Cadets share in $3.5 million investment

After 17 years involvement with the Australind emergency services cadet unit, Graeme Watson could justifiably lay claim to the title king of the cadets.

The 72 members of the Australind Senior High School Emergency Services Cadets overseen by Mr Watson are among more than 8,000 students from 201 units to benefit from the State Government’s $3.5 million funding of Cadets WA.

Mr Watson said his experience had shown him that cadets acquired leadership skills, had extra motivation to attend and succeed at school and were looked upon favourably by prospective employers.

Speaking at Leeuwin Barracks to observe the Australian Army Cadets parade to receive their new State Banner, Youth Minister Tony Simpson said the State Government was very supportive of Cadets WA, a program for young people in secondary schools.

“Cadets take part in a huge range of activities.  Typically, you will find yourself enjoying adventure training, camping, hiking and sporting activities. So ask at school about available cadet units,” he said.

“The benefits that being a cadet can offer to young people are wide ranging.

“Self-confidence, teamwork, survival skills, decision-making, leadership, fitness and a range of practical skills are all qualities that will stand our young people in good stead as they prepare for adulthood,” Mr Simpson said.

While most cadet units operate in high schools, the State Government also funds the River Rangers program. This provides primary school students with the opportunity to develop confidence, teamwork and leadership skills through group work and hands-on river projects.

Mr Simpson also presented Cadets WA Service Medals (for 10 years’ service), Service Medal Clasps (for 15 years’ service) and Cadets WA Certificates of Recognition (for six years’ service) to Australian Army Cadets and Australian Air Force Cadets staff at a ceremony after the parade.

Fact File

• Cadets WA is co-ordinated by the Department of Local Government and Communities
• For more information, visit http://www.dlgc.wa.gov.au/cadetswa

Minister’s office – 6552 6600

Funding for 2015-16

Australian Air Force Cadets (16 units) – $69,000

Australian Army Cadets (27) – $89,000

Australian Navy Cadets (12) – $35,000

Bush Rangers (58) – $900,000

Emergency Services Cadets (40) – $750,000

Police Rangers (17) – $240,000

Red Cross Cadets (4) – $95,000

River Rangers (16) – $240,000

St John Ambulance Cadets (4) – $40,000

Surf Life Saving Cadets (7) – $240,000

Support for Instructors – $800,000