Helmets give riders peace of mind while enjoying moment

People making use of a horse riding therapy service will now be protected by the latest in safety helmets thanks to a community grant.

The South West Riding for the Disabled Association was the recipient of a $2500 grant from South 32 earlier in the year and has finally been able to purchase new helmets for its riders.

Fundraising coordinator Lu Standish said horse riding helmets had to be updated every five years to ensure safety standards were met, but the cost of replacing them was “a very big ask”.

“The moment they are over five years, they are considered not covered by insurance,” Mrs Standish said.

As part of her role Mrs Standish applied for South 32’s $5000 community grant and due to there being another worthy cause, the club was awarded half the amount.

“It didn’t cover the total cost of our helmets, but it definitely went a long way towards them,” she said.

They “aren’t cheap” and cost about $100 each, but Mrs Standish said it was a small price to pay for knowing the riders would be safe.

She said they would be particularly appreciative of them throughout summer because of how the design allowed for maximum ventilation.

The club secured a State Government grant to purchase the remaining helmets.