Moruya RSL member Gary Traynor says the planned program is a “stopgap” until there are more cadet programs in the region. Photo: Elise Searson.
The call has gone out for help to ensure there’s “pomp and ceremony” for Anzac Day commemorations on the Far South Coast.
In a post on social media this week, Moruya RSL member Gary Traynor said it was off the back of the dissolution of the 222 Army Cadet Unit.
“In the past few weeks, I have received a number of inquiries from stakeholders within the Eurobodalla requesting support for their local Anzac Day parades,” he wrote.
“It breaks my heart to say that for the very first time in 33 years, there will be no Australian Army Cadets in any Anzac Day street parades, anywhere in the Eurobodalla.”
He told Region he was driven to make the post as fellow organisations and clubs were planning for Anzac Day commemorations.
“We knew this was on the cards before Christmas … I’ve been receiving some inquiries and requests.
“The Tomakin RSL rang the other day asking whether we could have someone available and [I had to say] ‘We just don’t function anymore.'”
He told Region a planned group – named Camo Club – was intended as a “stopgap measure”, rather than a replacement.
“It’s a whole series of different activities, which would heavily rely upon other volunteers within the community,” he said of his initiative.
“[It should] fill that void in the interim.”
Mr Traynor said participating kids were left feeling “very disappointed” when the unit closed late last year.
“Those kids who were already in the program when that program was cut off [have had] a major part of their lives that was taken away from them.”
He said the dissolution of the 222 Army Cadet Unit left them without a local alternative.
“There is cadets in Canberra … and there’s cadets at Nowra, I believe.
“Geographically, that is too far to travel on a weekly basis.”
He said two former cadets would carry a banner on Anzac Day later this month, but hoped Camo Club would help kids in the region continue to develop similar skills.
He believes it’s an alternative for young people not interested in other activities outside school.
“You can appreciate that not every kid wants to play soccer, cricket or rugby league.
“This was a really good youth organisation for kids to find a place and grow, [where they] get confidence, learn discipline and learn life skills that they can take into adult life.”
Mr Traynor said that while they were applying for a government grant, they were working to finalise insurance.
It’s hoped the initiative will be a 12-week program.
“We have limited logistical capability – that’s why we’re talking 12-week blocks.
“Whether the same kid could come back for a second bite of the cherry, we don’t know. It all depends on how much interest there is.”
He believes that cadets will return to the coast in some form.
“We still hope that cadets will reform on the coast. … It’ll possibly be Air Force.”
In his post, Mr Traynor also thanked the people who made the cadet program possible.
“To all of those former cadets, parents and support persons who had the welfare of our youth in mind … and to those adult staff who gave countless hours of their valuable time and were there for the right reasons, I thank you,” he wrote.
Any businesses or people interested in supporting the Camo Club initiative can contact Mr Traynor by calling 044 969 2401.
