August 2025
Broome to Exmouth
Thu, 28 Aug 2025Article by CDTPO Charli Wright
Stepping aboard Young Endeavour in Broome for Voyage 12/25, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The Kimberley coastline stretched away in shades of red and gold, the deck hummed with nervous chatter, and the crew’s smiles told me that whatever was ahead, it was going to be unforgettable. That night we clipped into our harnesses for the night climb, scaling the foremast under a sky crowded with stars. From the top, I could see baby sharks circling in the light from the hull—my first glimpse of the incredible marine life that would follow us along Western Australia’s coast.
Day two started early with sunrise on deck, the sea glowing pink and orange as we played icebreaker games to shake off the chill. Breakfast from Kingy, our wonderful chef, was amazing. Later, we sailed into Broome’s main wharf for a “splash and dash” refueling and clearing rubbish—before starting our first proper night watches. Under the dim bridge lights, I learned how to take the helm, plot a position on a chart, and work the lines to set and furl sails. My very first watch was 8 pm to midnight, which meant I was lucky enough to watch the sun melt into the horizon over the Kimberley coast from the bridge, hands wrapped around a steaming cup of Milo.
By day three, we were truly at sea. Some youthies fell victim to “Land Demon Purging” (better known as seasickness), but spirits stayed high. We got our first taste of Rope Races with the legendary Engineer Sparkles and set the forestaysail and main staysail. Four practice tacks later, we were starting to understand the teamwork it takes to move a tall ship. That night, Snookelberry gave us a crash course in navigation: the sacred 2B pencil (if you use another he might cry), the compass rose, and how to plot latitude and longitude on a chart.
The fourth day greeted us with rougher seas and winds hitting 25 knots. After breakfast, we endured happy hour—the daily ship clean—before heading straight into more tacking practice. Salt spray soaked us as whales and dolphins surfaced nearby, turning the hard work into something magical. Rope races that afternoon saw Red Watch—Big Sauce—dominate with eight out of ten points. Later, I climbed aloft to release the gaskets on the square sails, looking down to see a baby whale trailing us before gliding to within two meters of the hull.
Day five brought us to Depuch Island, a rusty-red rock rising from the turquoise water. We went ashore in small groups, walking where few people have ever been. The island’s ancient Indigenous history was etched into the rock in hundreds of lithographs, each one telling a story. We ate wraps on the beach while sharks played in the shallows and spotted our first turtle of the trip. In true Karson fashion, she sniffed a calcified starfish—and immediately regretted it.
We started day six with short anchor watches overnight and a small navigation challenge left by the Navigator. Once we’d weighed anchor and left Depuch, we learned sail theory with Leups and Snookelberry, followed by rope races that ended in a tie. The afternoon brought a spectacle—eight whales breaching and splashing around us, turtles drifting by, and, to Captain Leups’ dismay, me accidentally catching a sea snake on the fishing rod.
Day seven opened with more whales and dolphins before we moved into demo tacks, learning every role involved in the maneuver. After a lunch of steak and curry, we faced the Captain’s Challenge, proving our skills before we could take over for Command Day. That night, it was back to our four-hour watches.
On day eight, we tackled the much-loved BEAREX challenge—a list of tasks to complete during a single watch, testing our teamwork and communication. After a quick reflection, we turned the deck into a playground with a giant skipping rope before Sail Master Sarah piped “Hands to bathing stations.” The crew set up a rope swing, and we launched ourselves into the water—some of us gracefully, others not so much. We spent the afternoon swimming, jumping from the bowsprit, and lounging on the lily pad. Laughter echoed across the water, and to top it off, an eagle ray glided past as if waving. That night, we held Command Day elections.
Day nine began with a game of Ubuntu, which Leups insists is the greatest game ever invented. After a “snappy” happy hour, the new Command Team shadowed the people whose jobs they’d be taking over in a session called Opposites, gathering advice before the handover ceremony.
