Australian Defence Force's newest leaders graduate from the Australian Defence Force Academy

Over 260 officer cadets and midshipmen graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) in Canberra today, prepared to serve our nation with distinction.
 
The Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, His Excellency,  General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK, MC, (Retd) was joined by the Minister for Defence, Senator the Hon Marise Payne, the Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, AC, and other distinguished guests and families at the annual Graduation Parade.
 
The Commandant of ADFA, Brigadier Cheryl Pearce, said the dedication and maturity of the 2017 graduating class will ensure they excel as leaders of the Australian Defence Force.
 
“This Parade marks the culmination of three years’ hard work across military training and academic study,” Brigadier Pearce said.
 
“ADFA has provided these officer cadets and midshipmen with the skills and knowledge to progress to the next stage of their military careers and put into practice ethical and values based leadership.
 
“I am privileged to be part of this unique tri-service military training establishment responsible for the education of the young men and women who are the future of our Defence Force.
 
“These graduates will make excellent young Navy, Army and Air Force officers and I look forward to seeing where their careers will take them.”
 
The Governor-General presented the Academy’s prestigious Commander in Chief Award, to Officer Cadet Tom Darzins. The medal and sword are for exceptional performance by a graduate in the fields of military and academic achievement.
 
In addition, the Minister for Defence presented the Citizenship Award to Midshipman Emma Finucan, Air Chief Marshal Binskin presented the Chief of the Defence Force Sword of Honour for Leadership to Officer Cadet Riley Brassil, and Major General Wilkie, Commander Australian Defence College, presented the RSL Sword of Honour for Service to Midshipman Matthew Newman.

Midshipman Thomas Fathers, Officer Cadet Hugh Connell, and Officer Cadet Andrew Haes were awarded the Chief of Navy, Chief of Army and Chief of Air Force Prizes respectively.
 
The officer cadets and midshipmen who graduated today will be posted to establishments around Australia to continue their training, or commence operational duties.
 
 
Media note:
Imagery will be available at https://images.defence.gov.au/S172176
 
 
Media contacts:
Defence Media (02) 6127 1999, media@defence.gov.au