Geraldton Cadet representing WA

By Gary Warner

In his fourth year as a Royal Australian Air Force cadet, Wyatt Cope is preparing to represent his Geraldton unit and Western Australia.
Cadet Corporal Cope, aged 16, has been selected as one of five members of the team that will represent WA in a national target shooting competition in Sydney next month.

Commanding officer of the Geraldton unit, Flight Lieutenant Matt Kelly, said Cope was judged for selection on his results in a year of target shooting.
“Gaining selection in the team can’t be won by one good result,” said Flt Lt Kelly.

“Cadets are judged on sustained good results, and Cadet Corporal Cope has shown outstanding proficiency throughout the entire 12 month period.
“That was recognised by our State headquarters, and I’m confident he will acquit himself well in this national competition.”

Air Force cadets are trained in firearm usage with Brno .22 calibre rifles, they do not use telescopic sights but shoot using open sights over a distance of 25 metres.

Full membership of the RAAF is not an immediate plan for Cadet Corporal Cope, who recently commenced an apprenticeship with Geraldton Engineering as a fitter and turner, but he might reach for the sky in the future.

Pic caption:
On target: Cadet Corporal Wyatt Cope discusses the forthcoming national target shooting competition in Sydney with his commanding officer, Flight Lieutenant Matt Kelly.
Photograph: Gary Warner.