Australian Air Force Cadets celebrated 60 years of selfless dedication in May as Squadron Leader (AAFC) Geoff Strange became the first uniformed Defence member to receive a ninth clasp to his Defence Long Service Medal.
Geoff was passionate about aviation from an early age, and joined the then-Air Training Corps (ATC) in 1960 as a Cadet.
After five years, and thoroughly enjoying all aspects of the ATC, Geoff aged out as a cadet, but almost immediately threw his hat into the ring again to become an ATC Instructor in the RAAF Reserves. He was successful, and began his service on April 20, 1965.
Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange said the sharing of knowledge and experiences with cadets and staff member continued to motivate him to volunteer in the organisation.
"[It provides] the opportunity to give cadets training in skills which would not be available outside of a cadet environment," Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange said.
Over his 60 years of service, Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange has held many positions across 1 Wing (North Queensland) Air Force Cadets, including Flight Commander of a unit for 27 years, numerous Headquarters roles including Staff Officer Operations, Executive Officer and currently Staff Office Community Engagement.
'It is so rewarding to see cadets complete a number of years of training and 'march out' as mature, confident young adults.'
Some highlights include attending the 1996 camp at Wagga Wagga, marking the 75th Anniversary of the RAAF, numerous fieldcraft camps, and personal development and leadership courses.
"It is so rewarding to see cadets complete a number of years of training and 'march out' as mature, confident young adults," Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange said.
Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange's achievement was celebrated at an event commemorating 1 Wing - North Queensland's 75th anniversary on May 17 attended by Director General Cadets - Air Force, Air Commodore Craig Heap, Commander Australian Air Force Cadets, Group Captain (AAFC) Stephen Johns, and Officer Commanding 1 Wing, Wing Commander (AAFC) Ken Whelan.
For anyone considering joining the Air Force Cadets as a volunteer staff member, Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange said the organisation was about more than just volunteering.
"You're playing an active role in developing young people to be better versions of themselves, so be prepared to put in the hard work, but the outcome is so special and rewarding," Squadron Leader (AAFC) Strange said.
"Our new learning program will give current and future cadets and staff members a great opportunity to engage in, and receive valuable training and life skills which enhance their opportunities as we move forward in our personal endeavours."
