MEDIA RELEASE
3rd September 2024
Townsville Welcomes Making Waves Foundation for the First Time!
Townsville, August 26-28, 2024 — The Making Waves Foundation is thrilled to announce its successful visit to Townsville, marking the most northern port ever reached in the 2024 Northern Campaign. This leg of the campaign brought unique sailing experiences to local students living with disability or experiencing disadvantage, introducing them to the joys of the sea and broadening their horizons.
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Highlights from the Townsville Leg:
- Townsville State High School (August 26th): Students experienced the thrill of steering a boat for the first time. One student shared, “The best part was steering. I felt happy.” Educators noted the significance of the opportunity, especially for refugee students new to Townsville. “These kids get so few opportunities. Steering a boat, getting a bit wet, and feeling the waves is great,” said one teacher. The day concluded with smiles and expressions of gratitude.
- Eaton College (August 27th): Students described their experience as “amazing” and expressed a desire to return. “I feel like we’re flying,” one student said. Another remarked, “I want to come back and stay out all day.” Teachers emphasized the rarity of such opportunities for these students, noting, “They never get an opportunity like this, to be out on the ocean. It was so special.”
- Townsville State High School (August 27th): The excitement continued with students eagerly anticipating future visits. “The best day ever!” one student exclaimed. Teachers expressed a strong desire for the program to return annually, highlighting how it brings immense joy and learning to students as they took the helm and felt the boat’s power.
- Hermit Park State School (August 28th): Students enjoyed thrilling moments on the water, with one describing the excitement of riding the waves. “The best part was when we got in the big waves, and I was right at the front of the boat with my arms out,” said a student. Educators noted the program’s impact, stating, “Having the opportunity to actually DO all the different jobs on the boat. It’s so special and so important for them. They learned so much!” The experience was described as creating “memories they’ll never forget.”
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the students and schools of Townsville for their enthusiasm and participation.
The Making Waves Foundation is excited to continue its journey. Next stop Rosslyn Bay!
To keep the momentum going, we’re running a raffle to help fund our campaign as we continue northward. Every ticket sold helps us reach more communities and offer life-changing sailing experiences.
Click the link below to Support the Northern Campaign 2024 for Making Waves to continue to offer free sailing program for youth in need: The 2024 Northern Campaign Raffle – Making Waves
Thank you to everyone who has supported us so far!
The Making Waves Foundation is dedicated to providing sailing experiences to young Australians living with disabilities or experiencing disadvantage, fostering a sense of empowerment, confidence, and community. To learn more view the links below:
Website www.makingwaves.au
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/making.waves.foundation.aus
Instagram @making.waves.foundation
LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/makingwavesfoundation
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@makingwavesaus
For additional media enquiries please contact Rachel Ward rward@makingwaves.au or 0414 128 281