Responsible for the nutritional sustenance, of hundreds of soldiers, Robert Clappis is an Australian Army Chef/Solider. Recently just completing his demanding 12 week training, Robert’s sheer determination and passion for his new profession is an inspiration for all young Australians.

Growing up in a rich Italian culture, food and cooking has always been a great passion for Robert, the ability to combine his passion and the Army lifestyle that Robert thrives on, was an obvious career path.

Robert’s decision to join the Army was spontaneous, after his first information session he was confident that this was the path he was destined to follow. Within a few months, Robert underwent tests and interviews, to eventually find himself on a bus heading towards Kapooka.

Kapooka, home of the soldier, in Wagga Wagga was Roberts new home and training base camp for the next 12 weeks.

“I went into training with an open mind and despite knowing it was going to be physically demanding and challenging I really didn’t know what to expect as I was making the transition from civilian to soldier.

“As soon as I began my training, it exceeded all of my expectations, my life changed overnight. I was forced into unfamiliar and stressful situations with strangers and expected to perform and my best under pressure. It was physically and mentally challenging but it was all necessary in the path to building character and learning what it is to be an Australian Soldier. It was definitely worth it!”

The extensive and grueling training schedule, saw Robert challenge and push his physical, mental and psychological limits, each day. Leopard crawling across razor sharp rocks for kilometers in 35°C heat whilst hauling gear, weapons and ammunition, was one of the most punishing challenges of training. The mental stress that is incurred as a result, of always having to be in a state of readiness and alertness, tested Roberts endurance and patience.

With forceful willpower, a strong mind set and fierce motivation, Robert battled the pain and perceived through training, conquering all obstacles thrown his way.

“Physically, I am fitter, stronger and more conditioned to testing environments than ever before. As for mentally, I am much more tolerant of hardship and I have developed the ability to make effective decisions in situations where others may not. I am much more confident in my own ability and am much more aware of my surroundings.”

“A career highlight for me was definitely taking part in a catafalque party on the 100th ANZAC Day in Albury back in April. The feeling of pride was overwhelming during the march and the sense of being a part of something so much bigger than myself as well as the sense of being a part of Australia’s history was something I had never experienced before and something I will never forget.”

Now that Robert has successfully completed his initial training, he regularly attends physical training sessions and range shoots in order to maintain fitness and weapon ability.

For the future Robert hopes to see various cities of Australia throughout his career and also go on deployments overseas.
“I hope to have multiple promotions in my career and eventually plan to return to Kapooka and train the new recruits in being the latest Australian Soldiers.”

Robert encourages anyone who has ever considered joining the Army to 100% do it!

“Jump in and experience it, you won’t regret it”