Teens Embark On New Journey

Newcastle Herald

Friday January 19, 2007

Rachel Baugh

TWENTY-seven young sailors tackled the high seas when the STS Young Endeavour ship sailed out of Newcastle for an 11-day voyage yesterday.

The crew, chosen from a lottery, will be trained by navy staff, who will teach them all aspects of sailing, including climbing the mast, setting sails, navigating, keeping watch and taking the helm.

Henry Wicks, 17, from Scone High School, was looking forward to the expedition. Like most of his fellow crew members, he has had no experience in boating.

"It's appealing because it is a challenge. It is going to be a great adventure, and I can't wait to meet new people . . . I am not sure about climbing the mast though," he said.

" It is like being thrown in the deep end, but I don't mind."

Climbing the mast is what appealed most to Jess Cossens, 16.

" I am looking forward to learning how to sail, and climbing up [the mast] by myself. I have to give everything a go." she said.

Jess, of Scone, is used to being away from home, having just returned from a six-month exchange program in Denmark.

" I want to get out so far I can't see land any more. I just hope I don't get seasick," she said.

In the past 20 years, more than 8500 young Australians have sailed the Young Endeavour training ship. It will return to Newcastle on Australia Day.

Rachel Baugh

© 2007 Newcastle Herald

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