Sailability Gold Coast Inc

Sailability Gold Coast Inc is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to providing sailing and on-water activities for people of all ages with disabilities. Operating primarily on the Gold Coast Broadwater, the organization offers a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment where individuals with a wide range of disabilities can participate in recreational and competitive sailing.

History and Background

The concept of Sailability traces its origins to the United Kingdom in the early 1980s. Ian Harrison MBE and his colleagues founded a competitive sailing organization for people with disabilities named "Sailability," inspired by the British disability mobility initiative "Motability." Harrison's vision was to ensure that no person with a disability would be denied the opportunity to sail. This movement expanded internationally, including to Australia.

Sailability Gold Coast was formally incorporated in March 2000, becoming the first such Sailability organization in Queensland. Its establishment followed years of dedication by a small group passionate about creating sailing opportunities for people with disabilities. It operates as a voluntary, not-for-profit community organization fostering participation and volunteerism.

Activities and Services

Sailability Gold Coast provides weekly sailing sessions, typically held on Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, weather permitting. Volunteers assist clients in sailing and other related water activities. On average, around 80 people with various disabilities sail or motor on the water each week, supported by over 60 volunteers. The organization welcomes volunteers regardless of sailing experience and offers roles as crew, instructors, or support personnel. Additional special sailing days and training opportunities are also arranged.

The core mission is to facilitate access to sailing for people with disabilities, promoting freedom, rehabilitation, recreation, competition, and therapeutic benefits. Sailability Gold Coast offers sailing experiences ranging from social enjoyment to competitive sailing events. The organization also engages in maintenance work and training to ensure safety and quality of service.

Community Engagement and Support

Sailability Gold Coast relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers and the generosity of sponsors and supporters. The community spirit is strong, with many volunteers committed to supporting clients on and off the water throughout the year. Sponsorships help fund the organization’s activities and maintain its sustainability.

Affiliations and Broader Context

Sailability Gold Coast operates within the broader framework of Sailability organizations across Australia and internationally. It aligns with Sailability Queensland and Sailability Australia, which coordinate efforts to expand sailing opportunities for people with disabilities across the country. The organization collaborates with local yacht clubs, government agencies, and other stakeholders to promote accessibility in sailing and boating sports.

Recognition

Sailability Gold Coast is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and operates under the Australian Business Number (ABN) 17644603944RR0001. It is recognized for its charitable programs that empower disabled individuals through sailing activities.

In summary, Sailability Gold Coast Inc exemplifies community-driven efforts to enhance inclusivity in the sport of sailing, providing invaluable opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy the freedom and therapeutic benefits of the water.

(Information summarized from sailabilitygc.org, acnc.gov.au, and related sources)[1][2][3][4][5]

[1] https://sailabilitygc.org [2] http://sailabilitygc.org/about-us/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/59c4e909-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad24077/profile [4] https://volunteeringgc.org.au/directory-nfp/listing/sailability-gold-coast-inc/ [5] https://www.sailabilityqueensland.au/about-us