There is no shortage of research demonstrating the value of animals in supporting people in a whole variety of ways. Dean Mighell set up ‘Path of the Horse’ in 2016 to provide equine therapy specifically to support the veteran community. A group of V Centre veterans recently visited for a wellbeing camp.

Day 1

Day 1 kicked off with a warm welcome from veteran and Path of the Horse founder Dean, who introduced the group to the horses.

Next, it was off to Blackwood for some Forest Therapy with Greg Cassidy from Return 2 Nature.

This was a relaxed and grounding walk – earthing, connecting with the trees, and finishing up with bush tea in the ‘sit spot’, where Lemon Myrtle was a clear favourite.

Back at Path of the Horse, everyone had lunch, followed by a group equine therapy session with Dean.

The horses didn’t take long to settle any nerves, and there were some really special moments throughout.

The group came together afterwards to share reflections. “We’re grateful to Dean for opening up about his own journey post-service,” said one of the participants.

The day finished around the campfire with plenty of good conversation before turning in for the night and sleeping under the stars in swags.

Day 2

Day 2 brought some glorious weather! Bacon and eggs set the team up for the day before easing into a morning yoga session with Cazz from Frontline Yoga Inc.

From there, it was time to head back out with the horses, taking in the spectacular landscape and enjoying more quiet moments of connection.

Our thanks to Dean and his team for their support throughout the camp.