Formed up on the grassy square in front of Victoria Barracks, 40 new Army Reserve lieutenants received their pips to a thunder of pipes, drums and applause as the inaugural graduating class of the Part-Time Officer Commissioning Program (PTOCP).
Replacing the former Army Reserve Officer Commissioning Course (AROCC), the PTCOP is aligned to the design of the Full-Time Officer Commissioning Program delivered by the Royal Military College - Duntroon.
Starting in 2024, it took 12 months to conceive, develop and evolve the enhanced program, which was delivered by Sydney University Regiment.
The June parade marked a return to celebrating the achievement of graduates with an appropriate ceremonial event in accordance with Army's oldest customs and traditions. Beyond the gravitas it adds to marking the achievement of graduates earning their commissions, it is a fitting way to welcome Army's newest officers.
Commanding Officer Sydney University Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Conrad Walsh accompanied reviewing officer Major General Ana Duncan.
"I am tremendously proud of the progress the officer cadets have made and the professionalism they have demonstrated over their training period, which has ranged from six to 36 months," Lieutenant Colonel Walsh said.
"I am also extremely honoured to have such an extraordinary team who have displayed dedication, determination and resilience in planning, developing and delivering the new program with significant time and staffing pressures.
"Now is the time to take what you have learnt and build on your skills, knowledge and abilities as you post into your units, to continue to enhance your military education, leadership and readiness to be prepared, resilient and agile to succeed at whatever the future brings as junior leaders within the profession of arms."
The parade culminated in the graduates having their pips pinned on by family and friends on the Parade Ground, before a march-past, followed by a reception on the Victoria Barracks officers' mess lawns.
