Setting sail for a good cause in the Northern Territory
BY SIMONE WORTHING
The Salvation Army in the Northern Territory recently launched its inaugural ‘Sail for the Salvos’ fundraiser with the Darwin Sailing Club.
On a perfect ‘dry season’ afternoon last month, five yacht owners departed the Cullen Bay marina to sail for a few hours with individuals or business teams who had ‘purchased’ their yacht for a few hours on the water.
“This was a unique experience for everyone,” said Sally Courtney, the Army’s Public Relations manager in the Northern Territory.
“The yacht owners had donated the use of their yachts, as well as their time, hospitality and sailing expertise, to help raise money for the Salvos. One hundred per cent of the money from the ‘sale’ of the yachts went to The Salvation Army, as all costs to run the event were covered through sponsorship.
“Ben Campion, manager of The Salvation Army’s House 49, ‘bought’ a yacht and sold it to staff, colleagues and friends.
“Everyone enjoyed the almost three hours of sailing and the warm hospitality of the yacht owners and their crew. A beautiful sunset topped off the experience. Everyone, including more friends, partners and Salvos staff, met up at the Darwin Sailing Club afterwards for presentations, a silent auction and dinner.
“The event put the Salvos on the map with an influential group of people who see and support what we do. We appreciate the generosity of those who give to the Salvos, but when people give their time as well, such as the yacht owners preparing their yachts and taking people sailing, it’s extra special.
“This wonderful and enjoyable fundraiser would not have been possible without the support of key members from the Darwin Sailing Club, our principal sponsor Halikos Construction and Synacoglobal's sponsorship.”
The event raised over $10,000 for The Salvation Army.
Sally had been organising the event for almost a year. “We have been working closely with major donors,” Sally explained. “One of them, who generously gives the Salvos cheques twice a year, is a member of the Darwin Sailing Club and owns a yacht. He was interested in the idea of a sailing event and spoke to club members, who also showed interest.
“I ‘sold’ the yachts to groups of 10, mainly business teams, who bought the experience. We supplied the catering.
“We are already planning for June next year – a better month on the Darwin calendar – and already have interest from our business supporters, members of Parliament and councillors. We’ll also open it up to more Salvos staff and friends.
“Watch this space for 2024 ‘Sail for the Salvos’, to take place in September!”
