Day 5 – Twofold Bay

Ahoy there everyone, Overnight the ship continued to make sea miles to the north sailing under three square sails on a broad reach which kept the deck watches busy along with applying practical navigation techniques and conducting engineering rounds. In addition each watch conducted a ���Bear Exercise’ by completing an unfamiliar team orientated task without instruction in a limited time, needless to say each of the watches acquitted themselves well and explored various methods of communication, leadership and teamwork. Wakey wakey at 0700 saw the on watch Youth Crew perform a stirring tune to arouse all onboard for breakfast and then morning brief. It was also pleasing to note that the majority of the Youth Crew have been awarded their new sea legs and are physically adjusted to the motion of the ship, participating with vigour at each challenge or activity.With happy hour complete and the ship at Sail Master Taffy’s high standard of cleanliness, watches were mustered midships on the upper deck where I presented a lesson on sail theory to the Youth Crew in order to consolidate the practical aspects of the deck and sail work that they have been conducting over the previous five days. After lunch round three of rope races was conducted. With a commendable performance by each watch this activity is closely contested on a daily basis with a mystery final award. Next on the agenda was rotational tacks, where each watch rotated through the other two watches tacking stations, enabling every person to have a comprehensive understanding of how the ship is tacked from each location onboard during the important evolution. On completion all sails were then handed in and the ship entered Twofold Bay and anchored adjacent the Eden wood chip mill. Chef Snowy and his galley hands presented a delicious three choice roast and chocolate pudding. With whetted appetites and full stomachs all hands were back on deck to conduct a three way talk activity; this enabled each Youth Crew member to gather a significant amount of in depth information about two of their appointed shipmates during the afternoon; this information is then presented to the remainder of the crew in the third person developing confidence, interpersonal skills and public speaking. The Youth Crew have now settled into anchor watches overnight maintaining the safety of the ship and crew.Our last five days at sea have seen a significant development in the overall journey of our young adventurers. As a team they have progressed enormously both individually and collectively as the voyage continues to gain momentum. Many have achieved goals they would never have thought possible at the commencement of the voyage showing true perseverance, determination and commitment. The intention is to remain at anchor overnight before exploring the coastal town of Eden in the forenoon. Until tomorrow evening, take care.Yours ayeCaptain Damien