Week 1 - Getting Division Intake 268
6 April 2009On Monday 6 April 2009, 129 recruits enlisted into the Royal Australian Navy. They spent the day travelling from all parts of Australia to HMAS Cerberus to form the General Entry intake number 268 (GE 268) – Getting Division. This intake, comprising of 37 females and 93 males, are undertaking a change in lifestyle to become Sailors in the Navy.
The recruits of GE268 were welcomed to Getting Division by Chief Petty Officer (CPO) Stuart Bone and the Getting Divisional Officer, Lieutenant David Woodward who heads the staff guiding the new recruits. After a formal greeting by enthusiastic staff on Tuesday, the recruits began their first day at the RAN Recruit School with some early exposure to Naval Drill.
The first week of Initial Training is an introduction to the culture, ethos, regulations and life of the Navy. As such, there are sessions on all the topics the recruits will need to become familiar with in order to progress from civilian life to that of the Navy. The new Recruits have taken on this experience with enthusiasm and a little apprehension, but overall the recruits are adjusting well.
The recruits received their one and only free haircut this week. Unfortunately it only comes in one style, a number two. They also received their first issue of uniforms which started to make them look like they were members of the military. Other activities covered during the week were RAN Swim Test and the RAN Fitness Test with the Physical Training Instructors to assess their current level of fitness and indicate areas that need to be improved. A large amount of time is spent on the Parade Ground being introduced to Naval Drill. While the majority of recruits are accepting the basic concept some will find adjusting more difficult then others.
The recruits have moved into cabins and share with up to five other recruits. For some, this is their first experience at communal living. This communal living encourages bonding between members of Getting Division. As the Recruits become for familiar with their peers the early stages of cooperation and teamwork will blossom.
Albeit only week one, the level of enthusiasm and morale displayed thus far is high. The next ten weeks will bring many challenges, as well as rewards, and these 129 new recruits are well on the way to meeting these challenges. The Recruits will be pushed past their previous comfort zones and learn to function in a disciplined working environment. The Instructors are confident that with the application of a positive attitude and strong teamwork, the members of GE 268 will develop into responsible Sailors in the Royal Australian Navy.
Jack Speak
Burgoo - Porridge.
Recruit Comment
"I’m still getting used to referring to the staff by their rank and not mate.";RCTET Ricky Withers, 20 years old from Canberra, ACT.
