The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, today met with Cadets from each service and their volunteer Instructors at theAnglican Church Grammar  School (Churchie) in East Brisbane.

Senator Feeney said meeting the Cadets of Training Ship Magnus, the Anglican Church Grammar School Army Cadet Unit and the Number 203 Squadron was a chance to see the breath of the ADFC youth development options all at the one location. The Senator was keen to hear about the school’s commitment to the ADFC and youth development, and to get their feedback about the program.

“Speaking with the Cadets and their leaders, it’s obvious to me that this school is delivering a first-class youth development program through the ADFC,” Senator Feeney said.

“The Cadet program has always been of huge significance to this school due to its strong, character building aspects. I don’t doubt that this will continue into future years, with a 167 strong Cadet force here.

“It goes without saying that none of this would be possible without the volunteer Instructors and Officers who give up so much of their time to make sure these young students get results from what is the premier youth development program in the country.

“While the three Cadet Units all operate independently and have their own respective command structures, it is also good to see them working together at tri-service events, such as Anzac Day parades and Remembrance Day services,” he said.

Churchie Headmaster, Mr Jonathan Hensman said Cadets were an essential part of the School’s community service program.

“We have a proud tradition of tri-service Cadets for the last 100 years at Churchie. It is part of our Personal Development and Leadership program that occurs every Monday afternoon and is looked forward to by all participants,” he said.

Senator Feeney said Cadet Units like those at the Anglican Church Grammar School will have a strong future under this Government.

“The Government is committed to the Australian Defence Force Cadets; it is a youth development program that provides young Australians with a unique military experience, regular physical activity and strong values, such as honour, integrity, courage, teamwork and citizenship,” Senator Feeney said.

Media contacts:

Office of Senator Feeney: Jeffrey Von Drehnen 0477 348 476