Community & Business
30 May, 2025
Visit from South Qld Army Cadet leaders
On May 14th, the leadership team of the Australian Army Cadets (AAC) South Queensland Brigade toured regional areas of the state visiting Army Cadet Units (ACUs) across the 11th Battalion, including Pittsworth.
Leading the tour was Colonel Arthur Tsamis, Commander South Queensland, AAC, accompanied by Mr Michael Byrne, Brigade Executive Officer; Warrant Officer Class 1 Kim Newman; and Regional Cadet Under Officer (RCUO) Luke Lacey, a Pittsworth local.
The visit included engagements with cadets and staff, and discussions on how regional headquarters can better support local units.
Colonel Tsamis emphasised the vital role regional communities play in shaping young Australians, offering them meaningful opportunities for skill development and personal growth.
“The Australian Army Cadets is a national youth development program that proudly reflects the character and values of the Australian Army,” Col. Tsamis said.
“Our organisation, with a history spanning over 150 years, partners closely with communities to meet their expectations.
"Pittsworth is a great example of this partnership, with its cadets actively involved in local events like the Pittsworth ANZAC Day activities.”
The visit to Pittsworth was particularly significant, as RCUO Luke Lacey, the most senior cadet among the 2,500 in the South Queensland region, returned to his home town to mark his appointment.
"His leadership role shows other regional youth that with hard work and dedication, their aspirations are within reach,” Col. Tsamis said.
The leadership team met with Captain (AAC) Peter Greenwood of the Pittsworth Cadets and the Pittsworth RSL Sub-Branch, followed by a visit to Pittsworth State High School, to meet with Principal Dan Norris.
As part of the tour, they visited 141 ACU Chinchilla, 147 ACU Goondiwindi, 19 ACU Pittsworth, and 13 ACU Toowoomba, along with separate visits to 120 ACU Dalby and 139 ACU Lockyer.
RCUO Luke Lacey praised the tour as a powerful way to engage with cadets and units across the region.
“The 11th Battalion displayed outstanding leadership, excellence, and community spirit - it was inspiring to witness,” he said.
“These regional cadet units truly represent the heart of resilience and camaraderie in our organisation.”
