Spinosa of Hoddle is an equine facility in South Gippsland near to Fish Creek. The proprietor, Larissa Judd moved to South Gippsland back in 2006 and after a family tragedy shortly after arriving here Larissa determined to work on her passions of working with horses and education. She designed and built the undercover arena area in 2012. This is not a tin shed but a top of the line engineered structure that keeps all of South Gippsland’s “nasty” weather from affecting a day’s activities.

Larissa grew up with horses and since a young age they have offered her strength and support throughout the highs and lows of life. She recently made a career change to pursue her passion of working with horses full time. Together with her Bachelor of Education qualification she is a recipient of the School of Counselling Nora Hupert Scholarship and last year she gained a qualification of a Diploma in Counselling. 

Large 20 x 60 undercover arena
Tyson

Larissa is now able to offer in room counselling and psychotherapy together with Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Larissa offers Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) with a particular focus on Grief Support, Family Counselling, Youth Support & Personal Growth. At the basis of a good relationship with any horse is trust and respect.  Horsemanship combined with Equine Assisted Learning develops confidence and awareness for the young person.

Larissa says that together with all the benefits of Equine Assisted Learning and Psychotherapy, working with horses can build confidence, improve self-esteem, and raise self-awareness. EAL Sessions are a great way to help your child be the best ‘me’ they can be. Through raised awareness children and young adults can learn self-regulation. As every child is different, a process of selecting their equine partner and getting to know their needs can take several sessions. Spinosa of Hoddle offer a 6 session Horse Wisdom program as a starter with ongoing sessions optional.

Spinosa of Hoddle offers short term agistment so you can bring your hooved friend with you next time you go on holidays, attend a clinic, or want to access their facilities for an extended period. All facilities are available for day hire or short term agistment and are perfect for lessons, camps, clinics, family holidays and more.  Ongoing or longer agistment by negotiation.

Facilities include:

* Stables x 2
* Undercover Yards x 11
* Day Paddocks x 6
* 60 x 20 Covered Arena with Lighting
* 16m Round yard
* Group Space – including lounge, dining, and cooking facilities
* Accommodation

With the close of businesses due to covid19 Larissa has had to put her plans on hold like so many other businesses during these difficult times. Now that things are opening up again, Larissa is making those tentative steps towards re-starting her business.

Many things have changed due to covid19 and many businesses will likely find their cost structures have changed. Insurance costs have gone up for Larissa and like other businesses, reopening will not necessarily be as easy as flicking a switch. Larissa has determination to succeed and the facilities to offer a wide program of equine activities in her superbly setup establishment. Larissa can be contacted via her website cealwgippsland.com.au