The crew of Italian vessel Lo Spirito di Stella received a warm welcome at HMAS Moreton on August 8, the first of three port visits to Australia.
Members of the ADF attended the reception, along with Italian attaché Colonel Marco Bertoli, Consul of Italy Luna Angelini Marinucci, the boat designer Andrea Stella and guests.
Lo Spirito di Stella is a fully wheelchair accessible 18m catamaran currently conducting a round-the-world voyage entitled: Wheels on the World 2023-2025.
After a significant paraplegic accident, Dr Stella designed the accessible vessel, which is now a model for other nations.
Through its adaptive techniques it enabled Dr Stella to operate the catamaran and fully integrate with the other crew.
Director ADF Sport Brigadier Phil Winter said Defence was committed to supporting people who have become wounded, injured or ill as a result of their service.
"The ADF Adaptive Sports Program aims to provide hope and inspire current and former serving personnel through the power of adaptive sports," Brigadier Winter said.
The yacht left Genoa on July 3 last year and will circumnavigate the globe, arriving back in Venice, Italy, on August 1, 2025.
As part of this voyage, Lo Spirito di Stella will also visit Cairns and Darwin in September.
Defence is supporting the voyage by encouraging wounded, injured or ill, current or former personnel to participate, as well as providing port and logistics support.
"This catamaran brings a powerful message," Brigadier Winter said.
"The power of sport can help our people both serving, veterans and family members to improve their physical and mental wellbeing, and social connections.
"Sailing can have its challenges but many of the sports also have their nuances."
For more information visit Lo Spirito di Stella
