Navy People:Former Coffs Harbour Resident Serving In The Middle East

14 May 2007

Former Coffs Harbour resident Craig Keygan is now half a world away on patrol in the North Arabian Gulf. The former John Paul College and Toormina High School student is serving as a Steward onboard the Royal Australian Navy Frigate HMAS Toowoomba.

Craig and his 180 shipmates provide an ongoing contribution to the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Iraq. This includes the important work of protecting Iraq's offshore export oil terminals and monitoring, intercepting and boarding vessels suspected of illegally trafficking cargo that diverts funds from the Iraqi economy.

Craig, who will soon be promoted to Leading Seaman, joined the Navy over 5 years ago. Craig and the other stewards are primarily responsible for providing a service to the Ship's Officers in the form of food service and cleanliness of living and workspaces. Craig and others in the team form part of the medical response team in case of injury within the Ship. In addition to his hospitality duties Craig also assists in the launching and recovery of the Ship's boats.

When asked about life in the Navy in general he said, "don't hesitate in ringing up and getting involved because it was the best thing I have done in my life." Craig has enjoyed the challenges of the deployment but said, " I can't wait to get back to enjoy some home cooked meals and a couple of beers at the local." Craig and his shipmates will be back home in July after completing a 6 month deployment.