A GROUP of local army cadets is calling on the Ballarat and Sebastopol community for support to buy new equipment. The Sebastopol Army Cadet Unit, part of the national movement of young army recruits, is in desperate need of new ceremonial equipment including flags, slings and paraphernalia.Already local individuals and organisations including member for Ballarat West Sharon Knight and the National Servicemen’s Association of Australia Ballarat sub-branch, have made donations.The cadet unit, first raised in 1997, has now used the same ceremonial equipment for nearly 15 years. Commanding Officer Captain Lee Clarke said the unit relied on the support of the community for these important tools. “As this equipment is specialised, the cost to replace it is high. “We are looking for groups or individuals to sponsor the Unit for the purchase of this equipment,” Captain Clarke said. He said the Army Cadet program gave young people a sense of pride and tradition, as well as taught discipline and commitment. NSAA Ballarat secretary Ron Douglas said the sub-branch was pleased to support the local cadets and hoped other community members would do the same. “These young people deserve the support of the general community, as they give their leisure time including school holidays to attend parades and camps and proudly wear their uniform.” For more infomation or to donate, please call Captain Lee Clarke on 5329 3209.