Loreto Kirribilli Cadets in Royal Guard for Queen’s Jubilee

Loreto Kirribilli proudly saw four Year 12 students march in the Royal Guard: Senior Under Officer (SUO) Cate; Cadet Under Officers (CUO) Claire and Ella; and Warrant Officer 2 (WO2) Emma.

The Parade's 96-member Royal Guard was an historic tri-service guard comprised of Australian Navy Cadets from 11 units around NSW, Australian Army Cadets including a division from Sydney, and Australian Air Force Cadets from three Squadrons located in Greater Sydney.

Music was performed by the Corrective Services NSW Band and the NSW Police Pipe Band. Four horses from the Mounted Unit - NSW Police Force participated and the Royal Australian Air Force provided a spectacular Flyover.

SUO Cate explained the event had particular significance. “It was the first time in history all three cadets corps (army, navy and air force) flew their flags together on a ceremonial parade.”

“In preparation for the event, we were fitted for custom service dress uniforms, which is a rarity for army cadets! We also attended weekend rehearsals to familiarise ourselves with the rifle drill.

“On the day, we arrived at Victoria barracks at 6am for roll call and a briefing on the day ahead. We then made our way on buses to Government House where we were issued with our drill rifles and began a few hours of rehearsal on the official parade ground. The parade consisted of a march on, royal salutes, an inspection of the parade and speech by the Governor and three cheers for Her Majesty the Queen.

 “Partaking in the parade was a surreal experience, with large public crowds, media outlets and significant political and military figures there. It felt like a once in a lifetime event.”