Cadets

We have been fortunate enough to have approval to run the Monivae Cadet program in Term 3, although it will look slightly different whilst the COVID19 restrictions are in place. Cadets will be wearing their PE uniforms on cadet training days until further notice. The cadet leaders are continuing to develop the program to ensure that all cadets have a positive experience.

At this stage we will be practising for the Ceremonial Parade in the hope that it will go ahead in October. Depending on the restrictions at this time, this may look slightly different to other years.

Over the school holidays, 18 cadets attended the Lance Corporal – Corporal (LCPL-CPL) course online. The cadets completed a pre-course program over 2 weeks (just prior to holidays) to complete their LCPL qualifications. They then attended a 5-day intensive program online, attending classes each day from 08:30am – 4:30pm. The cadets were able to work with other candidates and senior cadets from around Australia to complete the theory and part of the practical component of the Corporal course. These cadets will have further components to complete whilst in the unit to finalise their qualifications. Congratulations to all the successful cadets on a fantastic job. I was very proud of our Monivae cadets as I received feedback regarding how well they presented themselves and for participating in the course.

I would like to thank Cadet Under Officer (CUO) Demi Taylor and Sergeant (SGT) Charlotte McAdam for giving up weeks of their holidays to be part of the senior cadets presenting the program online. As well, add thanks to the 32 Battalion CUO Alyssa Neeson who worked tirelessly as a part of the senior cadets running the entire course along with the adult cadet staff.

Even though we are not wearing our uniform at present, I ask that all cadets check their uniform and ensure you have all items including boots, trousers, shirt and bush hat. If you have grown since last wearing your DPCU, please contact Mrs Fotheringham to arrange a time to exchange any items. She will advise you when the exchange will take place.

Unfortunately, we have been given notice from Aust. Army Cadet HQ that Ex EMU 2020 will not be going ahead this year, due to the COVID19 pandemic.

Philip O’Keefe

MAJ(AAC)

OC

MCACU