Greg Fish’s Journey of Healing and Helping at Spur Ranch Equine Program

My name is Greg Fish. I am a 57-year-old former army serviceman who recently found a new purpose as a volunteer at the RSL LifeCare Spur Ranch Equine Program. After serving 40 years in the Australian Defence Force, including a couple of years in the Army Reserve, I was medically discharged at the end of last year. During my final year, I was on medical leave due to mental health issues and was assigned a rehab consultant named Emily. She suggested an Equine Therapy Program and directed me to the RSL LifeCare Spur Equine Program. Intrigued by the idea and my fondness for horses, I decided to give it a try, despite not having ridden in 40 years.

In August last year, I attended my first course at Spur Ranch, which was a truly relaxing and rewarding experience. The friendly and approachable staff made me feel right at home, and the idea of volunteering began to appeal to me. Given my background in the military, where I often dealt with the welfare and well-being of soldiers, I saw a similar potential for positive impact at RSL LifeCare. After completing the two-day course, I returned for a four-day Introduction to Riding course in November. It was during this course that one of the team members, Karen, asked if I was interested in volunteering.

After being assessed for my riding ability, I started volunteering in January this year. I now visit Spur Ranch three times a week, helping with tasks like exercising the horses and assisting around the property, which allows the staff to focus on their primary mission of supporting veterans through the equine therapy program.

My journey with horses began in my teenage years, helping my grandfather and uncle with their racehorses in Queensland and later assisting at a disabled riding facility. Although I hadn’t ridden in 40 years, my love for horses and the therapeutic benefits they offer drew me back. Volunteering at Spur Ranch has been incredibly rewarding and educational, teaching me how to work with these magnificent animals and providing a peaceful environment that has significantly reduced my stress levels.

The best part of my volunteering experience is the sense of relaxation and community I feel every time I arrive at Spur Ranch. Meeting people with similar military backgrounds and knowing that I’m contributing to the well-being of veterans makes it all worthwhile.

If you’re considering volunteering, I highly recommend approaching it with an open mind. Remember, the focus is on helping others, and the personal rewards will naturally follow.