Northern Rivers cadets benefit from new boat winch

The TS Lismore Navy Cadets unit based in Ballina is thrilled with its purchase of a new boat winch which was funded through the ETC Community Support Fund.

Commanding Officer LEUT Heather O’Hehir said the unit required a replacement of their old winch which was at the end of its working life.

“The previous winch ran on batteries that are not only expensive to replace, but also fail to meet good sustainability outcomes for their disposal,” LEUT O’Hehir said.

“The replacement winch is electric which provides a safe and sustainable outcome – it’s wonderful. Now that we have a working winch, we’ll be self-sufficient rather than having to use resources from other naval units.”

The Australian Navy Cadets is a community based youth development organisation that provides adventurous, fulfilling and educational activities for young people. It teaches young Australians, aged between 12 ½ and 19 years, the value of friendship, self-discipline, respect and the spirit of adventure whilst involving them in community activities.

“We have twenty-eight kids from all over the Northern Rivers region attend our unit,” LEUT O’Hehir said.

“The cadets receive nautical training that includes many waterborne activities, the development of skills such as navigation, communications and first aid. We run our unit like you would run a ship”

According to LEUT O’Hehir, an essential part of this training is learning to sail and operate the variety of powered watercraft located at the unit.

“We have been running for over thirty years and during this time some of our cadets have left to go join the air-force, navy or army. There is approximately ten of our unit’s ex-cadets currently serving in the defence force,” LEUT O’Hehir said.

To find out more about the TS Lismore Navy Cadets unit contact (02) 6686 8238.

ETC’s Deputy Chair Lorraine Penn said it was a pleasure to be able to support the TS Lismore Navy Cadets.

“The ETC Community Support Fund is designed to help organisations reduce disadvantage, generate opportunity, increase support services and/or build capacity in the communities in which we operate,” Ms Penn said.

“ETC is proud to be a not-for-profit company and we are confident the money we are donating will help make a more positive future for our community.”

ETC provides employment and training services in Ballina. If you need help finding a job, are looking for staff or are interested in up-skilling, contact ETC on 1800 007 400 or visit the ETC office in Ballina at 118 Tamar Street.