A Murraylands equine therapy centre that supports veterans and other community members is facing an uncertain future following a challenging year facing fire, health issues and financial constraits.
Lincoln Park Horse and Human Rehabilitation Centre, based at Frahns Farm in Monarto South, says rising fuel and feed costs and a downturn in the horse market have made ongoing operations increasingly difficult.
The organisation says it has been forced to significantly downsize, with a number of horses to be made available for adoption in the coming weeks.
The organisation began with a focus on supporting defence veterans through equine-assisted therapy, but later expanded its programs to include members of the wider community seeking therapeutic support through horse interaction.
It was named a finalist in the recent Murraylands Business Awards 2026 in the Best Community Organisation category.
The current challenges come almost a year after a major fire destroyed the centre’s main residence on Sunday 29 June 2025, causing an estimated $300,000 in damage.
No people or animals were injured in the blaze, but the owners lost personal belongings. The community rallied behind the organisation, with fundraising support helping it recover at the time.
Despite that support, the organisation says it is now struggling to remain financially sustainable.
“Ongoing financial pressure has made it increasingly difficult for us to continue operating,” President Sonya Little wrote on Facebook.
“We also know many of our supporters are facing similar challenges, which has made it harder for people to donate, sponsor, or attend clinics. We completely understand, but the situation means something has to change.”
Lincoln Park will continue operating in a reduced capacity while transitioning horses into adoption or project homes, with no beginner horses currently available.
The organisation says remaining horses will continue to be part of its therapy program where possible, but acknowledges the future of the centre is uncertain.
The situation has been further complicated by serious illness affecting Sonya, who posted this week that she had been hospitalised and bedridden.
“Words cannot express how this pain feels, it is the most extreme intense pain I’ve ever felt,” she said.
“We’ve had lots of horse enquiries and we will slowly get back to you all just please be patient.”
Follow the latest on the Lincoln Park Horse Therapy Centre Facebook page.
