Navy People: Greta farewells her Navy dad
20 September 2010
A few weeks ago Lieutenant Duncan Rowlands farewelled his Jerangle wife, Kimberley, and their nine-month old daughter Greta, at the dockside in Sydney. Now he and his shipmates onboard HMAS Melbourne are heading for six months of anti-pirate patrol in the Middle East.
Duncan originally hailed from Adelaide, a former student of Prince Alfred College. Now he is his frigate’s Intelligence Officer. His job is providing current intelligence and assessments which help the ship’s Commanding Officer decide on the best course of action.
“I always loved the sea, and wanted a job that was rewarding and embodied teamwork,” said Duncan.
In the Middle East HMAS Melbourne will be providing essential naval support to coalition maritime security operations and counter-terrorism.
Duncan is looking forward to his responsibilities in helping shape the ship’s operations. “It will be very rewarding professionally,” said Duncan.
“It’s a big responsibility, but I’m looking forward to the challenge of briefing my senior officers.”
Duncan first joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2001 as a Seaman Officer and then specialised as a submariner.
This isn’t Duncan’s first overseas deployment. He’s already been to the Solomons, Philippines and India.
“Then I wanted a secondary qualification in Intelligence, which I find challenging..
“My deployment with HMAS Melbourne will now give me the challenge of doing something that counts and means something in the bigger picture”.
“But this will also be the first time I’ve been away from home for an extended period of time — and as a new father.
While he’s away, it will be up to his wife Kimberley to hold the fort with their daughter Greta, at their property in Jerangle.
“I’m disappointed about the prospect of missing Greta’s first birthday, and maybe even her first steps,” said Duncan, “But it will be a proud moment when I see my two girls on the wharf when we return.”
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