St John Alexandra division manager Darryn Drake said he was very chuffed seeing the cadets’ hard work pay off.
The 10 cadets from across the district were there to enjoy the event and to give it their best effort, but to come away with the title of champion district was even better, he said.
This was the second time Central Otago had won the regional competitions, the first time being eight years ago.
During the competition cadets took part in various tests in first aid, CPR, healthcare and communications.
Cadets were also tested on their marching as well as carrying the St John flag as part of a colour party.
Mr Drake said a lot of extra preparation was needed to get cadets ready for the competition with cadets and their parents giving up weekends to travel and train across Central Otago.
As well as success in the regional competition, Central Otago punched above its weight when it came to the number of cadets from the region being nominated to represent the South Island when they compete against cadets from the North Island during the National Youth Festival to be held next year.
Typically Central Otago had two cadets nominated to take part. This year, however, four cadets were nominated, compared to Christchurch with its much larger population having three nominations.
"So for a small district, we’ve actually got quite a good standing."
Mr Drake hoped to build on the district’s success at the regional competition, and see the cadets of Central Otago win the competition two years in a row.
