Robyn Reed is the Principal Practitioner at Horse Talk Australia. She established her practice in 2024 at ‘Riverleigh’, her property located near Violet Town in Victoria’s north east.
About Robyn Reed
Robyn served with Victoria Police for 30 years where she rose to the rank of Sergeant. Her motivation throughout her career has been marked by unwavering dedication to supporting and helping others, and providing an excellent standard of service.
Robyn is a strong advocate. She elected to serve as a first responder on the frontline where she felt her skills and attributes were best placed to ensure that people, and the community, received the right support for their needs.
I understand firsthand the difficulties associated with family violence, domestic abuse, witnessing and being involved in critical incidents, and the often devastating, life-changing flow-on effects for all the people involved.” ~ Robyn Reed
She moved to Victoria’s northeast in 1997, and learnt to navigate the challenges of balancing shift work, with her commitment to being a mum raising her four children, all while maintaining her lifestyle property with her horses.
My understanding extends beyond the professional realm, encompassing the intricate dynamics of relationships with partners, children, extended family, friends, and colleagues as we navigate through organisational expectations, community obligations and family commitments.” ~ Robyn Reed
Robyn’s passion for horses ignited years ago as a child during a stay in an Austrian village with a riding school. This connection with horses has flourished since then, encompassing ownership, breeding, training, and amateur-level competition, particularly Dressage, over the past 35 years.
Now an empty nester (well nearly, one to go), divorcee and forced into early retirement due to a work injury, Robyn is now embarking on a new future with horses.
“I have experienced firsthand the challenges, stress, anxiety, and physical and emotional impact that comes with a career in emergency services and this brings a unique perspective to my practice. ” ~ Robyn Reed
Robyn’s Qualifications
Robyn pursued an Advanced Diploma in Applied Science (Horse Management) at the University of Melbourne, graduating in 2004.
During her convalescence following her work injury, Robyn began studying for the Diploma of Counselling at the Australian College of Care Leadership and Management (ACCLM) in 2023 and graduated in 2024.
She then undertook further specialised studies at the Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Institute in 2024 to become a qualified Equine Assisted Practitioner. Robyn’s passion for horses and commitment to helping others now comes together and has become the focus of her practice.
About Riverleigh
Purchased in 2020, Riverleigh was like a blank canvas. A home was built, fences & shed installed, trees planted and a garden established – all to create the beginning of a serene and inviting place where the horses can live as naturally as possible, enjoy their herd environment, with access to a creek flanked by old red gums and plenty of room to run freely and a quiet place to for family, friends and clients to recharge and relax.