By day ten, we were under full youth crew command, tacking through the night and waking to yet another tack at dawn. After breakfast, we played Bacawk (exactly what it sounds like) before it descended into a moo-off—thank you, Mark—for reasons that made perfect sense at the time.
When we finally sailed into Exmouth, I realised this voyage had been so much more than a trip down the coast. It had been early mornings and midnight watches, laughter and hard work, salt in my hair and bruises on my shins. It had been sunsets over the Kimberley, whales alongside the hull, and the creak of sails in the wind. Most of all, it had been about trust—trusting myself, trusting my crewmates, and knowing that, together, we could meet whatever the sea threw our way.
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The Experience of a Lifetime
Mon, 18 Aug 2025Article by CDTPO Aarya Bhatt
The 2025 ISCA New Zealand Exchange was an experience I will never forget. The friendships and connections I’ve made, the opportunities, the beautiful scenery of Aotearoa – it was all surreal. I am extremely grateful to have experienced this with such an amazing group. I learnt many things about other cultures, about other people, and most importantly – myself. However, my key takeaway from this was meeting the cadets from the New Zealand Cadet Forces. Although we had one escort NZCF cadet on the trip, we were able to join the cadets on a sailing activity and spend time with some more at their unit.
When we arrived at Narrow Neck Beach, Auckland for sailing, I was extremely concerned. The wind was as restless as cadets on coffee! Some of us Australian cadets were reluctant to face the harsh waters. My concern only grew after a CDTWO said, “This is calm weather for us.” I did end up on the sailboat though, I was still unsure how this was going to go. After the crew exchanged our past sailing experiences and we caught some wind, I was much more relaxed. It was amazing to talk to these cadets and learn about how their respective units operated. The packing up process was definitely different to how we do it- but it was fun to help.
In Wellington, we had the opportunity to visit a joint unit – TS Tamatoa and No. 2 Squadron. We were able to talk to their cadets and get to know them. It was fascinating to hear how their leadership team works with two forces running at the same time. Their senior cadets showed much resilience and were communicating to a degree I didn’t even know was possible – it was inspiring. I enjoyed talking to the junior cadets about their cadet journeys so far and what they want to achieve from being a part of it. My heart dropped when a CDTSGT announced PT. I wasn’t ready to be carried across the grass on a tarp, but it turned out to be unforgettable fun.
Even though we all have different experiences and skills, I was still able to relate to them about something or other. After all the trades – from patches to caps, even uniform jackets – this exchange and the people I met will be cherished forever.
...June 2025
Field Camp in WA
Tue, 10 Jun 2025TS Morrow in Geraldton, Western Australia, took part in a Field Exercise with 506 AAC last month, its first camp in a couple of years and the first joint activity with AAC.
From the bus trip to Murchison House Station and a march to the campsite, Navy and Army cadets worked closely setting up tents and learning how to set up Hutchie lines.
Navy cadets also integrated into Army Picket Duties monitoring comms for Army cadets, conducting Observation Posts and keeping the campfire going overnight.
A long march into the Murchison gorge and some spirited climbing saw cadets receive abseiling instruction, then participating and having a great time.
The excursion was capped off with a trip to the Skywalk, which was one of the highlights of the weekend, before our bus ride back to Geraldton.
BZ to CDTLS Munro for some sterling leadership to young cadets through the weekend.
LEUT Matt Cooper
CO, TS Morrow
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Across the Top: Navy Cadets Chart a Voyage of Discovery on the Young Endeavour
Wed, 18 Jun 2025In a voyage marked by challenge, culture, courage, and connection, seven Australian Navy Cadets (ANC)and one ANC staff member embarked on a life-changing journey from Thursday Island to Darwin aboard the Young Endeavour—covering over 900 nautical miles “across the top” of Northern Australia.
