1959

The Mackay State High School (MSHS) cadet unit was formed in 1959 with Lt M. Kane as the first Officer Commanding. In 1959 the school magazine "Pioneer" recorded the unit strength as being 28 cadets. This figure rose steadily and in 1961 there were 2 x officers and 45 other ranks. In 1961 Lt M. Peck started a drum and bugle section.

1964

The ceiling was raised from 50 to 100 cadets in 1964.

1967

In 1967 a mini rifle range was established (demolished when the school hall was built in the 1980's). Also in 1967 a full brass band (trained by Mr Cassells) was authorised under the first Bandmaster, Lt Alan Cummings.

1968

In 1968 the unit OC was Captain Mike Flynn, the QM LT John Phillips and LT Darryl Hanly, the Adjutant. LT Les O'Gorman also joined the unit in 1968 and was responsible for the unit Brass Band and unit Adventurous Training.

1969

 In 1969 a Regular Army warrant officer WO2 T. Barfield was appointed as an instructor to the unit and specialist sections were gradually introduced

The following from the Mackay State High School Magazine, “Pioneer” for 1969 tells the abridged story of the Unit’s activities that year;

"27th September, 1969, marked the completion of MSHS's  most successful year in the Army Cadets. Memebers were slightly fewer in number than in previous years, but the emphasis was on the selection of quality rather than quantity."

"Cadets were led this year by CUO's Aaskov and G. Ka. Congratulations are extended to CUO Aaskov, who has completed five years in the unit and CUO G. Kay who was awarded Cadet of the Year."

 "This year has been highlighted by a number of range days, a bivouac at Mt Vince and, as climax, the annual camp in August.The junior cadets were encamped at selheim and the seniors at Mt Stuart. The unit made a very good impressio, particularly at the senior camp where the Mackay group was outstanding.Several of our cadets were chosen to take part in the Earl Roberts shoot in Mackat, after which Peter Graham was selected to represent the 3rd Battalion in Brisbane."

 "The scope of the RSL shield was widened this year, both in competitors and activities. Marks were awarded for attendance at a Legacy collection, rifle shooting, marching and drill. The two MSHS platoons thought not winning, gained from the competition.