Discovering the spirit of adventure

When it comes to adventure, nothing quite compares to setting sails, climbing rigging and standing watch into the night. For young first-time sailors, being out on the water in a dynamic and challenging environment is the ultimate adventure – where important life lessons in awareness, patience and respect are learned.

Earlier this year, a group of courageous Penrhosians in Years 9 - 12 participated in a week-long voyage during their school holidays, pushing themselves and broadening their outlook onboard Sail Training Ship Leeuwin II. The unique and memorable experience was offered to students as part of the Round Square program, an initiative which is proudly supported by the Penrhos College Foundation. In securing membership of the Round Square program, Penrhos joined an international network of 200 like-minded schools in 50 countries that share a commitment to character education and experiential learning around six themes known as IDEALS - International Understanding, Democracy, Environmental Stewardship, Adventure, Leadership and Service.

For Round Square, the spirit of adventure is characterised by those who push themselves beyond their perceived limits, cross boundaries and discover they are capable of more than they thought.

Leeuwin II is Australia’s largest sail-training tall ship and one of only a handful of tall ships in the country, dedicated to the development of young people. Sailing on a working ship involves participation in hands-on activities during the voyage - from taking the helm and navigating the ship, setting and furling the sails, climbing the rigging and standing watch, to setting up for meals and washing up!

During this incredible experience, our participating girls were joined by students from Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, another member of the Round Square global network – students from both schools also therefore had the opportunity to build new friendships while testing their personal limits. Sailing along some of Western Australia’s most spectacular coastline, they were encouraged to consider, capture and share what adventure meant to them, all in the midst of exploring their personal comfort zones, developing their courage and confidence, and evolving their skills in communication, leadership and collaboration.

Adventure is a very personal experience – read what some of our students had to say:

‘I never thought I would be given the opportunity to embark on such an amazing adventure. I will always remember climbing up the mast and holding on for my life. I was so proud of what I had achieved and the support from everyone was incredible. I am so grateful to have had this experience with such kind and encouraging people.’

Ella Richardson (Year 10)

‘Being stuck with 30 random people on a ship in the middle of the ocean for six days really forces you to work with people you’ve never met before. By the end, the 30 of us all worked as a team in group activities like we had known each other for years. Although we were incredibly exhausted and sleep-deprived, I’m so glad I was a part of this very entertaining experience and met the amazing people that I did.’

‘When we first got on the ship, I think it’s fair to say Penrhos and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School were two distinct groups. Throughout the journey, this separation disappeared as we worked together in our groups and developed strong friendships with people from different year groups and schools. This was incredibly refreshing and exciting as the sense of community onboard grew, making one big family. Working with all the people on the ship was an amazing experience and I would recommend it to anyone who gets the opportunity in the future.’

Millie Hirte (Year 11) Sienna Beeck (Year 10)

‘All I can say is, don’t go on the Leeuwin expecting a cruise! It was extremely fun and engaging - but it was also challenging, which added to the adventure. The new people you meet and the new things you try are so worth the sea sickness! Such an amazing experience that pushes you to your boundaries and extends you past your comfort zone. The teamwork skills I learned are so valuable and I am so, so grateful I had this opportunity. Going on the Leeuwin is an amazing program that I would recommend for anyone looking to extend themselves.’

‘It is mind-blowing, how a group of relative strangers can become family over a week. From hauling lines, to singing, to throwing up, we helped each other through it all. We pushed ourselves to the limit, always knowing we had each other’s backs. Sailing on the Leeuwin was like nothing I have ever done, and one of the best things I have ever experienced. The friends I made along the way made it all that much better.’

Maya Della Franca (Year 10)

‘It was an amazing experience! Meeting new people and being responsible for the boat was daunting at first, but came naturally after a short while. The activities we did on the boat helped to build my leadership and communication skills. I don’t think I’ve experienced anything like this before. I would definitely do this again!’

Ellen King (Year 10) Emily Lassam (Year 11)

Sail Training Ship Leeuwin II has been based in Fremantle Port for over 30 years and is operated by not-for profit company, Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation Limited.