Young leader returns from the voyage of a lifetime

Young leader returns from the voyage of a lifetime © Young Endeavour

At age 16, Saskia Junge from Melbourne took part in an unforgettable adventure which saw her sail from Brisbane to Sydney on board the national sail training ship Young Endeavour.

"My dad always told me about Young Endeavour and then I was on a leadership camp and they mentioned it too, so I just decided to apply!" Saskia said.

The Young Endeavour Youth Scheme provides young Australians with the opportunity to participate in an exciting 11-day sailing voyage along the east and south coasts of Australia.

"My experience on Young Endeavour has been absolutely amazing. I've enjoyed every second of it and it's been so much fun,"

"It's a challenging adventure where as a youth crew of 24, we sail the amazing tall ship from one destination to another. In the meantime, we bond as a team, lift confidence and morality, and just have an awesome time," Saskia said.

Throughout the program, specially trained Royal Australian Navy staff teach participants the skills required to sail a square-rigged tall ship, including how to keep watch, cook in the galley and climb the 30-metre mast to set and furl the sails.

"I really enjoyed being on watch. We got to take the helm, be on lookout and see shooting stars - we even saw dolphins!" Saskia said.

Whilst on board, youth crew are encouraged to pursue personal and team goals and participate in activities that allow them to develop important skills for life.

"I've definitely learnt about teamwork, leadership and what it takes to become a good leader.

"I never really understood the true importance of teamwork, because I guess in something like a netball team, not everyone is as vitally important as they are in a tall ship environment. You feel really valued here," Saskia said.

Since 1988 the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, has provided challenging and inspirational training voyages to nearly 14,000 young Australians.

"I can't recommend it more. You might be nervous and not know how to sail, but just do it. Sign up, step on board and you won't regret it," Saskia said.

For more information and to enter the ballot for your chance to set sail on an upcoming voyage visit youngendeavour.gov.au.