Destined for the sea Maritime Cadet: Ashleigh (front-right) aboard Leeuwin II. – Image supplied by Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation
Hailing from generations of fishers, you could say Ashleigh Morton’s love for boats and the sea is ocean deep. Ashleigh was just sixteen years old when she cruised the Bahamas, inspiring her to follow in her family’s footsteps and pursue a career in maritime. By Becca Posterino
Born in Port Hedland in Western Australia, fishing, diving and crabbing were an integral part of life for Ashleigh. Some of her fondest memories were setting off in a friend’s dingy to snorkel in Exmouth on Ningaloo Reef, exploring and fishing around Finucane Island off Port Hedland and wakeboarding behind jet skis. For Ashleigh, the ocean is her playground. After graduating from high school in Geraldton, Ashleigh moved back to Port Hedland where she barely knew a soul. ‘I knew I wanted to work on the water and I decided that there was no better way to build my skills and meet people than to become a marine rescue volunteer,’ Ashleigh said. 15
Working Boats October 2019
Her first taste as a marine volunteer was with Marine Rescue Port Hedland. She was then offered a maritime cadetship with the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation, a not for profit youth development organisation based in Fremantle. Maritime cadetships involve a year at sea on the Sail Training Ship Leeuwin II, learning the craft of seamanship under the guidance of Leeuwin’s crew, and study to gain the qualifications needed to gain entry into the maritime industry. Sponsored by Rivtow to complete the cadetship, Ashleigh hasn’t looked back since. As a young woman and cadet she’s built up her confidence on the water, and leadership skills while on board the majestic STS Leeuwin II. Every day is varied and exciting, although she says routine is also critical for the crew and usually starts before sunrise.
‘Each day begins with early morning exercises including a warm-up— stretching and even some dancing! After breakfast we clean the ship, and depending on the voyage, either set or hand (stop using) sail,’ she said. But for Ashleigh, night watch—which usually involves up to ten crew members in groups of three or four rotating throughout the night—is a definite favourite. ‘When you’re standing on watch you’re at the helm. One or two people are on bow watch while the rest of the group keep watch and chat. It’s a great way to get to know your crew mates and see some amazing sights,’ she said. Some of her highlights have been seeing marine life up close in their natural habitat, including dolphins, sharks, whales and even a dugong.
