05/09/2012
Sea Cadets from the UK had the opportunity of a lifetime achieving their gold and silver Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition section in the Western Australian Outback. Spending two weeks there at the beginning of July, they trekked 18-20km a day and experienced first-hand; leadership, teamwork, self-motivation, communication, confidence and consideration.
Facing a challenging expedition in unfamiliar terrain and wildlife in the Kalamunda National Park, the groups while carrying full backpacks weighing roughly 16KG and had to pitch their tents and cook on camp stoves or specially constructed open fire pits. Highlights of the expedition was seeing wild kangaroos and discovering a variety of unfamiliar birds/plant life. They also spent 2 days with the local Australian Navy Cadets, boating and assist with maintenance in the unit as a local community volunteering experience.
Of his experiences one cadet said: “I have a great sense of achievement at being so far away from home and being on expedition. I would definitely like to go back!”
Receiving support from the Captain Brett Wolski HMAS Stirling, members from the Western State Australian Navy Cadets, and with grants from The Connaught Drill Hall Trust, The Ulysses Trust, support from local businesses, UK Naval establishment messes and community funds, cadets and their families spent many weekends bag packing, at car boots, washing cars, running raffles and a variety of other events over two years to make this dream come true.
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