Navy People: Albury pair a long way from home
4 October 2008
Albury is a long way from the ocean, but former residents Trevor Widdison and Kris Spencer have embraced life at sea, currently deployed to the Persian Gulf onboard the Royal Australian Navy frigate HMAS Parramatta.
For Trevor, a Lieutenant Commander and the ship’s Marine Engineer, this trip marks his second time to the region during his 31 years of service in the Navy.
“My department is responsible for the maintenance of all mechanical systems such as the main engines, power and fuel systems,” Trevor said.
Trevor has served in six ships during his career and he is no stranger to long trips away from home, having sailed with HMAS Parramatta in 2007 for a deployment to China, Russia and Japan.
“I always look forward to coming home to see my wife and family” Trevor said.
26-year old Kris, an Able Seaman Writer and member of Ship’s Medical and Emergency team, has been in the Navy for three years and is on his first overseas deployment on Parramatta.
“I am part of a team of three who manage the day-to-day administration of the ship and more importantly the pay and mail, which is a huge morale booster for the crew,” Kris said.
HMAS Parramatta will be away from Australia for up to six months, however Kris plans to use his spare time working towards a degree in politics and business to become an Officer.
Kris, is also an avid sportsman, having represented the Navy overseas in hockey. He also plays baseball and softball for both the Australian Defence Force and the Navy.
Parramatta is stationed in the Gulf as part of Operation Catalyst and Slipper, Australia’s commitment to the security and reconstruction of Iraq and Afghanistan until February 2009.
Both members leave behind families in Australia who are eagerly waiting their return. “I’m looking forward to returning home to my wife and two daughters aged two and a half and eight months. The next few months will pose challenges to both my job and personal life, but I’m looking forward to meeting these” Kris said.
