RAAF Base Wagga hosted the Learning and Walking Together program, a collaborative initiative between the Defence Work Experience Program (DWEP) and Riverina Pathways Engagement Officer Kyle Breust.
This innovative overnight program provided 16 students from the Riverina region, including Narrandera, with an immersive experience in military life, career exploration within the Defence Force, and local cultural enrichment.
The two-day program began with a cultural immersion at Wagga Beach, led by Yuluug Cultural Programs, grounding students in Wiradjuri traditions and fostering a sense of community.
This was followed by military training at No.1 Recruit Training Unit, where students learned to stand at attention and march under the guidance of section leaders.
The program concluded with a morning of physical training (PT) and leadership activities at the School of Post-Graduate Studies.
Highlights of the program included hands-on activities with flight simulators provided by BAE Systems, tours of the base fire section, and engaging leadership workshops.
Students gained valuable insights into various ADF careers and developed essential skills in fitness and resilience.
A unique opportunity for regional and rural students, this program was specifically created for these students from nine different high schools in the Riverina region. It aimed to provide these students with career exploration opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable to them.
The timing was ideal for participants like Daniel and Gorgie, who are both in Year 12 and preparing to sit for their HSC exams.
Daniel initially felt apprehensive about participating, fearing the physical demands would be too strenuous. However, he found the experience enlightening and encouraging.
“I was really nervous about the program, thinking that I would be running for 10km and not fit enough to participate, but I really enjoyed it and it was not what I expected. It was a great introduction to explore careers in the Air Force and I did not need to be so nervous.
“I am really considering applying for the Gap Year program and I am now more motivated to explore it further,” he said. Gorgie echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the program’s role in opening up new careervistas.
“I really enjoyed this opportunity as it showed you more in-depth the various career opportunities in the Air Force and allowed me to meet new people with similar interests to me.
“I really enjoyed being a cadet for a few days and am now looking into the Gap Year program,” she said.
The success of the Learning and Walking Together program underscores the importance of roles like Pathways Engagement Officers (PathEOs) in assisting regional and rural students.
These officers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between students and the opportunities available within the ADF. They work tirelessly to create programs that not only provide career exploration but also enhance students understanding of vocational roles, leadership skills, and cultural awareness.
Kyle Breust, the Riverina Path EO, has been instrumental in tailoring the program to meet the specific needs of regional students. His efforts have ensured that students from even the most remote areas can access valuable experiences that significantly impact their future career choices.
Impact and Future Prospects: The Learning and Walking Together program has made a profound impact on the participating students, offering them a rare glimpse into life within the ADF. It has effectively engaged students from regional and rural areas, providing them with unique insights and inspiring them to consider careers in the Defence Force. It exemplifies how targeted initiatives and dedicated personnel can make a significant difference in the lives of regional and rural students, providing them with opportunities that pave the way for their future success.
This article appeared in Narrandera Argus, 15 August 2024.
