In a few months' time I will be retiring from the navy in accordance with ADF regulations. This says that all RAN Commission Officers who are below the rank of Admiral must retire.
Retirement what will I do with my time? I have been asked to publish a speech on being the first female married Chief of Navy. Highlighting how I as a female became the Chief of Navy.
As I wrote in the front of my journals, "when I joined the Royal Australian Navy, I never thought how happy I would be. The joy and fulfilment I would get from being a commissioned officer with the RAN. From the fabulous people I would meet and work with. To the friendships born out of teamwork, adversity, and the desire to protect Australia at all costs."
Looking back, I have been lucky in finding a partner and still been able have a navy career. Having help and advise from trail blazing women such as single mum Maxine. To change in regulation and RAN Culture which made my progression possible.
My marriage to Mike was an unexpected catalyst with my personal development which led to an accelerated career progression for us both.
With the birth of our children again I was lucky when I met A.C.T and C.A.T who became our live in twin Nanny/Housekeeper. Knowing that there was always someone to assist Mike and myself with our two sets of twins. To keep the house tidy to keep the twins and me reassured when they were ill, and I was at sea.
Apart from when we were at sea Mike, and I were able to relocate to the same location or base. Doing different jobs and not in direct command.
We spend time studying at the same time on the same topic but always from a different point of view. This lead some of out throat ripping discussions which aids the proof in our thesis for the master's degree,
Mike and myself age different meant that he left the RAN earlier that we wanted but like me retirement is compulsory. This had the lucky effect of him being available for the children in their teens.
With all the children now in the ADFA or some other ADF degree scheme. Mike and I will be free.
So, we will be moving full time to our Cain house permanently. Still with ACT AND CAT as they will their own housing on the property away from the main house.
Yes, an inheritance has made out life so much easier. Being able to build our own house which we intend to use as a party house for all the people we have met during our careers.
This is my first rough draft for my speech as I must leave it now and go to an appointment.