Mandurah local and former Mandurah Water Rescue cadet Emma Cook graduated from the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) on Friday after three tough years of military and academic studies.
She attained a Bachelor of Arts and an ability to lead, according to her commanding officer.
ADFA commandant Air Commodore Alan Clements said the graduation parade, held at the Academy in Canberra, was an important milestone for the 224 officer cadets and midshipmen who graduated.
“It has been a pleasure watching them graduate and I am certain that they will make fine officers, demonstrating high levels of courage, respect, integrity and professionalism, values that are critical to success in the Australian Defence Force,” he said.
The combination of military training, education and leadership skills Ms Cook gained from her time at ADFA would help prepare her prepare for the unique challenges she will face as an officer in the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
She said growing up she always wanted a career on the water, and the Royal Australian Navy was the natural choice to fulfil her desire to work on the open ocean.
“Growing up I was a cadet for Mandurah Water Rescue,” she said.
“This taught me basic seamanship and allowed me to develop basic leadership skills.
“I chose ADFA over a civilian university as I like how it’s not purely academics, it combines military training and personal development. Working and living with young like-minded people was definitely a highlight.”
Ms Cook will now commence the next phase of her training as a Maritime Warfare Officer at HMAS Watson in Sydney.
“Joining the Navy and going to ADFA was one of the best decisions of my life. Everyone has the opportunity to make their time at ADFA unique, whether it is through clubs, committees or sporting teams. There is something for everyone,” she said.
The Australian Defence Force is currently recruiting in a number of roles.
For further information on military training and study at ADFA go to defencejobs.gov.au/education/Adfa/ or call 13 19 01.
