Working in Defence
The defence force has opened its doors to a group of young people to let them experience a few days in the life of an army, navy or air force officer. The aim is to encourage more people to consider a career in defence. We joined them to find out what it was like.
NIC MAHER, REPORTING: You might be wondering why these guys are smearing green stuff on their face. I'll give you a hint, it's not for a Shrek-themed costume party. They're trying out some camouflage techniques, to help get a small taste of what it's like to be in the military. It's all part of a 4-day work experience program, which gives interested students some hands-on experience with the Army, Air Force and Navy.
Day 1 started with life in the Army.
Once they looked the part, it was time to get stuck in to some activities, like trying to camouflage this huge jeep (which is harder than it looks).
Student: I'm stuck!
Instructor: Happens all the time.
Then, it was off to a computer simulation for some target practice with pretend guns.
On Day 2, it was the Air Force's turn and that meant taking to the skies in a C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
Student 1: I've never been on an Air Force Aircraft before so it was really new experience, very exciting, thoroughly enjoyed it. Loved the view.
Student 2: I've never been in a Air Force aircraft before, never been in a plane that big, with that much thrust, and the noise.
The students got to take some cool snaps, roam around the plane and even check out the cockpit.
Student 3: We got to see the 2 pilots doing their jobs and we went up there just before we were about to land and got to see them planning how they were going to land and taking into account the weather conditions.
For days 3 and 4, the kids spent time with the Navy on the HMAS Adelaide.
They got to board the huge ship and even stay the night.
Student 4: I really enjoyed being on the HMAS Adelaide ship because it gave me more insight to what it's like be to in the Navy.
Student 5: The food in there was really good. We got to meet some really cool people, it was really good experience.
All of these guys had to apply for a spot in this special program.
It's set up to show young Aussies that are interested in joining the military what it's really like.
Student 6: Its all been really fun so far learning about all the areas, but I think my favourite part so far has been the flight.
Student 7: Really good impressions so far. I learned a lot about it and gained a lot of knowledge coming out of this.
The defence force hopes this program will help encourage more young people to enlist, something they need to reach their target of 62,000 employees by 2025.
If these kids' reactions are any guide, they'll be able to count on a few extras from this group.
- Nic Maher | Reporter
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- Women in Combat: Behind the News | history
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