Long-term volunteer is recognised

A Riding for the Disabled Association volunteer Ms Dianne Parks of Umina has been presented with a pair of gold earrings for her continuing commitment to the Association for the past 30 years.

Ms Parks has volunteered at the association's property in Somersby since May 1981 after she answered a newspaper advert requesting volunteers.

Ms Parks took up the role of assistant coach trainer and treasurer a year after she began her volunteer work.

She also volunteered at Bouddi Pony Club to gain further experience in the industry before becoming a coach in 1983 and a senior coach some years later.

She was also employed as a youth worker at the then Mt Penang Boys Home coordinating the detainees and assisting them in Riding for the Disabled classes, a position she still holds today 26 years later with residents of the now Baxter Juvenile Justice Centre.

"Di gets a great kick out of seeing many of the Riding for the Disabled past riders go on to compete successfully in the Special Olympics overseas competitions," said association president and coach Mr Garry Kirkby, who presented the earrings.

Media Release, 6 Feb 2011 Garry Kirkby, Riding for the Disabled Association