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Celebrating Excellence at the Annual Australian Air Force Cadets National Awards Presentation

Celebrating Excellence at the Annual Australian Air Force Cadets National Awards Presentation

The Annual Australian Air Force Cadets National Awards Presentation and AAFC Foundation Sponsors event took centre stage at the Australian Defence College Mess in Canberra on 26 August 2023.

This prestigious occasion recognised the outstanding achievements of dedicated individuals within the Air Force Cadets and acknowledged organisations that have played a vital role in supporting Air Force’s future leaders.

Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Robert Chipman, AM, CSC presented the Cadet of Year Award 2023 to Cadet Flight Sergeant Tayah Hutton from No. 8 Wing.

National President of Air Force Association Group Captain (Retd) Carl Schiller, OAM, CSM was presented a special award to acknowledge the AFA’s ongoing support to the Australian Air Force Cadets Foundation, which is focused on providing additional funds for cadet activities.

The event also shone a spotlight on the vital role played by instructors within the Australian Air Force Cadets, recognising their invaluable contributions to the organisation.

The Instructor of the Year Award was presented to LAC (AAFC) Damian De Candia of No. 2 Wing. This award was introduced to honour the instructors who not only excel in their roles but also embody the core values of the Air Force Cadets – values that extend far beyond their training environments and into the broader community.

Pictured – GPCAPT Ernie Walsh, President of AFA AC and Cadet Branch – AF staff member, National President of Air Force Association Group Captain (Retd) Carl Schiller, OAM, CSM and Air Force Association Ltd National Secretary Peter Colliver.

Pictured: President of Air Force Association Group Captain (Retd) Carl Schiller, OAM, CSM receiving the special Award.

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