Cadets Unite for Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge at Kokoda Barracks
Cadets from Australia and New Zealand tested teamwork, leadership and resilience at the 2026 Canungra challenge.
What’s happening?
Young cadets from Australia and New Zealand gathered at Canungra for the 2026 Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge.
The national event ran last month from 6 to 11 July at Canungra Field Training Area, also known as Kokoda Barracks. It brought together leading Army, Navy and Air Force cadet teams for six days of demanding activities.
Participants worked in teams throughout the challenge, completing military-style tasks in a safe and controlled setting. Each activity tested their resilience, decision-making, leadership, cooperation and ability to remain focused under pressure.
The program reached its final stage on Friday, 10 July, when teams completed several physical challenges at Kokoda Barracks. The event concluded with a parade and closing ceremony on the barracks parade ground.
Why it matters?
The Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge is the leading team competition within the Australian Army Cadets program.
It gives young people a national setting to apply the skills developed during their regular cadet training. Participants must communicate clearly, solve problems and support their teammates while completing unfamiliar and difficult tasks.
The challenge also places equal value on individual conduct and collective performance. Cadets must show Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence throughout every part of the event.
These values guide how teams respond to pressure, manage setbacks and complete activities together. Results matter, but the challenge also recognises commitment, cooperation and personal development.
Local Impact
Canungra became the national meeting point for cadets representing Australian states, military services and New Zealand.
Kokoda Barracks provided the training grounds for the physical, mental and team-based activities. It also hosted the final parade, trophy presentation and closing address.
The event gave South East Queensland a central role in a major national cadet program. It also highlighted Canungra Field Training Area as a setting for leadership training and youth development.
By the Numbers
170 cadets participated, including 160 Australians and 10 members of the New Zealand Cadet Forces.
Teams of 10 completed activities requiring shared planning, communication, physical effort and problem-solving.
Six days of competition ran from 6 to 11 July, with the final activities and ceremony held on 10 July.
Zoom In
The challenge tested much more than physical fitness. Cadets had to assess situations, make decisions and complete tasks while working closely with their teammates.
Each team faced activities designed to test leadership, resilience and cooperation. Success depended on how well members communicated and used their combined skills under pressure.
The range of participants also gave the event a broader military cadet focus. Thirteen Australian Army Cadet teams competed alongside Australian Navy Cadets and Australian Air Force Cadets.
A New Zealand Cadet Forces team also joined the event, adding an international element to the competition.
The final parade celebrated every cadet who completed the challenge. The Australian Air Force Cadets Band provided music during the ceremony, creating a formal close to the week.
Deputy Chief of Army Major General Chris Smith DSC AM CSC presented the Chief of Army Trophy. Queensland Assistant Minister to the Premier Dr Christian Rowan MP delivered the closing address.
South Queensland Brigade received the trophy after finishing first. South Australia Brigade placed second, while the New Zealand Cadet Forces finished third.
Event sponsor PLATATAC provided prize packs for the top three teams, recognising their performance across the week.
Zoom Out
The Chief of Army Cadet Team Challenge brings together young people who have shown strong commitment during their cadet training.
While the event followed a competitive format, its wider purpose focused on leadership, teamwork and personal responsibility. Every participant had to contribute to their team while maintaining the required cadet values.
The inclusion of Army, Navy, Air Force and New Zealand teams also supported cooperation across different cadet organisations.
Together, the participants shared a demanding program that tested their preparation and strengthened connections between cadet groups.
What To Look For Next?
Cadets will carry the lessons from Canungra into their continuing training and leadership roles within their units.
The teamwork, decision-making and resilience tested during the event will remain central to their future development as cadets and young community leaders.