Day 9 – Command Day part 2

Raise the flag and pipe the still to wake our one and only Queen Lizzy, it’s everyone’s favourite time to read the ever infamous captains log or CLOG.

This morning we channelled our inner Captain Jack Sparrow and woke to the rousing tunes of Pirates of the Caribbean, a theme which followed us into the afternoon whilst we were dangling from the foremast of the ship pondering how it all came to this.

Shortly after, our very own Kal and Alina prepared yet another amazing breakfast for us all, prepping us for the second half of our Command Day. Our ever famous Seaman Ash led the Young Endeavour orchestra in three variations of our national anthem to the tunes of famous pop songs, needless to say since all songs were guessed almost instantly, the Youthie’s singing skills are unparalleled.

Shortly after our musical serenade, the Youthie’s dramatic side came out and Tiarna, Lauren and Em took the stage as Salty’s opposites, the enigmatic Peppers. The Peppers delivered an entertaining yet informative stage production highlighting the need for correct first aid and to not pretend to be something you are not.

After the early morning formalities and the happiest hour of the day, we once again set to the seas using wind and sail. The improvements from yesterday were extremely noticeable and before anyone knew it, nearly all the major sails on the vessel had been set and we powered through the water towards our destination where we would end up lowering anchor for the night. Climbing exercises were completed on the mast in order to make this happen, henceforth bringing out the bravery in each and every sailor on board. The Youthies have a rather impressive photograph to prove it.

Upon 13:00 the Youthie’s command of the ship had ceased and the keys handed back to the original commanding officer, everyone’s favourite Captain Charlie Farley. Therefore, the challenge had been completed and what had initially seemed impossible came to fruition. A sense of overwhelming pride swept through the crew as well as hints of relief and fatigue.

Such an endeavour that had been undertaken had to then be pondered on and the second half of the afternoon was broken up into different variations of reflection on what had been done, what could have been done better but most importantly, what it was that we took away from the experience. We were treated to an incredible dinner from Ash and went back to climbing up the mast shortly after to place on the gaskets and prepare the ship for our final night at sea, just off the coast of Geelong.

As this is the final captain’s log for this voyage, on behalf of all of the youth crew, our most sincere thanks are given to the staff of the ship and full time crew. You have taught us much and created a fantastic environment to foster friendly cooperation and learning. For that, you will always have our thanks and gratitude.

Over and out.

Liam Crough and Angus.

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Good one gents. So friends and family, we are currently anchored off the Royal Geelong Yacht Club and Eastern Beach, where we will remain overnight. Intend weighing anchor at 0930 and proceeding alongside Wangim Walk, Wave Attenuator at 1000. See you there.

PS. I’ll do one final log tomorrow…

Captain Adam Charlie Farley+