Disabled Sailing Trust New Zealand
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About us
Hi, my name is Jon Kirk. I’ve been a keen sailor from the age of 10, sailing a range of boats from dinghies to super yachts in New Zealand, Europe, and the Caribbean. I came up with the idea of setting up The Disabled Sailing Trust after my son Charlie was born in 2004 with Down’s syndrome. Through Charlie’s disability, I have met many other families with disabled members who find everyday life a struggle. They survive on sheer ‘guts and determination’ usually with limited means and few opportunities to do something special in the way of an adventure.
The Disabled Sailing Trust New Zealand has been set up to provide an opportunity for disabled people and their families to have fun and adventure together which would otherwise be logistically and financially beyond them.
Our patron
Our Patron is media personality Graeme Sinclair of 'Gone Fishing' fame. Graeme has a long history with the outdoors having spent most of his formative years fishing, fishing and fishing. He has been involved in many outdoor activities both recreationally and professionally as an instructor, developing and running outdoor management and team building courses. Having been diagonsed with Multiple Sclerosis approximately 14 years ago, Graeme does not let his being in a wheelchair stop him. He continues to do as many of these activities and more. Graeme is actively involved in the Disabled Sailing Trust NZ, giving this project a high profile through his TV and radio programmes.
TRustees
Jon Kirk
Trust founder, Jon Kirk is a former primary school teacher and currently a freelance television editor and tutor in television production. Passionate about the New Zealand coast he has sailed a range of boats from dinghies to super yachts. Read More...
David Barnes
David's professional yachting career spanned almost 20 years, competing in 6 America's Cup campaigns starting with Perth in 1986. He has been Skipper, Tactician, Sail Design Coordinator, Design Team member and Campaign General Manager. Read More...
Bob Kirk
Bob has an extensive background in secondary education. An innovative and experienced teacher of mathematics and physics and former deputy principal. Read More...
Ray Miller
A former secondary school principle with over 30 years engagement in education, much of it associated with addressing the needs of disadvantaged groups. Ray is a keen sportsperson with a life long involvement in sporting activities, particularly those linked to the outdoors. Read More...
Mike Pigneguy
Mike has a lifetime association with the sea starting with a childhood living on a boat in the South of England. He then joined the Merchant Navy and became a Deck Officer, arriving in New Zealand in 1964. Read More...