Grace, who is a quad-amputee, has been riding at the Wagga RDA centre for more than four years, starting her riding career in a support saddle with a leader and two side-walkers.

In the last year, instructors have said Grace has shown stunning improvement in her riding which is due to her determination to become as independent as possible.

"Grace exhibits quiet determination in her riding, doing her best at all times to be independent, although she will ask for and accept help if she needs it," RDA instructor Michelle Eastwood said.

"This determination in 2008 saw Grace move from a support saddle to a regular stock saddle and also moving on to loop reins in order to allow her to independently apply rein aids to her pony."

Michelle said these aids, along with hard work increasing muscle tone and balance have seen Grace reduce her helper number from three people to one.

"Grace is a truly remarkable girl and an inspiration to all who work with her," Michelle said.

Not only has Wagga RDA rider Grace Willis taken out one of the RDA's most prestigious awards but so has one of its volunteers.

Tom Murdoch was awarded the RDA NSW's Young Volunteer of the Year after years of service.

Grace Willis, 12, and Tom Murdoch, 17, are presented with their trophies by RDA NSW chair Fiona Little (left) and RDA Wagga president Bev Amery (right) as Blossom the horse looks on. Picture: Les Smith