UP-TO-DATE TRAINING SHIP.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 47, 1 April 1914, Page 5

UP-TO-DATE TRAINING SHIP.

Of the training ships maintained by some of the large steamship companies for the purpose of training lads for the position of officers, the White Star Company's Mersey, is perhaps the bestknown in Australian waters. This vessel is an annual visitor to Australia, sailing from London about September and arriving in Port Jackson in December. During her stay at the Australian port she is a constant source of interest to the thousands of ferry passengers who daily pass the ship. She carries 50 or 60 cadets, most of .whom hail from England, and is commanded by Captain Corner, R.N.R., who was formerly on the Macquarie. The daily routiiie cf the ship both at sea and in port covers every branch of education necessary for the future of the boys, as well as instruction in every detail of seamanship and navigation by an efficient staff. When visiting Sydney recently the missioner to seamen in Wellington, Mr W. E. Cocks, was invited by the chaplain to conduct the farewell service prior to the ship sailing for London. "This," says Mr Cocks, "was a unique and impressive occasion, such as only a service at sea can be. The whole ship's company were present, and the manly robust voices joining in responses, hymns, and prayers left an impression not soon forgotten." The Mersey is now on her way Home, being due in London early in May next.