A Navy Week to remember

This year’s Navy Week was a memorable one for 24-year-old Connor Levinge from Mango Hill in Brisbane.

CAPTION: Connor Levinge is following in his father’s footsteps, Chief Petty Officer Carl Levinge, by also joining the Royal Australian Navy. Story by Lieutenant Rebecca Williamson. Photo by Leading Seaman Iggy Roberts.

The soon-to-be new Navy recruit recently received a letter of offer from the ADF for the role of aviation technician, allowing him to follow in the footsteps of his father, Chief Petty Officer Carl Levinge.

The timing could not have been better, with Navy’s HMAS Choules making a port visit to Brisbane, with his father on board, in time for the pair to celebrate together during Navy Week.

Connor, a self-described grease monkey, said he liked to get into the nitty gritty, technical side of things.

“I have previously worked with V8 supercars, so the role of aviation technician is a great opportunity to combine my passion with the skills I have already developed,” he said.

While Connor was growing up, he recalls that his dad always had a hand in the Navy, and with Chief Petty Officer Levinge having served more than 40 years in the Navy and Australian Public Service, Connor said he has always looked up to his father and feels a lot of pride for what he does.

“Seeing dad on board when he came into port and all the camaraderie among the crew was the final instigator in deciding to apply, but ultimately, it is my dad’s commitment and service that has led me towards a career in the Navy,” he said.

“I realise there are going to be challenges and adjustments, but if you have the passion and drive for something and you can combine that with serving your country then you know it is going to be a great career choice.”

Upon hearing Connor’s exciting news, Chief Petty Officer Levinge said he felt a huge sense of pride and looked forward to hearing about Connor’s Navy experiences.

“The first time I brought Connor on a ship was when we had him christened on guided missile destroyer HMAS Brisbane II back in 1999,” he said.

“Since then, Connor has enjoyed seeing some of Navy life through my work as he has continued to grow up.”

The annual Navy Week celebration recognises the work of Navy people and the critical role they play in safeguarding Australia’s economic wellbeing, on and under the sea.

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