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.