Publication:Sea Talk Winter 2004/From WO-N's desk
By WO-N David Turner
G'day I would like to devote this edition's article to the support services that are provided to us as Navy people.
As I move around Navy, it occurs to me that we are perhaps the best-supported workforce in the country and perhaps the world. Let me touch on the myriad of organisations that help us out in our day-to-day lives.
The best known are our Chaplains, led by Principle Chaplain Eric Burton. These busy people are ever present (pun intended) ashore and afloat and provide a range of services from pastoral care to just offering an open and non-judgmental ear.
We also have a full complement of medical professionals and specialists and, of course, we all see our medical and dental branch sailors as they go about their day-to-day duties.
We should also not forget the psychologists and other mental health professionals we keep on the books.These people support the Divisional system, which can solve incredibly complex personal issues if employed promptly and correctly and link into other Service-sponsored programs such as the alcohol and drug program advisors and the Defence Community Organisation.
We should also not forget the various not-for-profit organisations that look after our welfare. The Central Canteens Fund provides hundreds of thousands of dollars a year for sports programs, interest free loans and a raft of other benefits, while all Defence people have access to private health insurance.
Then there are those organisations that are made up largely of volunteers. I was recently privileged to attend the 10th anniversary dinner of the Defence Special Needs Support Group, a very dedicated group of people who make a real difference to those who sometimes need a helping hand.
We also have Defence Families Australia, who represent our families' interests. I think it appropriate that we not forget these supporting organisations and take time to reflect how fortunate we are to have them.
I am sure I have not mentioned them all, but if you believe you know of another organisation in Australia or elsewhere that has such significant and practical support services available, I'd like to know about it.Once again, take care and if you see me on my travels, say G'day.
David Turner Warrant Officer of the Navy WO.N@cbr.defence.gov.au
Telephone 02 6265 4905
