THE annual end of year celebrations looked a little different this year, with Connect GV’s clients, volunteers and their families getting out on Victoria Lake for some outdoor fun.
Shepparton Canoe Club put their hand up to host Connect GV, with the emphasis on holding the event outdoors so that a large number of people could safely attend. Throughout the day, participants could try sailing or canoeing on the lake in a safe and encouraging environment.
Behind the scenes, volunteers helped get participants in and out of the water and Connect GV had a hoist to assist those who use a wheelchair to enjoy the water.
Connect GV CEO Carolynne Frost explained that sailing on the lake was, for many, the first opportunity to try out watersports and evidenced how much each person had grown throughout the year.
With 84 people in attendance, many of them eager to get out onto the water in their lifejackets, the day was an enormous success and went to show the possibility in disability, as well as in the community.
FUN IN THE SUN… Connect GV volunteer Sam Birrell on the left with Connect GV clients Jamie Graham and Peter McKay. Photo: Deanne Jeffers 
SHEPPARTON SCENERY… Two participants from Connect GV’s end of year party canoe on Lake Victoria with SAM in the background. Photo: Deanne Jeffers
