Army chief visits Puckapunyal

That included presenting the coveted Chief of Army’s trophy to the winners of the Chief of Army’s Cadet Team Challenge, a Victorian team.

The team challenge featured Australian Army cadets from around the country.

Combined Arms Training Centre commandant and the Australian Defence Force officer at Puckapunyal Military Area Colonel Patrick Davison hosted the visit, which also included Australian Army Cadets commander Brigadier Ben Slaughter.

Meanwhile, Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh has announced that Puckapunyal and District Neighbourhood Centre will receive a grant to provide connection activities for the wider Seymour community.

The announcement was part of a broader $2 million worth of grants through the Family Support Funding Program to 48 community-based organisations that provide support to Australian Defence Force personnel and their families Australia-wide.

Mr Keogh said community organisations could be an important link between ADF personnel, their families and their local communities.

“Partnering with community-based organisations is important in supporting defence families,” Mr Keogh said.

“When people put their hands up to protect our nation, we must ensure their family is looked after and these programs will go a long way towards supporting defence children.”

Puckapunyal and District Neighbourhood Centre offers support services to defence families which aim to increase engagement, emotional support and personal and professional development for participants, as well as to networking and friendship-building opportunities.

The centre also aims to improve the experience for defence members and families and make their time in the community a positive one.

A full list of FSFP grant recipients is available at www.defence.gov.au/members-families/Community/FSFP/Current-recipients.asp