From 3D printers to military working dogs, firefighting drills to packing fake wounds on mannequins - Indigenous students were given a hands-on taste of life in the Air Force during a high-energy day of discovery and inspiration.
Throughout the day at RAAF Base Williamtown, 15 Indigenous youth took part in a variety of immersive activities, including physical fitness training, touring aircraft static displays, exploring Air Force innovation and meeting the teams behind medical, ground defence and firefighting operations.
The day, in late March, was an example of the offerings from the Defence's Indigenous Youth Program, in which students learn about career possibilities and pathways in the military through an interactive schedule of indoor and outdoor activities.
The program exposes young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and women to various skills, trades and lifestyle experiences.
For the Williamtown activity, Indigenous Liaison Officer and Biripi woman Corporal Karla Sewell-Blacklock welcomed the students from schools across NSW to the base.
Students were given a behind-the-scenes look at life in the military and were encouraged to challenge their thinking and problem-solving skills during an egg-drop challenge at the EDGY Lab.
They were put to the test working in teams to design and construct a protective device that would prevent an egg from breaking when dropped from a height.
"With a time limit adding pressure, they had to think creatively, apply problem-solving techniques and adapt quickly as they experimented with materials and designs," Corporal Sewell-Blacklock said.
"The challenge encouraged collaboration, critical thinking and innovation - key skills used daily in Defence environments."
'It ignites aspirations and provides a sense of purpose and focus moving into later years of schooling.'
Fifteen-year-old Jayden travelled from a small town near Bathurst to take part in the program.
He was enthusiastic for the opportunity to explore careers in the ADF, with a particular interest in becoming a firefighter.
"It's been an awesome day. I had the chance to speak with RAAF firefighters, which was great because that's exactly what I hope to apply for after school," Jayden said.
"We also had the opportunity to interact with Ryder, the recently retired military working dog, which was a huge highlight for everyone involved on the day."
Corporal Sewell-Blacklock said the program opened doors and broadened Indigenous students' knowledge of Defence careers.
"It ignites aspirations and provides a sense of purpose and focus moving into later years of schooling," she said.
The young people walked away with new communication, leadership and team-building skills, while making new friends and lasting connections.
To learn more about the program and the wide variety of pathways into Defence, visit the Defence Work Experience Program site.
