Media Release

More than 300 officer cadets performing Tai Chi at 6:00 am on a military parade ground is not what you'd expect to see, but this is part of the new cadet training currently under-way at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA), in addition to the traditional military training of weapon instruction and drill.

Commandant of the Academy, Commodore Brian Adams explained that the introduction of Tai Chi is a first for ADFA and reflects its new approach to ADFA training.

"Tai Chi has been introduced to first year cadets in their initial five-week training program for its physical fitness and health benefits and for relaxation and stress management during a sometimes stressful settling-in period," Commodore Adams said.

"Adaptability is a trait required of all officers in the Defence Force in the 21st century as they are required to deal with a wide range of situations from disaster relief and peacekeeping to potential conflict.

"Tai Chi has been used as a vehicle to introduce officer cadets to more versatility. The officer cadets have found Tai Chi to be the thinking person's exercise and the classes had provided an opportunity for staff and cadets to learn a new discipline together."

The flexibility that is acquired through the stretching exercises had also assisted in halving the number of cadet injuries during the 1999 cadet induction and familiarisation training period.

After the initial five-week induction period, cadets can choose whether they wish to continue with Tai Chi and an extra-curricular club has been set up for that purpose.

Tai Chi is just one of a number of widespread changes that have been introduced to Academy life, including training in equity and diversity, conflict resolution and negotiation skills.

NEWS EDITORS/CHIEF OF STAFF: Media are invited to attend the final Tai Chi session on Monday, 22 February 1999 at 6:30 am. Parking is available at the front of the Military Building. Please assemble at the flagpole in front of the main parade ground. All media attending are invited for a light breakfast in the Officers Mess after the class.

Declan McGrath: 02 6265 3960 or 041 944 8100

Issued by the Defence Public Affairs Organisation, Department of Defence, Canberra, ACT, 2600

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