ABOUT US
Wyee Equine Learning and Lifeskills (WELL) is an equine assisted learning (EAL) centre in Wyee on the NSW Central Coast, between Sydney and Newcastle.
WELL is run by founder and experienced EAL facilitator, Tara Reid.
Vision
To deliver quality equine assisted services that will positively impact the people of Wyee and surrounds.
Mission
To be a trusted provider, bringing high quality EAL programs to Wyee and surrounds to build a community with resilience, kindness and connection to nature.
Philosophy
We believe people’s wellbeing is enhanced by connections to animals and nature. We strive to bring people and animals closer together in a kind, caring, joyful, and mutually-beneficial way.
values
Respectful
We are respectful and caring in our words and actions towards humans, horses, other animals and the natural environment.
Dependable
We act with integrity and fulfill our commitments.
Empathic
We are sensitive to the thoughts, feelings, beliefs, needs, and experiences of others, and adapt accordingly.
Connective
We connect animals, people and the natural world. We also bring people out of the cyber world and into the natural world.
Inclusive
We value and welcome all people in our community, no matter what their background, abilities or preferences.
Fun loving
We believe that learning happens best in a relaxed and fun environment.
meet the team
Tara Reid
Tara is the founder and lead facilitator at WELL. After over 20 years experience as a corporate leader, board director and social entrepreneur, a career change 10 years ago enabled Tara to fully embrace her desire to see communities thrive by fostering a connection with horses. A trained EAL facilitator, Tara’s flexibility, patience and ability to work with “children and animals” makes WELL a special place to be.
Leonie Keegan
Leonie is a trained counsellor, specialising in equine assisted psychotherapy and has been working with Tara as a co-facilitator of children's programs for two years. Leonie’s love for children, patient nature and innate creativity combined with her prior experience as a Teacher’s Aide to bring fun and joy to sessions.
Jasper
Jasper is the leader of our herd and brings 22 years of experience as a horse to the team at WELL. He is a grey part Arab who is wise, calm and happy to please, but he’s no pushover and helps teach kids in every way he can.
Chaska (Chaz)
Chaz is our exotic comedian. A 12 year old stock-horse cross with a beautiful Appaloosa coat, his sensitive nature and sense of humour make him a hit with clients
Rocky
Rocky is the pony that brings an independent spirit to the herd. He is a 16 year old Palouse pony who loves to be free. He’s no youngster himself, but children are definitely his favourite type of people.
Aragon
Aragon is our newest herd member. He is a 16 year old Haflinger who has a gentle nature and love for people. A true gentlemen, Aragon is a winner with everyone he meets!
Phoenix
Phoenix is a 25 year old thoroughbred with a hearf of gold. Along with his age comes years of experience helping people of all ages and abilities gain confidence in both their horsemanship skills and self-awareness.
Mia
Mia is a 3 yo greyhound who is currently in training to be a Delta Good Citizen. She is a delight and brings her enthusiasm to work with clients. Mia can work independently with clients or as a team with Scout.
Scout
Scout is a 3 year old Maltese Shih Tzu but thinks he's a greyhound. His delightful nature and cheeky attitude help bring joy into people's lives. Scout can work independently with clients or as a team with Mia.
what is EAL
Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) connects people, animals, and nature through learning activities, observation, and understanding of horse behaviour. EAL uses specially trained Equine Facilitators and interactions with horses as partners to help those who are looking to develop life skills in an experiential learning environment. This leads to greater resilience, improved social skills and emotional growth. Most EAL activities are undertaken from the ground and no riding skills are needed.
EAL is suited to children, youth and adults who would benefit from an outdoor, experiential learning environment.
history
Tara’s passion for horses was revealed at a very early age when she was first exposed to the stock horses at a Hereford cattle stud in the magnificent Victorian High Country as a toddler. Throughout her childhood, whenever Tara went missing, she was easy to find. She was wherever the horses were! At 14, Tara was blessed with her first horse, Fleur and the profound love for horses was cemented forever.
But Tara is also a person who is passionate about bringing positive change into other people’s lives, as demonstrated by her 20 year history with not-for-profits and community service organisations. She currently serves on the board of Wesley Mission and Chairs the board of Baptist World Aid. Tara is a business professional and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
