Day 7 – Mooloolaba

Ahoy there everyone, Overnight the ship continued motor sailing south along the Queensland central coast with each watch of Youth Crew conducting a ���Bear Exercise’ by completing an unfamiliar team orientated task without instruction in a limited time, needless to say each of the watch acquitted themselves well in often torrential conditions whilst exploring various methods of communication, leadership and teamwork. At sunrise the ship was abeam Wide Bay, sailing at six knots under fore and aft sails in a cloudy but crisp morning. Morning brief was conducted quickly followed by ���Happy Hour’ during which each watch was alternatively called to the upper deck where I assessed Captain’s Setting and Furling Drills, these drills are designed to evaluate each watch in their ability to safely set and furl sails without compromising their own or the team’s safety in preparation for Command Day. It was with great pride and satisfaction that each watch successfully completed setting and furling the designated sails, displaying high standards of teamwork, communication, knowledge, leadership and safety. This achievement in conjunction with authorisation to conduct stage two climbing, where each individual has displayed the required confidence and safety precautions to proceed aloft without a member of staff accompanying them, are both major milestones in the progression of the Youth Crew.After Captains Setting and Furling Drills were completed, all sails were handed in and the ship proceeded to the planned anchorage in the lee of Point Cartwright, Mooloolaba. Lunch was enjoyed by all before each watch was transferred ashore in the ships two sea boats by Watch Officer Taffy and Sail Master Kenny. Once ashore, the Youth Crew conducted mid voyage talks where each watch discussed individual and collective progress against their initial set goals, then reset priorities and revised goals for the remainder of the voyage. The remaining time ashore was used to either hug a tree or explore how unstable sea legs were on dry land, much to the amusement each other. Once safely back onboard I gathered the Youth Crew and briefed them on the impending Command Day when they, and their elected Command Team will assume command of Young Endeavour for 24 hours, collectively enabling each to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired over the previous seven days to safely achieve their mission.Then in order to enjoy the serenity of a magnificent sunset and the lights of Mooloolaba a Captain’s Teak Deck BBQ was cooked and consumed under the southern cross. Once dinner was completed it was time for the Youth Crew to elect their Command Team, results now known, the Young Endeavour will be in the extremely capable hands of Youth Captain Dahna and her team as of 1300 tomorrow. So after another very busy day the Youth Crew are now watching a teak deck movie under the stars before settling into their anchor watches for the night, hopefully achieving a good night’s rest in anticipation and preparation for tomorrow’s commencement of Command Day.Our last seven days at sea had seen significant developments in the overall journey of our young adventurers. They as a team have progressed enormously both individually and collectively as the voyage still continues to gain momentum. Command Day approaches with great anticipation for all. The intention is to remain at anchor overnight prior to weighing in the afternoon for the adventure and challenge that is Command Day in Young Endeavour. Until tomorrow evening when we will read of the adventures and exploits of Youth Captain Dahna and her team, take care.Yours ayeCaptain Damien