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.

TO APPLY: Applicants can apply for voyages online at www.youngendeavour.gov.au or by phoning 1800 020 444. Selection is via a ballot. Applications close 1 April 2007.

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.

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme is funded by the Australian Government and the Royal Australian Navy and supported by Corporate and Community organisations, who sponsor voyages for young people in their community or organisation. Please contact the Scheme on 1800 020 444 if you are interested in sponsoring a youth participant.

The Young Endeavour was a gift from the UK to the people of Australia to mark the Bicentenary in 1988 and is operated by specially trained Royal Australian Navy crew. More than 8,500 young Australians have taken part in the youth training program since the Young Endeavour’s maiden voyage to Australia in 1988.

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