There for the moments that matter

LEUT Ryan Hanaphy remembers the pride and excitement of seeing Anzac-class frigates built in his hometown of Williamstown, Victoria.

Years later, that childhood connection came full circle when he was posted to HMAS Toowoomba shortly before the birth of his second child.

That excitement quickly turned to concern when he learned the ship would embark on a regional presence deployment, meaning he would likely miss his daughter’s birth.

“The first thing that went through my mind was ‘how are we going to prepare for me being away?’ and that I wasn’t going to be there,” LEUT Hanaphy said.

Despite the challenge, his wife Jessica – also a Navy officer – encouraged him to deploy, demonstrating her resilience and commitment to family and service.

“It shows her strength and resilience, willing to sacrifice my support at home. I have so much trust and faith in her. She’s an incredibly strong woman,” LEUT Hanaphy said.

In a surprising turn, Navy enabled him to return home in time for the birth of his youngest daughter, reflecting a broader effort to support personnel and their families.

“It’s incredible that the Navy is family-centric to do this. It shows how we’re trying to meet the needs of people and their families while maintaining capability,” LEUT Hanaphy said.

Three weeks after the birth, he rejoined the ship in the Philippines, despite being encouraged to take eight weeks of parental leave.

“I wanted to come back and finish what I started,” he said, noting Jessica would “hold down the fort” at home.

This Mother’s Day, he paid tribute to his wife and her dual role at home and in uniform.

“She’s an amazing mother to our two daughters, caring, supportive and dedicated. She’s a superhero,” LEUT Hanaphy said.

For LEUT Hanaphy, the sacrifices he and Jessica make are ultimately for their daughters, Autumn and Clover, and the future they are working to protect.

“We’ll always take every opportunity to be there for them and prioritise them,” he said.