Held on 28 October 2024, the meeting saw 18 members and guests firstly hold a short, procedural AGM, at which the voluntary executive were all returned to their offices for another year.
The day before our meeting, 27 October, was recognised as James Cook’s 296th birthday. We were then very fortunate to have Richard Wesley, an Assistant Director responsible for Fleet and Collections at the Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM), give an interesting presentation on the Endeavour replica and her future. Richard explained the role of Endeavour, plus the recent ongoing works, maintenance and survey required to retain her role as an internationally capable sailing vessel. Richard also explained a little of her history, from her build as a full sailing replica of Cook's Endeavour, to the sometimes-conflicting mission as a museum exhibit, with the important role of education for her many visitors. He explained the relevance of Endeavour as a sailing vessel, providing valuable experiences and adventures for paying crew of all ages, along with the staggering costs of keeping her current for such activities. The cost of professional
crew, who are always keen to assist with sailing her whenever able; is some $8,000 to $10,000 per day, which is funded from selling passage to other crew willing to pay for this activity. The future for Endeavour sees hopefully more opportunities to sail, after the disappointment of having to cancel the planned 2020-21 circumnavigation due to COVID-19. There is still a growing and considerable interest in sailing vessels, both nationally and internationally. It is hoped that the 300th Birthday of James Cook in 2028, may facilitate a further expansion of the sailing programme, but this involves considerable planning, co-ordination and cooperation on many levels. Time will tell. A Certificate of Appreciation was presented to Richard for his presentation, with much applause.
We were very appreciative of the booklets on Endeavour, which Richard donated for our lucky door prizes. Also part of the prizes were postcards postmarked in Whitby just a few weeks ago by the President, and some postcards featuring Endeavour.The lucky door prizes were drawn by random selection of the sign-on sheet number. All attendees received a prize!
Originally published in Endeavour Lines, page 2, volume 83 (2024).