At Hooves of Hope, the bond between horse and human is more than a partnership. It is a pathway to healing. Tucked away in the heart of South Australia the centre gives retired racehorses a second chance at life while providing people facing trauma, neurodivergence, and personal challenges a safe space to rebuild confidence and connection.
Among the many stories shaped within its arena is Sally’s, whose journey speaks to the resilience of both horse and rider.
“I’ve always loved horses and started riding when I was nine,” Sally recalls. “But after a riding accident in 2022, I lost all confidence. I couldn’t even bring myself to be around horses. It broke my heart to walk away from something I loved so much.”
Attempts to return to riding only deepened her anxiety. Fear had taken root, and every step back into the saddle felt impossible. Then, in early 2024, she spotted a small advert for Hooves of Hope in her local paper. Something about its mission, helping trauma survivors and neurodivergent individuals through horses, struck a chord. She made an enquiry, and soon after, a new chapter began.
The first months weren’t easy. Simple tasks like brushing a horse or leading one around the yard carried enormous weight. Yet, under the steady guidance of centre founder Renae Gunn, Sally found the courage to take one step at a time.
“The healing wasn’t linear,” she admits. “Some sessions were harder than others. But slowly, I started to notice a change. With Renae’s support, I could lead a horse without panic, I could groom without shaking. Each small win built on the last.”
Youth worker Sindy also became an important part of Sally’s journey, offering encouragement and reassurance when progress felt slow. Together, the pair helped her transition from groundwork to riding again.
“There were moments I felt stuck, but Renae and Sindy reminded me I was moving forward,” Sally says. “Eventually, the joy of riding came back. That feeling I thought I’d lost forever, it started to shine through again.”Now, Sally’s love of horses is stronger than ever. Each session brings new confidence, and her goals continue to grow.
“I’m improving my riding skills every week,” she says with a smile. “I’m working towards a Certificate III in Horse Care and dreaming about owning a horse of my own one day. None of this would have been possible without Hooves of Hope and the incredible support I’ve received.”
For the retired racehorses at the centre, life after the track means patience, purpose, and partnership. For clients like Sally, it means rediscovering courage, hope, and the joy of horses once thought lost.
At Hooves of Hope, healing happens quietly but powerfully, one hoofbeat at a time.