The STS Leeuwin II is at the heart of many adventures for the young people of Fremantle.

The iconic three-mast, 1850s-style tall ship has been used by its owner-operators, youth development charity Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation, to train budding sailors for decades, building their character, confidence and resilience along the way.

But when a recent devastating accident in the Fremantle Port broke many of the Leeuwin’s essential parts, some thought its sailing days were over.

That was until the local maritime community rallied behind the Foundation’s call.

Faced with a long list of repairs, the Foundation team reached out to riggers, carpenters, sailmakers, fabricators, engineers and anyone who could lend expertise in the restoration journey ahead – and ASC was among the first to step up.

Charting their course, the ASC team supporting the restoration include fabrication apprentices Harry and Seth, graduate mechanical engineer Jake, graduate structural engineer Esha, and a team of technical trade trainers.

“Esha and I will be assisting in the design of a new main gangway, which is an awesome opportunity to develop our engineering skills, whilst helping return the Leeuwin to sea,” says Jack.

“Although the accident is disappointing, because sailing is out of the question for now, it has given us the chance to update aspects of the ship that will make it better for its future sailors.”

The ASC team will also design, rebuild and fit-out other elements, including the Leeuwin’s small gangway, dory davit, dory system, radar pedestal and radio antenna.

Harry and Seth will lead the fabrication of parts designed by Jack and Esha.

“Seth and I are in our third year at ASC,” says Harry.

“We’ll be finishing our apprenticeships next year and then we’ll join a crew for sustainment activities on a Collins Class submarine at the Henderson Precinct.

“My apprenticeship here has been fantastic,” Harry continues.

“There’s been plenty of opportunity and support from the technical trade trainers, like Paschal. Without them, I wouldn’t have had half the experience I do now – including projects like supporting this restoration.”

Harry, Seth, Jack and Esha represent the future of submarine builders at ASC.

Today they’re contributing to the sustainment of the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines, and in the not-too-distant future they’ll be working on conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines.

ASC is anchored in Western Australia’s maritime history and community. That’s why we’re proud to support the restoration of the iconic STS Leeuwin II.

“I can’t wait to see it back in the water,” says Esha.

It won’t be long, and the Leeuwin will be back at sea, continuing its valuable mission.