ADF Cadets Patron – End-of-year message

From natural disasters to a global pandemic, we have endured quite a lot as a society over the last few years. As we come to the end of 2022, we have a great opportunity to reflect on what we have achieved in the face of adversity.

Cadet units across the country have proven to be strong and capable. With the many challenges that have been thrown at them in recent years, they continue to show remarkable resilience and adaptability. The different restrictions from state to state meant different models of operation – some units were able to operate as usual, while others adjusted to going online for parade using modern technology, or going old-school and using snail mail!

Things might have felt a little different for everyone this year. We’ve learned new ways of approaching life and to appreciate being together more. I know cadets have had a great time getting back into the great outdoors, participating in various activities. Some notable ones include the Navy Cadets National Training Camp held at HMAS Cerberus, the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge held in Puckapunyal and the Annual Field Exercises which were enjoyed by Army Cadets, and the recent National Parade at the Australian Defence Force Academy to mark the 80th Anniversary of the Air Force Cadets.

Next year, units can look forward to a national cadet leadership summit in Canberra; Navy Cadets Fleet Engagement Camp in Sydney; Army Cadets Adventure Training in Tasmania, Regimental Sergeant Major – Army Drill Competition in Canberra, and the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge in Canungra; and Air Force Cadets National Rifle Competition in Sydney towards the end of the year; among other activities.

I sincerely hope that all our cadets, cadet staff and their families have a chance to take a break and reunite with loved ones in the coming weeks, and I’d like to wish everyone a happy and safe festive season.

The year ahead holds some great opportunities for me to get out into the cadet community and I’m looking forward to meeting you at some of your activities.

Best wishes to you all.

ADF Cadets Patron Sir Peter Cosgrove

Inaugural Patron of the Australian Defence Force Cadets, Former Chief of the Defence Force and Governor-General of Australia, Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, AC (Mil), CVO, MC (Retd) wishes ADF Cadets and their families well as 2022 draws to a close.

The Australian Air Force Cadets acknowledges this country and its traditional custodians.

We acknowledge and respect the spiritual relationship between the traditional custodians and this country which is inspired by language of songs, dance law and dream time stories over many thousands of years and we pay our respect to the elders who have passed into the dreaming, those here today, and those of tomorrow. May we continue to peacefully walk together in gratitude, respect and kindness in caring for this country and each other.