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Sail Our Way Case Study: Williamstown Sailing Club
Club: Williamstown Sailing Club
Location: Williamstown, VIC
Contact: Maree Fitzpatrick | fitzymaree@gmail.com
About the project
Williamstown Sailing Club delivered Fly the Kite as part of the Sail Our Way program, creating a welcoming and flexible program designed to help more women gain confidence on the water and become part of the club community.
Ten women took part across a range of activities, including sailing the club's Pacer dinghies, trying different classes of boats, crewing in club races, and joining the club's regular Saturday Green Fleet sessions.
Before delivering the program, the club hosted a volunteer planning evening where volunteers came together over pizza to discuss ideas, expectations, and how the activities would be delivered. Following the program, participants and volunteers gathered for a celebratory BBQ with salads, soft drinks and ice creams, providing an opportunity to reflect on the experience, share stories, and strengthen connections within the club.
Participation
- 10 women participated throughout the activities
Outcomes and impact
- Continued involvement: Several participants expressed interest in becoming club members, returning as crew, joining the club's Green Fleet program, and volunteering in roles including race management and the canteen.
- New experiences on the water: The flexible program enabled women to try different aspects of sailing, with one participant sailing a Sabre for the first time and another discovering a passion for race management after spending time aboard the start boat.
- Personal growth: One participant shared that the experience improved her confidence and mental wellbeing by helping her connect with others, try something new, and discover a sport she could enjoy with her family.
- Growing community interest: The club received several enquiries from women interested in participating in next year's program, demonstrating strong interest in continuing and expanding the initiative.
- Welcoming club environment: The project created an enthusiastic and supportive atmosphere among existing members, strengthening the club community and encouraging more women to get involved.
How the funding helped
The Sail Our Way funding enabled Williamstown Sailing Club to remove financial barriers by providing free SailPasses and access to club boats and rescue craft at no cost to participants, making it easier for women to try sailing.
Funding also covered the cost of the volunteer pizza night and post-program BBQ, recognising the volunteers whose support helped make the program possible.
