Local Navy Cadets Back On Board

The Australian Navy Cadets (ANC) unit Training Ship Paluma in Shorncliffe recently welcomed its latest intake of cadets.

The TS Paluma is part of the Moreton Flotilla and aims to develop young people as leaders and communicators under the framework of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN).

TS Paluma Commanding Officer, Luke Hollman said approximately 10 new cadets between the ages of 12 and 18 join the program each year, with meetings held every Saturday afternoon.

“We run activities to help them develop their skills – it is very self-directed learning,” he said. “We do maritime training and power boating and canoeing. We wear their uniforms, use their ranks and their marks of respect, and we salute our officers.

“I think it really gives them a chance to shine and develop. Lots of cadets hone their skills and chase their passions. They can choose their path with the ANC and do what interests them.”

Jake Purdey joined the cadet program in 2018 because he wanted to join the Australian Defence Force (ADF). He later decided not to join the ADF, but said he decided to stay with the program for the valuable experiences it offered him.

“Being a cadet not only helped me socially but also practically,” Jake said. “I use techniques where I work that I used at cadets. Over the six years I was there I progressed through the ranks learning different skills with each, did extracurricular activities, and made some great memories.

“I would say the highlight of my time as a cadet would be the courses I attended to develop new skills. Being on a working army base interacting with other cadets from around the state, while developing skills and forming friendships.

“Before I left the organisation, I planned on starting an application to become a staff member to continue the development of both myself and the cadets that come through the program. I now plan to continue with the program for years to come while I also work full-time, balancing the two.”

The ANC will showcase their skills at the Navy Week Open Day at Port of Brisbane on Saturday, 2 March, hosted by HMAS Moreton.

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