Spur Program Volunteer
Whether you're a horse lover, a veteran yourself, or just someone who wants to do some good—you’re welcome at Spur Ranch.
Step into your boots and make a difference where it really counts. Why? Because when a veteran holds the reins, and a horse gently lowers its head in trust—something powerful happens. That’s the kind of magic you’ll be part of.
Key responsibilities
- Assist with routine equine tasks under the direction and supervision of staff. This may include… feeding horses, grooming, rugging, riding activities may be required by some volunteers.
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General maintenance tasks and duties i.e., fencing repairs, weeding, dragging arena, site maintenance.
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Assist staff with set up of events and site visitations.
- Set up and clean-up of morning tea and lunches on course days.
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Book in via the booking system 12 hours prior to volunteering. Volunteers’ safety is our utmost priority and booking is essential to ensure we maintain the safety and wellbeing of all our staff, volunteers and animals. Volunteers will be turned away if they have not booked in.
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Attend the sites as agreed with staff 9am – 1pm and communicate absence.
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Maintain confidentiality at all times.
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Follow direction and advice of staff members.
- Volunteers are expected to abide by the Volunteer Code of Conduct, follow RSL LifeCare Policies and Procedures at all times and attend the training sessions as required.
- Communicate with RSL LifeCare staff to discuss volunteering visits and report any issues, concerns, accidents and near misses to the Program Manager immediately.
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Volunteers are expected to abide by the Volunteer Code of Conduct, follow RSL LifeCare Policies and Procedures at all times and attend the training sessions as required.
- Personal qualities & skills
- Ability to follow direction from staff at all times.
- Ability to work independently and as a team.
- Ability to safely handle horses on the ground and follow Spur procedures.
- Maintain physical health and fitness for undertaking physical tasks and heavy lifting.
- Must be emotionally stable to ensure safe working in an equine environment and with vulnerable people. We recognize that many volunteers may have their own experiences with trauma or mental health, and we deeply value those perspectives. However, if you are currently in a vulnerable emotional state or feel that you may be triggered when working with veterans, we encourage you to prioritize your well-being and consider applying when you feel more prepared
- Be reliable, flexible and committed
- Ability to make personal connections with people regardless of cultural backgrounds, beliefs and denominations.
- Alignment with RSL LifeCare values and willingness to follow policies and procedures
Benefits
- Access to RSL LifeCare Employee Assistance Program
- You will be an integral part of the team and have an opportunity to attend various events and team activities.
- Gain valuable skills, experience and access various online and in-person trainings
- Be a valuable member of our team and have the opportunity to be part of RSL LifeCare Volunteer Panel
- Ongoing support throughout your volunteer journey
Time
- Minimum commitment of one day a week from 9am – 1pm.
- Regular attendance is essential for smooth running of the Program and to ensure everyone is aware of their health and safety responsibilities. The horses thrive on routine, and so does our team. Missed volunteer shifts have a great impact on the running of the Program and put extra pressure on others which can impact on the animals we care for.
- Volunteers who have not attended the Spur Ranch for 3 months without prior communication will be removed from the volunteer register. We know life gets busy and unexpected things can happen, and we’re happy to work with you—just keep us in the loop.
