Navy People: Firie swaps the bush for the big blue sea

3 March 2010

After 12 years as a Kalamunda Bush Fire Brigade volunteer fire fighter, Kalamunda local and Forrestfield Senior High graduate Jarrad Tierney combined his dream of being a fire fighter with his desire to serve in the military when he joined the Royal Australian Navy.

Six years later and promoted to Able Seaman, Jarrad Tierney stands ready to fight fires at sea aboard the Western Australia-based Frigate HMAS Anzac.

In his specialisation as a naval stores sailor Jarrad maintains the supply of vital stores that keep a fighting ship operating.

But when called upon, Able Seaman Tierney swaps his pen and computer keyboard for a breathing apparatus and a fire hose as member of the ship’s fire fighting team.

“I always wanted to be in the military and I also dreamed of being a full-time fire fighter, but the military offered a more secure career,” said Jarrad.

“I originally went to join the Army but they talked me into choosing the Navy and I don’t regret it.

“Now I fight fires afloat, which is a very different experience to fighting a bush fire.”

Apart from a secure future, Jarrad was attracted by the opportunity for travel. His naval service has so far taken him to Singapore, Christmas Island, Malaysia and all around Australia.

As well as his son, two brothers and mum and dad in the Perth area, Jarrad keeps in touch with his old bush fire brigade colleagues, who support his career choice.

“The brigade chief is in the Army Reserve so he is very supportive. My family miss me but they’re OK with me being away,” said Jarrad.

And Jarrad’s advice for other young Kalamunda locals considering a career at sea?

“Have a think about what you want for the future and follow your dreams.”