4 October 2024
The winners of the second Army storytelling competition were recognised by Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart at the closing of the Chief of Army Symposium to acknowledge their role in helping to tell Army’s story.
Sapper Veronica Bonnar, Corporal Kyra Cain and Corporal Lee Philp were presented with certificates and a coin by Lieutenant General Stuart and Regimental Sergeant Major – Army Warrant Officer Kim Felmingham.
Sapper Bonnar said attending the symposium gave the winners a chance to hear about the challenges facing Army and its future.
“The speakers were thought-provoking and there was something relevant for all levels,” Sapper Bonnar said.
“I believe people have a tendency to get narrowed into their field and forget the broader picture. This was good to take quite a far step back and look at it from a perspective, not only from our military.”
Corporal Philp said challenges faced by the Australian Army were similar to those being faced by armies across the world.
“We have a plan that is being implemented and understand that we need to be flexible to the evolving changes in technology and tactics,” Corporal Philp said.
Corporal Cain said her understanding of Army’s challenges had been greatly broadened.
“There are a lot of challenges we don’t always see or understand and it was great to gain a better understanding of the workings of the outcomes we see at the lower levels,” she said.
'I encourage all soldiers to take advantage of opportunities like the storytelling competition. By telling your story it could open up doors that you didn’t know existed.'
Director of People & Culture – Army Colonel Chris Kitchin said it was a privilege to see the winners experience the symposium in Melbourne, and the wider Land Forces expo.
“Each of the soldiers were smart, professional and engaged,” Colonel Kitchin said.
“They listened to what our leaders were saying and will be great ambassadors for the messages in their units. I want to congratulate them again on their winning entries and I hope they take a lot away from this experience.”
The competition was run to support Army's focus on people capability and culture, to promote recruitment, development and retention of its people.
“I encourage all soldiers to take advantage of opportunities like the storytelling competition. By telling your story it could open up doors that you didn’t know existed,” Colonel Kitchin said.
Sapper Bonnar said the opportunity to listen to and speak with other members of Army, and to discuss what is in store for the organisation was important as a junior member.
“Getting caught in the daily grind you often lose sight of the reasons why you enjoy being where you are. The competition makes you reflect on those moments and the people who make you feel blessed to be there,” Sapper Bonnar said.
“Being at the symposium as a guest gave me a different perspective. It allowed me to just focus on the message, which gave me a fresh perspective and a better appreciation of how I fit into the larger picture in Army.”
