Young endeavour celebrates 30 years

ROYAL Australian Navy operated Sail Training Ship (STS) Young Endeavour celebrated 30 years of challenging and inspiring young Australians as it sailed into Sydney today, Minister for Defence Personnel Michael McCormack said.

Mr McCormack welcomed home the youth crew of the ship’s second voyage of 2018 and congratulated the Navy staff crew on the milestone.

“Young Endeavour was Australia’s birthday present from the people of the United Kingdom for our Bicentenary in 1988,” Mr McCormack said.

“The purpose built tall ship has taken more than13,100 young Australians on voyages and given them life skills which have benefitted them and the broader Australian community.

“Young Endeavour has conducted two world voyages, circumnavigated Australia four times and sailed to New Zealand and Indonesia.”

Mr McCormack said the Young Endeavour was purpose built to teach young Australians how to sail while also developing valuable life skills.

“She is a living gift and a thoughtful one. She teaches the young people core Australian values, such as teamwork, resilience and diversity,” Mr McCormack said.

“These voyages develop confidence, self-awareness, teamwork and leadership skills and create a strong sense of community responsibility.

“I congratulate the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, the Advisory Board and the staff members of the Royal Australian Navy who deliver the award winning program on this important milestone.”

Around 20 voyages are conducted annually along Australia’s coastline with youths aged 16-23 setting sail.

The program teaches the youths how to navigate, keep watch, cook in the galley, take the helm and climb the 30-metre mast to work aloft, setting and furling sails.

For more information on Young Endeavour visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au