Trip of a lifetime for cadets

Tasmanian cadets disembark from a C-130 Hercules after their memorable trip to the mainland.

MORE than 200 Australian Air Force Cadets between the ages of 12 and 20 from No. 5 WGAAFC (Tasmania) flew across Bass Strait to the home of the Roulettes at RAAF Base East Sale to undertake a week of General Service Training (GST) recently.

It was the first time in 5WGAAFC history that members of the wing have had the opportunity to develop initiative, leadership and self-reliance on such a scale.

For many cadets the trip over was their first time in an aircraft, let alone a C-130 Hercules from RAAF Base Richmond.

Cadets were given the chance to see life in the Air Force, not something Tasmanian-based cadets get to see every day.

Air Force Cadets were familiarised with the Central Flying School, School of Air Traffic Control, School of Photography, and School of Air Navigation.

Pilots from No. 32 Squadron provided guidance on careers in the Air Force, and cadets were given hands-on experience with PC-9s and HS-748s.

A visit to the 4th/19th Prince of Wales and the No. 1 Airfield Defence Squadron was also a highlight for many.

Chief of Defence Force General Peter Cosgrove took time out of his busy schedule to talk with the cadets, leaving an impression that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

The cadets and staff of 5WGAAFC expressed thanks to the Air Force members who made GST 2002 at RAAF Base East Sale a memorable experience.

• By FLGOFF (AAFC) Rachel Barrett
  
  

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