Bill spoke about the history of the Alma Doepel and its restoration. Over the last 10 years this tall ship has been undergoing a full restoration in Docklands. The two biggest hurdles have been a lack of funds and the COVID lockdown.
The aim of the restoration is to in 2024 begin to offer Youth Sail Training programs on the Alma Doepel. This program is unique in that it offers real life activities delivering valuable life skills, team building, generation of confidence and self-esteem to youth, by learning to sail a traditional tall ship.
Bill, as President of the Alma Doepel Supporters Club, requested our assistance in this restoration.
 Bill Reid (President of the Alma Doepel Supporters Club) and Ian Dobson |
History of the Alma Doepel
Originally the Alma Doepel was built as an inland / costal cargo carrier where it ranged from outback NSW to Tasmania. During WWII it was used as a supply vessel in PNG because it had a shallow draught, and that enabled it to negotiate reefs. Currently volunteers, who have contributed in excess of 93,000 hours, are restoring this ship to strict maritime standards, so that the Youth Sail Training programs can then be offered.
Bill, as President of the Alma Doepel Supporters Club, requested our assistance in this restoration. by buying one of the following:
TRAINEE BUNK | Each trainee bunk is handcrafted from timber and is home to a youth voyager for their time onboard the ship. Each bunk has a cupboard that will house personal items. Bunks are generally arranged in groups of 4 bunks  |
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| A group of 4 bunks can be sponsored to create a trainee cabin. This cabin will have a plaque on each bunk, along with a plaque at the entrance of the cabin to acknowledge the sponsor | $15,000 EACH | |
TRAINEE BATHROOM | There are 8 bathrooms throughout the trainee accommodation area. These bathrooms have a marine toilet and shower. A plaque will be attached to the bathroom to acknowledge the sponsor | $15,000 EACH |