Membership

1. Who can join DSQ?

Anyone who is Deaf, Hard of Hearing, a user of Auslan, or a supporter of the Deaf community. All ages and skill levels are welcome! Only deaf people who are 18+ have voting rights at elections and meetings.

2. What does my membership fee cover?

Access to regular monthly activities (subject to activity fee payment)
Insurance coverage for DSQ activities
Contribution to affiliation fees with Deaf Sports Australia and Humpybong Yacht Club
Access to member-only events and leadership pathways
Support for Deaf-led community initiatives

3. Are there extra costs on top of the membership fee?

Yes. A monthly activity fee applies for regular activities unless paid upfront with Option 1. Special events (e.g. regattas, camps, workshops) may have additional costs.

Yes.
An activity (social) fee applies for regular activities unless already paid upfront under Option 1.

Option 1: Includes monthly activity fees (paid annually in advance) .
Option 2: Social fees of $10.00 per visit are paid separately at each activity.

Special events (such as regattas, camps, or workshops) may also have additional costs.

4. Are membership fees refundable?

No. Membership fees are non-refundable, as they support DSQ's operating costs, insurance, and program delivery.

5. What are the payment options?

Option 1: Annual membership +monthly activity fees paid upfront (unlimited activities).
Option 2: Annual membership fee upfront + activity fee per visit paid separately.

Choose the option that suits your needs — see the Membership Form for details.

6. How do I pay?

Payments can be made online or via direct deposit.

Annual membership payments are due at registration.
Monthly activity fees (if using Option 2) can be paid before each session or on a monthly invoice.

Members selecting Option 2 may pay the activity fee prior to each session online or onsite or choose to receive a monthly invoice covering a minimum 2 visits per month – $20.00) for payment.

7. Do I need to be an experienced sailor?

No! We welcome beginners and experienced participants. Our programs are beginner-friendly and Auslan-accessible.

8. What are affiliation fees?

These are annual payments made by DSQ to support partnerships and access to essential services:

Deaf Sports Australia (DSA): Covers public liability insurance, Deaf sailing competitions, and other related events.
Humpybong Yacht Club (HYC): Covers access to club facilities and insurance coverage for specific vessels stored onsite.

9. Can family or friends join as supporters?

Yes! We offer Supporter Memberships for family, friends, and allies who wish to support DSQ’s activities.

10. How will I know about upcoming activities?

We send regular updates via email, social media, and our website — including activity invitations and news.

11. How do I cancel or change my membership?

12. Who can I contact for more information?

Email us at Email: deafsailingqld@gmail.com or follow us on [Social Media Links] Deaf Sailing Queensland Facebook.
We’re happy to assist!

13. Can I bring my own sailboat or windsurfing gear?

Yes! Participants are welcome to bring their own sailboat or windsurfing and other watersport equipment to Social Sailing Days.

However, please note:

You are responsible for the transport, rigging, and maintenance of your own equipment.
Your boat or gear must comply with basic safety requirements.
DSQ provides group coordination and safety support on the water but does not take responsibility for privately owned equipment.
If in doubt, please contact us before the event.
Insurance coverage is encouraged for your equipment.
Waiver will need to be signed.

We encourage you to join in — whether you're using DSQ’s equipment or your own!