Safe Sailing is supported by NZCT

These were just two reactions from members of Sailability Wellington when they heard about the grant of $3,072 from NZCT for the purchase of new lifejackets.

CEO Don Manning adds, “This funding will enable us to ensure and maintain high levels of health and safety when running our sailing program. Not only does it mean that we can continue offering our programs to everyone, but it also has the potential to save lives.”

“Sailability Wellington has been a charitable trust since 2002, providing sailing opportunities for people with any form of disability. Currently sailing up to six days a week, we operate across three sites in the Wellington region - Evan’s Bay Yacht & Motor Boat Club, Seaview Marina adjacent to Lowry Bay Yacht Club, and the Duncan Renouf jetty, Titahi Bay Boating Club Onepoto, Porirua Harbour.”

“Our programmes cater for all levels of disability and our volunteers undergo stringent training to ensure high safety standards. We provide the opportunity for people to sail every week of the year, weather permitting.”

“We also have a race squad who compete nationally and internationally with distinction. Our hope is that one day our members will represent New Zealand at the Paralympics.”

“The membership base of Sailability Wellington covers a diverse range of ages and ethnic backgrounds. We provide our members with lifelong opportunities for personal growth through sailing that they may not otherwise have access to. Our fundraising and maintenance program has supported the development of Wellington city facilities and local sailing clubs.”

“As a small charitable trust, we have limited resources which we devote to our sailing program. Our membership fees are low to ensure membership is accessible. We rely on fundraising and the support of organisations like NZCT to bridge the gap.”