MEET THE CUOS MEET THE CUOS
CUO CHARLIE MCKAY, CUO ETHAN ARMSTRONG, CUO TOM GAVEL
SES PLATOON CUO
CHARLIE MCKAY (LEFT)
Promotions History:
2021/22 | CDT (JLC) 2022/23 | CPL (SLC) 2023/2024 | SGT (CWC) 2024/25 | CUO
Quote of the Day:
“The only limit to our realization of tomorrow is our doubts of today”
ROPING PLATOON CUO ETHAN ARMSTRONG (MIDDLE)
Promotions History:
2021/22 | CDT (JLC) 2022/23 | LCPL (SLC) 2023/2024 | SGT
AFX Field Promotion | SSGT (CWC) 2024/25 | CUO
Quote of the Day:
“Become the kind of leader that people would follow voluntarily even if you had no title or position.”
PATHFINDER TANGO
PLATOON CUO TOM GAVEL (RIGHT)
Promotions History:
2021/22 | CDT (JLC) 2022/23 | CPL (SLC) 2023/2024 | SGT (CWC) 2024/25 | CUO
Quote of the Day:
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are”
MEET THE CUOS MEET THE CUOS
SPECIALISTCUO’SEXPERIENCES
As Specialist Platoon CUO’s what responsibilities does your rank entail?
CUO E. Armstrong
“As a CUO of a specialist platoon, my responsibilities are quite different to the typical leadership duties of 1st and 2nd year trekking platoons. Being the Roping Platoon CUO, involves ensuring that cadets acquire technical outdoor skills, and guiding cadets through the process of gaining qualifications like the Cert II in Outdoor Recreation.”
CUO C. McKay
“Being gifted the opportunity to be a specialist platoon CUO, specifically SES is a real privilege, the position offers a prospect of specialising in something I enjoy SES at times can be challenging, and it can be quite hands-on at times, applying the knowledge we have learnt to practical situations”
CUO T. Gavel
“I lead a group of eager boys in a soughtafter platoon who are responsible for overseeing treks in and around Trek Control at AFX. In Pathfinders we like to ensure cadets are adaptable, physically fit, and capable of working cohesively. Ultimately, ensuring both the safety of our cadets and the quality of their experiences.”
What is one thing you wish you had done differently in cadets, and why?
CUO E. Armstrong
“Looking back, one thing I wish I had done differently is to seek out more opportunities for mentorship earlier in my journey within the TKSCC If I were to go back, I would look to people who have more experience and gain an insight into what the Corps has to offer in later years, so that I would be able to take advantage of those opportunities to the best of my ability and become a better, more experienced leader over time”
CUO C. McKay
“Looking back at the years, I often think back to many scenarios where I didn’t put my hand up to try something out, putting yourself out there can really develop leadership strength and provide opportunities that will shape your character, cadets offer the perfect place to do that.”
MEET THE CUOS MEET THE CUOS
SPECIALISTCUO’SEXPERIENCES
CUO T. Gavel
“Largely there is not much I would change about my cadet’s experience, although the key to ensuring an enjoyable time including training parades and AFX is to make the most of any situation you are placed in, whether it be a physically challenging situation or you're struggling to fit into your platoon.”
What advice would you give to someone aiming to become a CUO in the future?
CUO E. Armstrong
“The best piece of advice is to not be discouraged by not achieving the ranks you had hoped for. You do not need to get the highest rank possible for each promotion course to become a CUO, there have been plenty of cadets going from CPL, LCPL or even CDT all the way to CUO just from their extensive efforts in promotion courses and improvements to their leadership overall.”
CUO C. McKay
“If you’re going to go for CUO note that it is not a position of glory, it is a position of putting others before yourself through leadership, the rank of CUO is a service to the Corps, a fulfilment.“
CUO T. Gavel
“The key to becoming a good leader and ultimately a CUO if that is your goal, is to ensure that you are working to assist the platoon rather than take advantage of any leadership positions that are presented to you.”
What is your favourite part about Corps?
CUO E. Armstrong
“My favourite part about the Corps is the camaraderie and the sense of belonging that comes with being part of such a dedicated and disciplined team As I hope many cadets would agree, there is a unique bond formed through shared experiences, whether it's overcoming challenges on AFX or achieving a skill together during training”
CUO C. McKay
“My personal favourite aspect of Corps is sitting around the campfire at AFX after a day of good work together with your platoon, knowing that you’ve accomplished something and challenged yourself”
CUO T. Gavel
“The best part about Corps is being able to overcome new challenges as they arise frequently, and being able to overcome these obstacles in the teamwork environment of Corps.”
PLATOON SPOTLIGHT
PATHFINDER ROMEO PLATOON
overview
PL COMD: CUO Jett Thomas
PL 2IC: WO2 George Huynh
Strength: 17 Cadets
Company: TREK COY
What does Pathfinder Romeo Platoon do during Training Parades?
During training parades, we run an initiative which aims to teach second year cadets camouflage and concealment techniques. We also contribute to the training treks around lake Parramatta each week with trek support. For our own platoon strength we conduct weekly fitness tests and exercises to ensure everyone is capable of helping on AFX”
What is the role of Pathfinder Romeo Platoon on AFX?
