It is going to be all hands on deck for the Australian Defence Force Academy's (ADFA) open day on August 17, with ADF career opportunities on display at the ADFA campus in Canberra.
The open day will be a one-stop shop for anyone considering a career in the ADF, featuring exhibits, interactive displays and demonstrations from Navy, Army and Air Force.
The day will also include information sessions about academic options through the University of New South Wales, and Q&As about life and study on campus.
ADFA trainee officers will be participating in demonstrations of military skills and highlighting some of the many extracurricular activities available at ADFA, including sporting clubs, adventure training, cycling, martial arts and music.
The trainees will also be available to speak with potential recruit candidates, family and friends to answer questions about their life at ADFA.
Visitors can get up close to military vehicles, multiple aircraft, interact with virtual reality and even take to the skies in the tethered Air Force balloon. Visitors should also keep an eye out for a flyover by a Hawk 127 and the Australian Army Parachute Training Team as they drop in for the day.
'On open day, you can check out the many facilities available at ADFA as well as learn about the courses available to study.'
Midshipman Nicholas Elverd is in his third year of a Mechanical Engineering degree at ADFA and said the open day was a great way to see what ADFA is all about.
"On open day, you can check out the many facilities available at ADFA as well as learn about the courses available to study," Midshipman Elverd said.
"I've never had any regrets about joining ADFA and even though I do miss home sometimes, the mates I've made already and the freedom that ADFA provides you makes it all worth it.
"The supportive culture between trainee officers is enough to make someone want to join. You'd be silly to pass up such a life-changing opportunity."
Third-year Officer Cadet Kirra Fitzgerald, also studying a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, visited an ADFA open day when she was in Year 9.
"I came down with my parents from Queensland to attend the open day and it cemented my long-term plan to join the Army," Officer Cadet Fitzgerald said.
"Open day gave me great insight into the opportunities available in the Army.
"It's a great day to learn about all three service career options and there's something for everyone to see, do and ask on the day. There will be trainee officers to speak with about their own experiences, which is really helpful for anyone considering coming to ADFA."
Second-year electrical engineering trainee officer, Officer Cadet Brendon Bone, completed an ADF Gap Year prior to joining ADFA and attended the ADFA open day in 2022 with his parents.
"Seeing the emphasis on physical activities and having the chance to speak with current trainee officers on the day really helped me realise I'd made the right choice," Officer Cadet Bone said.
'It's a great day to learn about all three service career options and there's something for everyone to see, do and ask on the day.'
ADF Careers will be available on the day to inspire and guide anyone interested in a career within the Defence Force. Representatives from Navy, Army and Air Force will highlight the broad range of opportunities currently available across the broader ADF.
Parking at ADFA is limited. Attendees are encouraged to use the open day shuttle bus service, which will run every 15 minutes between Russell Offices, Campbell Park and ADFA between 9am and 4pm.
For those who cannot attend, the virtual open day platform will be up and running for a fourth year, displaying livestreams, Q&A sessions, as well as showcasing key content.
For more information on the 2024 ADFA open day and the virtual platform, click here.
