An inspirational keynote by James Castrission (OKG00) was the opening session at the CAS Cadet Conference last week. Hosted by the Knox Ravenswood Cadet Unit (the Unit), cadet leaders from the schools comprising the CAS Army Cadet Units came together to discuss leadership. 

Invited by the OKGA on behalf of the Unit, James spoke about the significance of planning and preparation for risk, life after school, and the character-building value of challenging oneself in the great outdoors. 

James recounted his trek across Antarctica in 2011 with Justin Jones (OKG00). The trek, where the pair overcame the fear of failure, showed the importance of focusing on factors within one's own control, including output, while listening to the environment. By operating at sustainable levels, James and Justin reserved energy for unexpected obstacles. 

Fellow Old Boy and current KGS Deputy Headmaster 7-12 – Students, Sam White (OKG04), then spoke on student wellbeing, before a student forum session hosted by the Unit's SUO, on running AFX Camp and Training activities. The Australian Army Cadets (AAC) staff discussed various aspects of AAC and CAS business in adjacent sessions.