Century-old Sydney cadet unit faces uncertain future as volunteer shortage strikes

A volunteer shortage is threatening the future of 140-year-old Sydney group – a situation facing many other volunteer-led programs in the inner city.

The cadet group is putting an urgent call out for helpers.

Sydneysiders are being asked to help save one of Australia’s longest running cadet units as dwindling volunteer numbers threaten the future of the youth-focused program.

NSW Australian Army Cadet Brigade is putting the call out for volunteers to save the Sydney High School Cadet Unit which has been operating from its base at Moore Park since the 1880s.

The unit – recognised as one of Australia’s oldest cadet clubs – provides programs for 13 to 18-year-olds however may be forced to fold if not enough volunteers can be found to help run its activities.

NSW Brigade Commander colonel Andrew White said while the number of female and male youth members involved in the unit remained strong, the shortage of volunteers was presenting ongoing dilemmas.

“Our challenge is we’ve got great numbers in terms of the young people involved in the program, but we need the volunteers to run it,” he said.

The unit is based at Moore Park.

“We can’t run the program without volunteers – they’re the lifeblood and the consistency of cadets.

“Without them, we may have to look at merging the unit with another squadron or be in a situation where we may no longer be able to operate the unit which would be devastating.”

Many other Sydney clubs and organisations are currently facing similar shortfalls in volunteer numbers including Rotary clubs.

The unit caters for young people aged 13 to 18-years-old.

Mr White believes the shortage could be partly attributed to the sheer amount of extra-curricular activities available to young people in modern society, often resulting in parents having to stretch their time volunteering across multiple clubs.

Mr White said the benefits of cadets remained relevant in the modern age and helped develop life skills for its young participants.

“Cadets is about building resilience, challenging yourself and you can see the growth of people starting at 13 to the time they leave the program as an 18 year old,” he said.

The unit has been running since the 1880s.

“They’re skills they’re able to take into their adult lives and as a volunteer it’s very rewarding to be a part of that.”

Mr White said volunteers do not have to be associated with school or require military background, however must pass standing working with children checks and have an interest in youth development.

Volunteers can commit to giving up an afternoon or evening a week or an occasional weekend.

Interested volunteers are being asked to contact [e-mail] or visit www.armycadets.gov.au.