Terror fears force parade withdrawal
Fears for the potential of terrorist actions have forced the withdrawal of the TS Morrow Naval Cadets from the Sunshine Festival parade.
The Commanding Officer informed the City the organisation would be unable to proceed with its request to exercise its right to Freedom of Entry during this Saturday's parade.
The withdrawal was due to instructions from the navy that its cadets not to appear in uniform in public because of a heightened security risk.
The naval cadets from Training Ship Morrow were granted permission from the City in April to march through the city “with bayonets fixed, colours flying and drums beating” during the Sunshine Festival.
The ceremonial march is the highest honour a city can confer on an individual or organisation.
Mayor Ian Carpenter said the City supported the decision by the Navy to ensure its members were not exposed to any avoidable risks.
The Department of Defence raised the security alert at bases and establishments on September 19, in line with the change in the National Terrorism Public Alert Level to high.
Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin has advised members to be diligent in regards to personal safety and exercise “common sense and judgment when considering wearing uniform in public”.
This advice has been issued to the army, navy and air force cadets.
A Department of Defence spokesperson said cadets were urged to be proud of their uniform, but be vigilant about where and when they wear it.
“Cadet activities will continue wherever possible without unnecessary disruption,” the spokesperson said.
Young people can join the cadets from age 12 to 18. The army, air force and navy cadets are supported and sponsored by the relevant arms of the ADF, but cadets are not members of the armed forces.
There are about 25,000 cadets, officers and instructors in Australia spread across more than 400 units, including 63 in WA, according to the ADF.
More than 14,000 army cadets in 224 units wear military uniforms and are taught skills including the proper use of firearms.
