For many young adventurers, the Rotary One & All Youth Sailing Challenge is more than just a voyage - it’s a journey of growth, resilience, and unforgettable experiences. With the support of SeaLink, this program gives participants the chance to test their skills on the open sea, develop teamwork, and build confidence.
This incredible program, started by David Binks, gives students a unique five-day experience sailing a tall ship where they gain lifelong skills, build confidence and a sense of achievement during this hand-on adventure.
For 15 years, SeaLink has proudly sponsored students from Kangaroo Island to set sail on South Australia's only sailing tall ship. In September 2024, Huon Ley, the son of one of our ferry engineers completed his unforgettable voyage aboard this magnificent tall ship.
Left to right: Tom Linnett-Geering, Huon Ley, Tracy Croft - General Manager of SeaLink SA, David Binks - Chair of the Rotary Youth Sailing Challenge
Having previously sailed small boats at the Kangaroo Island Yacht Club, as well as on his family’s yacht, Huon was no stranger to sailing. However, the challenge presented a new and exciting experience.
“I had talked to others who had done it before, and it seemed like a great opportunity,” he said. “I also thought I might meet more like-minded people with the same interests.”
From the start, the journey put Huon’s skills to the test. “Everyone in my watch got seasick except me and two others. We had to cover extra lookouts,” he recalled. It was tough, but it reinforced the importance of perseverance and teamwork.
As the days went on, the crew formed strong bonds. “At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But after getting to know my team, I felt I could rely on them,” he shared.
Among all the experiences, one moment stood out the most.
“The last night of the trip, my friend Tom and I were sitting on the galley roof, eating dinner and watching the sunset. That’s the memory that stays with me,” he shared.
Looking back, he only wished he had spent more time talking to the crew. “A lot of them were doing the coxswain’s course, which I’m taking next year.”
SeaLink continues to be the longest standing supporter of the Rotary One & All Youth Sailing Challenge by sponsoring three students from Kangaroo Island each year to participate in this life-changing experience. The next voyage is set to take place in September 2026.
We are proud to support Kangaroo Island youth aboard the STV One and All. Most recent sponsored Kangaroo Island students
2024
- September – Huon Ley
2025
- April – Lilah Fulton
- September – Teak Whale
2026
- January – Isabelle Oates
- April – Kelsey Stott
The One & All is South Australia’s only sailing tall ship, owned and maintained by the South Australian Government and operated by the Friends of the One & All Sailing Ship Inc., a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to keeping the ship active and ensuring young people benefit from its programs.
Through this sponsorship, SeaLink helps support local Kangaroo Island youth, helping them grow in confidence, overcome challenges, and forge meaningful connections through this unique sailing experience.
