From Shell Harbour, NSW, to the open seas aboard Sail Training Ship (STS) Young Endeavour, Ellie Eather is proving that leadership, courage and growth begin with saying ‘yes’ to adventure.

Ellie was recently noted in State Parliament as the first young woman in more than 20 years to represent the Dapto Agricultural and Horticultural Society at Sydney’s Royal Easter Show in the NSW Young Woman of the Year competition.

While she now stands out as a confident leader and passionate advocate, part of her journey began with a bold decision to undertake the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme (YEYS) voyage.

It all unfolded through a chance meeting with a member of the Royal Australian Navy.

“There was something about the way she described the voyage – it just clicked with me,” Ellie said.

“That night I went home, filled out the application, and submitted it.”

Soon after, Ellie was selected to embark on a voyage. Her Young Endeavour experience was an 11-day challenge – complete with early morning watches, a 30-metre mast climb and nautical lessons.

“Climbing the foremast was something I never imagined I’d do, but it became one of the most powerful parts of the journey,” Ellie said.

“It pushed me beyond fear and into trust – trust in myself, in the ship and in my team.”

Overcoming challenges was often part of the adventure, but for Ellie, it was what came after those challenges that created her most unforgettable memory.

“One of the most memorable moments of the voyage was when my watch won the collective of daily challenges and earned the honour of climbing the topgallant sails as we sailed into Sydney Harbour, standing high above the deck with the wind on our faces and our families waiting on the shore was an unforgettable experience,” she said.

“That final climb was more than just a view, it was a reminder of how far I’d come.

“Sharing that moment with my watch, after everything we had worked through together, made it even more meaningful – it was a celebration of resilience, teamwork and personal growth.”

'It’s about learning leadership, teamwork, friendships and resilience in a really meaningful way.'

As a university student of marine science, Ellie said the voyage didn’t just teach her sailing skills – it reshaped her sense of purpose and potential.

“Resilience was a skill I developed most during the voyage,” Ellie said.

“There were times when things felt tough; whether it was pushing through exhaustion, overcoming fear while climbing, or adjusting to life in such a challenging and unfamiliar environment.

“But through each of those moments I learnt that I could keep going even when I felt like giving up.

“That experience has changed the way I face challenges in my everyday life; now, when things feel difficult, I remind myself of what I overcame, and it gives me strength to keep going.”

Other than resilience, Ellie noted the importance of reliability and ‘showing up’ were key factors for overcoming adversity.

“Being part of a team where everyone relied on each other taught me that resilience isn’t just about inner strength, but about being someone others can count on too, something I’ve carried with me every day since,” Ellie said.

Since disembarking, Ellie has continued to make waves as a proud ambassador for the YEYS, encouraging other young Australians to step out of their comfort zones.

“The message I want to share with young Australians is that the scheme is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, build confidence and develop skills that will stay with you for life,” she said.

“It’s so much more than just sailing; it’s about learning leadership, teamwork, friendships and resilience in a really meaningful way. It pushes you outside your comfort zone, but also shows you how capable you really are.”

Ellie explained that she wanted young people from all over the country to understand that this program could help them to discover their strengths, connect with others and create long-lasting memories and friendships.

“It’s the perfect chance to grow, not just as a sailor, but as a person, and that growth can positively shape your future, no matter what path you choose.”

'My goal is to make marine science relevant, accessible, and to encourage young people to take part in something bigger than themselves.'

As an ambassador for YEYS, Ellie also visits schools and attends community events, sharing her story and highlighting the unique value of the youth development program.

“In my role as a community ambassador, I share my Young Endeavour experience with my peers, sparking conversations about what the program involves and the personal growth it fosters. I aim to give a clear picture of the challenges and rewards, helping others to see how transformative it can be,” Ellie said.

“Beyond the classroom, I’ve had the opportunity to promote Young Endeavour on much larger platforms speaking onstage at a ‘Zone’ dinner with over 200 attendees, onstage at the ‘AgShow’ Sponsors’ dinner and during the ‘Young Woman of the Year’ winner presentations.

“These moments allow me to highlight the program’s unique blend of adventure, leadership and teamwork to the wider audience.”

Looking forward, Ellie planned to build on her passion for leadership and the ocean through continued education, community service, and perhaps even a future at sea.

“I’m currently developing ideas to run a workshop during school holidays that can blend marine science with environmental responsibility through my local council,” she said.

“My goal is to make marine science relevant, accessible, and to encourage young people to take part in something bigger than themselves,” she said.

Ellie’s story is a reminder that courage often begins with a small decision – to say ‘yes’, climb the rigging and sail into the unknown. 

Young Australians aged 16-23 can follow in Ellie’s footsteps and apply for their own adventure. Applications are now open for voyages throughout 2026, and youth can apply through the Young Endeavour website: Expand your horizons | Youth Sailing Voyages– STS Young Endeavour