DESPITE the inclement weather, an enthusiastic crowd gathered to celebrate International Day of People with Disabilities.

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The theme for this year’s Sailability Port Stephens Showcase event was Freedom On The Water.

Mr Doug Monk, President of Sailability Port Stephens expressed his pride in the achievements of the Club this year.

All representative for the Special Olympics NSW state selection team are from the Port Stephens Sailability Club.

With two having won gold in 2015, it is with high hopes that those going to Nationals in April 2018 will be selected for the 2019 international games in Dubai.

Mr (Noel) John Ridgeway, OAM, provided the Welcome to Country with his song that has become like a personal trademark sung at many events, I’m Proud To Be An Aborigine.

Mr Ridgeway who proudly announced he has been a Worimi man for 77 years provided some great singing entertainment to those attending the event.

Member for Port Stephens Ms Kate Washington MP guest spoke at the event, saying, “Sailability does amazing work in our community and beyond supporting participants to pursue their ambitions.”

“This year’s theme is about transforming communities and encouraging those with disabilities to become more active in their communities.”

“Thank you Sailability Port Stephens for reducing barriers to those with disabilities so they can participate in the community.”

Attendance at Sailability events has been down this year, and it is thought that issues with the NDIS have now limited participation in this great initiative.

By Heather SHARP