{"id":46183,"date":"2026-06-26T12:03:17","date_gmt":"2026-06-26T02:03:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.thebuzz.net.au\/mlc\/?post_type=article&p=46183"},"modified":"2026-06-26T12:03:18","modified_gmt":"2026-06-26T02:03:18","slug":"passing-out-parade-2026","status":"publish","type":"article","link":"https:\/\/www.thebuzz.net.au\/mlc\/article\/passing-out-parade-2026\/","title":{"rendered":"Passing Out Parade 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"

MLC School Army Cadet Unit marked an important milestone with its first Passing Out Parade, a significant occasion in the life of the Unit and in the journey of its graduating Year 12 Cadets. More than a ceremonial gathering, the parade was a celebration of the discipline, precision and skill that Cadets develop through their commitment, training and service.<\/p>\n

The parade marked the culmination of a journey that many of our Year 12 Cadets have undertaken over a number of years, as they now move towards their HSC and IB examinations and prepare for new adventures beyond the school gates. More deeply, the Cadet program speaks to the core character and personal dispositions we seek to develop in MLC School girls. Cadets are challenged to lead with integrity, to serve others with purpose, and to act with confidence and responsibility.<\/p>\n

We were honoured to welcome Brigadier Louise Martin CSC as Reviewing Officer for this historic parade. Brigadier Martin has had an esteemed career in the Australian Army and she delivered a moving address on leadership, service and the importance of leading with courage and purpose. Her words were a powerful reminder to our Cadets of the impact that thoughtful, values driven leadership can have on others.<\/p>\n

The parade also provided an opportunity to recognise Cadets who have demonstrated outstanding commitment and achievement across the 2026 training cycle. The Most Improved Cadet Award was presented to SGT Lottie Cleland<\/strong> (Year 11) acknowledging her dedication, resilience and significant growth across drill, leadership, teamwork and overall participation.<\/p>\n

The Spirit of Cadets Award was presented to LCPL<\/strong> Matilda Shipard <\/strong>(Year 10) recognising her positive attitude, commitment to the team and consistent demonstration of the Army values of courage, initiative, respect, teamwork, integrity and loyalty.<\/p>\n

The Platoon of the Company Award celebrated the collective efforts of platoons that consistently demonstrated strong teamwork, discipline, leadership and commitment throughout the year. Congratulations to Foxtrot 31, led by CUO Rebecca Beaton<\/strong> (Year 12) and Golf 35, led by CUO Jillian Pidcock <\/strong>(Year 12),\u00a0for their outstanding contribution to the Unit.<\/p>\n

A particularly meaningful moment in the parade was the presentation of the inaugural Captain Elizabeth Godwin (Life Guards) Award. This new award honours Captain Elizabeth Godwin, a trailblazing officer of the Household Cavalry Regiment, the Life Guards, who was recognised for her determination, compassion, servant leadership and ability to inspire others. The inaugural recipient of this award was Foxtrot Company Commander CUO Elena Tulloch<\/strong>\u00a0(Year 12) whose leadership, commitment and character have left a lasting positive impact on the MLC School Army Cadet Unit and its future generations of Cadets.<\/p>\n

I would also like to acknowledge our staff. A Cadet unit is never built by one person alone, but by a community willing to invest time, knowledge and energy into young people. Our staff play a vital role in supporting, mentoring and developing each Cadet to reach their fullest potential. Thank you to our MC, LT(AAC) Christopher Highman,<\/strong> and our Parade Commander, CAPT(AAC) Ashleigh Leck,<\/strong> whose professionalism and commitment contributed greatly to the success of the parade.<\/p>\n

Following the parade, our Year 12 graduates, their parents and attending officers continued the celebrations at the Dining-In Night held at Newington College. The evening provided a further opportunity to honour our graduating Cadets, while also celebrating the valued relationship between the MLC School Army Cadet Unit and the Newington College Army Cadet Unit. We are especially grateful to the Year 11 Cadets who volunteered as servers for the evening, and to the small but growing Army Cadet Band, whose beautiful playing added greatly to the occasion under the leadership of Richard Coward, <\/strong>Head of Bands.<\/p>\n

Congratulations to all Cadets who participated in the parade and to the graduating class of 2026. Their professionalism, pride and commitment were evident throughout the day and have helped establish a strong legacy for future Cadets to follow.<\/p>\n

We look forward to our 2026\/2027 training cycle commencing Week 1 next term, as we welcome 72 new recruits from Year 8.<\/p>\n

If your daughter is interested in joining the MLC School Army Cadet Unit, students from Year 8 and above are still welcome to join; please contact mlcsacu@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au or follow the payment page<\/a> link to register.<\/p>\n

\u2013 CAPT(AAC) Xavier Maling<\/strong><\/em><\/a>
\nOfficer Commanding<\/p>\n