The group attended a three-day training program in skills required to sail the tall ship “James Craig” and one day of sailing out through the heads of Sydney Harbour.

This ship is one of three in the world of its kind and has been lovingly restored by volunteers from the Maritime Museum over the last 30 years. “The passion the volunteers have for this vessel is contagious”, said Nathan McEvoy, who attended as a mentor.

The group was introduced to the safety requirements of sailing a square rigger in the modern world and some of the science behind harnessing the wind to propel a 600 tonne ship across the seas.

During the 1800s the James Craig sailed all over the world as a cargo ship transporting everything from grain to coal and railway sleepers. Today it transports passengers back in time as part of tours organised by the Maritime Museum and tall ship volunteers.

The group from Young were joined by 14 other teenagers from high schools in Morriset and Sydney.

The kids were broken into smaller groups and assigned to crew members and then began work as junior crew members and working in new peer groups. Manager of the Young PCYC, Kelly Slater, said the kids were climbing the rigging and out over the side of the ship in a flash,

“The kids were taking risks in a controlled situation and making decisions in a team environment to control these risks”, said Mrs Slater, adding that this was one of the aims of the program.

“The kids definitely stepped out of their comfort zone and we watched them support each other when their mates were scared or unsure,” said mentor Nathan McEvoy.

Graeme West, the Minister for Juvenille Justice and Volunteers attended a graduation ceremony held on board the “James Craig’.

He was personally able to congratulate all the participants of the program as well as the volunteers that provide all the training and encouragement for the kids.

Lauren Green from Young told the minister “she was proud of herself and everyone for what we have done,” which was great to hear considering the kids from Young put a lot of time into fundraising the cost of travel, accommodation and meals for the four day program.

“The minister has already agreed to support the program next year and we hope to give some more local kids the opportunity to participate,” said Mrs Slater.

If anyone has enquiries or suggestions for future youth programs please don’t hesitate to contact the Young PCYC and management who along with the committee will see how these suggestions can be supported.