SAILING –
Sailability Gosford will return to Brisbane Water in January after COVID-19 restrictions and lockdown put a pause to regular sailing sessions.
President Randel La borde is encouraging disabled residents to give the sport a go.
“There are so many pleasures and benefits involved with sailing” he said.
“Participants will increase their confidence, develop valuable skills, make new friends, feel the warmth of the sun and the thrill of the water and become knowledgeable of the changing conditions on the water.”
Treasurer Jeremy Cooper said many participants are denied an opportunity to be in control of a vehicle or other mode of transportation in their daily lives.
“While out on the water and in command of a sailing boat, sailors gain a sense of autonomy and independence,” he said.
Member for Gosford Liesl Tesch welcomed the return of the sport.
“Sailability is a terrific organisation that gives residents, young and old, living with physical or intellectual disabilities, a taste of what it’s like on the water,” Tesch said.
“The very first Sailability started right here on the Central Coast, in Gosford, in 1995 and it’s so pleasing to see this legacy continue.”
Participants will be coupled with an experienced partner, who will ensure maximum safety and that participants are seated during the whole experience.
Sailability uses two-person sailboats which are steered with a joystick, using sails controlled by accessible lines.
Sailability Gosford is run out of Gosford Sailing Club and is an inclusive and safe space.
For more information about getting involved visit www.sailabilitygosford.org or email info@sailabilitygosford.org
Terry Collins