Canberra’s crisp winter weather was not enough to deter Midshipmen and Officer Cadets at the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) who were up before sunrise in full spirits to undertake a monumental fundraising activity for SIDS and Kids.
This year, in honour of the organisation’s 25th Red Nose Day anniversary, more than 750 cadets, marched together forming the words ‘Red Nose Day’ on the parade ground at the Academy to raise awareness for infant health organisation SIDS and Kids.
Acting Commandant of the Australian Defence Force Academy, Group Captain Sheldon Kimber said he was impressed with the effort of the cadets to helping SIDS and Kids.
“This is the first time in the Academy’s 26-year history that an activity like this has been attempted, and it was organised entirely by the cadets,” he said.
“I am particularly proud of the spirit in which they participated, all for a fantastic cause.
“ADFA places a strong emphasis on developing leaders who understand the importance and value of community engagement, and contributions such as this strengthen these qualities in these future Australian Defence Force leaders.
“This resoundingly successful activity, entirely organised by the cadets, is testament to their leadership and followership.”
Midshipman Matthew Bell, who helped organise the activity, said it was great to be supporting such a great cause.
“We hope to continue supporting SIDS and Kids in future years and the challenge is now on improving on it next year,” he said.
“At ADFA, we are kept busy with our university studies and military education, but we also are part of the Canberra community and we are proud to help out where we can.”
ADFA is a military officer training establishment which prepares Midshipmen and Officer Cadets for the Navy, Army and Air Force. While studying for their undergraduate tertiary studies through the University of New South Wales, they also undertake training to develop the attributes, character and skills required to become an officer in the ADF.
Cadets at ADFA actively participate in fundraising activities for organisations such as Cancer Council Australia, Leukaemia Foundation, the Salvation Army and Legacy.
Red Nose Day is an initiative by SIDS and Kids, an organisation committed to “Caring for Families, Saving Babies Lives” that relies on support from the community to raise funds and awareness.
High resolution images are available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/Grid.fwx?archiveId=5003&search=11123378
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