|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
East Auckland school pupils are being given a taste of sailing thanks to support from their local Freemasons.
Lodge Howick No.314, along with the Howick and Districts Freemasons Charitable Trust and The Freemasons Charity, donated funds to give Howick Intermediate School pupils the chance to participate in sailing programmes run by the Howick Sailing Club (HPS).
The Freemasons say the initiative underscores their commitment to the enrichment and education of young people in their community.
The collaboration between Lodge Howick No.314 and the school marks a significant step in “fostering community engagement and providing opportunities for young students”.
The sailing programme was set up by Tim Nichols and Reneta Money and the HPS team.
It brought together two groups of students from Howick Intermediate School, who attended over two full days.
Following that, pupils Zoe and Jasmine were then selected by the school’s teachers to take part in a Sailing Scholarship run by the club.
It was funded by a $6000 donation from Lodge Howick No314 with support from The Howick and Districts Freemasons Charitable Trust and The Freemasons Charity.
The program is designed to teach vital water and environmental skills, as well as the fundamental principles of sailing and kayaking.
“This experience was particularly valuable for children who had recently immigrated to New Zealand, some having only been in the country for about six months,” the Freemasons say.
Many of the children come from overseas communities where water activities aren’t part of their daily lives.
Some had never been on the water before and faced additional challenges, such as learning English as a second language.
The Freemasons say despite these hurdles, they embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm and eagerness, demonstrating a keen willingness to learn and participate.
The initiative was more than just a sailing lesson. It was a “character-building adventure” that fosters resilience, teamwork, and confidence.
“Learning to sail and kayak required the children to step out of their comfort zones, work together, and develop new skills.
“These experiences are invaluable as they contribute to the holistic development of young individuals, preparing them for future challenges.”
Lodge Howick No.314 has a long-standing relationship with Howick Sailing Club.
Many of the lodge’s past and present members have been actively involved with the club, some even serving as Commodores when time and family commitments allowed.
The current Master, Allan Boyce, began his sailing journey with HSC in 1974 and continues to sail, but in a larger vessel.
The lodge says it and its Masonic partners are “dedicated to continuing their support for the local and wider communities in various meaningful ways”.
They relish the opportunity to be more visible in their local community and are committed to partnering with the Howick Sailing Club and other worthy causes in the future.
