My time in the Cadets has passed swiftly and I find myself reflecting on its transformative impact. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of forming strong connections with remarkable individuals. These include decorated ex-service members who have served in conflicts around the world, as well as distinguished figures such as the Governor of New South Wales, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley and the former Prime Minister of Australia, Honourable Tony Abbott. When I was in Year 7, I could not have imagined conversing with His Royal Highness, The Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh KG GCVO, here at the College.
One of the most challenging yet formative experiences occurred at the start of last year, when Commanding Officer, Mr Cooney and Coordinator of Cadets, Mr Le led a group of us on a rigorous week-long excursion known as ‘Recon’ in the Southern Highlands. For those unfamiliar, Recon is an exhaustive exercise that tests leadership, resilience and character. It includes sleep deprivation, physical endurance, surviving on freeze-dried meals and undertaking strenuous military tasks and reconnaissance missions, all while trekking long distances with a 25-kilogram rucksack. This exercise is designed to reveal who truly possesses the tenacity required for leadership.
On our first day, Mr Cooney dropped us at a random fire trail deep in a national park, instructing us to “Keep walking down this track until you see the bus.” Naively, I assumed it would be a simple task. Four hours passed and the bus was still nowhere in sight. An hour later, we finally found it, only for Mr Cooney to meet us with a mischievous grin and inform us, “You’re going to keep going.” Understandably, our morale dropped. Our pace quickened and jogging with a 25-kilogram pack was far from easy. After six gruelling hours, we reached our goal, only for him to announce yet another test, “The bus is at an undisclosed location and you have one hour to find it. Head back the way you came.” The mental and physical demands seemed unrelenting. That was day one of three.
These intense experiences, combined with ceremonial parades and other Cadet activities, have deeply humbled me. They have instilled in me essential qualities such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance and the importance of committing to a cause greater than oneself. These traits have shaped my character and will undoubtedly influence my actions as I move beyond graduation.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my co-leaders. Your support has been invaluable in leading this year’s Cadet Unit, not only as fellow Cadets but also as trusted friends. To Mr Cooney, Mr Le, 2IC Cadets, Mr Pietrie and all the Cadet staff, I express my sincere thanks for placing your trust in me. Your dedication and efforts have made my Cadet journey, as well as that of the entire unit, an enriching and memorable experience.
Toby Brial (’24)
Senior Cadet Under Officer
