NW teens sail into new skills

A week-long adventure voyage enabling young people to develop a range of skills has been given a funding boost by the State Government.

The Leeuwin Youth Explorer Voyage has received a $150,000 grant to help improve regional youth’s resilience and skills.

Pilbara youth are selected each year by the Pilbara Development Commission to take part in the voyage that focuses on communication, teamwork, leadership and problem solving.

Leeuwin Ocean Adventure chief executive Carol Shannon thanked the State Government for progressing the initiative.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, contributions through grants, donations and sponsorships have enabled us to continue to welcome young men and women on board for almost 34 years,” she said.

“This program will ensure that the unique experience of tall-ship sailing and Leeuwin’s youth development programs is available and accessible to a large number of young people from the regions.”

Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan said it was a great opportunity for young people living and working in the regions to learn new skills.

“Investing in and encouraging the development and training of our youth is vital to the future growth and sustainability of regional Western Australia,” she said.

“Programs run by the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation provide young people with a unique experience and a sense of achievement when they reach the end of a voyage.”