A NAVAL cadet unit, which was forced to leave the St George district after an arson attack last year, is settling into its new home at Rockdale.
However, some supporters remain bitter that TS (Training Ship) Sirius was not allowed to return to its former base at Muddy Creek, Kyeemagh, which is being restored by Rockdale Council.
The unit, which has operated in the district since 1945, moved to Banksmeadow after last year's fire.
Last month, it took up residence, alongside Army and Air Force cadet units, at the Defence depot in Beach Street, Rockdale.
This location has been criticised because it is "landlocked", with no water access.
Lieutenant Commander Bill Hancock, commanding officer of the unit since April, said while direct water access was ideal, it was not essential and many naval cadet units managed well without it.
"It is only a matter of putting a boat on the back of a car," he said.
"I understand there is some dissatisfaction, but that was also the case when we were at Banksmeadow.
"Where we are now, we have access to very good facilities and down the track I think there will be advantages [over the Kyeemagh site]."
Commander Hancock acknowledged financial considerations had played a part in the decision.
"In this financial atmosphere, when Defence know they can allocate space for cadets in a Defence establishment, they will do so because it saves on infrastructure and outlays such as rent, water and electricity," he said.
Commander Hancock said he understood the number of cadets had dropped to "about 11", but was now on the rise.
"We have increased by five to six [the number of] new recruits and we are getting inquiries once or twice a month," he said.
"I would like to think, once we settle down, we can go forward in the development of the unit and increase our numbers."
Commander Hancock said the cadets were as relevant today as they had ever been.
"I believe it gives young people an interest and keeps them off the streets," he said.
"We try to teach them discipline, self-discipline and a sense of responsibility, and encourage them in leadership, which hopefully makes them better citizens.
"Young people, male and female, can join if they turn 13 during the year, and they can remain until they are 19," Commander Hancock said.
Details: www.cadetnet.gov.au
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