Our People in Tasmania

This ANZAC Day will be extra special for Riverside’s Adam Simeoni, aged 33.

The Navy Lieutenant will be Commanding the contingent of Australia’s Federation Guard in ANZAC Cove.

His parents Lore and Guy, now retired, will be able to watch their son on TV as the  ceremony gets relayed to Australian TV later in the day (Turkey is around 10 hours behind Australia).

“There’s no military tradition in the family,” said the St Patrick’s College graduate. “I’m it,” said Adam. 

“After 10 years in the Navy, including some active service, I volunteered for the Guard because I liked the idea of representing the military at some really significant ceremonial occasions.

“Some stand-out moments have been the face-to-face experience of escorting many VIPs while they inspect the Guard contingent.

“So far I’ve been all around the country, to capital cities and regional centres, but this is the big one.

“My ‘significant other’ is in the Navy too. After the ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine ceremonies our contingent will be coming home through Istanbul, and I’m already under orders to bring Lauren back a silk scarf from the Grand Bazaar.

“But to be in ANZAC Cove on the actual day, is the most important place where we can represent the military and Australia.

“The significance of the location will really bring it home to us all,” said Adam.