Rotary Sail into Life offers people with disabilities the opportunity to experience the freedom, adventure and fun of sailing on the open waters of Koombana Bay, home of Bunbury’s famous bottlenose dolphins.

The program was initiated by the Rotary Club of Bunbury in 2005 and operates from the Koombana Bay Sailing Club.

Often people with disabilities do not have access to local, fun and exciting recreational activities and our program offers training and coaching in a safe and supported environment.

Fundraising and sponsorship enabled the initial purchase of a small fleet of three dinghies, a floating pontoon and a hoist for people in wheelchairs to access the dinghies. Paths around the area were improved for access and a shade sail was erected.

The Hansa access dinghies are specially designed to be safe, stable and intuitive to sail, which enables the Sail into Life Program to be “Sailing for everyone regardless of ability”.

The program has gone from strength to strength and now has a fleet of seven dinghies and a rescue craft and a part time project officer to coordinate the sailing sessions.

With more than 150 participants, family members, carers and volunteers involved over the season, Koombana Bay is now a vibrant hub of colourful dinghies, people and activity four days a week.

Participants associated with agencies such as Activ Foundation, Enable Southwest, the Blind Society, Education Support Schools, Leukemia Foundation and the Multiple Sclerosis Society attend the program.

But anyone can come along! And it’s free. The program provides opportunities to sit back and enjoy the experience or to learn to sail.

Rotary Sail into Life is “Sailing for Everyone”