Mackay’s Young Sailors Making Wakes

The Making Waves Foundation was thrilled to announce its 2024 Northern Campaign, sailing proudly into Mackay before continuing to Townsville. The voyage aims to empower local youth living with disabilities or facing disadvantage by promoting inclusivity through the joy of sailing.

This exciting journey began in Southport, with Rosslyn Bay and Mackay stops before the crew made their final port in Townsville.  

The Making Waves Foundation has been operating for 30 years, originating in Sydney under the name of 'Sails with Disability.' The original founder is dyslexic and was inspired to take a group of adults living with disabilities on a sailing trip to Hobart. This initial voyage has since evolved into the ‘Making Waves Foundation’ that now operates in five locations: Brisbane, Geelong, Melbourne, Newcastle and Sydney.

In each of these locations, the foundation's primary mission is to offer children with disabilities a unique and fun experience on the water. These sailing trips not only provide the children with a break from their routines but also give their parents or carers some much-needed respite. For the children, it’s an opportunity to smile, explore new experiences and enjoy being out on the water.

On August 15th, at 9am and 12.30pm, students from Mackay District Special School experienced the thrill of sailing with the friendly crew. The sailboat accommodated roughly 20 people, and the children were treated to a two-hour adventure on the water.

The highlight for many was the chance to steer the boat, which crew members say always brings out big smiles and leaves lasting memories that are often talked about for days on end with parents, carers and teachers.

The first morning in Mackay was especially memorable as the team and the children onboard were fortunate enough to spot whales just off the Mackay Marina.  

While the foundation typically offers a 6–8-week program called ‘Winds of Change,’ where children learn to sail and develop new skills, the Mackay visit focused solely on the sailing experience. Despite the shorter duration, the children thoroughly enjoyed their time on the water.

The sailing crew consists of Water Operations Manager Wendy Tuck from Sydney, as well as a group of dedicated volunteers who come along for the ride at their own expense.

Wendy expressed that seeing the children’s joy made all the efforts worthwhile.  

"To see the children’s faces and knowing that they’re loving it just makes it all worth it," she said.

Volunteer and crew member Alice Amouroux, shared her love for working with children and the joy of seeing them happy while sailing.  

"I really believe when we are on the sea it’s like a break for everyone and it’s always a good time," Alice shared.

David Rieser, who is also a volunteer and crew member, shared a similar perspective of the experience, stating, "I just love to see the excitement and the joy in the kids' eyes... sailing for me has always been that same place, a place of joy and excitement."

The Mackay Marina also contributed to the foundation’s efforts by offering a discounted price for the dock. To keep these wonderful initiatives going, the foundation relies on donations and community grants.  

They are currently running a raffle with prizes including a $500 family Lego pack, an inflatable stand-up paddleboard worth $300, and a Princess Lego pack valued at $150. Prizes will be shipped to winners at no additional cost.

To donate to the Making Waves Foundation or enter the raffle, please scan the QR code or visit www.makingwaves.au/northern-campaign

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Crew members with Councillor Ash-Lee Johnson. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay’s young sailors beam with joy aboard the Making Waves Foundation's Northern Campaign. Photos supplied

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