Connection and Sense of Belonging by Leonie Smith
Watsons Bay, Lizard Island (Shelley Wright).
It is a basic human instinct and need to belong to a tribe of likeminded people. Many thanks to the members of WWSA and the wonderful women who contribute with generosity of spirit. Sharing your stories of sailing challenges, accomplishments, ideas, frustrations, fears, advice, and knowledge in an authentic and genuine manner. Creating a community environment that is openly encouraging, nurturing, kind, supportive and inspiring.
end would be most valuable.
We finally met in person at Lizard Island and there is no truer example of WWSA connections. I tell this story of sisterhood‌ I mentioned to Justine that I was a descendant of Captain James Cook’s brother, BELOW: Restorative cocktails after the walk to Cooks Lookout (Leonie on left, Justine on right).
Whilst I am not a newbie to sailing, this year, in the most challenging and uncertain times, my DH (dear husband) and I transitioned into retirement and living on board our yacht Sens de la Vie. Pursuing, with a leap of faith, our long-held dream to sail the top end of Oz to the Kimberley. Along the way I have been fortunate to meet some of the members personally – Pam, Eva, Lynette, Justine, and others. I was elated to finally meet Justine Porter in person. I had private messaged Justine six months before meeting her and we formed a friendship and connection. I had a sense that we needed to be connected and her knowledge of the top Women Who Sail Australia 8
