MORE than 1500 Australian Air Force Cadets stepped out to parade at Brighton Homes Arena last week, signifying Ipswich as a military-proud city.
In front of family, friends and the public, the cadets showcased the commitment of youth to the future of the Air Force in the coming decades.
Number 2 Wing South East Queensland squadrons, from Rockhampton to Roma, assembled for the ceremonial parade in a combined training activity.
It allows members to develop leadership and personal attributes for a future career in the aviation sector, either in the Air Force or the general aviation sector.
Sir Peter Cosgrove attended the parade in an indication of its significance.
Squadron leader Kathy Downes said the ceremony was a prime example of the cadets’ commitment.
“A large number of our members are keenly interested in the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) subjects at school and of course STEM is the pathway to future roles in the aviation sector,” she said.
“The aerospace sector is a fast-developing part of the Australian economy, and the skills learnt in Air Force Cadets are a strong motivator for these young people to consider careers after school.
“This does not only secure the future of the Air Force but also for the aviation sector generally, a sector that Air Force relies on with such close industry collaboration.
“Not only was this an opportunity to hone our military skills, it was an opportunity to mix with other cadets from all over southern Queensland and share our membership of the cadets and to talk about the many opportunities available in the Defence Force and supporting aviation industries.”
The strong attendance shows the ability of Australian Air Force Cadets to equip youth with life skills, resilience, initiative, and strong links with communities across Australia.
