Page title

Based at Royal Perth Yacht Club, Sailability WA delivers programs for our members and those new to sailing or interested in developing their skills.  

Sailability WA Administration Coordinator Kyllie Whitehead said WA Government funding enabled us to provide a Volunteer Training Program for Sailability WA volunteers to build on skills that support participants on and off the water.  

“We’re heavily reliant on our volunteer task force of around 50 to 60 volunteers,” she said.  

“The program included first aid training with CPR, mental health training, the opportunity to get a recreational skipper’s ticket, and then the safety boat operator’s course.”  

The grant also buoyed an adult learn-to-sail program for participants looking to build independence and confidence on the water. 

“It provides a safe and inclusive environment for them to try a new sport,” Ms Whitehead said.  

“It just gives them a sense of finding freedom on the water…and improve their mental health outcomes because they’re out doing something they enjoy.” 

“It gave our members the opportunity to learn to sail in a safe environment with fully qualified instructors.”  

Sailability WA has been operating since 2000 and supports pathways from introductory sailing through to State, national and international competition, with some participants representing Australia at an elite level.  

Ms Whitehead said WA Government funding has helped expand opportunities for participants and volunteers. 

“Without that funding, we would never have been able to do that,” she said.