11 August 2025
One-hundred-and-thirty cadets, three days of gruelling trials and a winning team from across the Tasman were the hallmarks of a remarkable Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge for 2025.
Conducted at Kokoda Barracks in south-east Queensland’s scenic rim from the July 9-11, final results had the cadet team from New Zealand in first place, followed by the Air Force cadet team in second place and the Army cadet team from Tasmania in third.
It was the conclusion of an activity that pitted the placing teams and 10 others, including one from the Australian Navy against the elements, their endurance and wits.
Commander Australian Army Cadets Brigadier David McCammon said the Cadet Team Challenge was designed to demonstrate consistently the individual and collective ability of the cadets to problem-solve and complete tasks throughout the activity period.
“Cadets encounter a sequence of problems intended to test their resilience, leadership and importantly teamwork whilst displaying the ADF Cadets values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence,” Brigadier McCammon said.
“While the end result sees a winning team, the collective experience enhances all those who participate.”
One of Three Annual National Activities that recognises, motivates and challenges high-performing cadets to excel, the Cadet Team Challenge placed the Cadets into a military-like setting with teams encountering situations centred on a simulated request for ADF support to civilian authorities.
Using the vast and varied facilities within Kokoda Barracks, the teams completed stations that tested their navigation, observation and deduction, problem-solving and engineering skills.
'I urge all cadets to take part and go beyond the limits you think you have – you will most likely amaze yourself.'
The cadets also undertook first aid and radio communications as well as physical challenges including equipment moves and a confidence course.
A pinnacle event on the cadet calendar, the team challenge also drew interest from the broader ADF.
Head of Reserves and Cadets Support Division (RCSD) Major General Douglas Laidlaw, who visited the activity, was impressed by the drive demonstrated by the cadet teams – 11 of which represented communities from across all regions of Australia.
“Events like the Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge are unique and provide young people opportunities not found in other Australian youth development programs,” Major General Laidlaw said.
“It is another example of Army and Defence’s commitment to the Australian community and our future leaders.”
Eager to see greater involvement, Brigadier McCammon wants to see more cadets test their mettle in 2026.
“The Chief of army Cadet Team Challenge, Deputy Chief of Army Adventure Training Activity, Regimental Sergeant Major – Army Drill Competition and soon-to-be-started National Drone Competition are open to all cadets,” Brigadier McCammon said.
“I urge all cadets to take part and go beyond the limits you think you have – you will most likely amaze yourself.”
To find out more about joining the Australian Army Cadets or becoming Army Cadet Staff or a Defence Approved helper, head to www.armycadets.gov.au.
