By Michael Roberts | posted on February 21, 2020
GREAT Southern locals are being encouraged to dress up in their finest white attire this Sunday in support of a sailing club’s disability program.
Sailability is an initiative that aims to get people of all abilities into sailing through specialised equipment and experienced support.
Now in its third year, the annual Le Dejenur en Blanc – white picnic for the non-French speaking linguists – is an afternoon of picnicking that raises funds for Princess Royal Sailing Club’s (PRSC) Sailability program.
Held on picture-perfect parkland right next to the sailing club, attendees are asked to setup their own picnic spread and let the good times roll as local musicians entertain.
Gracing the stage will be the Albany Pipe Band, Phil and Plune, Shanty Lilies, Mike Hyder and David Rastrick.
Raising almost $7000 since the event first started in 2018, organiser Georgie Walker is hoping for another strong turn out on Sunday.
“We’ve got a coffee van this year,” she said.
“People have asked me about having add-ons, but I feel it’s enough to ask them to bring everything.”
There’s also a prize for best looking table, with the winner banking dinner for four at Lime 303.
“Some of the ideas are fantastic,” Ms Walker said.
“It was really difficulty to judge last year’s winner.
“People do go out of the way with their food and presentation. It looks great.”
Since the Sailability program started at PRSC about a decade ago, it’s played a big role in re-shaping the identity of the club, according to former Commodore Clive Walker.
“We’re reaching out more into the community, rather than just being all about racing,” he said.
“We’ve spent about $250,000 on infrastructure since the program began.
“Originally there wasn’t even a ramp into the front of the club. It’s made a huge difference to people.”
Mr Walker said the club also took people with disabilities out fishing if that was more their thing.
“It’s growing,” he said. “Royal Perth Yacht Club said we probably have the best Sailability program in the state right now.”
With the introduction of the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Mr Walker said participants could even have their sailing fees covered.
“If they come to the club they can get the details, but NDIS will cover even the $55-an-hour coaching fees,” he said.
