News

How She Sails: Alison

Published Mon 11 May 2020
How long have you been in the sport of Sailing?
30 years

What Club, Association or company are you involved with?
Australian Sailing

What Part do you play in our sport?
Sailor; on water volunteer; National Sporting Organisation

Tell us how you first got involved with Sailing.
I started sailing as a sports option through high school, which then evolved into sailing at my local club.

There are many pathways in sailing, where has your journey taken you?
I sailed in dinghies and windsurfed from age 16 through to my early 20's. I got married and together with my husband adventured off on a 30ft yacht for a year. Later, after having a break & 2 girls, we arrived in Australia where we joined the local club, our daughters took the learn to sail courses, I volunteered at Sailability as a sailor & volunteer co-ordinator and eventually found the best job in my current role at Australian Sailing.

Whatever part of sailing you belong to, tell us about what you enjoy about your sport?
As a sailor I enjoy being outdoors and able to do many on water activities as there are a lot of different types of boat and other craft such as windsurfers, paddleboards etc. There is a great social environment and the sport is great for all ages, genders and cultures. In my job I love the variety of the work and being able to provide support and information to promote sailing.
 
What would you say to someone thinking about getting into sailing?
Try it more than once-Some people hate sailing in small dinghies, but love cruising on a large yacht, so experience the variety & you will find something that suits you.
 
Tell us your favourite story ….
Seeing the enjoyment of my daughter's face when she asked me to sail with her when her friend couldn't make it.
 
Gallery
How She Sails Age Group: 55-64 Sailor on water volunteer National Sporting Organisation