The 14,000th young Australian to embark in Sailing Training Ship Young Endeavour has completed his 11-day voyage aboard the square-rigged tall ship.

Commander Australian Fleet, Rear Admiral Jonathan Mead, AM acknowledged the achievement and congratulated 16 year old Matthew Shelverton, of Hobart, Tasmania.

“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the world-class youth development program delivered in Young Endeavour,” Rear Admiral Mead said.

“For the youth crew, this voyage has provided an additional challenge as they learned to sail Young Endeavour across Bass Strait, from Hobart to Melbourne.”

Since 1988, the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, has been challenging young Australians during voyages in Australian waters, and around the world.

While the sail training program teaches sailing skills including helming, navigation and climbing aloft to set and furl sails, it also develops teamwork, leadership and communication.

“During a voyage in Young Endeavour, participants have the opportunity to broaden their horizons and to grow both as individuals and as members of the Australian community,” Rear Admiral Mead said.

“The confidence and self-awareness they gain through the program stands them in good stead for the future.”.

“I congratulate the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme and the Navy crew for their dedication, and for the positive impact they have made in the lives of so many young Australians.”

A second generation crew member, Matthew was encouraged to apply for a voyage by his father Andrew Shelverton – a member of the original delivery crew who sailed Young Endeavour from England to Australia in 1987-88.

“The voyage crew were amazing and the program is really well set out,” Matthew said.

“We learned how to sail a ship, but also learned more about ourselves and others, and were encouraged to challenge ourselves and step out of our comfort zones.

“It was character building and I’ll definitely be able to use some of the skills I learned back at school and in day to day life.”

For more information on the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme and to apply for voyages aboard Sail Training Ship Young Endeavour, visit: www.youngendeavour.gov.au.