Announcement Date:- Thursday, 15th June 2011
Release Date:- Immediate
More Information:- Sailability Bundaberg President – Gary Matherson – 4159 4017
SAILABILITY – WHILE NOT WIDELY KNOWN IS A
FANTASTIC SERVICE FOR THE DISABLED!
Bundaberg Chosen For Sailability Queensland State Convention
Friday 2nd to 4th September 2011
Announcing the decision to hold its Annual State Convention in Bundaberg, President of Sailability Queensland, John Hamaty was at pains to stress the importance of the organisation’s “magnificent army” of volunteers.
“Sailability offers real on the water sailing experiences for hundreds of disabled people across Australia every week.” John emphasises that the benefits are huge, “Apart from pure enjoyment and delight, sailing brings a new perspective to many of these peoples’ lives that is like nothing else they ever experience.” But to make it tick every week hundreds of volunteers throughout Queensland give of their time to provide this unique service to their less fortunate friends. “Our sailors,” John goes on, “and their ground support crews engage personally with Sailability clients in a sailing experience that not only leads to real health improvement, but it has in the past introduced eventual Disabled Special Olympics sailors to their first taste of the sport.”
Sailability Bundaberg has been active since 2005 enabling dozens of local disabled people to take advantage of the Sailability service each week. As with other Sailability branches across the globe, the sailing community and especially the Bundaberg Sailing Club have worked hand in hand to establish Sailability Bundaberg, and that support continues today.
The branch is now looking forward to hosting the Annual State Convention of Sailability Queensland at the Bundaberg Sailing Club from 2nd-4th September, kicking off with a Welcome Cocktail Evening at the Lighthouse Hotel. Apart from providing the venue for the Convention opening, the manager of the Lighthouse Hotel, Gavin Sales has opened his motel accommodation to Sailability delegates for the weekend. Gavin said, “We are delighted to be part of the Convention and to provide support for Sailability and the wonderful work it does.”
Meanwhile if you would like to join the friendly team of volunteers, please give Sailability Bundaberg President, Gary Matherson, a call on 4159 4017. Sailing takes place from 9am most Wednesdays and Thursdays during school terms. Gary tells us, “We are keen to recruit many more volunteers so the opportunities that Sailability provides can be extended to more children and adults in the Bundaberg area, who we can get out on to the water with just a little assistance. And no, you don’t have to be a sailor. We also have plenty of rewarding jobs onshore for landlubbers and many of our volunteers learn to sail with us!”
