Youth sailing program teaches at-risk young people more than the ropes

by Gavin Hanbridge on 10 Mar 2017 Twelve young people from four charities took to the Harbour this month as part of a youth sailing program organised by the Property Industry Foundation, Colliers International and the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s (CYCA) Youth Sailing Academy. The program was aimed at providing a learning experience to build the confidence of at-risk and homeless young people.

John Kenny, Chief Executive Officer, Australia and New Zealand at Colliers International and Property Industry Foundation National Board Member, said his company was proud to support the program.

Mr Kenny said every night across Australia over 44,000 young people are homeless.

“This is why Colliers International supports the Property Industry Foundation, the Annual Charity Yachting Regatta on Sydney Harbour and the Youth Sailing Program,” he said. “It is a tangible way for us to make a real difference to the serious and persistent problem of youth homelessness,” he said.

Olympic Silver medalist at the 2012 London OIympics Olivia Price, and Communications Office at the CYCA, said the sailing would be a great way for the young people to challenge themselves and learn new skills.

She said sailing builds confidence and team work whether it be learning the technical terms sailors use, understanding how to trim the sails, or mastering the tips to become a good skipper.

Now that the young people have completed the program, they will take part in the Property Industry Foundation’s 2017 Charity Yachting Regatta on Sydney Harbour on 17 March, sponsored by Colliers International. The event will raise crucial funds for the Foundation’s PIF House Program which builds accommodation and provides mentoring for homeless young people.

The Property Industry has sailing events in three states. Visit here for more information.

Event details
• Charity Yachting Regatta on Sydney Harbour. Friday 17 March.
• Melbourne Charity Sailing Day. Friday 24 March. Royal Brighton Yacht Club.
• Brisbane Charity Sailing Cup. Friday 26 May. Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.