BY PETER DOWNIE
For the past 15 years SAILS at Bayside has provided opportunities through sailing and kayaking for young people at risk, and their families and their carers, to overcome difficulties, reach their potential and engage fully in community life.
SAILS is a community outreach of several southern Moreton Bay Anglican Parishes. Their sailing and kayaking activities support organisations like BABI and Silky Oaks, as they work with young people not receptive to traditional programs.
On-water activities are held for children in out-of-home care, school groups with specific needs, and in recent years, refugees through the Qld Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture & Trauma (QPASTT).
SAILS operates four catamarans, 14 kayaks, and a safety boat. Funding for maintenance and operations comes from fundraising activities (BBQs, trivia nights etc.), monthly public sailing and kayaking events at Wynnum or Cleveland, donations, and occasional grants.
Covid-19 has significantly impacted on finances. In addition to covering operating and maintenance costs, SAILS will need to relocate its purpose-built catamaran shed in the next year or so when the current site is no longer available.
SAILS’ leaders and volunteers are resilient and resourceful and take these challenges head-on because of their commitment to their participants and the proven success of their activities.
SAILS at Bayside welcomes help – both financial and volunteering (and it’s fun to boot!).
Contact Peter Downie 07 31370000 for more information.
