She Sails Program
Empowering Deaf Women & Girls Through Sailing
Deaf Sailing Queensland (DSQ) proudly supports the She Sails initiative — promoting inclusive, Auslan-accessible sailing opportunities for Deaf and Hard of Hearing women and girls across Queensland.
While DSQ does not organise She Sails regattas, we actively encourage and support Deaf women and girls to participate in She Sails events hosted by local sailing clubs. Our goal is to empower Deaf women and girls to build confidence, develop sailing skills, and connect with the wider sailing community in an inclusive, supportive environment.
What is She Sails?
She Sails is a national initiative supported by Australian Sailing to increase women’s participation and leadership in sailing.
DSQ proudly promotes this initiative within the Deaf community by providing Auslan-accessible information, mentoring, and pathways that encourage Deaf women and girls to take part in sailing and leadership opportunities.
How DSQ Supports Deaf Women & Girls
1. Regatta Participation & Crew Opportunities
DSQ encourages Deaf women and girls to take part in She Sails regattas organised by local sailing clubs.
We support participation by helping connect interested sailors with inclusive crews, providing Auslan-accessible communication support, and fostering Deaf representation in sailing events.
When an all-female crew is not possible, mixed crews are welcome, provided the skipper is a female sailor.
2. Coaching, Mentoring & Crew Development
Through partnerships with Humpybong Yacht Club and other Queensland clubs, DSQ promotes coaching and mentoring opportunities for Deaf women and girls who wish to sail competitively or build leadership and teamwork skills on the water.
3. Partnerships with Sailing Clubs
We collaborate with local clubs to increase Auslan access and awareness, ensuring Deaf female sailors feel welcome, supported, and represented in all aspects of sailing — from social sailing to regatta competition.
No Experience Required
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced sailor, DSQ welcomes Deaf and Hard of Hearing women and girls to get involved.
Our programs and partnerships provide safe, inclusive pathways for you to learn, grow, and participate in She Sails regattas.
Program Dates
Regatta participation and training opportunities will be announced throughout the year.
Stay up to date via the DSQ Events Calendar and social media channels.
Why Join DSQ’s She Sails Pathway?
- Deaf-led and Auslan-accessible environment
- Female-focused leadership and participation
- Supportive partnerships with local sailing clubs
- Open to beginners and experienced sailors
- Inclusive crew model – female skippers encouraged
Get Involved
- Join DSQ as a Member.
- Register directly with She Sails regatta organisers and arrange a Sailing Pass if required.
- Express your interest in joining a DSQ-supported She Sails crew or training session.
- Follow DSQ on social media and our Events Calendar for She Sails updates and upcoming regattas.