The festive spirit cruised over to Whitehaven Beach on Monday when 28 families, carers and clients from Endeavour Foundation’s Learning and Lifestyle hub in Cannonvale, were treated to an afternoon out on one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
A kind and thoughtful Christmas gesture from Cruise Whitsundays, the trip was provided for free to Endeavour Foundation as an inclusive way for people living with disability to enjoy some quality time with their loved ones.
Jody Flaherty, Site Manager at Endeavour Foundation in Cannonvale said it was an amazing experience for all the clients, who came back with big smiles and hearts full.
“We can’t thank Cruise Whitsundays enough!” she said.
“The timing was just perfect and tied in really nicely as we continue to celebrate International Day of People with Disability.
“A lot of the people we support had never had the opportunity to do something like this before.
“One family member who is in her 70’s and has lived here all her life said that she had never swum in the ocean before!
“Cruise Whitsundays went above and beyond, they provided everything we needed, and everyone returned home safely, with smiles, and couldn’t wait to tell us all about it.”
Accommodating for all abilities, Cruise Whitsundays provided a beach wheelchair for the group, they also set-up beach cabanas to make the experience as comfortable as possible and stand-up paddle boards for those adventurous enough to give it a go.
Bringing some festive cheer to the excursion made the guests feel even more special.
Santa made an appearance and handed out little gifts to everyone.
“The whole experience really contributed to our Christmas celebrations,” said Jody.
“It was also wonderful for our clients to spend some time with their family, it was just amazing!”
Sales and Marketing Executive for Cruise Whitsundays, Liza Muller, said the company were thrilled to help create such special memories for such beautiful individuals.
“It’s so important to support local organisations and as it is the Year of Accessibility, we could see how Endeavour Foundation would really enjoy the experience,” she said.
“We’ve been in the region for 20 years and we understand how important it is to give back to the community, we love local give-backs and are thrilled the experience was so well-received by everyone who came along for the afternoon.”
28 clients, family and carers from Endeavour Foundation enjoyed a day out on Whitehaven Beach thanks to Cruise Whitsundays. Photo Credit: Reef Safari
A special beach wheelchair enabled everyone to enjoy every aspect of the experience. Photo Credit: Reef Safari
Santa joined in on the fun. Photo Credit: Reef Safari