Under clear blue skies and fresh westerly breezes, the 14th annual Sailability Regatta was hosted by the Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club (NYRC) on Thursday 11 September.
This special event once again showcased the power of community, inclusivity, and the pure joy of sailing.
Since its inception in 2010, the Noosa Sailability program has offered people with disability the opportunity to experience the freedom and thrill of being on the water.
Run by dedicated volunteers and supported by a fleet of safe and stable training boats, Sailability provides a welcoming and empowering environment for participants of all abilities.
Each sailor was paired with a qualified instructor aboard a 12-foot Vagabond sailing dinghy, a vessel well-known for its stability and suitability for training. A vigilant safety boat patrolled the course throughout the event, ensuring a safe and smooth experience for all involved.
Close to 30 participants from Endeavour Foundation, Sunshine Butterflies, Equity Works, Spiral, and a number of independent sailors attended the regatta, and sailed across five heats and a finals race.
1st Place – Matthew (Endeavour Foundation)
2nd Place – Oliver
3rd Place – Sammy (Sunshine Butterflies)
Adding to the occasion, Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton attended the regatta, lending her support and cheering on the sailors from the shoreline. Her presence was warmly welcomed by all and further underlined the importance of inclusive programs like Sailability in the Noosa community.
The races were followed by a celebratory BBQ on the riverfront, generously provided by the Noosa Yacht & Rowing Club, where medals were awarded to the winners of each heat. But more than just competition, the event was a celebration of achievement, inclusion, and community spirit.
A huge congratulations to Sailability coordinator Ken Plunkett, the sailing team, and all of the volunteers who make events like these possible.
