The 2025/2026 Summer Sailing Season has once again highlighted the power of inclusion, community and the freedom sailing brings to people of all abilities. Through weekly supported sailing sessions and social sailing opportunities in our Hansa dinghies, participants, volunteers and families have shared rewarding experiences on the water, building confidence, friendships and independence.
This season showcased growing opportunities for sailors with disabilities, of all abilities, to participate in competitive and recreational events across Western Australia, interstate and internationally.
Our Learn to Sail course and Volunteer Training Program in safety boat handling, first aid including CPR and mental health, instructor development and recreational skipper’s ticket qualifications have further strengthened our ability to deliver safe and empowering experiences. Thank you to our Members who participated in the course, Volunteers who completed the training and to the Department of Creative Industries, Tourism and Sport who awarded us an Outdoor Active Recreation Grant to enable these programs to proceed. These achievements would not be possible without the dedication of our volunteers, supporters, grant providers and partner clubs, whose ongoing commitment helps create a welcoming environment where finding freedom on the water takes centre stage.
With warmest regards,
Gary Griffiths | President | Sailability WA
End of Summer Season Volunteer Morning Tea
On Wednesday 20 May we hosted a morning tea for our vollies to say a HUGE thank you for sharing their time, skills and passion for sailing throughout another successful Summer season.
Our operations and programs happen with the incredible dedication and generosity of our Sailability WA Committee and Volunteers. From preparing boats and supporting sailors on the water, to assisting with training events, safety operations and operational level management, our Volunteers create inclusive and empowering experiences for people of all abilities. Thanks again vollies for your kindness, patience and teamwork, which make a lasting difference within our community.
Volunteer Awards – Jonathan Sell & Nat Keals
Sailability WA proudly recognised two outstanding members at this season’s Awards Presentation.
Jonathan Sell received the Volunteer of the Year Award for his dedication to keelboat sailing and technical expertise in improving the Hansa Liberty fleet, helping sailors Lorelle Hughes, Dean Amos and Alan Perkins enjoy greater independence and performance on the water.
The Rob Dare Memorial Trophy was awarded to Nat Keals for her impressive transition into Hansa sailing, strong regatta performances and ongoing encouragement of newer members through her Sunday morning volunteer support.
Congratulations to you both!
BayMarine, proudly supporting Sailability WA
We extend our sincere thanks to BayMarine for generously providing complimentary antifouling services for our vessel, Bella Vita.
Antifouling is an essential maintenance process that helps prevent marine growth such as barnacles and algae from attaching to the hull, improving vessel performance, fuel efficiency and long-term durability while ensuring safer operation on the water. Support from community partners like BayMarine play a vital role in helping Sailability WA continue delivering safe, inclusive and accessible sailing experiences for people of all abilities.
Winter Hansa Dinghy Training Program – Registration Open!
Want to learn more about sail trim, sailing fast on all points of sail and new boat handling skills? Then our Winter Season Hansa Dinghy training sounds like it could be for you!
Sailability WA members with sailing experience are welcome to join in!
We have a safety boat driver and experienced sailing crew on the water to help you learn about Hansa dinghy sailing! All equipment is provided and sessions include a pre-sail briefing, approx 1.5 hours on water sailing and post sail debrief with a sailing coach.
Book now for 14 & 28 June, 12 & 26 July, 9 & 23 August and 6 Sept via our Humantix Booking page.
EOFY Donations
As the financial year comes to a close, a donation to Sailability WA helps create life-changing opportunities for people with disabilities to experience freedom, inclusion and confidence through sailing.
Every contribution supports accessible sailing programs, volunteer training, safety equipment and vessel maintenance, ensuring people of all abilities can continue enjoying time on the water in a safe and welcoming environment. Your generosity helps strengthen our community and keeps inclusive sailing accessible for future participants and families across Western Australia. Donations over $2 are tax deductible and can be made by our Sailability WA donation page here.
Winter Activities til next Season
Whilst we don’t operate our mid-week Supported Sailing Programs over Winter, keep building on improving your mental health by joining in on a number of activities across Perth. With several free events available, it’s a great way to stay connected. Check out an activity near you: Activity Finder – Act Belong Commit
WADSA have a number of activities happening over Winter. Check out the events on their website: Sport and Recreation Disability Services in Perth & WA | WADSA
Winter Season (June to September) Operating Hours
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10am to 3pm, by phone or email. In person appointments on site, to be booked in advance.
Sailability WA Inc
PO Box 5
NEDLANDS WA 6909
www.sailabilitywa.org.au
Program Coordinator
Rachael Cox
Email: office@sailabilitywa.org.au
Phone: 0404 145 499
Workdays: Tuesday to Thursday
Administration Coordinator
Kyllie Whitehead
Email: admin@sailabilitywa.org.au
Workday: Friday
Located on the banks of the Derbal Yerrigan, Sailability WA is hosted at Royal Perth Yacht Club,
Australia II Drive, Crawley WA 6009.
