A group of children with disabilities and illnesses will get to ride on boats during a ‘A Day for Special Kids’ at Yaringa Boat Harbour. 26783 Picture: Luke Plummer
By Lia Bichel
DOZENS of children with disabilities and terminal illnesses will be given a special treat on 21 March at the Yaringa Boat Harbour, Somerville.
The idea for ‘A Day for Special Kids’ stemmed from a group of residents who spotted a young girl in a wheelchair doing the same thing from the shore. The residents were sitting on a balcony looking out over Western Port Bay.
“We just thought then and there that it would be nice to be able to take kids with disabilities out on boats,” said Rob Dowling.
The group received approval from the Yaringa pier owner, recruited volunteers and boats, and invited about 75 children with disabilities and illnesses and their carers to the event which features a barbecue, local bands, and karaoke.
“All together there will be about 600 people at the event,” Rob Dowling said.
“The children coming are from Scope, Canteen and Variety Club. They will each get a fishing reel. It’s going to be a fun day.” Mr Dowling said volunteers are welcome to help out the committee and donations will be accepted.
“It’s a private event, but if anyone wants to help out by donating their time or making a donation to the charities they are more than welcome.”
