Sailability

How does Sailability work?

The Sailability program at Blairgowrie is focused on allowing people to ‘Discover Sailing’ in the company of a dedicated volunteer. We welcome participants who may come on their own, as part of a community group or with their carers and support people. The program is delivered through donations from the community and Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron.

Participants can register to attend for a single session, or multiple sessions. You are welcome to come as often as you like and we hope to see you regularly.

When does Sailability run?

Sailability runs sailing sessions on Tuesday mornings, from October through to April with the exception of the peak of summer. The first session runs from 10 am – 11 am, the second from 11 am until 12 midday, and the third session from 12 midday until 1pm.

What to wear

You’ll stay out of the water and relatively dry, although you may get an occasional splash of water. Wear comfortable clothing and a light jacket if the weather is cool. We recommend a hat and sunscreen as you’ll be out in the sun. We’ll provide a lifejacket.

Can I speak to someone about the program?

Sailability Participants and carers are welcome to contact our Sailability Participant Liaisons (volunteers) for more information.

Anna:   annadavison65@gmail.com    0419 504 206

Maree:   mareethomson33@gmail.com   0409 338 726

You are also welcome to contact the Sailing Office on 5925 9620 for assistance registering.

What to expect – sensory processing

Sailing participants, and particularly those with sensory processing difficulties, may find sailing quite different to activities they previously tried. Sailing can be calm and relaxing, it can also be noisy and actioned packed, it really depends on the weather conditions on the day.

When sailing, we wear lifejackets which are worn like a vest and zip-up at the front. Participants can practice wearing a lifejacket on the dock to see what they feel like.

We sail when the winds are favourable and relatively calm. The sails can make a rustling noise when flapping in the wind, and at times it can be noisy; skippers and helpers may need to raise their voices over the sail noise to be heard. There may be wind, wave and noise from other people.

When sailing, the boats may “learn over” a little with the wind. The boat’s won’t capsize or “tip over”. Some participants will find this fun and exciting, others may feel nervous.

It’s important that sailing participants (and/or their carer) let us know how they are feeling when they arrive so we can support them as much as possible.

What to expect – limited mobility

Limited mobility need not stop you from trying sailing, we can assist you to get into our boats, which are specially designed to suit a wide range of users.

Depending on mobility, sailing participants may be assisted into boats alongside the dock, beginning in a sitting position on the dock and then “scooting in” to the boat. We also use a “C-crane” to lift participants from their wheelchair and into the boats. We will speak to you to discuss the best method depending on mobility levels. Please indicate if you may need mobility support when registering.

Tips for registering

All participants will receive an Australian Sailing number upon their first registration. Australian Sailing is our sporting body. To register for the first time, click “Sign Up” under the red Submit button, and then “New Member”. Future registrations can be made quickly using your Australian Sailing number.

If you are a returning participant but have forgotten your Australian Sailing number you can either generate a new one via the steps above, or look up your existing number here: https://www.sailing.org.au/member-finder/

Click on a session date and time below to register.