By Sarah Assink
Sixteen-year-old Kellin Walsh is a part of the local Navy Cadets, and every Thursday afternoon he experiences just a little bit of what it’s like to be in the defence force.
He’s been involved with the local unit for around two years now, and has plans to continue his career in the Australian Navy once he graduates high school.
In April, Kellin was selected to take part in the National Fleet Engagement, which was an all inclusive trip down to Sydney to experience sailor life far more intensely.
“It was a great time going down to Sydney and going on the HMAS Adelaide and seeing all the other ships,“ he said.
Kellin did everything from camping on islands to learning about jobs in the Navy and spending days away at sea.
“We got to ride around on vessels and hang out with the Water Police,“ he said.
“They told us about dive operations and let us ride on the RIBs (Police watercraft).“
Along with that, he also got to try on naval equipment and participate in a plethora of other activities.
So, what’s next for Kellin?
Later this year, he’ll be taking part in the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, which will see him sail the Australian Coast for 11 days.
The Navy Cadets participate in many events around the region, including Anzac Day ceremonies and the Grand Parade during the Gympie Show.
Gympie Navy Cadets officer in charge Bernie Sinclair has 16 years of naval experience behind him, and said the cadet program is a great way for kids to learn valuable skills that are intertwined with maritime and Navy life.
“A lot of the major things we do, like camping, are funded by the Royal Australian Navy,“ he said.
“We believe that if we can get kids at a young age and take them through the ranks as they age out to 18, that they will reach their full potential, and it’ll give them the confidence to stand in front of people and talk in front of people.
“We also teach them all things nautical and Navy knots, Navy ships and all that sort of stuff.“
The Gympie Navy Cadets are always looking for more attendees, and encourage all interested kids of any gender and neurodiversity to come along.
Parade day is held every Thursday from 5.45pm until 9pm at 27 Duke Street, Gympie.
Kids as young as 12 and a half years can get involved if they’re turning 13 this year, as well as all the way up to 18 years of age.
You can contact the officer in charge Bernie Sinclair on 0416 029 143 for more information on how to get involved.