The “magic that happens” at Kapooka has long been a mystery to city residents.
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As far as we know, groups of men and women arrive at the First Recruit Training Battalion (1RTB), have their heads shaven, they do some shopping in town and 12 weeks later they leave. But it is the Riverina experience every single soldier in the Australian Army shares.
The transition from civilian to soldier is mentally and physically demanding, taking recruits to the edge of their strength and sanity. Fairfax Media followed this transition as the first recruits of the year stepped from the bus on January 9 and marched into military life at Blamey Barracks.
Benjamin Cattermole was one of the 120 men and women to kick start the soldier conveyor belt for 2018.
Hearts pounding with anticipation, they made up 41 and 42 platoons of Echo Company and left their old lives behind, trading business attire for “cams” and boots.
“I was nervous but excited,” Recruit Cattermole said. “I wasn’t sure what to expect.”
Inspired by his grandfather, the 18-year-old said he hoped to eventually join the Royal Australian Corps of Signals.
Three months later, he achieved this dream, marching out of Kapooka alongside 104 fellow soldiers.
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