ANNA Bay charity Hunter Horse Haven has plenty of reasons for hosting a special Golf Day next Monday, 27 October at Nelson Bay Golf Club.
Established since 2018, the registered charity offers a lifeline for abused, neglected and abandoned horses but it is still reeling from the recent rain and flooding that left a trail of destruction at its Port Stephens base.
The floods presented a multifaceted crisis for Hunter Horse Haven.
Firstly, the logistics of an animal rescue during a flood are staggering.
When the waters rose, volunteers were forced to wade through dangerous, contaminated floodwaters, to hand feed their rescued horses and move them to higher ground.
This was a “do-or-die” situation, fraught with peril for both the people and the animals.
Many of the horses in their care are already in a delicate state of health, making them even more susceptible to the effects of prolonged exposure to cold, wet conditions.
The charity’s land, once lush pasture, was left inundated – ruining feed and damaging infrastructure.
Horses exposed to floodwaters face a myriad of serious health risks, including hoof and skin infections, respiratory problems, and illnesses from contaminated water and food.
The need for veterinary care, farrier services, and a steady supply of high-quality feed has never been more urgent.
Hunter Horse Haven president Stephanie Dale told News Of The Area that every dollar raised at the Charity Golf Day goes directly towards meeting these critical needs.
“The money will help purchase clean, dry feed and medications,” she said.
“It will fund essential veterinary check-ups and treatments for horses suffering from physical and mental trauma, and allow the charity to repair and rebuild the fences, paddock entrances and shelters that were damaged.
“Most importantly, it will ensure that Hunter Horse Haven can continue its vital work of rescuing and rehabilitating horses in need, a mission that has only grown more significant in the wake of the recent weather patterns.”
The two ball ambrose golf event offers nearest the pin, hole in one and two person scratch prizes on the day, as well as auction and raffle prizes.
For details and to register to play, go to hunterhorsehaven.com.au/golf_day.
By Chris KARAS
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