An international not for profit program which provides the opportunity for people with disabilities to enjoy life on the water set sail at Lake Weeroona.
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Sailability was held in Bendigo with the assistance of Sports Focus and volunteers from Cairn Curran Sailing Club, Bendigo Yacht Club and Bendigo Bank.
Sports Focus project coordinator Jasmine Noske said it was an activity which helped people experience sailing in a safe environment.
“It’s great to be able to give people with disabilities the opportunity to experience sailing, something they may not usually have the chance to do,” Miss Noske said.
“All of our participants have loved the experience of getting out on the water.”
The participants were supervised by experienced volunteers, and were able to sail around the lake for 30 minutes.
Volunteer and participant Sam Thompson relished the opportunity to get out onto the water, something he hadn’t done in a few years.
“It’s an unbelievable opportunity, “ Mr Thompson said.
The feeling of being out on the water was something which he said made him feel “motivated” and he can’t wait to do it again.
Cairn Curran Sailing Club chair Mark Teasdale said Sailability required a raft of volunteers who helped operate the program.
“It’s a really fantastic opportunity for them,” Mr Teasdale said.
Mr Teasdale said participants were able to build on their experience at a basic level and then progress to competing at a professional level.
A journey which he has seen before through his involvement with a Paralympic sailing squad.
Anyone interested in being involved as a participant or volunteer can call Sports Focus on 5442 3101.
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