ASC apprentices and graduates are helping repair STS Leeuwin II after it was damaged at Fremantle Port, supporting youth sailing programs.
Apprentices and graduates from ASC are playing a central role in restoring the youth training ship STS Leeuwin II, which was damaged in a collision at Fremantle Port in August 2024.
The 55-metre, three-masted vessel, operated by the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation, suffered major damage to its mast and rigging when struck by a 332-metre container ship.
The ship is currently at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson for repairs.
The restoration work involves ASC fabrication apprentices, graduate structural engineers and mechanical engineers, and technical trade trainers.
Tasks include rebuilding the small gangway, designing and building a new main gangway for public access, replacing the dory davit, and installing new radar and radio equipment.
Third-year fabrication apprentices Harry and Seth spoke of the experience.
“Most of the fabrication work I do happens at Quill Way, ASC’s Apprentice Training Centre. The trade trainers are always ready to help us – they’re our teachers and supporters.” Seth added, “I work both at Quill Way and Henderson. Working on a submarine is much more difficult, but there’s always someone around to give advice and share experience,” said Harry.
Graduates Jack and Esha highlighted the learning opportunities. Jack, a mechanical engineer, said, “Assisting in the design of a new main gangway is an awesome opportunity to develop our engineering skills while helping return the Leeuwin to sea.” Esha, a structural engineer, added, “It makes me feel proud knowing my work is contributing to getting it back to sea.”
In 2025, ASC welcomed 41 new apprentices, the highest-ever intake in Western Australia, along with 40 new graduates across multiple disciplines.