Sailing as part of the Young Endeavour’s final circumnavigation of Australia before the iconic vessel is decommissioned in 2026, Voyage 09/25 was no ordinary trip. Departing on May 26 and arriving in Darwin on June 7, this 13-day expedition unfolded not just as an adventure, but as a powerful rite of passage.
The voyage included 15 Youth Crew members—seven of whom were Navy Cadets—and 10 “Staffies,” experienced members of the Royal Australian Navy who guided, mentored, and challenged the crew throughout the journey.
Representing TS Carpentaria (Thursday Island) were CDTLS Kunio Sagigi, CDTLS Francis Billy-Whap, CDTAB William Solomon, and CDTSMN Thomas Barron. Joining them were CDTPO Christopher Hanslow and CDTSMN Caley Holt from TS Endeavour (Cairns), and CDTLS Kevin Varghese from TS Pioneer (Mackay). Accompanying the cadets was MIDN Kate Wilkes, staff member of TS Carpentaria and a teacher at Tagai State College.
From the very beginning—anchored between Goodes Island and Thursday Island—the voyage was steeped in significance. Departing during National Reconciliation Week, the journey invited reflection, learning, and connection to country. Cadet Leading Seaman Kunio Sagigi’s moving Acknowledgement of Country set the tone for deeper conversations on culture, history, and healing.
Over the following days, the cadets were tested by the sea—battling strong Gulf of Carpentaria winds, climbing towering masts, and pushing through seasickness to learn the ropes of tall ship sailing. With each challenge, resilience was forged.
By Day 5, the crew had crossed into calmer waters and anchored in Hopeful Bay, Cape Wessel, where the crisis phase of the journey gave way to confidence and connection. Days later, in South Goulburn Island, the cadets welcomed more than 40 local school children, Elders, and Mardbalk Rangers aboard for a ship tour and BBQ. The cultural exchange continued ashore, where the Youth Crew explored the local Arts Centre and Historic Church—deepening their understanding of Indigenous culture and community life.
One of the voyage highlights was Command Day, where the Youth Crew took full control of the Young Endeavour. From navigation and sail handling to leadership and teamwork, the cadets demonstrated their growth and cohesion as they successfully steered the ship toward Darwin, guided by their elected leaders.
By the time the Young Endeavour docked at HMAS Coonawarra, these young cadets were no longer novices. They were seafarers—more confident, connected, and capable than when they had set sail. As one journal entry reflected, “You can’t change the wind, but you can adjust your sails.” These cadets not only adjusted; they thrived.
This unforgettable experience would not have been possible without the support of Tagai State College, which proudly allowed the four cadets from Thursday Island and MIDN Kate Wilkes to join the voyage. Deep appreciation also goes to the Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) for offering this extraordinary opportunity to youth across the country.
If you’d like to follow the Young Endeavour’s final voyage around Australia—or apply to join a future voyage if you're aged between 16 and 23—visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au to track the journey, learn more, or set your own course for adventure, leadership, and discovery.
Article by MIDN ANC Kate Wilkes
May 2025
Australian Navy Cadets Join Young Endeavour Voyage!
Wed, 28 May 2025Original article by Peta Binns
“Day 01 – V09/25, Thursday Island to Darwin - Young Endeavour.” 26 May 2025.
To view the full article please click here https://youngendeavour.gov.au/day-01-v09-25-thursday-island-to-darwin
We’re back for another Voyage of self discovery and adventure sailing from Thursday Island to Darwin for Voyage 09/25. This one promises to be very special with the ship starting Day One at anchor in the Torres Strait in-between Thursday Island and Horn Island. We have a vibrant mix of Youth Crew with a number of Navy Cadets from all over the country, including from the islands of the Torres Strait, along with a mix of Young Australians from a variety of places throughout the Australian mainland. The fact that this voyage commences at the same time as National Reconciliation Week is significant and we are going to make the most of it.
