Three years ago, the Phillip Island RSL sub-branch received a call from a colonel at the Royal Australian Army Headquarters based at Victoria Barracks in St Kilda Road.

The colonel wanted to gauge thoughts on setting up a School Army Cadet unit in the area.

The Phillip Island RSL committee was fully supportive of the concept and offered to provide assistance where possible.

Finding a venue was difficult as there were no army facilities within the zone. An army facility was preferred as no leasing or rent would have been required.

Eventually the future commanding officer, Captain Clinton George identified Wonthaggi North Primary School as ideal for all requirements.

There was just one hitch –  an annual lease charge was required. This was not within their budget.

Phillip Island RSL was again contacted, this time with a request for financial support, knowing that some students from Bass Coast Secondary College’s San Remo campus were to be involved.

This conversation resulted in the Phillip Island RSL confirming ongoing financial support of up to $2500 for 2022 and up to $5000 per year for up to five years, as long as the Wonthaggi cadet unit is operational and functional.

This unit is now named 36 Army Cadet Unit and is restricted to secondary school students, male and female, between the ages of 13 and 17.

RSL treasurer Greg Mead said: “Phillip Island RSL is proud to be involved in youth development within our area and regard the school cadet unit as a kindred body.”

Recruits joined in July with uniforms issued in August, with the cadets attending an annual field exercise during the September school holidays.

The Phillip Island RSL look forward to the cadets participating in future RSL event commemorations.