Sailing

CONAN BLAND

Director of Cadets

In 2014, the Army Cadet Unit swelled in the ranks to a posted strength of 315.

172 TSS ACU was this year split into 2 platoons: Alpha Company and Bravo Company. Alpha Company consists of the new recruits who spend the year rotating through basic military lessons designed to orientate them to the life on the cadets, while Bravo Company expand on previously learnt skills and spend more time conducting experiential learning activities within a competitive environment. One of the most popular competitive activities that boys participate in are Quick Decision Exercises (QDEs). The QDEs allow for maximum participation and often involve cadets working as a team to find ways to solve specific problems. These exercises vary greatly, although generally allow for demonstration of the skills of teamwork, leadership, multisensory integration, communication and metacognition.

One new addition to the Army Cadet Uniform this year was the reintroduction of the traditional TSS School Crest as Hat Badge for the Slouch Hat. The school manufactured 350 of these badges and fitted them to the traditional slouch hat just in time for ANZAC Day. ANZAC Day saw almost 400 TSS Cadets across Army, Navy and Air Force proudly march through Southport, their presence much appreciated by the large patriotic crowd, many waving Aussie flags. A number of boys also marched in Brisbane with 39th Battalion Veterans as well as Surfers Paradise. Beneath the praise the boys received was a strong recognition that it is those who, in wartime, demonstrated leadership in action who are most deserving of respect. ANZAC Day is always special as it teaches the boys the powerful lesson that when one gives of oneself in the service of others, one often gains so much more than is given. This year, for many boys, ANZAC Day was a time of character growth and leadership development.

At the School ANZAC Day Service the School Captain reverently read the School Honour Roll of the Fallen, metal crosses were planted in the lawn in front of the Rats of Tobruk Memorial, one for each of the 132 Old Boys who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of their nation in WWI, WWII and Vietnam. The service was a strong indication that TSS boys remain mature and reverent during occasions recognising the service of others.

Annual Cadet Camp was a highly engaging experience in which the platoons rotated through a series of challenging and fun activities that required them to apply the skills of teamwork, physical determination, initiative and leadership. The Camp was supported by reservist soldiers from 25/49 RQR and 41 RNSWR Infantry Battalions. These soldiers were attached to the platoons to mentor the NCOs and also used to facilitate many activities.