The group of seven spent three jam-packed days at HMAS Albatross and Creswell learning all about the navy.

They experienced a range of activities including visiting the Fleet Air Arm Museum, the training section, armoury, Albatross health centre, Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS), with aircraft movers, navy's newest squadron 822x which operates unmanned aircraft systems, 808 Squadron where they inspected the MRH-90 helicopters, tower and meteorological sections, naval aviation safety centre, experiencing survival situations and took a fitness test.

Along with family members they also met with defence force recruiters.

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For many the highlight of the program was experiencing the flight simulator.

"We try to challenge them as much as possible without making it too scary for them," said program coordinator Petty Officer Phil Black.

The participants were given a hands on insight into the pathways available to get into the navy, while for some the experience shored up their interest in joining.

"I've been interested in the defence force for two years now and this has given me a good opportunity just to see what it's like" said 19-year-old Jada Brown, from Wreck Bay.

"It's been a really good experience just to come and do this for the past three days."

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Fellow participant Rhiannon Chapman, originally from Bega but living in Wreck Bay, enjoyed learning about the helicopters and said everyone should try the experience.

"It's good to see Indigenous kids getting on board and the defence force being behind them to drive them into it," she said.

"I just want to be a good role model for my family and my community."

Shellharbour local Lincoln Callaghan said he would love the chance to be a pilot or work in the navy's armoury.

"This is actually one of my dream jobs," he said.

The work experience program runs up to eight times a year and you have to be at least 15 to participate.

If you'd like to get involved and apply click here.

The next block section of work experience is scheduled for August.