MLC School Army Cadet Reflections

MLC School Army Cadet Reflections

“Being a part of the Establishment Parade on 26 February was an amazing opportunity to be a part of a momentous occasion for MLCSACU. It was great to represent the unit and be part of this historic moment. Cadets is meaningful to us as it gives us autonomy and a chance to let our actions and effort speak for itself, and we feel proud to be part of a unit where each cadet has a chance to thrive and can look up to other girls such as our CUOs as figures of inspiration.

This year, we look forward to Cadet Camp, as it provides us with the opportunity to step out of our comfort zone and make long lasting memories. As it is most of Golf company’s first AFX we are a combination of nervous and excited but will be happy to see our home training sessions and the efforts of our CUOs paying off.”

– CDT Leela Das and CDT Sophia Clarke G36 (Year 9)

“Last week, the MLCSACU celebrated an outstanding achievement of forming the third and largest solely female Cadet unit in Australia. As a part of this parade, I had the honour of carrying the newly established MLCSACU flag. Being a part of the Colour Party, along with CPL Pan, LCPL Oh, LCPL Hunter and the escorts was an amazing experience where we were able to learn colour drill and expand on our leadership opportunities. They all did wonderfully and it was an honour to have done this with them. With the help of all senior staff associated with the MLCSACU, specifically LT(AAC) Highman and CAPT(AAC) Maling, we were able to learn appropriate commands relevant to colour party and feel prepared for the parade. The parade itself was incredible, the rest of the unit displayed great drill, and pride in the unit. It was extremely empowering to be able to have been a part of the parade, which will go down in MLCSACU history.  

It fills me with an immense sense of pride that I am able to be a part of such a great community. Joining Cadets less than a year ago has already helped me immensely with my discipline and leadership skills, as well as helping me grow friendships that I will hold onto forever. The work of all senior student officers has helped me incredibly and I wouldn’t have been able to learn as much without their guidance and leadership. I feel so honoured to have had this opportunity and I encourage anyone thinking about joining the cadet program in the future to absolutely do it. I look forward to the future within this unit, and I am excited for all to come.”

– CDT Natalia Gardiner (Year 10)

“Being involved in the MLCACU Establishment Parade as part of the Colour Party alongside LCPL Oh, CPL Pan and CDT Gardiner is a privilege and an experience I will always value. The Establishment Parade is a significant occasion that recognises the history, traditions and achievements of our unit, and it was an honour to play such an important ceremonial role within it.

As members of the Colour Party, we carried the flags that represent our unit’s identity, service and pride. The responsibility of marching on parade with the Colours required focus, discipline and teamwork. Every movement had to be precise and unified, reflecting the high standards expected of us. Knowing that the Colours symbolise the values and history of the unit made the role especially meaningful.

The parade itself was a powerful reminder of the dedication and commitment shared by everyone involved in MLCACU, even before it was formally established. Standing on parade alongside my peers in ceremonial dress evoked a strong sense of belonging and respect for the traditions we uphold. It was rewarding to see weeks of preparation and practice come together in such a formal and significant event.

Overall, participating in the Establishment Parade as part of the Colour Party was both an honour and a memorable milestone. It is an experience my peers and I are incredibly grateful for, and I am confident I speak on their behalf when I say we are immensely proud of our unit and of the responsibility that comes with representing it.”

– LCPL Hannah Hunter (Year 10)

“The Cadets program is one of the most enriching experiences a young person can be part of. Through the Cadets Program, I am allowed to develop leadership, resilience and teamwork skills in a structured and supportive environment.

Last week, CPL Pan, LCPL Hunter, CDT Gardiner, and I had the honour of being part of the Australian National Flag Party and the Colour party in the Establishment Parade, which highlighted the start of a new chapter for the MLCSACU. The parade marked an important milestone for our unit as MLCSACU officially separated from Newington College. This step highlighted the growth, independence, and a new chapter for our program. 

Becoming the third all-girls cadet unit in Australia was a powerful moment, and it showed that young women are continuing to take on leadership roles and create strong pathways within the cadet movement. For me, representing the unit in such a significant ceremony was not just about carrying the flag, but about upholding the values it represents and showing respect for those who have served before us.

Being part of cadets has shaped my character and strengthened my sense of purpose. It has taught me that leadership is about service, and that even as a student, I can make a meaningful contribution to my community. Cadets is more than just an activity to me. It is a privilege and a responsibility that I am proud to carry.”

– LCPL Chloe Oh (Year 10)

“As one of the first members of the MLC School Army Cadet Unit, it has already been a unique and meaningful experience. As part of the third all fFemale Cadet Unit in Australia and the largest in the country, I am honoured to be part of a unit that represents leadership, resilience, and opportunity, while also representing the MLC School values of courage, respect, growth, and compassion. This year, I am looking forward to building my confidence, discipline, and teamwork skills in new and exciting challenges and leadership roles.

A highlight of my experiences has been taking part in the Establishment Parade, where I was honoured to be part of the Colour Party, the flag bearer for the Torres Strait Islander flag, while working alongside LCPL Oh, LCPL Hunter and CDT Gardiner. This was an incredible experience for me, and it gave me immense pride, yet also highlighted Australia’s heritage over the years. This will continue to empower me and highlight the new unit’s values of commitment, respect, and representing something greater than myself.”

– LCPL Veronica Pan (Year 10)