Volunteering at RDA Top End

Volunteers are at the heart of RDA Top End. Whether you're passionate about horses, keen to give back to the community, or looking to develop new skills, we’d love to welcome you to the team.

Why volunteer with us?

Volunteering is a meaningful way to contribute your time, energy, and talents—without pay—for the benefit of others. At RDA Top End, our volunteers help make our programs possible


Here's what you might gain from volunteering with us:


  • Make new friends
  • Learn new skills
  • Boost your fitness
  • Have fun
  • Grow in confidence
  • Find purpose and direction
  • Explore careers pathways
  • Support your local community
  • Feel Valued an appreciated

Who can volunteer?

To become part of our team, you’ll need to:


  • Be aged between 12 and 85
  • Be physically fit enough to complete your duties
  • Hold (or be willing to apply for) a Working With Children Clearance (for volunteers aged 15 and over)
  • Complete our volunteer application process

Volunteer Roles

There are many ways to get involved at RDA Top End:

General Volunteer Roles

Prefer to stay off the paddock? You can still make a huge difference by volunteering in:


  • Fundraising and events
  • Gardening and maintenance
  • Admin and reception
  • Photography and social media

Training pathway:

We offer structured training all volunteers,  feel confident and supported in your role:


  • Stage 1: Induction Training
  • Regular refresher workshops


Working with Horses

If you can spare 2–4 hours weekly or fortnightly—on weekdays or Saturdays—you can help with:


  • Grooming and tacking up
  • Leading and side walking during lessons
  • General horse care


Training pathway:

  • Stage 1: Induction Training
  • Stage 2: Basic Training
    With time, you may progress to:

  • Stage 3: Competency Training

Pathways to Coaching

Interested in becoming an RDA Coach?


Our accredited coaches deliver equine-assisted sessions that build confidence, coordination, and connection.


Whether you’re already qualified or looking to train as a coach, we want to hear from you.


Training pathway:


  • Orientation to Coaching (OTC)
  • Level 1 Coach accreditation
  • RDA coaching pathway and support
  • Hands-on experience in adaptive riding programs
  • A chance to work with a supportive and passionate team

Management Committee

Our volunteer Management Committee oversees the strategic direction of RDA Top End. It's a great way to support the organisation using your professional skills in governance, finance, education, health, or community leadership.


Expression of interest:


We welcome interest from people of all backgrounds who are passionate about inclusive programs and community connection. Committee positions are advertised when available—but expressions of interest are always encouraged.


Come and join our team

Complete our Expression of Interest form or contact us for a chat: 0439 444 057

Sponsor RDA Top End

When you sponsor RDA Top End, you’re helping create real opportunities for people of all abilities. Your support keeps our programs running, our horses healthy and our community strong. Whether you're a local business, individual or corporate group, we'd love to hear from you.

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What our volunteers have to say...

Connecting with the horses is great for your own well-being—and the riders get so much out of it as wel.

Hard work but rewarding and flexible.

It's great fun and a great way to learn more about horses and make new friends.

It's great fun and a great way to learn more about horses and make new friends.

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2023 Volunteer Survey Responses

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