Sailing for adventure

It’s not quite the Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race, but experienced yachtie Don Thompson was keen to give his sea legs a work out recently.

The Zion Lutheran Home resident is a 1954 yacht race veteran and has even built his own catamaran.

It’s been a while since he last hit the water, so what was the best sensation?

“The freedom, the wind in your hair and the salt on your face,’’ he said, naming a trinity of sailing loves. It was a lovely day, I really enjoyed it and look forward to going again,” Mr Thompson said.

Zion Lutheran Home makes regular trips out to Moreton Bay. Resident John Bell just planned to tag along this trip, but was easily persuaded into a sailing dingy for his first ever on the water experience.

Both gentlemen were under the experienced guidance of Disailability at the Shorncliffe Yacht Club, which is run every Monday by volunteers.

“It was a bit scary at first, but it was lots of fun and I am looking forward to going again,” Mr Bell said.

Annette Greenbury, diversional therapist, said sailing ticked many boxes for the residents.

“Lots of fun and laughter was had, the chance to socialise with other people and talk about the experience, but most of all a sense of adventure,’’ she said.