Our People in SA
Andre Clay - HOME FROM THE SEA
It’s been a while since Andre played Premier League for Alcoa and attended Modbury Heights High School but, while his parents and sister’s family are still in Modbury, Andre was looking for travel and life changing experiences. He decided to join the Navy straight from school and, after sixteen years, he was doing so well he was one of the first five sailors to achieve a university degree at the Defence Force Academy. It opened the door to further promotion and Andre became an officer.
During his latest trip, Andre was in charge of the frigate’s Supply department — a team of 32 people involved in catering, finance, material logistics and medical matters. As a secondary role, he also ran the Flight Deck team for helicopter manoeuvres.
It was only the latest of Andre’s many overseas deployments, which so far have included South Korea, the Philippines, the Andaman Islands, Kiribati, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vanuatu, Norfolk Island, Christmas Island, New Zealand — and the Persian Gulf in 2002.
“I have worked with some great people over the years. I led boarding parties in the Gulf and I especially appreciated the team I had to work with, they were fantastic.
“Being in an organization such as the Navy, you are constantly within a team environment. Socially you learn to accept people of all walks of life. I like the sense of community and working with good people. And you never get stale at your job because you move around and are always learning something new.
“I have had a really great work/life balance throughout my time in the Navy, but the last ADELAIDE deployment, finishing back in Adelaide city — it’s been a fantastic opportunity to return home to Adelaide 30 years after I first enlisted, and at the pinnacle of my career.”