Navy People: Plotting a career path

25 March 2010

Cairns local Dan Stavers watched mates get university qualifications but not work in their chosen fields, so he decided to do something different. Now he’s a Seaman Officer in the Navy.

Dan grew up in Cairns and attended St Augustine’s College before enrolling in university, only to find he was unsuited to university life. But inspired by a family friend who is a diver in the Navy Reserve, Dan decided to join the Navy in 2006.

Now a Sub-Lieutenant, Dan is a qualified Seaman Officer. He earned his bridge warfare certificate almost exactly one year ago.

“The day you earn your certificate is a big moment, it’s very rewarding,” said Dan.

“It’s a real eye opener to have the Captain prepared to trust me, at the age of 26, with the safety of the ship and the hundreds of lives in her.

“Some guys have that responsibility at even younger ages. I doubt you would have that level of responsibility given to you at this age in many civilian jobs.”

Although Dan’s career has taken him to destinations such as Jakarta and Singapore, by far his most memorable was sailing back into his home town of Cairns as Officer of the Watch in Brunei.

“It was good to sail home, and to be in charge of the ship when piloting in,” says Dan. “It sure gave me a different perspective on my home town.”

Dan offered some words of advice to other young Cairns locals considering a naval career.

“Talk to local navy people, find out what it’s like and give it a go. It’s not an easy job, but it’s definitely not a boring job either,” Dan said.