Young Endeavour docks in Coffs Harbour, much to the delight of local tall ship fans

Massive ship turns heads at the jetty, but if you want to catch a glimpse you will have to be quick.

Lovers of tall ships were treated to a nice surprise this morning when the Young Endeavour docked in Coffs Harbour.

STS Young Endeavour is a tall ship purpose built for sail training and is part of a youth program offering 16 to 23-year-olds the opportunity to have a unique, challenging and inspirational experience at sea.

The ship, which measures 44 metres and weighs 239 tonnes, left the harbour this afternoon and is on its way to Brisbane.

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme aims to increase self awareness, develop teamwork and leadership skills and create a strong sense of community responsibility among members of the 18-member youth crew.

This crop of sailors are all Queensland residents as the Covid restrictions have forced the organisation to make adjustments to ensure the trip remains Covid safe.

The Young Endeavour has docked in Coffs Harbour. Photo: Tim Jarrett

The Young Endeavour will be coming back down the coast later in the year, leaving Brisbane on September 19.

Coffs Harbour youth are eligible for this trip and are encouraged to apply at youngendeavour.gov.au.

Liam Mackay, aged 23, joined Young Endeavour for Voyage one in February, applying after his planned international exchange was postponed.

“The voyage exceeded my expectations – I was astounded by how much we learnt in 10 days. The first few days were overwhelming – we had to learn every rope, every sail, how to tie knots and to climb aloft. Once we were able to process the new information we started to really enjoy ourselves,” he said.

Each voyage culminates in command day, where youth crew take command of the ship for 24 hours, putting the sailing and teamwork skills they have learnt into action. Liam was chosen as youth crew Captain and found the challenge to be a rewarding one.

“Command day really pushed me. It was a stressful 24 hours but we gave it our best shot,” Liam said.

“One of the things that stood out for me is that each youth crew member has to become a leader – it wasn’t just the youth crew Captain, Sailmaster and Navigator making decisions – we needed input from everyone.

“I learnt that being a leader doesn’t preclude the help of others”.