Equine healing program for ADF veterans
Equine Healing has huge health benefits for individuals experiencing mental health issues such as depression, anxiety or posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Course attendees (with the support of our equine team) work through a range of practical interactions such as grooming, feeding and groundwork exercises with our horses. By allowing participants to connect and care for our beautiful horses they gain the trust and respect of the horse, and in turn for themselves instilling confidence and self-worth.
This program is available to current/ex-serving and transitioning ADF personnel.
The benefits
• Improved mental health
• ImprovedImproved sense of well-being and self-worth
• Improved alertness - being present in the moment
• Improved physical condition
• Improved motor skills/co-ordination
• Boosted cardiovascular system
• Stimulation of the hormone serotonin
• Opportunities for lasting friendship and sense of purpose/belonging
What our clients say
"Wounded Heroes Australia is one of the organisations that can help us out once we have transitioned or while we're currently serving in Defence. I found the equine program extremely beneficial.”
Michael - recently retired Veteran
"I got to hang out with the horses and bond with them. You become very close to them during the course. I wasn't 100% certain before I did the course, but once you put yourself out there, it's well worth it."
Brendan - recovering Soldier/Veteran
“Looking after another creature is very rewarding, and a 500kg horse certainly demands your respect. The course was brought to my attention through the Soldier Recovery Centre and I heard about the healing benefits that is can have for soldiers with PTSD and other mental health illnesses."
Hayden - recovering Solider/Veteran
“These Horses gave me a chance to de-stress and unwind from everything that had been making my life an absolute hell without judgment."
Anonymous - retired Veteran
Crisis Hotline
1300 532 112
If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty with everyday life and would like to be part of our program, please reach out and contact us for more information on 1300 532 112 or complete our online form below.
Enquire about Horses 4 Heroes
Meet our horses
Finigale
Finigale
Age 17
Thoroughbred Chestnut mare, ex-racehorse. I have a lovely temperament and I’m 2nd in charge of the herd. My bestie is the Queen of the herd, her name is Over Friendly and treats me as her equal…we’ve lived at Horses 4 Heroes for 3 years.
Over Friendly
Over Friendly
Age 17
Thoroughbred Bay mare, ex-racehorse. I’m the Queen of the herd, I have been told I have an easy-going nature and I treat all the horses here equally. I don’t like to stray too far from Finagle “Did you know we grew up together…”.
Bob
Bob
Age 13
Standard Bay gelding. I look older than I am but don’t let that fool you, I’m a gentleman and a rogue.
Casper
Casper
Age 15
Tan/Chestnut gelding. Are you looking at me? (Eyelash flutter), I’m a very gentle soul and love to play…catch me if you can, seriously try catch me!
Cruiser
Cruiser
Age 16
Standard Black gelding. I was the King of the herd until those mares arrived, to be honest It’s a little frustrating. People say I come across as standoffish, but deep down I’m a misunderstood sook.
Lex
Lex
Age 18
Standard Dark Bay gelding. I’m the tallest in the herd (hands down…get it) and a real gentle giant…. watch your toes!
Louie
Louie
Age 26
Standard Bay gelding. I’m a little grey in places from a previously bad case of Queensland Itch, but Nick the Equine manager (and best human in the world) fixed it up, so now I don’t have it anymore…feel free to pat away, often if you must!
Prince
Prince
Age 19
Thoroughbred Bay gelding. Gentle by nature “As my name suggests I’m the most handsome one, watch my mane flow in the summer breeze, and groom it often please”.
Rob
Rob
Age 23
Thoroughbred Bay Gelding. Beautiful by nature, loves kisses given, taken, or stolen from you.
Robbie
Robbie
Age 23-30
Thoroughbred Bay gelding. I still can’t grow a mane so perhaps I’m just a late bloomer, but when I grow up…it will be flowing like the wind, even better than Prince’s.
BFG (Big Friendly Giant)
BFG (Big Friendly Giant)
Age 9
Thoroughbred Grey gelding. I’m a new arrival to Horses 4 Heroes; my friend (Charlie) and I were rescued from the recent bushfires. We are currently suffering from PTSD and are adjusting to our new life within the herd. The young chestnut shadow behind me is my support animal.
Charlie
Charlie
Age 4
Thoroughbred Chestnut gelding. I love my best mate BFG, we have been through a tough time together. I’m young and still learning the ropes, I’m taking each day as it comes…one hoof in front of the other, right behind BFG.
Lilly
Lilly
Age 12
Miniature Shetland Pony mare. I’m the most adorable, kind, gorgeous, loving, and modest pony you’ll ever meet. For some reason people often shower me with pats when they meet me for the first time, I’d like to say it’s my golden flowing locks or personality…but we all know it’s both.
Shandy
Shandy
Age 12
Miniature Shetland Pony gelding. I’ve been doing this a while now. I was working at a respite centre and additionally helping people with trauma. My new calling is to assist our heroes and make sure they are supported.
Mojo
Mojo
Age 12
Miniature Shetland Pony gelding. Mojo’s my name and carrots are my game. I appreciate a person who brings them to me, small bags, large bags, you decide how much affection you need.
