The Wellspring

Young Australians aged 16 - 23 can now apply to sail the tall ship Young Endeavour for a youth training program in 2007. Voyages are for 11-days with departures from Townsville, Cairns, Airlie Beach, Bundaberg, Brisbane, Southport, Newcastle, Hobart, Devonport, Adelaide, Port Lincoln and Sydney, available from June – October 2007. Participants do not require any sailing experience.

Over the course of a voyage, 24 youth crew learn from a professional Royal Australian Navy crew all aspects of sailing a 44-metre, square-rigged tall ship on the open sea including climbing the 30m mast, setting sails, navigating, keeping watch and taking the helm.

A voyage on the Young Endeavour develops skills in teamwork, communication, leadership and motivation while getting the opportunity to explore wilderness regions and remote coastlines.

Applicants need to be Australian citizens or permanent residents, aged 16 - 23 on the day of departure of the voyage, able to swim 50 metres and be in good health. Youth Crew members are selected via a ballot.

11 day voyages cost $1,495 with financial assistance available to low-income applicants – conditions apply. Travel assistance is available to residents of WA and NT.

For more information and to apply, see http://www.youngendeavour.gov.au/. You can also freecall 1800 020 444 for an application form.

Applications close 1 April, 2007.