Cadets AFX Camp Recap

AFX 2021 Cadet Camp

From MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow, WCCU Commanding Officer

I was so very proud of the recruits and rank who chose to engage with AFX over the course of Cadet Camp 2021. AFX this year was a unique experience in the recent history of the Unit and our cadets rose to the challenge of six days in the field, without electricity, without running water, without technology, without four walls and a bed. And my, didn’t they enjoy it!

To quote one of our Directing Staff, “I never thought I would see the day when Waverley cadets would be chasing rainbows.” Our cadets have had the opportunity to extend themselves, to place themselves outside their comfort zones and to thrive, to cook their own meals, to make their own shelter, to engage in team building activities, to urge each other on in high ropes and obstacle courses, to support each other on Company endurance marches, to connect with their Corporals and Sergeants and Warrant Officers and CUOs, to connect with their Directing Staff, to be exhilarated by night activities, and to wake to a beautiful dawn overlooking the hills and valleys of Canberra.

Our recruits now have context. They now have an understanding of what Cadets is all about. What we do every Friday afternoon is in preparation for AFX. The discipline, the lessons, the rank structure; these are all in the Training Program to develop good habits to keep us safe on camp. Without camp, it is difficult to see the point. I hope our recruits can now appreciate the extension of their time in the Unit to give them this opportunity.

A huge thank you to our hard-working staff and rank, without whom our cadets could not have flourished as they did. Their incredible work ethic kept the Unit fed and watered and entertained and supported for the entire week. Their diligence and initiative in creating exciting activities gave our cadets an exciting week of new experiences and an appreciation of their Rank, of Support Company and of Cadets as a whole.

All recruits have now been sent their Intention Forms allowing them to decide whether to continue Cadets for another year. Whether you choose to stay or go, I want you all to know how much I appreciate your participation over these past 15 months. You have all learnt something about yourselves, you can now appreciate the resilience and tenacity and strength of character that Cadets can develop, you have all formed new relationships that you would not otherwise have done, you all now have a shared experience, a collective memory that binds you to each other, and binds you to every cadet that has been through the Waverley College Cadet Unit since its inception in 1911. Well done on completing your Recruit Induction!

For those continuing, Cadets will recommence for the whole Unit on Friday 30 April. 

Friday 23 April is reserved for Anzac Day rehearsals and relevant participants will be emailed separately. This term will be one of pomp and ceremony as we concentrate on preparation for the graduation of our Year 12 cadets at Passing Out Parade and Dining In Night on Sunday 6 June!