A ir F orce Cad ets
Hall of Fame induction honours service The Australian Air Force Cadets (AAFC) is this year inducting former members and Air Force leaders into the AAFC Hall of Fame as part of the organisation's 80th Anniversary celebrations. The milestone, which falls within Air Force’s centenary year, provides an opportunity to reflect on the history of the AAFC and the members that have been part of its success as a youthorientated organisation administered and supported by the Air Force. Officer Commanding 44 Wing Group Captain Robert 'Dubbo' Graham is one of the Hall of Fame inductees, acknowledging his significant contribution to the Australian community through his military service and his long association with the AAFC. The distinguished list of inductees also includes Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin and Sir William Dean.
Group Captain Graham said the AAFC, which was known as the Air Training Corps until 2001, had played an important role in developing youth over the past 80 years. “The experiences gained by cadets result in greater confidence and personal growth,” Group Captain Graham said. “They take those skills with them as they pursue their career goals – inspiring them today as the leaders of tomorrow is a key role of the AAFC. “I am proud of my association with AAFC and the work they continue to do, and I am humbled by this honour, becoming a Hall of Fame inductee in this milestone year. “I watch on with great interest as the AAFC continues to shape and develop into the future.” The AAFC provides opportunities for young people to develop valuable
Officer Commanding 44 Wing Group Captain Graham, has been inducted into the Australian Air Force Cadets' Hall of Fame. Defence images.
life skills and qualities including leadership, self-reliance, confidence, teamwork and communication while delivering unique experiences in aviation and military contexts. Bettina Mears
Cadets given insight into Air Force employment opportunities A group of Ayr Cadets got the opportunity to see what life is like working in the Royal Australian Air Force. Cadets from 109 Squadron in Ayr visited Townsville in April as part of an annual general service training camp, which gives them an insight into employment opportunities that may arise as a Royal Australian Air Force Cadet. Over three days, the Cadets visited Aviation Fire and Rescue, 5th Aviation Regiment, Lavarack Barracks, Queensland Emergency Services, Royal Flying Doctor Service and the Rural Fire Service. Australian Air Force Cadets executive officer and staff officer Geoffrey Strange said it was a good experience for them. “It was an introduction into some of the jobs that are available in the (Australian) Defence Force and outside the Defence Force and it gave the Cadets an insight into some of the jobs that are available there,” Mr Strange said. “They were able to talk to people that actually do the job. We talked 48
to pilots at the emergency services helicopter area and crewmen, it was really worth doing,” he said. The 109 Squadron currently has 30 Cadets and seven adult staff which focus on establishing qualities such as good citizenship, personal development, teamwork and leadership. Mr Strange said the Cadets were excited about seeing what career
options are available to them and were actively asking how to apply for the positions. “We certainly encourage any young people over the age of 13 to join their local squadron if they want something exciting that will give them some leadership skills as well as foster mateship,” he said. Satria Dyer-Darmawan / Townsvillebulletin
