Aquila Acres

The miniature ponies in particular offer interest, acceptance, fun and challenges for clients of all ages and sizes, as riding is only one component of the programs.

Aquila Acres is a small, picturesque farm in Wandin North, in the Yarra Valley.

At Aquila Acres we provide a variety of programs and activities which help facilitate personal growth for people of all ages, abilities and needs.

The animals on the farm include horses, ponies, goats, chickens and small critters. Many of these animals made their way here through re-homing due to a difficult past or the previous owner's inability to continue the appropriate care. All of the animals are friendly, sociable and play a major role in most of the activities on offer.

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The miniature ponies in particular offer interest, acceptance, fun and challenges for clients of all ages and sizes, as riding is only one component of the programs.

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At Aquila Acres clients can participate in Equine Assisted Learning [EAL], which just requires a willingness to interact with a pony. No prior experience or skills with horses are necessary.

By partnering with a mental health therapist we can also offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy [EAP].

People involved with EAL or EAP have the opportunity to develop many personal skills, including confidence, assertiveness, leadership, communication and self reflection. This occurs through the client's responses to the activities with the ponies, guided by the facilitator who may encourage, prompt ideas, ask questions and maintain a feeling of safety.

Those who include riding in their sessions have the added benefit of developing balance, improved muscle tone, coordination, increased core strength, focus and controlled breathing. All this and more, as well as the personal skills