711 Cadets receive Freedom of Entry

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The 711 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets have received Freedom of Entry to the City.

The 711 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets have received Freedom of Entry to the City after Council approved the request at this week’s Council Meeting.

The honour will be presented at the 2018 Sunshine Festival on Sunday 30 September.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn also acknowledged the 711 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets 25 years of service.

“The 711 Squadron has helped a large number of youth reach their true potential and they regularly support community events including Australia Day, ANZAC Day, HMAS Sydney II Memorial services and Variety Club events,” he said.

“The organisation has made a significant contribution to our community and I am proud to honour them with Freedom of Entry to our City.”

Freedom of Entry is a ceremonial honour whereby a military or civilian unit is granted the right of entry to the City.

It is awarded to Australian military and civilian units that have, through their command, a significant attachment to the City of Greater Geraldton. 

The award is conferred in recognition of their achievement while on active service or overseas duty or as a mark of respect and gratitude for their efforts in the defence of Australia.  

David Power, 711 Squadron Commanding Officer, said the honour was very well received.

“It is great to receive recognition for the commitment to youth development in Geraldton over the years,” he said.

“We have had several thousand young people use the Cadets as a great platform to develop remarkable self-confidence and leadership skills, and go onto bigger and better things.”

The conferring of the award of Freedom of Entry, will be held in conjunction with the 2018 Sunshine Festival opening ceremony at 1pm on 30 September 2018, before marching in the Sunshine Festival parade.

Those interested in the 711 Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets can visit www.aafc.org.au or head to the Army Reserve Depot on Monday nights during the school term from 6pm.