By Milla Webster
A YOUNG volunteer’s dedication and compassion has been recognised with the Mitchell Shire Council’s Access and Inclusion Champion award, highlighting the powerful impact of inclusive community service.
Chloe Hall began volunteering with Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Victoria in early 2025 as a 15-year-old equine studies student, initially expecting the role to be a short-term school placement.
“I first started off just wanting to find work placement for a day off school and had no idea it would become an every-week commitment and now am studying to be a coach for RDA,” Chloe said.
Instead, the experiences quickly grew into a regular commitment and a passion for supporting riders and the wider RDA community.
Since joining, Chloe has become a reliable and consistent presence at every lesson day, taking on a wide range of responsibility with confidence and maturity from horse-leading and side-walking to grooming, exercising horses and assisting clients. She has shown a willingness to step into any role required to support riders and coaches.
Chloe has a natural ability to connect with both riders and animals. “The best part is when the riders do things which they thought they couldn’t achieve and watching the horses makes a huge impact in their lives,” she said.
Her intuitive approach helps bring out the best in participants, ensuring lessons are safe, supportive and enjoyable. Coaches and fellow volunteers alike value her dependable nature and positive attitude.
In a remarkably short amount of time, Chloe has made a significant contribution to her centre, becoming an essential part of the team. Her developing horsemanship skills and eagerness to learn reflect the core values that RDA hopes to inspire in young volunteers.
The Access and Inclusion Champion award recognises not only Chloe’s commitment but also the broader importance of inclusive programs that create meaningful opportunities for people of all abilities.
Chloe said: “I am very grateful for this award which shows all my achievements”. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to making a difference within the community.
Reflecting on her experiences, Chloe wishes to complete [her] coaching course and help. Through her dedication and empathy, Chloe exemplifies the spirit of inclusion and volunteerism, setting a strong example for the next generation of community leaders.
