THE Dutch replica sailing ship Duyfken is set to stay in WA for at least the next three years, after the signing of an exhibition agreement with the Aquarium of Western Australia at Hillarys.
Duyfken will move to the AQWA site from April to October in 2019, 2020 and 2021, where the ship will go on exhibition as a floating museum.
Modifications to berth the ship will start in January and AQWA will contribute $80,000 to the new exhibit.
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READ NOWSince Duyfken’s return to Fremantle in 2012 there has been a focus on delivering an educational experience to thousands of students. With the move north to the City of Joondalup, Duyfken will now be more accessible to northern suburbs schools.
Our story in August: City of Joondalup in discussions with AQWA to berth Duyfken replica
To complement the excursion aboard the replica a classroom will be opened in the grounds of AQWA to broaden student understanding of the Dutch maritime influence along the west coast.
“Over the years the feedback we have received from a number of northern suburbs primary schools is that travelling to Fremantle to engage with the Duyfken Educational Experience has proved challenging based on the travel distance,” Duyfken chairwoman Vikki Baldwin said. “To overcome this, we decided to bring the ship to the students.”
Joondalup Mayor Albert Jacob said the City was delighted with the news the Duyfken replica would berth at AQWA next year and beyond.
“Earlier this year, the council endorsed a notice of motion by Cr Philippa Taylor for the City to look at opportunities for the Duyfken to be berthed within our boundaries, and it’s fantastic to see that AQWA is now making a significant investment to allow this to happen,” he said.
“Having this wonderful ship berthed at AQWA in Hillarys will be a great attraction for visitors and should create good economic and tourism outcomes. It will also enable schools in the northern corridor to have better access to education programs offered by the Duyfken.”
READ MORE: Duyfken replica bosun Andrew Bibby shares ship tales at Hillarys Boat Harbour
Ms Baldwin said the “innovative partnership” with AQWA marked a new direction for the Duyfken Foundation.
“When combined with a new strategic three-year plan, and a new board, the future of Duyfken is looking most exciting,” she said.
Duyfken is scheduled to set sail for AQWA on Sunday, March 31, departing Fremantle about 11am and setting all her sails for the voyage. It is hoped the Fremantle Doctor does its bit, allowing the Duyfken to sail close to shore for the public to see.
Meanwhile, Duyfken will continue with its summer twilight sailing program from South of Perth Yacht Club. Tickets are available at duyfken.com
Next year she sails into her 20th year since her launch in 1999.