Launceston residents will be able to see a rare sight on Sunday as a group of defence force cadets accept the unique honour of Freedom of Entry to the City of Launceston.
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The Australian Air Force Cadets No.5 Wing 508 Squadron and Australian Navy cadets from TS Tamar will be joined by army cadets from 52 ACU Launceston and 67 ACU Youngtown in a parade at 10.30am.
Freedom of Entry remains the highest honour that an Australian city can give the defence force.
The award coincides with the 80th anniversary of the air force cadets.
Launceston mayor Albert van Zetten said that the parade would be a spectacular sight as cadets marched from Princes Square to Paterson barracks.
"It's quite visually spectacular and from speaking to those taking part, they are all very excited to be involved in what is a tradition steeped in history," he said.
"For them, it's a joyous occasion, a special occasion, it doesn't happen all the time ... it is a special occasion and it means they have the right to march through our beautiful city.
"Cadets start at a very early age and go on to do absolutely amazing things either in the defence force or in the community."
The march will be halted briefly by a senior Tasmania police officer to demand to see proof of entry to the city and the cadets will produce their ceremonial scroll approving entry to the city.
The Tasmanian army band will be join the march proceedings with the cadets to add some pomp and ceremony to the occasion.
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Squadron leader Neil MacRae said that Freedom of Entry to a city was an incredibly rare honour to receive.
"It's largely based around our cadets and recognition for everything that they do, the cadet force is largely designed to inspire young people," he said.
"A lot of the kids put in amounts of time outside of our normal stuff and it is great to see them recognised."
"It's been a long time since the cadets have done a freedom of entry, I don't believe it's been done in Tasmania for some 20 years ... it's very exciting."
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Adam Daunt
Sports reporter at The Examiner. Focus on basketball and netball but occasionally rolls the arm over for some cricket coverage in the summer. Previously from Adelaide with a stint in Byron Bay. Get in touch: adam.daunt@examiner.com.au.
Sports reporter at The Examiner. Focus on basketball and netball but occasionally rolls the arm over for some cricket coverage in the summer. Previously from Adelaide with a stint in Byron Bay. Get in touch: adam.daunt@examiner.com.au.
