Life beyond Radford

I've just moved to Townsville from Darwin on my latest posting with the Army and am settling in to a new role quickly. So far Townsville is a great place to live and could be my favourite city yet. Since graduating from the Royal Military College in 2012 I've lived in Brisbane, Wagga Wagga, Darwin and now Townsville. I've enjoyed moving around (as much of a hassle as it is) as I've been able to develop a deeper appreciation of this rich and diverse country we call home as I've explored each location throughout my postings.

I remain passionate about work; being in the Army continues to provide me new challenges and sense of purpose with each new turn, and as an Officer I continue to enjoy the challenges and lessons that leadership throws my way. I've found a passion in teaching others, and particularly enjoyed my time as a Recruit Instructor in 2015.

From memory I was a little clueless and toyed with the idea of a few different roles. I discovered a passion for sports science in year 11 upon commencing Human Movement class, and if I hadn't gone to ADFA I would have begun happily pursuing it as a career. From about year 9 I did always harbour an interest in joining the Army however, something I'm grateful for, as it's provided me endless opportunities and experiences.

I'll always have memories of the little moments here and there, but I think year 9 camp will always stand out for me. It was something that threw us all outside of our comfort zones. As I've progressed through life I've come to understand more and more that true events of accomplishment and personal development always lie outside of where we're comfortable. Nerves, pressure, confusion and difficulty are all positive signs of progress, and failure should be celebrated as it merely marks a boundary to be crossed the next time.

I can't say I've ever singled out a particular role model. My experiences however have taught me that every person I interact with is a potential source of improvement for myself. Every teacher, instructor, peer and boss I've had have all been different, but I've been able to learn something from each of them to try and emulate in myself.

I was always told by my friends that I got lucky. I still can't explain why, but something drew me towards the Army around 9th grade and I've never looked back since.

Mostly, but not entirely. I've been grateful for the way it has turned out, however. I was initially very disappointed when I was told I couldn't do the roles in the Army I wanted to as I was colourblind, but in hindsight, the path I've been taken on is one I wouldn't change if I could.

Some say things have a way of working out, but everything is what you make of it.