Grant boosts Sailability's mission for accessibility
TasPorts recently awarded a Community Grant to Sailability Launceston to replace two outboard motors.
Posted
26 April 2024
TasPorts recently awarded a Community Grant to Sailability Launceston to replace two outboard motors.
Posted
26 April 2024
Sailability, a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation, is dedicated to creating a welcoming and secure environment where people of all abilities are accepted and encouraged to participate in the sport of sailing.
In late 2022, TasPorts awarded a Community Grant to Sailability Launceston, facilitating the replacement of the aging outboard motors on the organisation's two community yachts with new 6HP Yamaha 4-stroke outboard motors.
Over the past 18 months, additional enhancements have been undertaken. This week, Sailability Launceston marked the culmination of the refurbishment project with a Sponsor Appreciation event aboard the Lady Launceston, attended by TasPorts General Manager Marine, Andrew, and Superintendent Marine Operations, Anna.
Julian Burgess of Sailability said, ‘We had eleven committee members working on the refurbishment of the boats and the fitting of the replacement motors. With a good maintenance program, we will continue to use these new motors for many years to come.’
Situated at the Old Launceston Seaport Marina, the organisation can now safely and confidently transport their clients without the threat of breakdowns, thanks to the reliability of the new motors.
Emphasising marine safety, Sailability’s initiatives foster secure and enjoyable marine experiences for all participants and volunteers. Each outing includes educational elements, covering the safe use of equipment and providing basic training in sailing and water-based sport skills.
‘Without TasPorts’ sponsorship, we would not have been able to replace our old unreliable motors, which now offer a safe, reliable service for our clients and volunteers,’ stated Mr. Burgess.
As a voluntary community organisation, Sailability Launceston relies on fundraising and donations to sustain its sailing programs for individuals of all ages. Please head to https://sailabilitytas.org/ for more information on this fantastic volunteer organisation.
It is truly gratifying to witness the successful completion of the project with the yachts once again navigating the waters safely.
In addition, TasPorts provides ongoing support to Sailability Hobart, which docks its fleet of sailing boats at TasPorts’ Kings Pier Marina free of charge, making sailing more accessible for Tasmanians with disabilities. Read more about the Hobart partnership here.