Our People in QLD
Jake Ball - Mt Isa
Peter Ball is a diesel fitter at MTM and his wife Dee works there as a clerk — but their son Jake, 18, has chosen a very different life.
The BMX rider is now using his leg muscles to get over the obstacle course at the Army’s recruit training centre at Kapooka in New South Wales.
“I joined straight from Spinifex College,” said Jake. “It was a mixture of family history and pride, and a lot about looking for adventure.
“The first two weeks were hard but I love it!”
All soldiers below the rank of officer do their basic training at Kapooka. It’s an intense eleven weeks including weapon skills, combat first aid, navigating, and platoon level tactics.
The day starts with a bang at 6.00am and ends at 10.00pm. The recruits have 15 minutes to wash, dress and make their beds then, after breakfast, they could have PT, weapons training, pack-marches, and a lot of lectures ranging from Army Law to radios and night vision goggles.
“It’s hugely social,” said Jake. “First off everyone was new but now we’re really together as a team — and it’s easier now we all know what to do.
“I’ve been learning a bit more about career options and I reckon I’ll go for the cavalry — that’s armoured fighting vehicles.
“But first I’ve got to get through Kapooka.
“Mum and dad are planning to come down for our march-out parade — then it’s back home for a huge party with everyone round.”