Maclaren Tartan and the Army Green

CUO Johanna Whittle proudly stepped up to receive her promotion as Senior Cadet Under Officer at Assembly this week.

The humble Year 12 student is the fourth female cadet within the Toowoomba Grammar School Cadet Program to be promoted to this ranking. 

‘I am so grateful for the invaluable experiences and opportunities that have led me to now proudly lead the Toowoomba Grammar School Cadet Unit alongside Glennie and Toowoomba Grammar - especially as one of only three girls to have done so in the last 21 years,’ Johanna said. 

‘However, I believe this role isn’t just important for me, but it really says something about how when Fairholme girls set their minds to a challenge, we can achieve any goal.’

Joining cadets in Year 7, Johanna says she was hoping for an adventure and, boy, did she find one.

‘I wanted a challenge and to learn new skills, meet new friends and improve my self-confidence.

‘During the past six years of Cadets, I have discovered my passion for leadership and setting a positive example for younger Cadets.

Opportunities such as Cadets enable males and females to pursue their aspirations through dedication and hard work while having fun.’

Her responsibilities will include leading and mentoring fellow Cadets, planning camps, and preparing weekly training programs. 

While she admits there will be some challenges within the appointment, she says her number one goal is to uplift and encourage her fellow Fairholme students.

‘I want to see more Fairholme girls try new things and give Cadets a go, just once in their school career. I want to motivate girls to strive to make their impact in future leadership roles within Cadets and to pursue their dreams.’

Johanna says she hopes to continue wearing the army green well after her journey at Fairholme finishes by joining the Australian Defence Force and attending Officer Training at ADFA in Canberra. 

‘I would also love to pursue my passion for aviation and become a helicopter pilot in the Army.’

If you want to join the Cadets, email our Cadet Liaison Officer, Anastasia Button-Smith, at [email protected].