Defence Force reservists need support in Bathurst: Business chamber | Video, photos, pictures

They were among the special guests, including the Western Advocate, who were invited along on the Young Endeavour for a half-day sail on Sydney Harbour.

The tall ship, which is staffed by full time and reservist Royal Australian Navy personnel, has taken more than 13,100 young people on voyages during its 30-year history.

Just before they were due motor out of Garden Island to set sail on Wednesday, Young Endeavour Captain Lieutenant Commander Mike Gough broke the bad news that the ship had suffered an engine failure.

Not deterred, Bathurst Business Chamber member and Defence Reserves Support Council (DRSC) Central West chair Mrs Whittaker said it was still a great opportunity to speak to reservists on board.

“They’re an asset to any business, they’re driven, disciplined and dedicated employees,” she said.

Mrs Whittaker said a number of Defence Force reservists were employed across Bathurst, including at the jail, Devro, Skillset and the police.

“I would like to see more businesses signing up to employ more reservists and signing up to be Defence Supportive Employers,” she said.

DRSC NSW chair Mark Todd was also on board the Young Endeavour and said reservists bring skills in leadership and team work.

Employers of reservists are well supported by the Defence Force, he said, with financial support of up to $1500 a week for businesses if its reservist was tasked away for more than 10 days.

“The Australian Defence Force could not meet it’s operational requirements if it wasn’t for the reservists,” Mr Todd said.

Dubbo Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Matthew Wright said businesses and communities needed to be educated on how reservists could benefit them. 

“Most businesses worry about employing reservists because sometimes they have to go away for work or on leave,” he said.

“But, these people have exceptional skills – navigation and practical. They can take them back to work, being beneficial to businesses. We need more of them.”