International Cadet Exchange to New Zealand

Over the recent school holidays, I was incredibly fortunate to be selected as one of only nine Australian Army Cadets from across the country to represent Australia on the International Cadet Exchange to New Zealand. Over ten days, we travelled throughout the North Island, participating in military training, leadership development and cultural exchange alongside New Zealand Cadet Forces.

Our exchange began at Waiouru Military Camp, where we took part in the CCNZ Skills Competition – a multi-day event that tested our teamwork, leadership, resilience and military skills. We later travelled to Trentham Military Camp in Wellington, where we experienced a variety of leadership activities, visited significant military sites and gained a deeper understanding of New Zealand’s military traditions and culture.

One of the achievements I am most proud of from the exchange was having the opportunity to represent the Australian Army Cadets on an international stage. It was an incredible honour to wear the Australian uniform overseas and work alongside cadets from another country. The Australia Team also achieved an overall Silver placing in the CCNZ Skills Competition, making the experience even more rewarding.

Throughout the exchange, I developed a wide range of new skills and broadened my understanding of military training. I experienced activities such as rifle shooting and military exercises that differ from those conducted within the Australian Army Cadets. Seeing the similarities and differences between the two cadet organisations provided valuable insight into different approaches to leadership, training and teamwork, while reinforcing many shared values between us.

Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the trip was the challenge phase of the CCNZ Skills Competition. Across two days, we completed a series of demanding yet enjoyable activities, including night navigation, raft building, equipment carries, physical fitness assessments and even a ration pack MasterChef challenge, where teams were tasked with creating the best three course meal using only military ration packs. Equally memorable were the friendships formed throughout the exchange. Spending ten days living, training and overcoming challenges together created strong bonds within the Australian team and also with New Zealand cadets.

One aspect that surprised me most was the number of differences between the Australian Army Cadets and the New Zealand Cadet Forces. Experiencing another country’s cadet program challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, adapt to unfamiliar situations and become a more flexible and confident leader. It strengthened my resilience, initiative, communication and problem-solving – skills that will continue to benefit me both within cadets and beyond.

To any cadet considering applying for a national or international activity, my advice is to take every opportunity that comes your way. It can be intimidating to put yourself forward for something unfamiliar, but some of the most rewarding things I’ve experienced have begun with me extremely outside of my comfort zone. The skills you develop, the people you meet and the memories you create are truly invaluable.

I am incredibly grateful to everyone who made this exchange possible and for the opportunity to represent the Australian Army Cadets overseas. It was an experience I will never forget, and I would strongly encourage anyone who is given the chance to participate in similar activities to seize the opportunity.

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– SGT Jemima Blake (Year 11)