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A Navy-led character-building program for young Australians has resumed following a temporary halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Royal Australian Navy has revived its Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, allowing Australian youth to return to sea on STS Young Endeavour to develop their confidence and resilience.
Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester said the program, which invited Australians aged 16–23 to participate, uses the challenging environment of a square-rigged tall ship to build effective leaders, communicators and team players.
“After having to postpone the program early last year due to COVID-19, it is great to see a number of modified voyages due to set sail — something I know the participants will be excited about,” Minister Chester said.
“Through the COVID-safe measures we have implemented, we have been able to re-start the program sooner than expected, giving more youth the opportunity to join a voyage in 2021.
“Experiences like these support the health and wellbeing of the young men and women who take part, and shape the impact they can have in their local communities now and into the future.”
All youth affected by the suspension of voyages in 2020 have been contacted and will be given priority access to the program.
The initial program of voyages will be delivered in NSW, however the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme is developing a program for the latter part of 2021, which is expected to broaden opportunities for youth from around the country.
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