The team aboard the Italian vessel Lo Spirito di Stella enjoyed a warm reception at HMAS Moreton on August 8, marking the first of three port calls to Australia. Attendees of the reception included members of the ADF, Italian attaché Colonel Marco Bertoli, Italian Consul Luna Angelini Marinucci, boat designer Andrea Stella, and various guests. Lo Spirito di Stella is an 18-meter catamaran that is fully wheelchair accessible and is currently engaged in a global journey titled: Wheels on the World 2023-2025. Following a serious paraplegic accident, Dr. Stella created the accessible vessel, which now serves as a model for other countries. Its adaptive technologies allowed Dr. Stella to navigate the catamaran while fully engaging with the rest of the crew. Brigadier Phil Winter, Director of ADF Sport, stated that Defence is committed to aiding individuals who have been wounded, injured, or become ill due to their service. “The ADF Adaptive Sports Program is designed to instill hope and motivate current and former personnel through the benefits of adaptive sports,” Brigadier Winter noted. The yacht departed Genoa on July 3 of the previous year and will complete its circumnavigation, returning to Venice, Italy, on August 1, 2025. As part of its journey, Lo Spirito di Stella will also stop in Cairns and Darwin in September. Defence is supporting this expedition by encouraging participation from wounded, injured, or ill current or former personnel, in addition to providing logistical and port support. “This catamaran conveys a significant message,” Brigadier Winter emphasized. “The influence of sport can aid our personnel—both active service members, veterans, and their families—in enhancing their social connections, physical health, and mental wellness. While sailing presents challenges, many sports come with their own unique nuances.” For further details, please visit Lo Spirito di Stella.
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