The Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge (CACTC) is an Australia-wide competition conducted by the Australian Army Cadets. Designed to test cadets’ leadership, teamwork and core military skills, the challenge brings together some of the most capable young cadets from across Australia and New Zealand in a demanding and highly competitive environment.
This year, 16 teams of ten cadets participated in the event, representing Army, Air Force and Navy Cadet units, as well as New Zealand Cadets. Their participation was particularly significant, as it marked the first time Trinity Grammar School Army Cadet Unit (TGSACU) had competed in the competition, providing an exciting opportunity for both the Unit and its cadets.
Held at Kokoda Barracks in Canungra, Queensland, the CACTC challenged participants to apply a wide range of practical and leadership skills over a demanding 48-hour competition. Cadets completed ten activities spread across a 33-kilometre loop track, requiring them to work effectively under pressure while navigating both physical and mental challenges.
A Demanding Test of Skill and Endurance
Activities included building a roadblock, assisting in the recovery of a bogged vehicle, providing first aid at a mass-casualty site, completing stretcher carries, participating in rifle simulation exercises, undertaking navigation tasks and finishing a timed endurance walk. Cadets were also required to analyse and report observations from an abandoned campsite, construct a zipline and communications antenna, and complete an Army obstacle course to conclude the event.
Throughout the competition, teamwork proved to be one of the most important elements of success. Cadets were required to communicate effectively, think critically and work collaboratively to complete each task as efficiently as possible. The challenge highlighted the importance of leadership, resilience and adaptability, while also providing participants with valuable opportunities to learn from cadets from different services and regions.
“Overall, CACTC was an unforgettable experience that challenged us in many ways. We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity and are excited to take our experiences back to our unit.”
WO2 Keira
The experience not only tested the cadets’ skills but also provided a valuable opportunity for personal growth and development. The knowledge, confidence and leadership experience gained through the challenge will undoubtedly benefit both the participating cadets and the wider TGSACU community as they share their learnings with others in the Unit.
