November 13th, 2024, marks the much-anticipated arrival of the DARWIN200 mission in Sydney Harbour, Australia, aboard the historic Dutch tall ship Oosterschelde. This remarkable conservation project, retracing Charles Darwin’s legendary voyage, has captivated the world with its ambitious goal of inspiring a new generation of environmental leaders. The ship’s stay in Sydney, running until November 25th, promises conservation-focused events and activities, culminating in an inspiring showcase of global environmental stewardship.
The Oosterschelde, a majestic three-masted schooner, set sail from Plymouth Harbour, UK, in August 2023, embarking on an epic two-year journey covering over 22,500 nautical miles. This voyage, known as the DARWIN200 mission, retraces the steps of Darwin’s pivotal exploration and aims to train 200 young environmentalists from across the globe. These “DARWIN Leaders,” hailing from more than 40 countries, are learning firsthand about our planet’s critical issues and the urgent need for conservation.
Throughout its journey, the DARWIN200 team has sent a powerful message: “The time for change is now.” This initiative serves not only as a tribute to Darwin’s groundbreaking work but also as a call to action, emphasizing that conservation is about preserving what we still have rather than lamenting what we’ve lost.
The ship’s Sydney visit will be anchored at the Australian National Maritime Museum, with events at the iconic Sydney Opera House. A highlight for the public will be the opportunity to sail aboard the Oosterschelde for an unforgettable sunset cruise on November 22nd and 23rd. Attendees will witness breathtaking views of the harbour while learning about the significance of the DARWIN200 mission and how they, too, can contribute to conservation efforts.
As the world faces increasing environmental challenges, the DARWIN200 project stands as a beacon of hope, proving that it’s never too late to make a difference. This mission has united people from all around the globe, fostering a global community of passionate conservationists committed to ensuring a sustainable future for generations.
The Oosterschelde will remain in Sydney until November 25th, offering plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with this historic ship and its transformative message. Whether attending events at the Maritime Museum or participating in the sunset cruises, the public will experience firsthand the excitement and importance of this international conservation mission.
Visit the Australian National Maritime Museum’s website for more information on the DARWIN200 events and to purchase tickets for the sunset cruise.
Written by: Anne Keam