Commissioners Dinner 2025
“Tonight, has been a celebration of service, tradition, and youth leadership. Paving a path forward for all young people”
Deputy Commissioner of Training, Deputy Commissioner Maximus Pollard
A Night of Unity, Honour, and Aspiration
This June we held our annual Commissioners dinner for 2025 and it was a great success! Held at the Conca D’oro in Riverwood where Lenny Fasullo and his excellent team accommodated over 150 of our members, parent, guests and special dignitaries. These dinners embody the spirit, achievements, and future aspirations of the Corps.
Gathered in a spirit of camaraderie
Deputy Commissioner Maximus Pollard, serving as the Master of Ceremonies, set the tone with his welcome, “Tonight, we gather to celebrate the achievements of our Corps, to recognise the tireless efforts of our volunteers, and to reflect on the values that unite us.”
Commissioner Pollard then welcomed Deputy Commissioner Peter Allen CLM to give the opening address.
Opening Address from Dpt. Cmr. Allen CLM
Deputy Commissioner Peter Allen welcomed guests to the 2025 Commissioner’s Dinner, reflecting on the Corps’ true purpose: growth, responsibility, and character.
He spoke of the challenge of youth disengagement and the Cadet Corps’ role in providing belonging and opportunity. Through stories of outstanding cadets from young leaders like Sergeant Micah Lawrence, to new talents like Lance Corporal Zane Aoun, he highlighted the transformative impact the Corps has on young lives.
The address closed with gratitude to officers, volunteers, families, and community supporters whose dedication makes the mission possible.
Commissioners Address
Commissioner Trent Aylward turned the spotlight to the volunteers, officers, and instructors whose commitment powers the organisation.
He paid special tribute to Commander Chris Bailey, Commanding Officer of the Riverwood Cadet Unit, whose nearly five decades of service to youth organisations, including 25 years with youth cadet organisations, has left a remarkable legacy.
Chris has raised close to half a million dollars for international cadet experiences, mentored countless young people into meaningful careers, and inspired through his leadership and family’s involvement. In recognition, he was awarded the Australian Cadet Corps Community Service Medal.
The Commissioner closed with a heartfelt message to cadets: you belong here. Every effort, no matter how small, builds leadership and the future of the Corps is in their hands.
Promotions
Promotions are always a proud highlight of the evening, with several cadets and officers being recognized for their dedication and growth.
From Tuggerah Lakes Cadet Unit
• WO2nd Mitchel Hillier is promoted to the rank of WO1st
• Cdt Jared Allen is promoted to the rank of L. Cpl.
From Riverwood Cadet Unit
• LCpl Hanthony Ma is promoted to the rank of Cpl
• LCpl Mathew Do is promoted to the rank of Cpl
This segment of the evening underscored the Corps’ commitment to nurturing its members and celebrating their achievements.
Commissioners Achievement Award
The Commissioner’s Achievement Award is one of the highest honours in the Australian Cadet Corps, recognising exceptional commitment, leadership, and service. It can be awarded annually to both a Cadet and an Officer whose contributions leave a lasting mark on the Corps.
This year, the Officer recipient is Commander Valee Howard, celebrated for his transformative work leading the design and rollout of the new Australian Cadet Corps Parade Uniform. His dedication, precision, and leadership ensured the project was delivered on time, within budget, and with lasting impact. Commander Howard also continues to shape national NCO development initiatives.
The Cadet of the Year Competition identifies young leaders who best embody the values and principles of the Corps. This year’s finalists, Cadet Jasper Kent, Lance Corporal Zane Aoun, Corporal Blake Manley, Corporal Finlay Dodds, and Drum Major Derick Leung, all demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication, and pride in representing their Units.
After a closely contested competition, Corporal Finlay Dodds from Tuggerah Lakes Cadet Unit was announced as the winner, also receiving the Commissioner’s Achievement Award for Cadets. This distinction authorises him to wear a gold pin above all other awards, recognising his exceptional service, commitment, and contribution to the Corps.
These awards celebrate individuals, both cadets and officers, who inspire others, demonstrate leadership, and leave a lasting legacy within the Australian Cadet Corps.
Cake of the Future
Tonight’s cake-cutting ceremony brought together our past, present, and future. Commissioner Trent Aylward, the Honourable Zhi Soon MP, and our youngest cadet, Jaylen Solomon, symbolised strength, community, and renewal. This tradition reminds us of our unity, legacy, and the bright future we continue to build together.
Overwhelming Support from Community Leaders
One of the most heartening moments of the evening was hearing from our community leaders, whose encouragement reminds us how valued our organisation is. We were honoured to welcome Mr Ian Collier, President of the Toukley RSL Sub-Branch; Ms Kayee Griffin, Former Deputy President of the NSW Legislative Council; Councillor Nancy Liu, Deputy Mayor of Georges River Council; Councillor Wendy Lindsay of Canterbury Bankstown Council; Mr Mark Coure MP, Member for Oatley; and Mr Zhi Soon MP, Member for Banks.
Some have walked beside us for many years, while others are just beginning their journey with us. Yet every speaker shared a common message: strong youth organisations matter, and ours is making a real difference. Their words of praise and encouragement reflect the deep respect and confidence our community has in the work we do — and inspire us to continue growing and serving with pride.
“Our community’s support reminds us how valued this organisation truly is.” – Commissoner Trent Aylward
