Programs

Recruits

Once a newly enlisted youngster submits a new application and pay's their yearly membership fee they are ready to start training. At this time, they become a new Recruit and embark on the Recruit Training Program.

Recruit training involves an introduction to all aspects of their Cadet experience. It usually takes around 6 months to adequately complete the Recruit Course and graduate as a Cadet. This may take longer if the Recruit’s attendance is not regular.

 

Cadets

As a Cadet, youngsters become eligible to participate in all available Cadet activities and can apply to be members of Cadet Merit-Based opportunities.

Upon Graduation, Cadets are assigned to a Troop and become eligible for promotion. They’re also qualified to attend and participate in Unit Range Shoots where they vie for Top Shot awards, and have the chance to meet the requirements of a Marksmanship Qualification - with the corresponding decoration worn on their uniform.

 

Junior Cadets

Junior Cadets are aged between 7 and 10 years and enlist in the same way as Recruits. Once eligible Junior Cadets attend a shortened, or condensed, Program of training that’s based on broad military themes.  Junior Cadets parade from 1800hrs to 1930hrs.

Junior Cadets are introduced to the value’s associated with Cadet training which mirror those found in the Defence Forces. Junior Cadets participate in all the Unit’s parades and weekend activities but given their age, do not stay overnight in weekend locations.

 

Mounted Cadets

The Mounted Cadet Training Program is designed specifically for commemorative or ceremonial occasions. Enlistment is by application and once finalised Mounted Cadets can embark on their training, which includes skills like Military Formation-Riding, Equine Care & Management, mounted drill using lances and swords, and equestrian-specific content like Dressage, Show Horse and Eventing.

Mounted Cadet participants are aged between 11 and 17 years and must provide their own mounts and riding kit. All mounts are assessed on enlistment for suitability. While there are no impediments on breed, size or the colour of mounts, all mounts must be assessed suitable in a range of situations. These include behaviour in crowds, training with and interacting with other mounts and equipment, float behaviour and general demeanour.

 

Drill Teams

Eligible Cadets may apply for entry into a Unit Drill Team. All Cadet applicants are assessed for suitability and, if accepted, begin their training in the use of Drill Rifles, which is usually a 303 replica. Drill Team members are expected to make time commitments beyond one night a week for training and performance purposes.

Drill Teams are frequently invited to perform specialised drill routines at public events and regularly represent their Unit at commemorative occasions such as Anzac Day. Drill Team members are the public face of the JDC and much higher standards of dress, bearing and drill precision are expected.

 

Leadership Program

Many Cadets quickly display leadership qualities. Other Cadets develop leadership qualities as they grow into roles of more responsibility. Cadets displaying Leadership qualities are identified and given the opportunity to participate in a Leadership Program designed and run by former soldiers.

Leadership Programs guide Cadets through the key principles of leadership to improve both their competency and confidence. In doing so Cadets learn  to deliver drill lessons on the parade ground, as well as command and control of a body of Cadets in the field.

Leadership Programs are conducted over two weekends, one conducted ‘In-Barracks’ and the second in the ‘Field’. Each Cadet is instructed throughout the Program with practical applications when they return to their Unit. Graduates of the Leadership Program invariably progress faster through the Cadet Ranks and accept greater responsibilities, often serving as mentors for younger Cadets.