Our People in VIC
Kerrilee Hickson - Bendigo Girl in Sumatra relief operation
Bendigo Dojo’s Kerrilee Hickson has put her Shitoryu Karate fitness regime on hold for an international rescue mission.
Now a Leading Seaman in the Navy, Kerrilee is aboard HMAS Kanimbla in Operation Padang Assist, the Australian Government’s response to the recent Sumatran earthquakes.
Within days the amphibious support ship was heading for earthquake shattered Padang, jammed with emergency teams of ADF engineers and medics. They also took two big Sea King helicopters, along with the ship’s boats, to help move people and vital supplies from ship to shore.
Kerrilee originally joined the Navy as a cook in 2003 and went on a six-month TAFE course as part of her training.
After sea time aboard the frigates HMAS Melbourne and Darwin, she decided to change direction and applied to become a Naval Police Coxswain.
“We have a number of responsibilities, including ‘driving’ the ship during high-profile evolutions such as entering or leaving harbour, plus we’re ‘people managers’, processing leave and dealing with minor disciplinary matters,” she said.
Sumatra isn’t Kerrilee’s first trip overseas. During her naval career, Kerrilee has travelled to countries such as the Philippines, Singapore and Malaysia but said her favourite overseas destination was Rotorua, in New Zealand.
While she is not busy taking care of business onboard HMAS Kanimbla, Kerrilee said she tries to maintain her fitness regime.
Kerrilee is also a baseball fan, having been associated with the Maiden Gully Scots Baseball Club during her time back home.
“But having my story and picture published in the Advertiser will sure make my mum happy!”
HMAS Kanimbla is one of two RAN amphibious transport ships and is based at Fleet Base East in Sydney.