The Bundaberg Sailing Club will develop a junior sailing development program following a state government grant.
The club’s facilities were swept away in the 2013 floods, stalling sailing activities and plans to expand and develop a curriculum in schools.
Bundaberg Sailing club president John Learmonth said the club’s vision to implement a junior sailing program is one step closer thanks to the funding secured through the Get Going Clubs program.
“Up until now, we haven’t had a decent junior program… We had one but the floods wiped out infrastructure and the ability to do it,” Mr Learmonth said.
“We really want to focus on junior development for the future of the club.”
Mr Learmonth said the club would use the funds to purchase smaller sailing dinghies which were suitable for children.
“With the grant we can get another three or four boats and run a professional program in schools,” he said.
“The 8 foot sailing dinghies are specifically designed for training young kids as they are unsinkable, very safe and stable.”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett said the Bundaberg Sailing Club was one of six clubs in the region to secure funds through Round 4 of the Get Going Clubs program.
“I’m particularly thrilled to see the Bundaberg Sailing Club receive this vital funding injection,” Mr Bennett said.
“It’s wonderful to see the Sailing Club back on their feet and providing recreational opportunities for the Bundaberg community.
“The club faced an enormous repair bill following the floods, but now they are back and ready to expand their club and looking for future opportunities to help young ones learn to sail.
“Getting kids involved in sport such as sailing is a great way to get them participating in outdoors activities in the community and offers a wealth of health and social benefits.”
To find out more about the sport, contact the Bundaberg Sailing Club on 4159 4424.
ENDS.
February 11, 2016.