Steven Taylor
Biripi
Lieutenant RAN
Training Development Officer
Royal Australian Navy
Medals
Australian Defence Medal
My story begins in the Northern beaches of Sydney, 1999. I was born in St Leonards and spent all of two years in Sydney with my older sister and parents before my introduction to Navy life was well and truly kicked into full gear. It was my first uplift, first change of scenery and first of many road trips. This time heading to Rockingham, Western Australia, where my younger sister was born and I first started school. This uplift, change of scenery and road trip was a reoccurring theme, being brought up on Rugby League in Cairns and Sydney and then returning to Perth and forcing my WA-based friends to play Rugby League over AFL. At school number eight, my dad decided it was best to make sure I stayed in one location and complete my high school studies. On commencement of year 11, I began preparations for an Engineering degree, studying the pre-requisite maths, physics and chemistry units. However, what started as a “reward” class of ATAR Phys. Ed, ended up being the influence that made me change my study to a Bachelor in Health and Phys. Ed Teaching.
During my second year of University study, I was working two jobs – The first as a kitchenhand at a yacht club and the second as a Games Development Officer for the NRL, which I would have happily done free. Despite this, I sought out scholarships to ease the financial pressure whilst studying. The Navy University Sponsorship came across my eyes… Get the remainder of my degree paid for and be paid a salary whilst I study… Despite having no direct intention to follow in my parents’ footsteps, I found myself ready to sign up and become a Training Systems Officer in the Royal Australian Navy.
Despite 12 months of training, I am still new to Navy, still completing my first posting and deciding what priorities and goals a 24 year old has. Although I have not yet travelled the world, I have made some great friends and had some unforgettable experiences. In the last two years, I have travelled throughout Australia and have managed to spend four weeks playing Rugby League for the Navy team. I have spent the last few months trying to map out what the next 5-10 years of my life may look like, but like all great things that have happened in my life, taking on opportunities as they arise can sometimes be your best option. I have just submitted an application to utilise my teaching skills to coordinate the Navy Gap Year program, and assist youth in determining what future they would like to pursue. Following on from that I will try to get my charge qualification and if lucky, get an overseas posting.