There’s no denying 4017 is all about the seaside lifestyle, and one local, volunteer-run organisation is working hard to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it.
Pete Kearney, President of Sailability Shorncliffe, explained that the not-for-profit organisation provides safe and unique on-the-water experiences for people who are disabled or disadvantaged.
“Each Monday morning we take our clients and their carers for a sail in a dinghy, or a ride on our pontoon boat in Cabbage Tree Creek,” he said. “We provide freedom on the water regardless of ability.
“We survive due to the generosity of our supporters, be it grants, cash donors, or businesses that provide free products. It costs us a significant amount of money to operate each year, and it is always a challenge to stay ahead of the game financially.”
Pete said that while ongoing fundraising is necessary to cover essential expenses such as first aid training and life jacket maintenance, the club also has a few loftier, long-range goals.
Fundraising Goals and Community Support Opportunities
“We are looking at providing power to our shed and a possible shed extension – those would be our biggest goals long term,” he said. “However, in the short term, we want to be able to increase the number of clients that we can provide an ‘on-water experience’ for.”
With hopes of raising between $10,000 and $15,000 over the next 12 months, Pete said there were several ways locals could help.
“People can make a tax-deductible donation, or they can donate their empty bottles and cans to a Containers For Change depot using our account number,” he said. “They can also use their skills to contribute by becoming a volunteer.
“We have about 65 registered volunteers, with an average of 40 turning up each week to facilitate operations. No sailing experience is needed as there are many other functions that they can assist us with, but if they would like to sail, we have a ‘Sail Safe’ training program.”
As a club volunteer for the past 10 years, Pete explained how the benefits of volunteering go beyond seeing the smiles on clients’ faces.
“It allows me to give back to the community, and I’m able to catch up with some good friends each week,” he said. “It’s also allowed me to meet a lot of wonderful community supporters.”
For more information on how you can offer support or participate in the program, visit Sailability Shornecliffe or call Pete at 0487 396 069.
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