Senator The Hon. David Feeney MP
Parliamentary Secretary for Defence
On Australia Day, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney welcomed the arrival of Australia’s national sail training ship Young Endeavour to Seaworks Foundation Maritime Precinct, Williamstown.
The Seaworks Maritime Precinct is the home of tall ships in Victoria and is devoted to the preservation of Victoria’s maritime history. The precinct is being promoted as part of Seaworks Open Week from 23 to 30 January 2011, and STS Young Endeavour joined the celebrations on Australia Day.
Senator David Feeney said: ‘It was terrific to see the Young Endeavour, which is crewed by eighteen young Australians, many from the local area, join with Victoria’s resident tall ship Enterprize and engaged in a mock battle, with cannon fire, off Gellibrand Point.
‘Voyages aboard Young Endeavour not only teach young Australians about their maritime history, but provide the youth crew with unique and challenging experiences.’
‘The crew develop qualities Australians are proud of: a strong sense of community and egalitarianism, teamwork and leadership skills.’
‘I would encourage Australians to come and visit the Seaworks Foundation in Williamstown to learn about Victoria’s maritime history and the early European settlement of Victoria.’
Senator David Feeney thanked Lieutenant Commander Damien Munchenberg, Commanding Officer of the Young Endeavour, Mr Stephen Moss CSC, Executive Director Young Endeavour Youth Scheme and Ms. Rennis Witham, Executive Officer of Seaworks Maritime Precinct.
The Young Endeavour will be open for public inspection between 4pm - 6pm on Australia Day, providing a backdrop centrepiece for the Seaworks Foundation Festival.
The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme is currently accepting applications from young Australians aged 16 – 23 for 11 day voyages along the east and south coasts of Australia aboard Young Endeavour. Voyages depart between January and August 2011.
For more information please visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au. No previous sailing experience is required.
MEDIA CONTACTS:
Lorna Clarke Senator David Feeney’s Office - 0408 345 730
Murray Henstock Voyage and Youth Development Coordinator
Young Endeavour Youth Scheme
(02) 9359 3657 or 0407 486 906
