What a ‘Youth Service’ project! Last Wednesday’s guest speaker was organised by one of our regular volunteers at the project shed, Rick Parry. Chris Ellis introduced us to a project he has personally been closely involved with and continues to be instrumental in its delivery. Originally conceived and organised by the Rotary clubs or North Hobart and Salamanca (both Hobart based), the ship was built using largely voluntary labour and some of its timber was recycled (it used to be part of the former Princess Theatre).The ‘Windeward Bound’ is a tall sailing ship – with a difference. Supported by Rotary clubs, they take young people aboard (14 – 17 years old), “off the street”, and teach them the skills of seafaring; the old fashioned way, on totally renewable power. you guessed it: the wind. They wouldn't have had any previous sailing experience. Once on board, the crew is not permitted to go ashore, if they do, they’d get arrested.
The cost per person is $2,500 for a 9 days voyage. “No youth will be left off because they cannot pay all of it, but they need to come up with at least $500. It’s important that they have some skin in the game” Chris said. There's more on Chris’ PowerPoint presentation, which can be viewed in the Downloads section on the right.
Like to get involved, sponsor a young person or simply support the program? On 4th August, the Rotaract Club of Paddington (Qld) will organise a cocktail party at Manly. There is heaps more information on their website. Click here.
(Photo: Chris Ellis (centre) with Associate Member Rick Parry (left) and President Doug Lipp (right)