Reservists take opportunity to complete their training

Whether in the Army Band or a combat service support battalion, all Army Reserve recruits take part in 4 Bde’s post Army initial foundation training.

Post Army continuation training (PACT) enables reservists to complete their training after Kapooka, while not putting their civilian life on hold for an extended period of time.

Trumpeter PTE Andrew Gordon said while he went through Kapooka almost three years ago there were still some things he needed to complete.

“I’ve found this environment really good,” PTE Gordon said.

“We had that initial introduction at Kapooka, and coming in here just brings all that muscle memory back, and the staff made it really simple to get back into the swing of Army training.

“There’s a lot of people who say, ‘Oh, you’re in the Army band, what do you actually do?’ So, it’s great to come in here and show them that us musicians can get after it too.”

PACT comprises F89 Minimi qualification, foundation navigation, field and battlecraft, first aid and care of a combat casualty.

Driver Rhylee Musgrove said completing her training introduced her to a different side of the Army.

“I think the recruits here are a lot more mature and everyone is so eager to learn. I’ve already learnt so much from everyone here,” PTE Musgrove said.

“It definitely makes the path to join Reserves so much easier. You can dip your feet in the water at Kapooka and then it’s a really good opportunity to come here and continue to develop and learn other things.”

4 Bde’s Future Workforce Cell conducts four nine-day PACT courses each year.