Day 2 – Tasman Sea tacks

Ahoy dear readers, the ship remained alongside in Newcastle overnight and before we knew it, the Sailmaster piped wakey wakey at 0630 and encouraged everyone to meet at midships for an energising and fun, early morning activity. Then, having had breakfast, morning brief took place at 0801, following the traditional Naval Colours ceremony where we sounded 8 bells, piped the still and hoisted the Australian National Flag and Australian White Ensign, whilst singing the National Anthem. Nothing gets me more fired up for the day than that, ladies and gents.

A safety and survival equipment briefing was next, then the ship departed the berth and we made our way out of the harbour and into the big blue, Tasman Sea. Emergency and leaving ship station drills were conducted, then Watch Leaders resumed seamanship training, incorporating sail handling concepts. Lunch was a choice of dry rubbed, 16 hour, low and slow, brisket burger or lovely and tender, roasted hoisin duck breast, plus assorted sides. A wee siesta was required after that feast… and then, Staff Crew mustered to demonstrate how to set and furl our staysails, just as a swathe of sea fog closed in from the east-south-east. Then it was the Youth Crew’s turn to conduct sail handling drills, with stratus clouds washing over us. We came out the other side of the sea fog 30 mins later, and continue to drill they did. At approximately 1500, Sailmaster Charlotte gave a mainsail brief and the mainsail was set, then the jib. Next we sent the ship to tacking stations and conducted several tacks and a wear (ie. tall ship gybe). This last activity was an assurance piece to ensure that the Youth Crew are safe and competent at tacking the ship, as we spend our first night at sea.

I can now go to bed and sleep in comfort, knowing that our Youth Crew are indeed safe and competent, and have the requisite skills to manoeuvre the ship, as required during the night. Red, White and Blue watches will maintain a 4-hour watch each during the night, taking care of the helm, lookout and rounds duties while the rest of us sleep. It’s been a very busy day and I’m sure they will all sleep soundly.

Yours Aye, Captain Adam Charlie Farley – Out+