Meet our team

Dedicated. Experienced. Passionate.

Ian Harkness

Operations Manager

Ian joined RDA in April 2025 after a long career in not-for-profit management roles, mainly in sporting organisations.  Ian is classified as a Territorian having spent most of his life in Darwin though spent a significant period between 1986 and 2010 in WA and NSW with his career.

Jody Burrows

Level 2 Coach, Coach Educator & National Assessor

Jody is a passionate horse riding and vaulting coach for all ages and abilities.  Jodie has extensive RDAA qualifications such as Level 2 Coach, Level 1 Vaulting, Coach Educator and National Assessor.  Other equine qualifications include NCAS Level 1 Riding Coach, PCAQ Level B Coach, BHS Stage 4 & PTT Coach, RDAUK Level 1 Coach, International Horse College EIE Assessor and OTT QLD.  Jody's life motto is 'Living the Dream!' 

Daisy Burgoyne

Level 1 Coach

Full of energy and commitment, Daisy also started as a volunteer in 2021. She successfully completed her coaching training in 2023 and brings enthusiasm to every session.

Julie Cadd

Level 1 Coach

Julie started as a volunteer us in 2021. She successfully completed her coaching training in 2023.  Julie has been a committed and dedicated coach at the core of RDA Top End.

Jennifer Maguire 

Volunteer and Programs Administrator

Jennifer's admin background spans multiple industries such as health, aged care and education.  Having been a volunteer for the RDA Top End, she brings on the ground experience of working with the horses and our clients to her role. 

Julie Bliss

Caretaker & Horse Manager

Julie has long been part of the RDA Top End family as a volunteer and officially took on the caretaker role in 2022. Her love for horses and commitment to their wellbeing ensures our centre remains a safe and nurturing place for all.

We’re currently seeking volunteer coaches.
Training and support are provided for the right candidates. If you're passionate about working with people and horses, we’d love to hear from you.