo

2000s: Paralympic success and training accreditation

• 2002 – RDA (NSW) State Office relocated Homebush.
• 2004 & 2008 – Jan Pike OAM, RDA (NSW) Life Member, represented Australia in Dressage at the Athens & Beijing Paralympic Games, winning Silver and Bronze medals.
• 2005 – Inspector Don Eyb (Ret’d) AMP OAM, Former Commander of the NSW Mounted Police, became Vice Patron of RDA (NSW).
• 2009 – RDA (NSW) became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), ensuring nationally accredited coaching.

2010s: Royal recognition and challenges

• 2014 – His Excellency General The Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d), Governor of NSW, became Patron of RDA (NSW).
• 2015 – RDA (NSW) participated in a Royal Display for HRH Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, showcasing its impact.
• 2019 – RDA (NSW) Centres faced extreme hardship due to devastating bushfires and drought. Volunteers and State Fire Services provided critical assistance.
• 2019 – Her Excellency The Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, and Mr. Dennis Wilson became Patrons of RDA (NSW).

2020s: Continuing the legacy

• 2022 – HRH Princess Anne recognized RDA (NSW)’s contributions at the 200th Annual Royal Sydney Show.
• 2022 – RDA (NSW) celebrated their 50th anniversary
• 2023 – RDA (NSW) partnered with Japanese racehorse OBAMBURUMAI in the Golden Eagle 2023. With Josh Parr as jockey, OBAMBURUMAI secured victory, and 10% of the prize money was donated to RDA (NSW).

Present day: Pearl Batchelor’s lasting legacy

• RDA (NSW) now has 33 Centres, 1050+ Riders, and 900+ Volunteers.
• Pearl Batchelor’s vision, dedication, and generosity have left an indelible mark on the equestrian community and disability inclusion in Australia.