About 20 women from Shepparton’s migrant community gathered nervously at the lake’s boat ramp wearing high-vis life jackets over their traditional clothing before stepping into a small boat.
Through squeals of laughter and smiles all round, the women were pushed out into the lake for a calm cruise under the careful guidance of Shepparton Sailability volunteers.
St Georges Rd Primary School Community Hub leader Liz Arcus said the experience was about building confidence and making new friendships.
‘‘I admire their bravery — they’ve never been in a boat before and they can’t swim,’’ she said.
‘‘One lady came away pointing to her head saying ‘this made my mind happy’ — many have traumatised backgrounds.’’
She said the women came from Sudanese, south Sudanese, Iraqi, Afghani and Syrian backgrounds.
Dhuia Alnajjar from Iraq said she was walking around the lake a few weeks ago with a Community Hub group when she saw the Sailability boats out on the lake.
‘‘When I saw them, I really liked them and asked if I could have a go,’’ she said.
As she stepped gingerly into a bobbing boat yesterday, Dhuia waved to her friends.
‘‘Look after my kids,’’ she said with a laugh.
Adrian Sumner of Shepparton Sailability said the group had previously hosted sessions for men from migrant backgrounds.
‘‘It’s probably an experience they have never had before — they are always very grateful,’’ Mr Sumner said.
Ms Arcus thanked Sailability for the opportunity.
‘‘Thank you for making this possible and bringing smiles to people’s faces,’’ she said.
Ms Arcus said anyone who wanted more information about the Community Hub could phone her on 0407861303 or St Georges Rd Primary School on 58213383.