Full Circle: From Cadet to ADF Liaison Officer – My Journey and Its Impact

As the ADF Liaison Officer to 24 AAC BN, I often reflect on the path that led me here. My military journey began in 2004 at 335 Squadron, RAAF Williamtown, as a member of the Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC), a pivotal experience that set the foundation for my future in the Australian Defence Force.

Early Years in the AAFC

Before joining the AAFC, I was one of three Scouts at the 1st Bulahdelah Scout Troop, where I took part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award program and Australian Jamboree 2004. Shortly after the Jamboree, I and another Scout joined the AAFC. For me, the AAFC ended up being far more than just an extracurricular activity; it began a lifelong journey in military discipline and leadership.

Participating in General Service Training (GST) and various field exercises, I learned the core values of structure, routine, and self-discipline – principles that would guide me throughout my career and to this very day. After my first year, I was promoted to Leading Cadet, a role that challenged and honed my abilities as a junior leader.

Being a junior leader amongst cadets meant more was expected of me, not less. We were expected to set the example for new cadets, to guide them and to assist them in their individual development. It was important that I set a high standard for myself if I was to expect it from junior cadets.

Many an evening was spent polishing the tips of my black boots into a reflective surface and ironing precision creases into my Service Dress uniform.

Transition to the Australian Army

Though my initial intention was to join the Royal Australian Air Force as a Communications and Information Systems Controller (CISCON), fate had a different plan.

Through a series of events and decisions in July of 2009, I enlisted in the Australian Army as an Operator Administrative. This decision redirected my intended career path and led me to a posting at the 17th Construction Squadron at Holsworthy Barracks.

The transition from being an AAFC Cadet to an Australian Army Soldier was challenging but equally rewarding, offering new perspectives and opportunities.

Cadets is a youth development program, first and foremost. While I learned many new skills through Recruit and Initial Employment Training with the Army, things such as Drill, Fieldcraft, Dress and Bearing, and established self-discipline learned through being a cadet are all things that assisted me in making the transition.

My time with cadets was a stepping stone that bridged my transition from civilian to soldier, and I credit my experiences as an Air Force Cadet with shaping me into the person I am today.

Returning to Cadets as an Adult

In late 2012, a conversation with a Sapper at the 17th Construction Squadron opened the door to return to the cadet world, this time as a Volunteer Adult at 22/29 ACU.

My decision to return was driven by a desire to give back to a program that had given so much to me in my youth. Only this time, I’d be doing it in the Army green rather than the Air Force blue.

From late 2012 through to 2015, I volunteered my time at 22/29 ACU under the leadership of then Officer Commanding, CAPT(AAC) Colin Beveridge. Colin, a veteran who exemplified the values of service and commitment, provided me with the opportunity to give back to the community through the Australian Army Cadet program.

Continued Involvement and Growth

My commitment to the cadets remained steadfast as I navigated my military career, including future postings and, later, my transition to the reserves in 2015.

In 2017, a move to Canberra led me to join 224 ACU under the command of CAPT(AAC) Victor Kalkman. Victor was more than just an Officer Commanding; he was a mentor who profoundly influenced my approach to leadership in youth development.

His insights and support were instrumental in shaping me as a junior military leader, a mentor, and a role model to young cadets.

A New Chapter as an ADF Liaison Officer

After leaving 224 ACU in late 2018, I took a brief hiatus from the cadet program. However, in late 2022, I was asked to return in a new capacity – as the ADF Liaison Officer to 24 AAC BN. This role has allowed me to leverage my experiences and insights to guide and influence the next generation of cadets. It’s a position that I undertake with immense pride and a sense of responsibility.

Reflecting on my journey from a young cadet in the AAFC to a Junior Leader in the Army and now ADF Liaison Officer, I am reminded of the cyclical nature of life’s path.

The lessons, experiences, and mentorship I received as a cadet have come full circle, allowing me to impart similar guidance to the cadets I now oversee. My story is a testament to the enduring impact of the cadet program and its ability to shape individuals for a lifetime.

I was told as a Cadet, “You will get from this program what you put into it”. I echoed this sentiment to cadets at 335 SQN whilst visiting the unit after my enlistment, and it’s something that I impress upon the cadets joining our unit to this day.

Every step of my journey has been a learning experience, shaping me into the leader I am today. I say to the current and future cadets: embrace every challenge, seek mentorship, and commit to your growth.

The skills and values you acquire here will be your cornerstone in life, both in and out of uniform.