CLIENT: Ormiston College
VOYAGE NUMBER: 20230915
FROM: Manly to Manly
DATE: 15 Sept 2023
POSITION: Big Sandhills, Moreton Is
REPORT: White Watch
After the first day of our adventurous voyage to Moreton Island, we are excited and hopeful moving forward with our journey. We were immediately challenged by the concepts and skills taught to us, including raising sails and tying knots, but were forced to persist in the face of adversity.
We were placed in groups that allowed us to meet new people and work together as a team to complete tasks and learn new things. We were taught the basics of sailing, such as the concepts of port and starboard, as well as the skills involved with raising the main sail (with techniques including belaying, easing, and hauling). We struggled to persevere as the motions were physically tiring and tested out strength and endurance.
Next, we were treated to a deliciously fresh lunch of salad rolls and salami, ate together while we bonded as a group. We were placed on our first watch, where we were given jobs to keep the ship safe. During this time, we spotted a pod of dolphins and some whales on several different occasions, which was an enchanting sight.
After raising and lowering the sails, we anchored next to Moreton Island and were brought to shore in small groups by a dingy. There, we played in the sand dunes and got back to the ship in time to enjoy the sunset and take photos alongside dinner. We spent some time learning to tie the knot round turn and two half hitches.
We had showers and dinner, which consisted of chicken, rice, vegetables, and gravy. This was followed by a winddown where participants played games and came together for a bonding experience where we talked and shared stories to further form our friendships. The night was satisfyingly wrapped up with dessert and the celebration of a partakers’ birthday.
On behalf of members of White Watch, we are incredibly enthusiastic to continue our descent through Moreton Bay and learn new skills to develop our understanding of independence and individuality.