Volunteer of the Month: Peter Pickin
Your Role: My primary role as a volunteer with Sailability is as skipper of the Safety Boat. The Safety Boat crew (skipper and observer) is responsible for providing any assistance necessary to the dinghies and their occupants. I assist with Safety Boat training and general boat maintenance.
What you like about volunteering: I like the opportunity to help provide a service to the community, particularly those with a disability. Sailability gives volunteers access to all training needed to perform any specific role.
How long have you lived on the Cooloola Coast: 24 years
Previous jobs: Ex RAAF Officer (22 years service), seven years assisting in development of community native plant nursery and the Postie for Cooloola Cove
Your hobbies: DIY, sailing, reading and Tai Chi
Other clubs: Tin Can Bay Yacht Club, Tin Can Bay RSL, Tai Chi Tin Can Bay
Favourite movies: The Shawshank Redemption, Avatar
Favourite book: No one book, but I enjoy novels by John Grisham, Patricia Cornwell and Stephen King
Why would you encourage others to come on board? Sailability is a non-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers. Our goal is to provide “freedom on the water, regardless of ability”. Children from Special Schools and adults alike come for a sail. Many of our ‘sailors’ are happy to take the tiller or adjust the sails. Some enjoy ‘chasing the Safety Boat’ (under supervision) and a ‘high five’ in passing is not unheard of. The joy they show is amazing. There is something very special about being a part of that.
To join Sailiability's friendly ranks call Raewyn Oliver on 0412995512 or visit Friday mornings from 8.30am at Coast Guard Tin Can Bay, Norman Point, Tin Can Bay.
