Australia's tall ships meet off the coast of Perth
by Nancy Knudsen on 23 Oct 2009
Leeuwin II’s sails fly high in the breeze during the Tall Ship Regatta 2009.
SW
There were lots of sails showing off the West Australian coastline this week when the sail training ship the Young Endeavour and the Leeuwin II put on a great display for residents of Perth and Fremantle. They raced together over a sixteen nautical mile course.
The ships sailed north along the coast before heading out to sea, then turning and racing to the finish line outside Fremantle Harbour.
Lieutenant Commander Gavin Dawe, Commanding Officer Young Endeavour said, 'It was a great race, and a great opportunity for the local community to see two tall ships together under full sail.
'The Regatta was closely contested and both crews joined in the spirit of the event, firing simulation rounds from their cannons as they passed mid-race.
'The youth crew aboard Young Endeavour thoroughly enjoyed the experience of being able to race another tall ship and put into practice the new skills they have learned throughout their voyage,' said Lieutenant Commander Dawe.
The Sydney-based Young Endeavour is visiting Western Australia for the first time since 2001 as part of a circumnavigation of Australia. The ship arrived at Fremantle on Wednesday crewed by 24 young Australians from around the country.
During their eleven day voyage these young Australians have learned the skills to successfully sail a square rigged ship, taking command of Young Endeavour and sailing her along the Western Australian coast. They have participated in sail handling, working aloft and ship watch keeping, as well as helm and navigation activities, maintaining look out, and assisting the chef.
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.
These voyages provide the youth crew with a unique, challenging and inspirational experience that increases self awareness, develops teamwork and leadership skills and creates a strong sense of community responsibility.
Voyages in Young Endeavour are open to all Australians aged 16-23. For more information please visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au
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