Air Force veteran Sharon Dalton shares sailing journey

A Sunshine Coast veteran has shared how she came to find a sport which made her “enjoy life again” despite her physical limits, encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone.

Sharon Dalton sailing on the water. Photo: RSL Queensland

A Sunshine Coast veteran has shared how she was able to find passion and joy in a sport despite her physical limitations, with hopes to inspire others.

Air Force veteran Sharon Dalton could not continue her active lifestyle after an accident left her as a wheelchair user eight years ago.

Ms Dalton was a part of the Australian Air Force between 1986 and 1994, working various roles but primarily dealing with buying, facilities management and equipment maintenance support.

“After the accident I became really involved with archery, pistol shooting, swimming and modified indoor rowing and had even planned to get into the Invictus Games,” Ms Dalton said.

“But then my arms started failing so I couldn’t continue doing these things that I loved.”

She described using a wheelchair as “limiting” and had difficulty finding an accessible sport of interest to her, longing to find something which would make her “enjoy life again.”

Sharon Dalton sailing on the water. Photo: RSL Queensland

Sharon Dalton uses a sling with the help of volunteers to place herself into a boat. Photo: RSL

Her wish came true two years ago, when Ms Dalton stumbled across the Saltwater Veterans Sailing Project, a program run in partnership with RSL Queensland and supported by Sailability Mooloolaba.

Within 10 minutes, she was on the phone with founder Scott Reynolds, learning about his vision to support the veteran community.

“It was like another world opened up,” Ms Dalton said.

She felt “blown away” by the support she received, particularly from volunteers who introduced her to sailing.

“They also used a sling that hoisted me from my wheelchair and lowered me into the boat, and then I was able to sail just like everyone else,” she said.

“If my arms were failing, someone else in the boat would be there to help and there’d be no impact on our trajectory.

“Being in the boat that first time made me forget about what I couldn’t do and instead focus on what I could do.”

Attending the latest Sailing Activity through RSL Rec Connect in June, Ms Dalton had taken note of the laughter and excitement of all the participants.

“It made me reflect on how impressive, inspirational these social activities are to our wellbeing.”

Sunshine Coast veteran Sharon Dalton. Photo: RSL Queensland

Sunshine Coast veteran Sharon Dalton. Photo: RSL Queensland

“Even if you discovered sailing wasn’t for you, you might’ve come away with some great connections.”

RSL Queensland’s Rec Connect Sailing activity offers veteran’s a one-day sailing experience in order to teach the basics in a supportive environment.

Now with her new-found passion, Ms Dalton said she was thankful for her new community and those who have helped her in furthering her sailing journey.

She is now considering to enter the Sailing World Championships at Sydney in 2025.

“I’m so grateful that I have finally found something I love to do and such a wonderful community, but it wouldn’t have been possible if I hadn’t have put myself out there in the first place,” Ms Dalton said.

Ms Dalton said she was excited for the future and hoped her story would encourage others to find something which will bring them happiness and a sense of community needed in their lives.