The next generation sets sail

It was with a mixed bag of feelings that SMN Will Richards waved goodbye to his parents for his first overseas deployment.

SMN Richards is one of about 120 seamen and able seamen among the 240-strong crew of HMAS Sydney, which sailed from FBE on June 9, for Navy’s third regional presence deployment for 2026.

“I was lucky to celebrate my 20th birthday at home in Sydney with my family last week, and now I’m looking forward to sailing to some far-off places,” SMN Richards said.

“It’s a mixed bag of feelings – sad to be leaving my family behind but excited for what lies ahead.”

Sydney will participate in Exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) in Hawaii in late June and July before sailing onwards through South-East Asia.

“I haven’t been to the United States before so I’m looking forward to seeing some new places and doing some different things on this deployment,” SMN Richards said.

A CSO, SMN Richards followed his dad, James, and brother, Sam, into the Navy.

“Dad was a chief petty officer in HMA Ships Perth and Sydney III, and Sam is a marine technician in HMAS Arunta,” SMN Richards said.

“Dad is happy and proud that I’ve joined the Navy. I enjoy talking to him about my work and learning, and getting tips from him about life in the Navy.”

Also sailing for her first military exercise is SMN Elise Greco, 22, from Malvern in Victoria.

She is the first member of her family to join the Navy. It is a far cry from the life she thought she was going to lead.

“At school I thought I was going to be a chef and I had jobs working at functions, in real estate and as a receptionist,” SMN Greco said.

“I joined the Navy as a CSO. It’s something completely different to the outside world.

“Initial entry training was a hard slog over 26 weeks, but I got through it. I’ve met some great friends and I’m looking forward to moving up the ranks and travelling to some interesting places.”

AB Caitlin Elford, 21, from Kambah in Canberra, doesn’t regret joining Navy for a minute and recommends the sea life to other young people looking for a career.

“I was always interested in military stories and movies,” she said.

“It’s been great so far. You make a lot of friends and it feels like home to me now.

“I’ve never been outside of Australia before so I’m looking forward to my first overseas trip and seeing some of the world.”

After participating in Exercise RIMPAC, Sydney will participate in training activities and engagements with allies and partners, and will maintain regional presence in the Indo-Pacific.