Cadets Camp 2023
“I loved the night games, like when we had to avoid the spotlight to capture the flag. It was the best!”
Cadet Samual Harding – NBCU
Cadets Camp 2023: A Journey of Learning, Teamwork, and Adventure in Chichester State Forest
In late September 2023, the Australian Cadet Corps embarked on an unforgettable adventure at the Cadets Camp 2023, held in the serene Chichester State Forest, Upper Karuah River, NSW. Over three days, from 22nd to 24th September, more than 50 cadets and officers experienced the wilderness, engaging in a variety of activities that fostered teamwork, skills development, and personal growth.
The camp was a perfect blend of physical activities, educational sessions, and relaxation. Mornings began with invigorating jogs and bushwalks, setting the tone for the day. The cadets and officers then delved into relaxation and mindset activities, essential for maintaining mental well-being in challenging environments. Swimming and team-building exercises further strengthened the bonds among the participants, while marching drill training honed their discipline and coordination.
Commander Valee Howard, who volunteered for the weekend as the camp Night Duty Officer, reflected on his personal thoughts of the camp, noting, “The best aspect of the camp has to be the connections made with other officers. Everyone just got along so well, and it was refreshing to be among a group of volunteers who actually worked towards the goals we all set out to achieve.”
Night Games and Swimming regarded as the highlights
Cadets were asked at the conculsion of the camp what their highlight from the camp was. Most mentioned the swimming and fishing activities but the activities referenced most were the night games, where they engaged in stealth-based team-building activities. These games, held under the cover of darkness, challenged the cadets to achieve various goals, fostering a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment.
Education at the forefront
The educational component of the camp was equally impressive, with cadets breaking into small classes throughout the camp and participating in six practical and theory-based topics on camping and bush survival:
EDU-FLD04 – Camping Essentials: Cadets learned to set up and dismantle a campsite, practice campfire safety and cooking, and understand different types of camping gear. They also practiced Leave No Trace principles, ensuring minimal impact on the environment.
EDU-FLD05 – Bushcraft Basics: This topic equipped cadets with essential wilderness survival skills, including fire starting, shelter building, and basic foraging, preparing them for any outdoor scenario.
EDU-FLD07 – Outdoor Ethics and Conservation: Cadets were educated on ethical behavior and conservation efforts in the outdoors, learning about local flora and fauna protection and responsible resource usage.
EDU-FLD09 – Emergency Shelter Building: This session focused on constructing shelters in various conditions, teaching cadets about different materials and techniques suitable for diverse environments.
EDU-FLD19 – Foraging and Plant Identification: Cadets gained knowledge in identifying edible and medicinal plants, developing essential foraging skills and understanding safety measures in plant consumption.
EDU-FLD23 – Wilderness Cooking: The cadets learned the principles of outdoor cooking, including fire safety, cooking methods, and the use of field-appropriate cooking equipment.
What a camp!
The Cadets Camp 2023 was not just an outdoor excursion; it was a comprehensive learning experience that equipped the young cadets with vital skills and knowledge, fostering a sense of independence and resilience. The camp’s success was evident in the enthusiasm and positive feedback from the participants, setting a high benchmark for future cadet activities.
As the Australian Cadet Corps continues to provide such enriching experiences, it reaffirms its commitment to developing the leaders of tomorrow, instilling in them the values of teamwork, discipline, and a deep respect for nature and the outdoors.