Shire of Dardanup residents hit new heights

On one of the first Leeuwin Youth Explorer voyages for 2017, the Leeuwin team welcomed eight participants onboard the STS Leeuwin II, fully funded through their local Shire of Dardanup.

In an annual funding arrangement, the Shire offers local young residents this opportunity of a lifetime.

Following a comprehensive application process by the Shire, residents are selected and offered a week-long voyage – usually on a regional voyage either down or back from Busselton.

The Leeuwin Young Leadership Program assists young people to develop life-skills and improve confidence in their classroom, lecture theatre or workplace.

Erinn Shaw (15) from Bunbury Catholic College was one of the eight who were awarded a scholarship and speaks of her time on board the three-masted 1850’s barquentine-style ship.

“This voyage contained so many highlights, I don’t think I could fit it all in,” she said.

“Not only was I able to learn how to deal with people I don’t know, but I also learned how to develop my personal traits far beyond what I originally planned.”

“This adventure has changed me in ways I don’t even know yet,” she concluded.

The Leeuwin Foundation is an award winning provider of personal development and leadership programs that provides key life skills for young people aged 14-25 that they will take into their studies, careers and community.

Since 1986, the Leeuwin has provided exciting and life-changing programs to more than 40,000 young people across Australia.

The voyages aim to challenge and inspire young people to realise their personal potential and make a positive contribution to the wider community.