OUR STORY
If you’re looking for a place to be seen, heard, and valued - you’ve found it!
Hi, I’m Mel
Pynmanto was born from lived experience. Founder, Mel, knows what it feels like to be missed, misunderstood, or reduced to a label.
“Through my own healing journey with horses, I discovered the power of consent, presence, and connection and I’m privileged to bring these learnings to every client here at Pynmanto.”
What’s the story behind the name? Glad you asked. The word Pyn-man-to was created from the names of 3 horses that have left hoofprints on my heart, Pippyn, Comanche, and Toa. Pippyn, my first horse, started me on this path, Comanche, my amazing, big, strong and kind boy and Toa (now Oracle) who came to me as a young foal.
At Pynmanto, animals are not props or tools. They are sentient partners who reflect authenticity, boundaries, and emotion in real time. Our work is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a safe, non-judgemental space to explore, grow, and reconnect with themselves and the natural world.
And I can’t wait to welcome you and introduce you to our sensational animals.
Townsville Chamber of Commerce Social Responsibility 2024 & Australian Ladies in Business Initiative Personal Service of the Year 2025.
OUR MISSION
To turn disconnection into connection, guiding people to feel seen, heard, and authentically themselves through horses, nature, and compassionate facilitation.
OUR VISION
A world where everyone, regardless of history or label, has access to safe, consent-centred, and transformative experiences that reconnect them with themselves, animals, and the natural world.
OUR VALUES
Every session respects autonomy — humans, animals, and nature co-create the experience. No one is coerced; boundaries are sacred.
CONSENT AND CHOICE
Learning is playful and exploratory; mistakes are welcomed as opportunities.
PLAY AND CURIOSITY
Being real is the first step to healing. We honour your whole self (labels, history, quirks and all!).
AUTHENTICITY
The heart of learning and growth is connection — with self, animals, nature, and community.
CONNECTION
EMPOWERMENT THROUGH PRESENCE
Growth isn’t forced. It comes from being fully present, slowing down, and noticing what is.
We act with honesty, kindness, and professionalism at all times, modelling trust and respect.
INTEGRITY AND COMPASSION
RATIONAL SAFETY
We prioritise emotional and physical safety over outcomes. Clients can show up, unmask, and trust the process.
MEET OUR ANIMALS
COMANCHE
Comanche is the steady heartbeat of the herd — a wise old soul who reads humans like an open book. He carries the kind of grounding presence that instantly settles anyone who stands beside him. Sensitive yet confident, Comanche helps participants connect with their own inner strength. He has zero interest in drama, a deep appreciation for a good wither scratch, and a knack for teaching people how to breathe again.
ORACLE
Oracle chose his own name after making it clear he’s a storyteller with a talent for changing lives. He’s expressive, opinionated, and not shy about challenging unclear boundaries — all part of his gift for helping people grow. Playful and occasionally mischievous, Oracle guides with honesty and intuition, revealing the truths participants most need to see.
PEACHES
Peaches is the herd’s quiet sweetheart — soft, sincere, and wonderfully genuine. After years of finding her confidence, she’s learning to step into her truth and ask for what she needs (usually a very enthusiastic bum scratch). Her gentle nature makes her a natural at building trust. She doesn’t rush or push; instead, she reminds people that small steps matter and kindness paired with patience can lead to beautiful breakthroughs.
LARA
Lara is a locally bred beauty with a kind, quiet presence, and a naturally curious spirit. She’s known for her unique markings and those unforgettable blue eyes that catch everyone’s attention. Lara loves engaging with people and is always happy to be brushed and loved on — just leave her long mane alone. That’s her crown, and she intends to keep it flawless.
PASCAL
Pascal is our mini labradoodle and therapy dog, bringing equal parts heart and hilarity to the team. Cheeky, playful, and always up for a game or a good toy chase, she keeps everyone smiling while learning the art of calm connection. Beneath the mischief is a devoted cuddle-lover who’s quickly mastering the skill of offering comfort right when it’s needed most.