Royal Military College hosts graduation ceremony

Two women have stood out among the crowd of Royal Military College graduates during their graduation.

Two army women have been recognised for their achievements during the Royal Military College graduation parade. Picture: Julia Kanapathippillai

More than 180 future defence leaders graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon with a spectacular parade ceremony this week.

Donning ceremonial uniforms and equipped with striking swords, the graduates performed intricate marching for their friends and family.

Among proud loved ones, the graduates were accompanied by distinguished guests including Governor-general David Hurley, Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart and Defence Personnel and Veterans’ Affairs Minister Matt Keogh.

Two female graduates stood out among the crowd receiving special honours for their high achievements.

Mahala Karan was awarded the Sword of Honour during the parade ceremony. Picture: Julia Kanapathippillai

Mahala Karan, who hails from Brisbane, was awarded the sword of honour while Adelaide McLean, from Warragul in Victoria, was awarded the Queen's Medal.

“It’s so fantastic, I feel so honoured to have received (the sword of honour),” Lieutenant Karan said.

“I am among a fantastic cohort so I‘m very shocked and honoured to receive this award.

“I know many of my peers have absolutely performed so well this semester.”

Lieutenant Karan said she was driven to forge a career in the army because it was challenging and provided many opportunities.

Adelaide McLean was awarded the Queens Medal for her achievements at the Royal Military College. Picture: Julia Kanapathippillai

Meanwhile Lieutenant McLean will indefinitely be the last person to receive the Queens Medal following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

She said receiving the honour was “incredible”.

“It‘s a real blessing, it’s very humbling as well,” she said.

“But it's exciting for the new times ahead, and for the people (who will receive) the King's medal.”

Lieutenant Mclean said she chose to join the army to serve others and hone her leadership skills.

“I love people, and to be able to spend every day with people would be a true honour for my career.

Chief of Army Lieutenant Simon Stuart said he “couldn’t be prouder” of the Royal Military College graduates. Picture: Julia Kanapathippillai

She said she enjoyed living in Canberra over the last few years despite the sometimes bitterly cold weather.

“I’ve gotten used to it,” she said.

“It’s a beautiful small city but always amazing.

To people interested in joining the ADF Lieutenant Mclean said they should “always throw their hat in the ring”.

“Ask around, talk to people who are actually in uniform and see what the job entails,” she said.

“Seek opportunity and seek to serve people, if that’s exciting for you, go for it.”

Lieutenant General Stuart said he “couldn’t be prouder of these young Australians” for their commitment to serve their nation.

He said it was “melancholy” to honour the late queen for the last time, but he applauded Lieutenant Karan and Lieutenant McLean for receiving their honours.

“The fact they are women is fantastic,” Lieutenant General Stuart said.

“It tells us is that we’ve got a lot of talent out there in our community we need to tap in to.

“We’re doing a lot to encourage more women to serve … every single job is open to women.

To the graduates the army chief gave this piece of advice.

“Be true to yourself and act with integrity.”