Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead presented the club with the $12,000 through the Community Building Partnership Program, which will help build an on-site amenities toilet and shower block on Oxley Island Pony Club grounds and giving members, competitors and their parent's confidence to participate and compete at club events.

The donation was gladly accepted by president Ann-maree Swanson, chief instructor Sharon Sowter and instructor John Wilkinson.

The cost of the project is estimated to be in excess of $20,000 so the club is now seeking assistance from local businesses and tradesmen to help reduce the final costs of the project.

They offer a rewarding experience meeting the members of the club as well as advertising through their newsletters and at their events.

Reece Plumbing Forster has kindly offered their services and the club hopes more businesses can help in any way for the completion of this important project.

The club's long-term goal is to provide the best pony club facilities in the Manning and to hold regular regional events, camps and clinics and hopefully draw in more local families.

Oxley Island Pony Club has operated in the Old Bar region for more than 30 years and has many long term members.

In recent years, new members with drive and enthusiasm have endeavoured to make long term improvements to ensure the club remains inclusive and accessible.

The club continues to expand its media use with a growing Facebook page and a monthly newsletter.

In Old Bar there are very few opportunities for young horse riders and young adults with disabilities to get together, learn to ride safely and enjoy the friendship and citizenship activities associated with being in a pony club.

Oxley Island Pony Club provides these benefits in a nurturing and inclusive non-judgmental environment.

The latest Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows a continuing population growth in Old Bar for 0-17 year's children and their parents. This demographic is eligible to join pony club.

Oxley Island Pony Club will continue to have an increase in members and they work with members from the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) and members from other local pony clubs who use Oxley Island Pony Club grounds for training purposes and experience.

It has been more than 15 years since the pony club has received government funding.

The club has instead worked hard to raise enough funds to purchase and build a new shed for a future canteen with an open patio.

Membership has grown every year which has increased the demand for better toilet and hygiene facilities.

Oxley Island Pony Club has hosted a few grading events which encourages riders from as far north as Corindi to come and ride on their grounds and they hope to hold many more events in the coming years especially if they have grounds that are attractive and catering.

The club acknowledges the valuable assistance of Carole Isaacs in the project.

For inquiries, contact Carole on 0400 021 410.