FLOODED: State Emergency Service members near Riverside Recreation Reserve during a flood two years ago. Picture: PAUL CARRACHER
RIVERSIDE Recreation Reserve in Horsham will open again on Friday after being severely damaged by floods two years ago.
Reserve management committee secretary Angela Montgomery said four equestrian groups used the reserve - Horsham Pony Club, Wimmera Equestrian Club, Horsham and District Equestrian Sports Club and Horsham Centre for Riding for the Disabled.
Mrs Montgomery said floods had caused major damage to equipment and clubrooms.
All four clubs had operated with limited resources while repairs were under way.
"Water about five inches deep went across the floor of the clubrooms and as a result the floor became very warped," she said.
"The stumps holding the building dropped in places, rendering it unsafe for use. All couches, chairs, cupboards, fridges, hot water service, oven and general contents were damaged beyond use."
She said the fenced sand riding arena completely washed away and most of the outdoor equipment was damaged.
"Water got into our shipping containers where we stored equipment and damaged the contents," she said.
"Riding for the Disabled lost most of their equipment and the kitchen when the sewage system flooded."
Many riders were vulnerable or with low immune systems, so everything was replaced.
The Department of Sustainability and Environment, Rural Finance, the Commonwealth Bank and community members donated money for rebuilding.
Mrs Montgomery said the hall, sand dressage area, all roads, fencing, picnic tables and carparking were also replaced.
"The surface of the indoor arena was repaired," she said.
Member for Western Victoria David O'Brien will officially re-open Riverside Recreation Reserve on Friday.
"We will be celebrating the rebuilding of the reserve," Mrs Montgomery said.
The opening will be at 7.30pm and the committee has sent invitations to guests.