5 June 2025
The Australian Defence Force Academy’s support of OzHarvest this year produced the biggest collection of non-perishable food items in Canberra.
ADFA trainee officer and activity co-organiser Officer Cadet Sienna Head said the collection occurred over a two-week period in May.
Named 'Can the Cube', each squadron had a crate (cube) to decorate. The goal was to ‘can’ it with food items, with a bit of friendly competition between squadrons.
“Just on 1200 kilograms of goods were collected, comprising donations from all six squadrons,” Officer Cadet Head said.
“That’s 2400 meals delivered to the Canberra community, and congratulations to Delta Squadron for the largest donation of items.
“It’s so great to see how the whole academy came together and worked to provide all of these food items, directly supporting our local ACT community.”
Five members from each squadron helped the local OzHarvest team load the items into the distinctive yellow OzHarvest truck.
'It’s tough out there and the demand for food relief has never been greater.'
ACT OzHarvest engagement and culture lead Christine Scott said the efforts of the ADFA squadrons made a huge impact.
“Filling our yellow van almost to capacity, the food drive has had an immediate impact,” Ms Scott said.
“It’s tough out there and the demand for food relief has never been greater.
“The goods collected were added to our deliveries the very next day – restocking low food pantries and helping the ever-growing demand for food support.
“Our sincere gratitude and thanks to all the ADFA team for their huge efforts on such a successful food drive.”
Commandant of ADFA Brigadier Troy Francis congratulated the trainee officers for their generosity and compassion – both important attributes of future leaders in the ADF.
“You have set the bar higher than ever with your charity support,” Brigadier Francis said.
Facts:
- 5732 non-perishable items donated by ADFA trainee officers during the two-week ‘Can the Cube’ collection period.
- 77 per cent of Australian charities have reported an increase in demand for support in the past 12 months.
- 31 per cent of people are asking for help for the first time (37 per cent in Canberra – the highest in the country).
- Demand outweighs supply – 72 per cent of charities need more food to meet current demand.
