Pete Goss is set to give his first public lecture about Spirit's epic journey to Australia
Having only just returned to the UK following an epic journey – 11,800 miles from Newlyn to Australia on a 37ft wooden lugger – Pete Goss will be giving his first open lecture about the trip at the Maritime Museum in Falmouth on the 28 May. (You can read about the voyage in Pete’s own words in the latest issue of Yachting World .)
Pete’s Spirit of Mystery left Newlyn bound for Australia on 20 October 2008 and reached Melbourne on 9 March 2009. After navigating the North Atlantic and encountering the gales and hazards of the southern ocean, tackling the dangers of the notorious Cape of Good Hope, charting their route by the stars, and coping with a serious knock-down which resulted in damage and a broken leg, they achieved their dream.
“From dragging the first pieces of oak out of the woods to shaking hands with direct descendants of the original crew in Melbourne, this was a roller coaster ride that encompassed everything from education and social history projects to the drama of sailing through storms and the excitement of whales broaching beside the boat,” explained Pete.
“Following in the footsteps of these great Cornishmen who 155 years ago tackled monstrous conditions without any of the food and equipment we had the luxury of taking – we weren’t quite prepared to eat salt pork and run the risk of scurvy so we did enjoy real food and wore Musto Gore-Tex waterproofs – was a dream too good not to realise.”
“After giving my last lecture at the Museum before I left, it seemed only fitting to give the first on my return, particularly as I have such a close relationship with the Maritime Museum, which saw 1800 kids pass through the Spirit of Mystery as part of a Cornwall Playing for Success programme. I only wish the Spirit of Mystery was with me, but she’s residing in warmer climates for the moment – although I’m sure she’ll make an appearance on the Museum’s pontoon one day.”
Tickets for this exclusive lecture start at £8 for children (6-15) and £12 for adults with all of the profits going to the Cornwall Playing for Success charity of which Pete is a founding trustee. If you wish to enjoy a two-course buffet also, prices are £16 or £20. An open bar is available.
Tickets are limited and are available on01326 214546.
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Pete Goss arrives in Australia
Pete Goss’s daring voyage
Pete Goss’ lugger Spirit of Mystery sets sail