The ADF Drone Racing Team blended tradition with cutting-edge technology when it joined more than 1400 scouts at the Governor-General’s scout camp at Government House last month.
Drone racing pilots from the Army and Air Force joined the scouts – ranging in ages from 12 to 17 – on the five-day camp, offering an opportunity to explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) alongside traditional scouting pursuits.
Using the drones, the scouts learned about aerodynamics, engineering and piloting, while developing outdoor adventure skills.
Army drone racing pilot Captain Tom Gash said the team aimed to equip young people with the skills and knowledge they needed to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
“This was a fantastic opportunity to enhance the experiences of all the scouts on the camp and to inspire young people to explore new ideas and new technologies,” he said.
Scouts from all over the country were able to hone their skills on the drone simulation software and try their hand at flying a mini drone under the guidance of a drone racer.
Military capability was also on show, and many of the scouts were enthralled by the size and capacity of the Black Hornet drone.
The drone racing team takes opportunities to promote and raise awareness about drone racing and diverse learning experiences, while promoting teamwork, sportsmanship and a passion for innovation among young people.
Drone racing is an authorised and encouraged adaptive sport in the Army.
