Veteran voices: Celebrating stories of service and transition

ANZAC veteran story – Natasha Tippett 

Natasha Tippett’s dedication to service is a testament to her family’s legacy and personal commitment. Inspired by her family's history of military service, joining the Army seemed predestined. 

"I had to join because my family served in armies overseas, as well as in the Vietnam War, Navy, and Army," Natasha shared, her pride palpable. Natasha served six years in the Army and later transferred to the Air Force where she served for 11 years. 

Initially a dental assistant, she later became an instructor, moulding civilians into military personnel. “I trained civilians on everything from bed making to giving lessons on weapon systems,” Natasha recounted. As a woman in the military, Natasha thrived on equal footing with her male counterparts. “There was no difference in treatment; we were all equals,” she explained. “Being in the Army and Air Force taught me that women can hold their own and gain immense respect and confidence.” 

One of her most cherished memories was calling the parade during an ANZAC Day service at Stockton Beach. "Having my son and family watch me command the squadron was unforgettable," she recalled with emotion. 

Recently transitioning to civilian life due to medical reasons, Natasha has found a new calling in construction, appreciating the structural similarity and discipline reminiscent of her military life. “The transition from military to construction was seamless for me,” she recalls. “The respect and camaraderie here are just like the military.” 

Natasha’s advice to fellow veterans is to find a role that provides similar emotional fulfilment as the military. “The qualities gained from service will always serve you well,” she affirmed. 

This ANZAC Day, Natasha plans to honour the tradition by participating in a dawn service and celebrating with friends and family. “ANZAC Day is the most important day of the year for me,” she expressed, encapsulating her journey of perseverance and resilience. 

ANZAC veteran story – Mark Pressland 

Mark Pressland, now the quality manager at Snowy Hydro’s Hunter Power Project, has a story deeply intertwined with a legacy of service. With a family history of military service, including ancestors who served on HMS Victory during the Napoleonic Wars, Mark felt a strong calling to join the Navy. He served for over five years as a marine technician on HMAS Adelaide, working with marine gas turbines and power generation systems. 

One of Mark’s most memorable experiences is the 1997 rescue mission in the Southern Ocean, where their crew saved two of their mates lost at sea. As Mark recalls, "It was inspiring to see our crew come together, adapt to limited information, and build a rescue plan on such short notice." 

Mark’s rise in the Navy involved overseeing high standards of quality, naturally guiding him to his current role in quality management. His military background instilled flexibility, adaptability, and a strong team ethos—qualities he now brings to his work. 

Transitioning to civilian life, Mark found his Navy qualifications were highly transferable. Leaning on his ex-military network was crucial, providing direction and industry connections during this period. His advice for fellow veterans? Seek companies that support veteran employment and harness their networks for new opportunities. 

ANZAC Day holds special meaning for Mark. "It’s about catching up with old shipmates, sharing good memories, and raising a glass to those we’ve lost," he shares. Mark’s journey from naval service to his pivotal role at the Hunter Power Project exemplifies the resilience and continued contribution of our veterans. This ANZAC Day, we celebrate veterans like Mark who bring their dedication and skills to serve our communities in new ways.

ANZAC veteran story – Murray Harley 

Murray Harley always knew he wanted to serve. Growing up in Canberra, surrounded by a family of national servicemen and the presence of the Royal Military College in Duntroon, the path felt natural. He spent nearly 14 years in the Australian Army, leading troops across the country and overseas, including a formative training experience with the U.S. Marine Corps in the Kingdom of Tonga.  

Leaving the army in 2000 wasn’t the end of his service. He found that the key to a successful transition was having a strong network. Staying involved in veteran circles and service rugby teams helped him stay connected. Murray served as President of the Australian Army Rugby Union Old Boys – Leopards for 14 years, mentoring young players and providing support and camaraderie. As he puts it, “You never really leave.” 

As a senior safety advisor, Murray draws from his Army experience every day. For him, safety and leadership go hand in hand. “In the Army, you make sure your team comes home in one piece. It’s the same here,” he explains. 

His advice to other veterans? Build a network, be open to starting somewhere new, and know that your skills can be transferred. “Leadership, structure, discipline - it all counts,” he says. “It’s just badged differently.” 

Today, Murray continues to lead by example, supporting his team, and helping the next generation find purpose in their own path forward.