Out of 450 nominations, Mrs Laing’s dedication and commitment to the Riding for the Disabled Association was recognised by the 2009 NRMA Helping People awards, winning the seniors category. Wanting to share her love of horses, Mrs Laing helped establish the Raymond Terrace and Lower Hunter Riding for the Disabled Association 30 years ago.

The association is a volunteer organisation offering the physically, intellectually and emotionally disabled a chance to enjoy a range of horse and pony riding activities.

In an awards ceremony on Thursday, NRMA motoring and services president Wendy Machin spoke of the value of people like Mrs Laing who freely give their time to the community.

“Rosemary’s persistence, hard work and inspired vision have allowed the centre to develop from a bare paddock into a multimillion dollar complex, serving 120 riders with more than 110 volunteer staff.”

Mrs Laing’s work includes coaching, organising many competitions, funding days, training days and carriage driving days.

“As far as I’m concerned you make a lot of good friends, and it’s enjoyable. I’ve always been around horses and I’m just happy to be able to pass on the experience,” Mrs Laing said.

Part of the award includes a $5000 donation to the Raymond Terrace Lower Hunter region association to further develop and expand the service, which Mrs Laing says will be gladly received.

“It’s quite an expensive business and there are always projects on the go,” she said.

Currently operating carriage driving, Mrs Laing is looking for a new harness-broken pony, as the one she takes out now is due for retirement.

“If anyone knows of a suitable pony, please get in touch.”