As we look towards 2020 I want to take this opportunity to welcome personnel and their families coming to Kapooka in the next few months, and to thank our current staff – especially those directly involved in recruit training – for your work this year.
It must be said at the outset that the way our personnel have risen to great challenges when required has been inspirational. This year we have seen demonstrations of physical and moral courage in unfortunate circumstances. Those times when individuals had to draw on this courage, they did so with the moral support of their colleagues from across Kapooka. We have witnessed some amazing acts of selflessness and teamwork that exemplify Army’s values and the Command Team are incredibly proud of all of you.
To those posting in: as a training establishment in a regional city, the personal and professional expectations of staff posted to Kapooka are very high. I am not simply referring to the focus on discipline and integrity expected of instructional staff – those of you coming to an instructional position should already be well aware of this. I am referring to the fact that if you are in possession of this copy of the Kapooka Chronicle, the likelihood is high that you already have an opinion on how the business of turning members of the general public into soldiers is being undertaken. Please put those opinions to one side and reserve your judgement until you see for yourself.
The Army Recruit Course is very different from the one that you completed the first time you were here. The Combat Shooting Continuum is an excellent example of this. Until recently, weapons training was primarily focused on static target shooting. Recruits now learn combat behaviours that are specifically designed to enable their success in battle. The end result is a well-trained soldier who embarks on their trade training from a significant military baseline.
In short, I expect you to come to Kapooka with an open mind.
Outside of your work responsibilities, be open to being involved with the local community here in Wagga Wagga. This regional city has ample opportunities to be involved in sporting teams, musical groups, social clubs and community events. The more you are involved in the community the richer your life in Wagga Wagga will be. Our standing in this city and across the Riverina is high and our people are typically welcomed into the community with open arms. The region is truly wonderful and it will not take long for you to call it ‘home’.
For those of you travelling over the Christmas break, please do so safely. Enjoy the Festive Season and your well-earned breaks before your task begins of ‘making Soldiers for Army’.
On behalf of the Commandant and all of the ARTC family – welcome to Kapooka.
Cheers, COS.
Andrew Behan