In a quiet paddock in Yandina, rescued horses and traumatised humans are helping
each other heal. Backed by a powerful new independent report from the University of
the Sunshine Coast (USC), the trauma-informed equine-assisted programs at
Hoofbeats Sanctuary are being recognised as life-changing for participants
struggling with complex mental health issues.
“These horses save lives,” said Marie Rene, Program Director for the Women and
Girls’ Programs at Hoofbeats Sanctuary. “Equine-assisted therapy has emerged as a
holistic and effective approach for individuals with trauma, combining physical
activity, mindfulness, and emotional engagement. Non-verbal interactions with
horses can help participants build confidence, enhance emotional resilience, and
process trauma in ways traditional talk therapy may not achieve.”
The USC evaluation confirmed what program participants, staff and volunteers have
long known: working alongside horses in a calm, natural environment helps build
confidence, reduce suicidal thoughts, improve emotional regulation and create long-
lasting positive change.
“This program saved my life,” said one participant. Another shared, “The horses
don’t judge. They mirror how you feel. I learnt more from the herd than I ever did
sitting in a room with a psychologist.”
The Sanctuary’s flagship 12-week programs, Go Remarkable (for girls aged 12–24)
and Recovery and Discovery (for women 25+), are free for participants thanks to
donations and grants. Over 95% of the program’s funding comes from community
support, but a key federal grant ended in June.
“We’re the only organisation in Australia offering ongoing free equine therapy to
women and girls,” said Barb Blashki, CEO of Kanyini Connections Ltd. “This report
proves that what we do works. Now we need help to keep going.”
Marie Rene shared the story of Lila, a 12-year-old participant struggling with self-
harm, neurodivergence and emotional overload. Over 12 sessions, Lila formed a
deep bond with a horse named Kazu. “Because of his past, we relate to each other,”
Lila said.
Through trust-building activities, grounding exercises and learning to read horse
behaviour, Lila developed new tools for self-regulation and confidence. “She came in
guarded and critical of herself. She left smiling, self-aware and proud of her growth,”
said Marie. “She even planned her first birthday party in years.”
Lila’s mum said the change was life-changing. “This program gave my daughter a
space where she felt understood, safe and connected.”
The USC study measured outcomes using gold-standard tools like the Warwick-
Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, finding “exceptionally significant” improvements
across all areas. Lila’s wellbeing scores rose 113% — a result echoed across other
participants.
Similar findings are emerging nationwide. A study by the University of South
Australia captured stories from social workers using horses to help traumatised
children. One practitioner described the experience as “being seen through the eyes
of a horse,” a moment that sparked emotional breakthroughs where other therapies
had failed.
“Horses are incredibly sensitive to body language and emotion,” explained
researcher Morgyn Stacy. “Give a child space to connect with a horse, and
something powerful happens. They feel safe, calm and open.”
But as promising as the results are, experts warn that access remains limited. With
high costs and limited public funding, equine therapy is out of reach for many
families.
Marie hopes that will change.
“We’re not just talking about wellness. We’re talking about lives. About girls who
didn’t think they mattered and now believe they do. About mothers who finally
understand their daughters. About horses who’ve suffered and now help others to
heal.”
She continued, “What we do here at Hoofbeats works. The research proves it. The
stories prove it. But without funding, we can’t reach the women and girls who need
us most.”
For more information about Hoofbeats Sanctuary, to donate or get involved, visit
www.kanyiniconnections.com.au.