Over 100 Air Force Cadets and adult leaders from NSW and the ACT ventured north to RAAF Townsville during the September school holidays for an annual ADF Experience Camp. The aim of the camp was to give cadets an opportunity to see a variety of units, including 38 Squadron, Air Field Engineering, Air Traffic Control, Combat Communications, Military Working Dogs and the fire section.
The Detachment Commander, Flight Lieutenant (AAFC) David Roach, said that the camp was enjoyed by both cadets and staff. “The value of this camp can never be underestimated. Whilst we are Air Force cadets, and there is naturally a strong emphasis on what Air Force has to offer, cadets can have an incredibly meaningful ADF experience on either an Army or Navy Base as well. The flow on positive effect to all of Defence is a natural consequence after such a camp.”
In addition to seeing a range of RAAF facilities, the cadets were able to visit the Australian Army’s 5th Aviation Regiment, where cadets enjoyed seeing the MRH-90 and Chinook Helicopters and the 10th Force Support Battalion where participants were treated to a ride in a LARCV water transport as well as DUKW vehicles.
A tour of the Museum of Tropical Queensland and a BBQ by the beautiful North Queensland coastline topped off the camp.