Pathfinder Romeo Platoon plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of platoons during AFX. Our primary responsibility is monitoring trekking platoons, identifying when they need assistance, and providing support in difficult sections of the roping trek By doing so, we help maintain the momentum of the exercise while ensuring cadets navigate challenging terrain safely. Additionally, each night, we conduct checks to ensure cadets are following proper procedures and that their camps are set up securely This helps to uphold safety standards and discipline within the field environment.”
Why should people join Pathfinder Romeo Platoon?
Joining Pathfinder Romeo Platoon is a challenging and rewarding experience for cadets in their final two years. It pushes you beyond your limits, both physically and mentally, through intense training and real-world field conditions at AFX. You will need to think on your feet, adapt to unpredictable situations, and work closely with your team to overcome obstacles
Pathfinders develop essential skills such as navigation, RATEL (radio communications), and fieldcraft key for those aspiring to be Platoon Commanders The platoon builds resilience, discipline, and teamwork, essential in high-pressure environments. These skills not only prepare you for leadership within cadets but also translate into valuable abilities for future careers and life challenges
What sets Pathfinders apart is the responsibility placed on its cadets. You’ll refine your skills while supporting other platoons during AFX, ensuring their safety on difficult treks If you seek an elite platoon with high expectations and invaluable skills, Pathfinder Romeo is the ultimate challenge.
What are you looking forward to doing on AFX with your platoon?
SGT Hugo Yates
“Having a great time on AFX, and enjoying Pathfinder”
SCPL Hamish Matthews
“Excited to have a good time with mates up at AFX”
AROUND THE PARADE AROUND THE PARADE
BEST THING ABOUT CORPS SO FAR?
CDT J. Keomanivong
“Probably food security and getting to eat.”
AROUND THE PARADE AROUND THE PARADE
BEST THING ABOUT CORPS SO FAR?
CDT E. Ho
“Getting to hang out with mates and try new things.”
AROUND THE PARADE AROUND THE PARADE
BEST THING ABOUT CORPS SO FAR?
CDT S. Bimoli
“Getting to do marching drills, I find them quite interesting.”
AROUND THE PARADE AROUND THE PARADE
BEST THING ABOUT CORPS SO FAR?
WO2 A. Pant
“Being with my mates and having the camaraderie we all share in Fire Safety
Platoon”
PLATOON SPOTLIGHT
ROPING PLATOON
overview
PL COMD: CUO Ethan Armstrong
PL 2IC: SGT Toby Butterfield
Strength: 11 Cadets
Company: TREK COY
What does Roping do during Training Parades?
“During training parades, Roping Platoon focuses on developing cadets' technical skills in abseiling, rock climbing, and other related outdoor activities In the first year of Roping PLT, cadets work towards achieving their Cert II in Outdoor Recreation, which involves both practical exercises and an online course.
“They practice abseiling techniques, knot tying, and equipment handling After their first year in Roping, cadets will have attained their Cert II qualification, which they are able to put into practice in their second year within the platoon, by assisting with teaching other platoons, running introductory sessions, and helping with the planning and execution of training activities The platoon also works on safety procedures, ensuring all cadets are familiar with proper risk assessments and emergency protocols. Roping Platoon integrates these skills with leadership development, as cadets are often tasked with leading groups and demonstrating techniques to full platoons, refining their ability to communicate and guide effectively as leaders of larger groups.”
What is the role of Roping Platoon on AFX?
“During AFX, Roping Platoon delivers abseiling and climbing activities. Firstyear Ropers run the High Ropes course at base camp, while second-years manage abseiling at Roping Camp. By this stage, all cadets have earned a Cert II in Outdoor Recreation
Before the main body arrives, Roping Platoon sets up courses during Advance Party Alpha. Throughout camp, cadets guide other platoons, building skills and confidence Secondyears apply their training and lead regularly. Safety is the priority—cadets enforce gear checks, risk assessments, and adapt to conditions. This fosters leadership, independence, and trust, setting Roping Platoon apart.”
Why should people join Roping Platoon?
“Roping Platoon offers adventure, leadership, and hands-on skills unlike any other. Instead of drill and theory lessons, cadets climb, abseil, and set up high ropes courses every session. AFX is a highlight, with cadets scaling cliffs, navigating rope systems, and even learning tree ascents These unique challenges make Roping Platoon an unforgettable experience. Cadets earn a Cert II in Outdoor Recreation, a qualification that has led many TKS alumni to jobs in outdoor and adventure industries
Beyond technical skills, Roping Platoon builds leadership and communication, as 2nd Years lead platoons safely through high-risk activities.”
FOOD REVIEW FOOD REVIEW
TODAY’S OPINIONS
LCPL Anieesh Pandian-Rajan
“Not bad, I liked the food”
WORDS FROM THE PADRE
TODAY’S VERSE
“For this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And they began to be merry.”
Luke 15:24 (NKJV)
TODAY’S WORDS OF INSIGHT
CUO Tyler Mitchell
“The food was great today, very scrumdidliumcious.”
“When those who have wronged you apologise, give thanks to the Lord, for the day is blessed. Accept the repenter with great celebration and with open arms. To be a true King’s cadet is to be one who respects, and that means to forgive each other and to embody courage.”
CUO Hatzistamatiou
TRAINING PARADE 7
