THE FIRST Mane Matters gymkhana raised cash and confidence to help young people overcome life's hurdles.

After a serious fall put an end to Erin Wilson's riding career, the chaplain put her passion for horses into giving back to the community.

Five years ago she founded Mane Matters, a horsemanship program aimed at helping at-risk youth overcome difficulties and build confidence through horse riding.

Ms Wilson said the gymkhana at Allora Showgrounds on Saturday had good attendance for the organisation's first event.

"We've had a reasonable turn-out today but more importantly everyone is having fun," she said.

"We raised $1300 so for a small turn-out it was quite good.

"I come from a professional background with horses and I had done some work for a Christian camp and seen the benefit, almost transformative effect, of working with horses for at-risk youth.

"There are quite a few RDA (Riding for the Disabled) courses but I wanted to make a more tailored program about body language and communication."

Ms Wilson said the most important aspect of Mane Matters events was creating an inclusive and accepting environment for all riders and volunteers.

"At-risk can mean anything from kids who are disengaging from school, have mental health issues or any range of things," she said.

"One of youngest riders Jackson (Alexander) has cerebral palsy and our volunteer Tyson (Kunde) has Asperger's and we're helping him to get into the rural industry.

"I think a lot of people can start off with a lack of confidence so this is all about overcoming fears and anxieties to realise what they can accomplish so it's very empowering for them.

"It's just lovely to be working in an environment where everyone's accepted and it really helps everyone to gain confidence."

Volunteer Jason Skinner said it was good to even have a handful of riders taking advantage of great weather and a relaxed atmosphere at the first event.

He said organisers had worked hard to secure prizes, including service with stallion Puff n Stuff worth $1500 from Rocket Ranch at Texas.

"It's been marketed as a family fun day so it's a really good outing without any pressure," Mr Skinner said.

"It's been a good chance for young horses and beginner riders to practise so we would have loved to have seen more people today."

Despite fewer riders than expected, Ms Wilson said the day was an overall success for those who attended.

"I want to thank all the sponsors for their amazing support of us," she said.

"This is the first event for Mane Matters but I have no doubt there'll be more from us in future."