As a recently opened, family-run 10-acre farm in Deception Bay that is open to the public and exists as another arm in a suite of National Disability Insurance Support (NDIS) services, Urban Buddy Farm is a testament to the transformative powers of animal therapy.
“To lean on a gate at dusk, to feel a soft muzzle in an open palm, to remember what a quiet afternoon feels like” – Urban Buddy Farm allows visitors to be near animals such as cows, horses, miniature goats, pigs, chickens and others.
According to Helen Paddon, co-owner of Urban Buddy Farm, the initial concept was to create a place where people could slow down, reconnect with nature and experience genuine country life without travelling hours from Brisbane.
“We wanted to build a place that wasn’t just another petting zoo, but somewhere people of all ages and abilities could have meaningful experiences with animals, learn new skills and create lasting memories,” Helen said.
Although building a visitor-ready farm was a huge undertaking, according to Helen, today Urban Buddy Farm has become a destination where families, schools, disability groups and the wider community can come together, experience farm life and enjoy genuine connection.
Animal Therapy Creates Meaningful Connections
“Animals have a wonderful ability to help people feel safe, present and connected, which is why they can be such an effective part of supporting mental health and overall well-being,” Helen said.
Helen said they had witnessed children who were normally very quiet begin talking while interacting with animals and watched anxious visitors become noticeably calmer after spending time grooming a horse or cuddling a baby goat.
“Every animal on the farm has their own personality, for example, Mumma and Hamish, our highland cows, have become local celebrities and are incredibly gentle,” she said.
According to Helen, because the team also operates Urban Buddy, a pre-existing disability support service, the team has firsthand understanding of how to safely support participants in engaging with animals and nature, including those living with disabilities.
For more information, bookings and upcoming farm experiences, visit Urban Buddy or find ‘URBAN BUDDY’ on Facebook.
Urban Buddy Farm
- Monday to Friday, 9am-3pm (weekends by appointment)
- Urban Buddy Farm
- 165 Bancroft Terrace, Deception Bay
- Learn more
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