You wouldn’t think it should be that tricky to get 35 odd people into one boat for transport out to our beautiful sailing ship – but you would be wrong! We attempted to embark 15 Youth Crew and 18 guests from the two islands at 1500K and then 1530K but a series of complicating factors delayed us until about 1630K. Kate, our resident Australian Navy Cadet chaperone, rustled up a number of guests (youth from the local Colleges) who were all eager to see the ship and experience the thrill of our first day onboard. Many of these youngsters are a few years away from being eligible for a Youth Crew voyage but that’s OK because they have been onboard, they’ve fallen in love with the ship, and I am confident they will be back. Some as soon as next year!
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Fleet Engagement Camp 2025
Wed, 21 May 2025By CDTCPO Lucas Fryer
Images: CDTCPO Fryer and CDTPO Keira Muir-White
The Australian Navy Cadets' annual Fleet Engagement Camp is where cadets get to see a broad range of Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ships and conduct team building and leadership activities and exercises with Navy personnel, as well interact with the NSW Police Force Maritime Area Command.
It has become a major success since it began in 2022.
So successful that applications for places at the camp are over-subscribed every year.
84 cadets and their adult support staff spent two days aboard HMAS Adelaide, a Landing Helicopter Dock (LHD) ship, in April before disembarking to Sydney’s Cockatoo Island for five days, where an RAN landing craft was ready early morning to transport them across Sydney Harbour to take in everything the Navy has to offer.
‘Everything’ included a visit to the guided missile destroyer HMAS Brisbane, to HMAS Penguin where Navy Physical Training Instructors created a mini-Olympics on Balmoral Beach, to HMAS Watson and the impressive bridge simulator. All amazing experiences.
At HMAS Waterhen, the cadets were shown how maritime boarding operations are conducted, and later had a ‘friendly’ catch up with the Military Police. All cadets returned to Cockatoo Island for lunch and caught up with Commodore David Greaves RAN, the Director General of the ANC, and Commodore Grant O’Loughlan, the Deputy Director of ADF Cadets and Support Services, who shared stories about their time in the Navy.
Traversing the beauty of Sydney Harbour every day was a first for many cadets, some of whom had never been to the city before.
Having the sea ride of a lifetime in a NSW Water Police fast Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIBs) was the ultimate for many cadets, including Cadet Warrant Officer Ava Fitzgerald from Brisbane. The NSW Water police RHIBs are specialised tactical vessels and are an impressive bit of kit.
“That was definitely one of the highlights of this camp,” Ava said.
“We’ve all had a great time engaging with Navy, and as the week has progressed, I have seen a massive change in how the cadets have come together in their divisions and how they have learnt from each other and of each other’s experiences in the ANC.”
Cadet Warrant Officer Nikolas Klonis Fuentes, from Sydney, said the highlight for him was the mini Olympics held at Balmoral beach.
“The Navy Physical Training Instructors were great and the various events they had arranged, including the paddle boarding, had everyone working together as a team.” Nikolas said.
“It is amazing to see the number of cadets that asked me for leadership advice and advice on promotion and for tips or tricks to help them.
“Cadets see us (Warrant Officer) as an inspiration to aim for.”
Nikolas has been so impressed by his Navy Cadet experience and what Navy has to offer that he has decided to pursue a career in Navy and aims to join as a Surface Warfare Officer once he finishes Year 12, at the end of the year.
Another highlight of the week was the chance to stay aboard a warship, one of the Royal Australian Navy’s LHD’s, HMAS Adelaide. Once through the mandatory safety briefings, cadets were given a five-star tour of one of the Navy’s largest ships, and later participated in a moving ceremonial sunset ceremony overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge.
How many teenagers can say they have achieved that feat?
Teamwork was the order of the day throughout the camp, but none more so than when Lieutenant Commander Sally Casey RAN brought her team from the Leadership Management and Development Centre to put the cadets through their paces. The Leadership Management and Development Centre located at HMAS Penguin is responsible for training and development programs for Navy, and they do an excellent job also in exposing cadets to a range of leadership exercises.
