IN its 10th year, the Rotary Sail Into Life program at Koombana Bay Sailing Club has continued to bring joy to the lives of hundreds and had a positive impact on, not only its participants, but the dedicated volunteers.
Rotary Sail Into Life coordinator Sharon Kavanagh said five dinghies had taken more than 150 people on 900 voyages over the season.
Today they recognised all the participants and volunteers who had contributed to making the season a success with a morning tea and ceremony at the sailing club.
"It has been a fantastic season and we have had people come from all over to participate this year including Perth, Augusta and Manjimup," she said.
Chair person Heather Reid said the sailing program had become an iconic Bunbury activity and without the support from local industries and grants it would not be possible.
She said it had impacted the community on many levels and since the first season in 2005/06 had grown from a few participants to more than 150.
"We have continued to build inclusiveness which builds a resilient community and it is one of the only activities in Bunbury where we can cater for any functional capacity," Ms Reid said.
"The participants have grown in their confidence knowing they can overcome personal challenges that may in the past have hindered their ability to participant in life roles they value.
"The volunteers come to reconnect - some who may have struggled with mental health issues have found it to be extremely good for getting back on their feet."
She said the Koombana Bay Club was recognised as one of the largest participant programs of its kind in Australia and the demand had continued to increase because of the positive feedback from past participants and support from local industries.