Navy People: Local sailor mixes work and play

16 February 2010

Able Seaman Kiri Beurermann, 21, is glad she has followed in the footsteps of her big sister Felicity. The former Leith local and Devonport High School student joined the Royal Australian Navy four years ago and is now seeing the world.

On board the Perth-based HMAS Anzac, Kiri has just spent time in Sydney and has now set sail for Cairns. For the next few weeks she will be taking part in fleet exercises off the east coast that practice for disaster relief and actual conflict. Then she’ll be heading for New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia.

“This will be the first time ever I have actually stepped ashore overseas,” said Kiri.

Many of Kiri’s friends on Anzac are in the same situation and there is a buzz on the ship already.

Kiri completed her initial training in Melbourne then was posted to HMAS Stirling in Perth where her sister, a Navy Lieutenant, was also working.

“After a month ashore I joined HMAS Perth for 18 months, and then moved over to HMAS Anzac where I have been since the middle of last year,” Kiri said.

As the commanding officer’s valet, Kiri has the responsibility of looking after CAPT Peter Quinn in Anzac.

“I really enjoy my work, as well as extra duties like being a member of the Ship’s Emergency Medical Team and the Standing Sea Fire Brigade,” Kiri said.

“I have learnt all these skills in a few short years. It’s helped me mature as a person and set me up for the future.”

Possible promotion to Leading Seaman is looming at the end of 2010 but until then the lure of foreign ports is the biggest event on the horizon.

“I will have to work when we are alongside, preparing for receptions hosted by CAPT Quinn. But he is a good boss and I’m sure he’ll make sure I get the chance to see some of the places we visit.”