Sweet Georgia Brown is the new addition to the horse stable of Manning-Great Lakes Riding for the Disabled Association after an extensive search by head coach and horse manager, Maureen Turner.
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"I looked at 15 and trialled nine horses. We were desperate for a good horse," Maureen said.
Sweet Georgia Brown, or Georgia, as she is known to volunteers and riders, arrived at the Rainbow Flat centre in March for an eight-week trial, and in June the association agreed to purchase the 13-year-old Australian Stock Horse mare.
Nabiac Memorial Neighbourhood Centre Second Chance Opportunity Shop funded the $4500 purchase, and recently some of its volunteers visited the centre to meet Georgia.
Maureen is generous with her praise as she speaks of the people who worked to raise the money to buy a younger horse for the association.
"They have made this happen and we could not be more thankful. It's the work of the wonderful women who are there day after day in the shop raising money that makes it possible for them to be so generous, and to help so many people in our community," Maureen said.
"We were desperate for a good horse. One that was a little bit younger, quiet and well-trained, and unfortunately the only way were were going to get one, was to go out and buy one.
"We looked and looked for a horse in the $3000 price bracket but just could not find one, unfortunately you will pay for a well-trained horse. We (the association) were going to put in some money but the ladies at the shop said no. We are so thankful."
Maureen says it's wonderful to have a younger horse, with the average age of their 10 horses being around 20 years.
"Turbo is in his 30s and we'd like to retire him soon. Georgia is such a welcome addition and everyone loves her - she is just so gentle and well-trained."
Nabiac Memorial Neighbourhood Centre Second Chance Opportunity Shop manager, Hannah Lindbeck says the shop exists to raise money for community projects. She shared that op shop sales over more than 20 years had financed the construction and operation of Nabiac Pool, new play equipment and more recently, the purchase of Georgia.
"It's a very busy shop that is open six days-a-week from 9am until noon. It is well supported by the community and we get so many lovely donations of things to sell."