“This is the second year we have taken part, and cadets get a lot out of the development programs we run,” Lieutenant Commander Casey said.
“My Navy Staff also get a lot out of working with the cadets and engaging with them, so there’s mutual benefits all-round.”
Petty Officer Nathan Pike, took cadets through a number of challenging leadership and teambuilding exercise.
“A very positive response and a lot of engagement from everyone,” he said.
“They (Cadets) were asking a lot of questions, ‘can we do this, can we do that,’ and we then had a Q&A session about the Navy and how they could possibly fit in. It was a great day.”
Chief Petty Officer Amanda Hutchinson had another role, interacting with the sessions. Chief Petty Officer Hutchinson is the lead on many promotion courses and uses her skillset to pass on some great advice to tomorrow’s young leaders.
“My job was to pick the lowest ranks and get them to take charge of various exercises, whilst at the same time getting the senior ranks to understand how to listen to the lower ranks,” Chief Petty Officer Hutchinson said.
“I asked every single group if they had any intentions of joining the navy, and I spoke with one of the girls about my experience in Navy and she told me she wanted to join as a communicator.”
After seeing what Navy has to offer and the exceptional training provided, there were many cadets who said they are considering joining Navy one day.
The visit of a Romeo Seahawk helicopter from 816 Squadron at HMAS Albatross on the NSW south coast had cadets drooling about becoming a pilot, Air Warfare Officer or maybe an aircrewman. Making its loud arrival, before being visited by a swarm of eager cadets and then an equally loud departure and salute to the cadets perched on a gantry high above the landing site; it was another great day to remember.
The events came thick and fast, with early morning starts and lights out early as well, with cadets eager to know what was in store the next day.
HMAS Brisbane hosted the cadets one morning, with a bridge visit and a quick trip to the junior sailors' mess, where badges, caps, T-shirts and other goodies were all snapped up.
Cadets had lunch at HMAS Kuttabul, and off they went again on another adventure.
“How many of you are tired?” Commodore Greaves, RAN asked cadets as they lined up before the VIP lunch. A few hands went up.
“But how many of you have enjoyed this Fleet Engagement Camp?” he then asked.
Everyone’s hand went up.
“It’s important we engage as much as they engage,” one RAN member at the lunch said. “They are our future.”
...May 2024
Youth programs unite under ADF Cadets Strategic Intent
Tue, 21 May 2024In a significant step towards aligning and strengthening the Australian Defence Force (ADF) cadet programs, Chief of the Defence Force, General Angus Campbell, has announced the release of the Australian Defence Force Cadets Strategic Intent (Strategic Intent).
The Strategic Intent reinforces Defence’s commitment to the development and empowerment of youth in a safe and inclusive environment.
General Campbell said he welcomes the development of the Strategic Intent, which provides a clear direction for all those involved in the programs and outlines the unifying principles and objectives of the Navy, Army and Air Force cadet programs.
“The Australian Defence Force has a long and proud history of supporting ADF cadets. They represent the next generation of Australian leaders,” General Campbell said.
“Defence’s vision for the ADF cadet programs includes contributing to the community by providing young people with inclusive and fulfilling development opportunities consistent with Defence values.”
The ADF cadet organisations are community-based youth development programs that support 13 to 18-year-olds through activities focused on Defence customs, traditions and values that help them to thrive in a team environment, improve communication skills, and become responsible members of the local community.
There are about 30,000 cadets currently enrolled in the three cadet programs in more than 500 ADF cadet units across all states and territories, supported by some 4,600 volunteer staff members.
“By supporting the cadet programs, Defence seeks to further connect with the community we serve, and engender an interest in and positive disposition towards the security of our nation.”
For more information on the Australian Defence Force Cadets Strategic Intent, joining cadets or volunteering, visit https://www.defence.gov.au/jobs-careers/student-pathways/adf-cadet-programs.
By Chris McGrane
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