OVER $30,000 was raised during the Mansfield Rideathon month of November, with every dollar contributing to Mansfield Autism's expansion toward a Centre of Excellence Therapeutic Care Farm in north east Victoria.

The funding is more than enough to fully furnish and fit out one of the 12 new 5 bedroom, accessible retreats, being built as part of Operation Gamechanger, that will be used for family camps, respite, farm stays and placement training accommodation.

Mansfield Rideathon had a number of elements with 'Saddle Up for Autism' raising almost $10,000 with 83 registered riders completing 3237 kilometres.

The High Country Movie Night with guest speaker Gerald Egan raised about $1000 and the High Country Ball and auction, attended by 140 dressed to 'impress with a twist of country', raised about $20,000.

Unfortunately, the inclement weather forced the cancellation of the Breakfast on the Lawn and the Honor Ride.

"The generosity of our riders, sponsors, volunteers and event participants was outstanding and we are very grateful for the support, particularly when we realise it is a tough time for many," said Chief Executive Ms Simone Reeves.

The Mansfield Rideathon encourages riders from anywhere in Australia to saddle up for autism in November and invite donations.

You can ride anytime, anywhere, on your own horse, a friend's or sign up with a trail ride operator.

Local woman Alex Hince topped the individual leaderboard for donations at $1820 followed by Narelle Davies, Mica Clarke, Ross Vinton and Lou Perrin.

On a team level, the Mansfield Autism Equine team took honours, followed by MADEC Marvels and Northern Trail Riders.

Hidden Trails by Horseback logged the most kilometres, followed by Northern Trail Riders.

Major sponsors of Manfield Rideathon included local businesses Maison Fireplaces, The Produce Store, Delatite Winery, The Kitchen Door, Hidden Trails by Horseback and Mansfield Floats and Trailers, however there were many more business and community contributors.

Ms Reeves explained that all of Mansfield Autism's services are subject to wait lists, so the expansion is critical to enable more autistic children and their families to get the support they need and off the wait list.

"We've been fortunate to receive state, federal and philanthropic support toward our vision that is fast becoming a reality, of a therapeutic care farm," Ms Reeves said.

"On top of the $16 million state and federal money already secured, Mansfield Autism is investing well over $10m into the farm expansion.

"Escalating costs of construction are continuing to add to the bottom line on our existing stages, so every dollar counts and fundraising is a critical part of our increasing contribution."

The incidence of autism is rising and affects up to one in 50 people.

The services Mansfield Autism has been providing for over 50 years, focus on the importance of family, exercise, healthy eating and early intervention.

The equine facilitated learning program will be a valuable component of the services out at the farm, working to build client confidence and reduce anxiety.