Mrs Rodgers said almost 21 years ago a group of Gurley residents, herself included, started their own pony club for the local children.

“When my children were very little we founded the Gurley Pony Club. It was quite small back then and we’ve grown a bit since,” she said.

Twenty one years later and Mrs Rodgers is still a backbone to the club, organising their annual pony camp, ribbon days, regularly instructing children and undertaking many other behind the scenes tasks.

“We have about 24 members who compete in pony camp we do flat riding, sports, jumping, dressage and a range of other horse sports.

“All of the children who participate grow their knowledge.

“They also get to show off the skills they have learned and create a bond with other kids,” she said.

Mrs Rodgers highlighted the two-day workshop held at Gurley Pony Club earlier this year through NSW Pony Club Association (PCA), where an experienced instructor spoke on a range of topics.

“It was very successful and everyone got a lot out of it, parents and riders.”

She said horsemanship showed by younger riders was payment enough for her volunteering.

“We, like a lot of pony club’s out in the bush, cater for kids who ride around on their properties, some who have barely ridden before and then the more experienced riders who take it very seriously and compete at national level,” she said.

Mrs Rodgers thanked the PCA for acknowledging volunteers.

“I feel very privileged to receive this award but there are a lot of other volunteers out there just as deserving.

“We are all volunteering for the love of it and without volunteers pony club would simply not run so thanks to all the volunteers out there,” she said.

Lee Traynor passed on her congratulations to Mrs Rodgers. 

“Rita is a wonderful asset to the Gurley Pony Club and it's lovely to see her hard work and dedication recognised.”