HMCS Quadra

HMCS Quadra was first used by Cadets in 1943 under the name HMCS Naden (III). The camp was then named Cadet Camp Comox, finally being named HMCS Quadra in 1956. The name comes from the Spanish explorer from the west coast, Bodega y Quadra.[1] In 1952, the center hosted its first group of over 700 boys from Royal Canadian Sea Cadets. Female cadets are enrolled since 1975.[2]

HMCS Quadra offers 13 summer courses;

• General Training
• Basic Seamanship
• Ship’s Boat Operator
• Boatswain’s Mate
• Basic Drill & Ceremonial
• Drill & Ceremonial Instructor
• Basic Sail,
• Intermediate Sail
• Senior Sail
• Military Band – Basic Musician
• Military Band – Intermediate Musician
• Military Band – Advanced Musician
• Shipwright.[3]

It hosts approximately 900-course cadets annually - mainly sea cadets but can also include army and air. The center also employs over 300 staff including COATS personnel, regular force personnel, reserve force personnel, civilian instructors, DND public servants and staff cadets. Cadets come from across Canada as well as selected international cadets. Quadra has hosted cadets from Australia, Bermuda, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Netherlands, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America in recent years. When not in use for summer training the center is used for weekend exercises and cadet events.[4]

Restoring cutter #7

Canadian olympic team training at HMCS Quadra