Under canvas... The Annual Cadet Camp
Annual Cadet camp is only a short time spent in the bush but it continues to make a significant imprint on the character of those who attend. With the backdrop of the Victoria Range, the clear autumn days with chilly nights, the environment is conducive to developing friendships and shaping memories- the smoke in your eyes and grit in the cooking pot as you prepare tea, the hot shower you long for but must keep short because you are not at home now, the Wednesday evening liturgy with special effects and powerful words from the chaplain, lying in your hutchie waiting for the call to rise in the morning to go on exercises, the chat with the platoon commander or sergeant about Puckapunyal and promotion, the water fight with the CFA fire hoses.
Those with positions of responsibility do a fantastic job caring for and managing their subordinates. The Senior cadets, especially Year 12, are always on hand to keep things on track and under control. They give a lot but gain a great deal from the camp experience.