15 May 2013
Australia's national sail training ship Young Endeavour is now accepting applications for youth to join eleven day voyages departing between July 2013 and February 2014. Young Australians aged 16 to 23 can apply for the ballot at www.youngendeavour.gov.au until 31 May 2013. No sailing experience is required.
A voyage in Young Endeavour is a challenging adventure at sea, and an exciting opportunity for youth to develop teamwork and leadership skills through a world recognised organisation. The current ballot includes voyages departing from Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and New Zealand, which will be crewed by youth from around the country.
University student Charlotte Morrissey, of Wagga Wagga, sailed Young Endeavour to Newcastle in 2012 and says her voyage was unlike anything she had ever experienced. "Young Endeavour will challenge you, educate you, excite you and leave you with the skills and personal ambition to achieve whatever you set your sight on!"
During each voyage, youth crew learn the skills to successfully sail a square rigged ship. They climb the 30 metre mast, set and furl sails, and maintain a 24 hour watch on the bridge. They also learn to navigate, take the helm, keep lookout and help the chef in the ship's galley. At the end of the voyage, youth crew will take command of Young Endeavour for 24 hours, sailing the ship along the Australian coast. On their last day at sea they will host a local group of youth with special needs, sharing their new found knowledge and experience.
18 year old Sarah Hall, of Hobart, first sailed Young Endeavour along the Queensland Coast in 2012 and will join the ship again in September for the 2013 International Tall Ship Festival. "Sailing in Young Endeavour is an amazing achievement - it provides opportunities that aren't available in your everyday life," says Sarah. "Take the chance to join a voyage as it will change your perspective of the people and the world around you".
Since 1988 the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, has provided challenging training voyages for over 11,000 young Australians in the tall ship Young Endeavour. The specially designed program delivered aboard the ship increases the youth crew's self awareness, develops teamwork and leadership skills, and fosters a strong sense of community spirit.
For more information, including voyage dates and fees, please visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au or contact our office on 1800 020 444. You are welcome to include this information in your school newsletter or website.
Encourage your students to apply for the voyage of a lifetime in Young Endeavour.
Regards,
Young Endeavour Youth Scheme
1800 020 444
mail@youngendeavour.gov.au