At Newhaven Yacht Club, Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead with Alen Garrett, a dedicated advocate who has been instrumental in the Sailability program's success for many years.
Cr Halstead with Interchange participants Luke, Shane and Byron, celebrating their successful fishing day.
With volunteers from the Newhaven Yacht Club and a participant from Yooralla, Cr Halstead took part in the fishing day, a collaboration between Newhaven Yacht Squadron and Sailability Victoria.
The volunteers and crew that ensured smooth sailing (and fishing) on the Sailability Day (from left): Peter Smith, Russell Trait, Alen Garrett, Mayor Cr Rochelle Halstead and Grant McDonald, onboard Newhaven Yacht Squadron's vessel.
A special day of fishing and fun on the water took place on Friday, March 28, showcasing the ongoing collaboration between Newhaven Yacht Squadron and Sailability Victoria-a program dedicated to making sailing accessible for people of all abilities.
While most Sailability events focus on off-the-beach sailing, this event centred around fishing, offering participants a new and exciting experience on the water.
Russell Trait led the event, with support from Alen Garrett, a dedicated advocate who has been instrumental in the program's success for many years.
Peter Smith from the Newhaven Yacht Squadron also played a key role in coordinating the event, taking on the very important barista duties and ensuring everything ran smoothly for the participants and volunteers.
Around 30 participants from Yooralla and Interchange Gippsland took part in the event, which was filled with smiles, teamwork, and the joy of being on the water. The energy and excitement were palpable, making it a heartwarming and memorable day for all involved.
The weather was perfect-sunny and clear, with a gentle northeasterly breeze making the water as flat as one of Peter's famous flat whites.
Bass Coast Mayor, Cr Rochelle Halstead, attended the event and joined participants on the water.
"It was an absolute joy to see the excitement and enthusiasm of everyone involved," she said.
"The dedication of the volunteers and the welcoming atmosphere truly highlight the importance of inclusive programs like Sailability. It's wonderful to witness firsthand how these opportunities enrich lives and bring our community together."
As boats from the morning session returned to shore, participants proudly held up their catches, sharing laughs and stories with volunteers and supporters. One standout moment was when Georgia, a participant, caught a snapper-her first fish ever.
That afternoon Cr Halstead swapped the council chambers for the open waters and headed out with the afternoon group, Yooralla, and proved she had some fishing skills of her own.
The success of this event was made possible by the dedication of volunteers, including Peter Smith, Russell Trait, Alen Garrett, and Grant McDonald, along with the support of the Newhaven Yacht Squadron.
