General News
28 April, 2026
Cadets return to service
Army cadets returned to Maryborough’s Anzac Day after years away thanks to a local student’s effort.
Community members would have noticed some new faces during the Anzac Day ceremony thanks to the participation of the 300 Army Cadet Unit Ballarat.
Attending cadets came from both Ballarat and Maryborough, including local Charlotte MacDonell, who encouraged the unit to return to her hometown’s ceremony.
“I’ve been trying to get cadets back in Maryborough for a couple of years now and I’m very happy that we’re able to this year,” she said.
Not only did they march in the parade and participate in the ceremony — they mounted an all-female catafalque party.
Four cadets stood, heads bowed and facing outward, from the century-old ‘Digger’ memorial as a sign of respect to those who had died.
“It just felt important to bring it back to the home town and keep that spirit alive,” Charlotte said.
Clear skies meant good weather for the ceremony, and hot sun for the cadets, as Lachlan MacDonell explained.
“When we’re standing we have to stand the whole time which can get really exhausting,” he said.
The secret, according to Charlotte, is training.
“It’s more just practicing it over and over. If you have the option to sit down outside cadets just don’t and keep standing if they can,” she said.
“It’s also taking care of yourself well, before an event — so sleeping, hydrating properly, eating before you come here, having the correct clothes on for the weather.”
The pair’s mother, Rachel MacDonell, said it was amazing to see them participate in the local Anzac Day.
“I’m proud of them all,” she said.