David Gillespie (Lyne, National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

On Saturday a week ago in my electorate, I had the pleasure of attending the Australian Air Force Cadets annual review parade in Taree, along with 100 other proud local members of the Manning Valley. The AAFC teaches valuable life skills and plays a significant role in developing character in our young people. Cadets have the opportunity to grow in leadership, self-reliance, confidence, teamwork and communication. It is very encouraging to see such a thriving group of young people in my electorate. The volunteers that run and organise the 317 Squadron are doing a fabulous job in connecting and engaging with the youth of Taree. I commend you all for your efforts.

It was an honour to be part of the day. I would like to congratulate Cadet of the Year Cadet Sergeant Samuel Snape; the Cadets Cadet recipient, Cadet Sergeant Mitchell Books; the Non-Commissioned Cadet of the Year recipient, Cadet Corporal Macaela Harris; the Leadership Award recipient, Cadet Sergeant Samuel Walker; the Effort and Consistency award recipient, Leading Cadet Joshua Walker; the Outstanding Attendance and Participation Award recipients, Cadet Stanley Tan and Cadet Galen Wiseman; and the Most Improved Cadet, Leading Cadet Daniel Souter. The Jim Welsh Memorial Flying Scholarship was awarded to Cadet Tamara Di Costanzo.

Well done to all. Congratulations to Laurie Easter and all of his staff and the cadet staff on such a successful day. Keep up the great work, guys.