Update from CEO, Lawson Dixon

Statement from CEO, Lawson Dixon

We are pleased to share an update from Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation CEO, Lawson Dixon, on the progress of restoring the STS Leeuwin II and the incredible support from the community as we continue our journey to sail again.

– Thursday 26th, September –

Work to safely remove all damaged spars, rigging and masts from STS Leeuwin II is now complete.

Every item taken off Leeuwin has been labelled and transported to a secure area in Fremantle Port where they will be assessed by our crew, with the intention of salvaging as much as possible.

It is too early to determine a detailed timeline of any repairs to Leeuwin or to know when the vessel will return to serving the young people of Western Australia.

Until all damage is assessed, it is impossible to know the nature and extent of repairs and the funds and resources required to complete those repairs.

In the days after the 30 August incident, Friends of the Leeuwin, a group of passionate current and former volunteers and supporters established the Phoenix Fund.

This fundraising effort is separate to the Leeuwin’s existing donations fund, which has operated for many years and supports the ongoing operations of the vessel and its programs.

We are very grateful to have this support, which makes a material difference and demonstrates the passion that Western Australians have for the Leeuwin.

Atop Leeuwin’s 33-metre-tall main mast is a metal plaque inscribed with a special message of encouragement and inspiration for those daring enough to make the climb.

The message is kept secret by those who make the climb to see it – and will remain so, as we work together so a new generation of young West Australians can one day climb Leeuwin’s heights again.