Call to make an appointment 0490 404 490
Welcome to the herd
THE VISION + MISSION
Maxime and her team are unwavering in their dedication to deliver efficient and high quality therapeutic care and support for individuals of all age groups, genders and ethnicities. We would like to support people with feeling connected to and confident within themselves, to serve the community for the better and to educate us all into the ever expanding field of Equine Assisted Learning & Therapy.
MAXIME WILLEMS
Maxime Willems, of Belgian origins, trained in Europe in dressage and completed two Master degrees. Upon her move to Australia she furthered her studies at the esteemed Equine Psychotherapy Institute in New South Wales and became a registered Counsellor. As an accomplished professional, with a rich background in Sociology, Education, Counselling, Gestalt Therapy, Yoga and Horsemanship, Maxime and her team bring a fresh perspective to Equine Assisted Learning, Equine Assisted Therapy & Equine Wellbeing Experiences that transcend traditional methods and are committed to personal as well as professional growth.
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Maxime's training, enriched by a blend of personal insight and professional expertise, endows her with a remarkable capacity to craft transformative experiences that deeply resonate and foster personal growth. With extensive experience spanning diverse age groups—from early childhood to retirement-age participants—she excels in inspiring, motivating, and supporting clients grappling with a range of challenges.
THE TEAM
STEVEY ARENA
MANAGING DIRECTOR AT SUGAR BEACH RANCH
COLLABORATOR & PARTNER
CLEMMIE WOTHERSPOON
PSYCHOLOGIST, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST REGISTRAR
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CO-FACILITATOR FOR
TEAM WELLBEING PROGRAMS & SWEET RETREATS
ROBYN SAURINE
SOUND BOWL HEALING, ASTROLOGY & HOLISTIC COACHING
CO-FACILITATOR ON SWEET RETREATS
TARA SHEILS
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
THE FACILITY
All sessions take place at Sugar Beach Ranch
Nestled just a 20-minute drive to the south of Ballina, Sugar Beach Ranch offers a complete wellbeing experience. This pristine horse ranch spans across 60 acres of untouched coastal beauty, featuring expansive white sandy beaches as far as the eye can see. The ranch also plays host to a diverse array of wildlife and farm animals, providing a serene backdrop and valuable companions for wellbeing experiences to take place.
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The team, comprised of highly skilled practitioners and experienced horse trainers, brings a wealth of industry expertise. Working in harmony, they are dedicated to ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and fostering personal and professional development. In collaboration with MWTT, Sugar Beach Ranch is committed to creating a secure and nurturing environment that caters to individuals from all walks of life, promoting their well-being and growth.
THE HORSES
LUCIO
Lucio means "the one who brings light" which very much describes how many people feel after they meet him. He is the youngest of the group and carries a very playful and curious energy.
OAKLEY
Oakley is the sweetest boy. He loves going off for long walks in the paddock seeking peace and quiet away from the herd. He is the perfect advocate for youngsters and adult first timers around horses. He offers a safe space allowing anyone hesitant to embrace his calming energy.
MOROCCO
Morocco could be seen as the boss mare of the group. She fills the role of overseer and creates movement when things are just a bit too still for her liking. She oozes confidence and likes everything to be on her terms, whether thats attention from us or her herd.
Rosco
Rosco was an untouched stallion until he was 5yrs old. He was found very much underweight and now that all his needs are met, he is a thriving young adult man!
Bumble
Bumble is our little rescued Brumby. We met him through The Brumby Project and we fell in love straight away! Bumble is only two years old but is slowly building his confidence around a variety of people and personalities.
Sensitivo
It's in the name. Sensitivo was named literally on her debut ride with the Murphys as they found her to react to just about every emotion thrown her way. On the ground, she is the very same sensitive creature, reading, watching and reacting in her honest self. You can rely on her to be a mirror to our inner selves.
