Celebrations to mark 21 years of empowering people with disabilities on the Sunshine Coast to experience freedom on the water, were capped off with the launch of Freemason II.
The $11,963 specialised access dinghy donated by Maroochydore Masonic Lodge and Hand Heart Pocket the Charity of Freemasons Queensland was unveiled by the Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Queensland Alan Townson at a special event this morning.
Maroochydore Masonic Lodge representative Doug McGill said it was a proud moment for the Lodge.
“What a fantastic way to celebrate this milestone with Sailability Sunshine Coast,” Doug said.
“Today, the organisation takes over 80 disabled locals out onto the Mooloolah River each week. In addition, Sailability is currently assisting five sailors with disabilities to train for the sailing section of the Special Olympics, where they will be sailing single handed, or with a helper, depending on their level of ability.”
“It’s very rewarding to know that we’ll be helping to improve their clients’ quality of life,” he said.
Hand Heart Pocket Chief Executive Officer Gary Mark said providing sustainable support to charitable organisations that have limited access to other avenues of funding was their focus.
“Ensuring people with disabilities are able to join in on activities that lift their spirits and enhance their overall wellbeing aligns with our values which are about empowering people to lead better lives,” Gary said.
“Through our combined efforts a bigger impact could be made at a grassroots level,” he said.
Photo: Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Queensland Alan Townson, Member for Maroochydore and Sailability Sunshine Coast Patron Fiona Simpson and Sailability Sunshine Coast President Ralph Knight.
