Sail Into Life among Long Table Lunch beneficiaries

Sail Into Life coordinator Sharon Kavanagh said it was “awesome” for the program to be selected as a beneficiary of next year’s Chef’s Long Table Lunch.

It was chosen as one of three groups to receive money from next February’s event along with Royal Flying Doctor Service and Make a Wish Foundation.

The money will partially fund an accessible motorised pontoon, to be moored at Koombana Bay Sailing Club, and Ms Kavanagh said she was grateful for the event’s support.

“It is absolutely awesome to be chosen to be a beneficiary of the Chef’s Long Table Lunch,” Ms Kavanagh said.

“In this economic climate, government and corporate funding are limited and we here in the South West are so privileged to have such a long-running local event that raises money to assist local projects.”

Sail Into Life is coordinated by the South West’s Rotary clubs and allows people with disabilities the chance to sail in the bay.

Ms Kavanagh said the 12-person pontoon would include a wheelchair access ramp, safety rails and a canopy to help people with mobility issues to enjoy water-based activities.

“Often people with disabilities and their families have a very restricted range of activities to choose from that are fun and inclusive,” she said.

“The pontoon will create new recreational opportunities for people with disabilities to get out on the water and enjoy what Bunbury has to offer.”

Next year’s lunch is scheduled for February 26 and will be the 14th event since the first meals were served.

It will again be held on Pat Usher Foreshore and tickets are available at http://www.chefslongtable.com.