An Australian schoolgirl bidding to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world began her journey yesterday, despite urgings from officials to abandon the perilous endurance test.

Jessica Watson, 16, set sail on her pink yacht from Sydney Harbour at about 9.00 a.m., amid cheers from well-wishers.

"I can't believe we are finally here. Today, I am going to sail around the world," Jessica said on her website.

The teenager badly damaged her boat when she crashed into a cargo ship shortly after beginning a test run last month, prompting Queensland state officials to urge her to reconsider her quest.

Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard wished Watson the best of luck but said that she, along with many Australians, was nervous for the teenager.

"The seas are, obviously, a dangerous and lonely place, but I think we'd all be wishing Jessica well," Gillard said.

"Ultimately, people have to make their own decisions. But my words at this stage would be to wish her the best of luck and to urge her to keep safe."

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