In 2016, God gave us a vision for an entry level training program specifically to meet the need of those who seek to serve in a maritime location. We add capacity by providing seamanship and safety training, so that efficient and safe ship operations ensure the outreach programs are supported with excellence. We named the program MAST Global, and have continued to network and build understanding for the needs for training whilst serving various vessels.
In early 2019, news reached us that a cargo vessel was being gifted to YWAM Ships Aotearoa in New Zealand, which had previously carried supplies to Pitcairn Island. YWAM Koha is very well suited for training because she has:
- Ten-ton hydraulic knuckle crane for off-loading containers.
- Large cargo space to accommodate bulk cargo.
- Room for trainees to live and work on board.
- Traditional bridge design requires a helmsman, a look-out and an officer.
- Tonnage 500, Length 160ft, and Draft 12ft.
- Excellent trainee practicum opportunities.
Based out of her home port Tauranga on the North Island, she has recently completed essential works in shipyard before completing a promotional tour raising awareness of her future role to reach isolated islands. Her first outreach is scheduled for the Solomon Islands in May 2020. She will anchor close to shore and provide primary health care, preventative medicine such as vaccinations, oral health checks and eye examinations. A container was recently loaded on board which houses a dental clinic, gifted through the generosity of ministry supporters in Wanganui - the port town we docked in after our delayed voyage from Nelson!