School honours maritime history with new boat

• Kalbarri District High School praised for innovative project at boat launch

• Trainer yacht's name chosen as a tribute to the town's Dutch spice trading history

Kalbarri District High School students and teachers are taking their learning out of the classroom and on to the water with the launch of their first self-built boat. 

Education Minister Liz Constable today launched the school's Firebug trainer yacht as it embarked on its first official voyage on the Murchison River.

Dr Constable said the project was a shining example of what could be achieved when students, staff and the wider community worked together towards a common goal.

"The successful completion of this remarkable boat was made possible by the commitment and dedication of staff, students and local volunteers who spent countless hours on its construction," she said.

"Kalbarri District High School has long enjoyed strong links with its natural environment because of its close proximity to the Murchison River and the spectacular red cliff-lined coastline.

"The school is taking full advantage of its spectacular location by offering students the opportunity to gain maritime skills and learn about Kalbarri's fascinating history."

The boat's name - Pepper - was chosen as a tribute to the coastal town's association with the Dutch East India Company's spice traders who sailed past there on the way to Indonesia.

The Pepper is the first in a fleet of Firebug yachts which the school has planned. Another boat is in progress and there are plans for a third vessel in the near future.

"It is wonderful to see the school bringing this history alive and expanding its curriculum with plans for new sailing programs for students," the Minister said.

The launch of the school's first Firebug yacht coincided with the recent Zest Fest, which marked the 300th anniversary of the wrecking of the Zuytdorp, the Dutch East India Company trading ship which sank 60 kilometres north of the Murchison Mouth.

      Fact File

• Students worked on the project along with teachers and community members

• The Pepper is the first in a planned fleet of boats which will be used in the school's new sailing programs

Minister's office - 6552 5700