All aboard for plenty of fun

For InLife client Ashley nothing beats a cool sea breeze, billowing sails and the sensation of skimming across waves.

No matter the weather, it’s one of his favourite things to do and he sails weekly with Mornington Yacht Club throughout the season from October to April.

After a couple of years away from water and time spent in hospital, Ashley who has Prader-Willi Syndrome is back in the boat through the club’s Sailability program.

“I love sailing - I'm lucky,” Ashley said.

InLife Coordinator Christa Nullmeier said when Ashley, 31, joined InLife as a client he no longer had any programs in place so it was important to tap into some of his interests.

“We looked at some of the things he used to enjoy doing and said, ‘let’s get him back into them’,” she said.

Christa said the volunteers at Sailability, many who were retirees, were wonderful role models as well.

“There’s a lot of reassurance, it’s calm - making a client feel safe,” she said.

“They do a briefing (every time they go out on the water), so they’re teaching about water safety as well.”

Sailability is designed for people of all ages and abilities.

“He (Ashley) loves being out on the water and loves being on the sails.”

“Water is important to him, Mum and Dad grew up near the beach so he spent a lot of time doing walks down there.”

For information on Sailability and to find a club near you visit the website.