Day 07 – V11/25, Darwin to Broome

Aaarrrrr-hoyy there matey’s!! Officially one week at sea, with plenty of magical stories and mysterious bruises to show for it. Spirits were high last night, with each watch completing their ‘Bear Ex’ challenge. The watches learnt how to take initiative to set brand new sails never seen before and reflected on their teamworking and leadership skills.

Waking up bright and early to the anchor being dropped, the watches started the day with the BEST HOUR… Happy Hour! Everyone worked together to maintain the boat’s cleanliness, ensuring no crumbs were left behind from Steve’s nutritious breakfast.

Blueys then took the win in our Rope Races, absolutely dominating and smashing the other watches overboard (Everyone worked hard, but the wind wasn’t in their favour). Esteemed Bluey member, Harvey, was incredible in both the deciding challenger AND the bonus round, scoffing down a whole apple (stem and all!), as well as thinking quick on his feet and hoisting a bright pink croc to the highest point of the ship, winning it for the team!

On a more sentimental note, the crew had the absolute privilege to visit Bigge Island (Wuuyuru) and pay honour to the deep history of the Wunambal Gaambera people, who used the island as a sacred burial site. The Young Endeavour was fortunate enough to be granted access to the island to allow the Youthies to appreciate the traditional Wandjina and Gwion Gwion art found in the rock caves on the shore. One of the paintings, in fact, was of a sailboat, allowing us to connect on a deeper level and recognise the importance and origin of using the wind to travel the world.

This was an incredibly reflective moment for both the Youthies and Staffies, as it is a landmark in Australia that not many are able to go to. We all felt very lucky to have experienced the serenity of the island, and not one of us took it for granted. It was fascinating to witness the Wunambal Gaambera people’s culture, dating back 25,000 years, from the perspective of Youthies ranging from Tharawal to Whadjuk regions. We are grateful to live in this vast beautiful country, full of an abundance of beautiful culture and traditions.

We ended this thoughtful day with a delish barbeque, cooked by Bluey watch leader TJ (whose name we are yet to find out…but we will!) and a little dance party on the midship.

Thanks for checking in, land-lubbers! Love from Erin and Hannah!