BIA NSW supports sailors with disabilities

BIA Director Alan Steber, on behalf of BIA members, has donated an Access C-Crane and associated equipment to the Manning-Great Lakes branch of Sailability NSW in Taree.

The access C-Crane was developed for transferring disabled sailors in and out of specially-designed 2.3m Access dinghies and other small craft.

It will make sailing outings much easier for keen sailors and their carers. "The new equipment will enable the Access Dinghies to be rigged from the wharf, and sailors to be lowered easily into the craft," said Manning-Great Lakes Sailability President Susan Dunk. "They very much appreciate the donation," she added.

Alan Steber, in presenting the crane, encouraged all present, including those with disabilities to discover boating and the joys of the outdoors. "The BIA promotes Try Sailing and Try Boating Days across the state as well as the promotion of safe boating and educational initiatives," he said. Mr Steber said he believes it is the first time the BIA has undertaken a support project of this type in a regional area of New South Wales. Alan paid a special tribute to all the volunteers for their dedication in making it possible for people with a disability to get out on the water.

The Hon. Stephen Broomhead MP was a special guest taking the opportunity to thank the BIA for making such an important contribution to assisting the disabled to enjoy freedom on the water on the Manning River.