From Navy Service to Community Impact: Stephanie Shipman Shares Her Story

ANZAC DAY Series 

From Navy Service to Community Impact: Stephanie Shipman Shares Her Story on Radio Springfield City

By Antoine Vidal | Radio Springfield City

A powerful and deeply personal conversation is now available on Radio Springfield City, as Antoine Vidal sits down with former Navy sailor Stephanie Shipman.

Stephanie’s journey into the Australian Defence Force began at just 19, driven by a desire to challenge herself both physically and mentally. What followed was a nine-year career that took her across Australia and overseas, including deployments to locations such as Samoa and Hawaii.

In the interview, Stephanie shares firsthand insights into life in the Navy — from the intensity of recruit training to the strong bonds formed while serving alongside fellow personnel.

But beyond the uniform, her story takes an even more compelling turn.

After leaving the Navy, Stephanie faced significant personal challenges, including mental health struggles and the loss of close family members. Like many veterans, transitioning back to civilian life came with its own set of obstacles.

Today, she is using those experiences to make a difference.

As Treasurer of the Greater Springfield RSL Sub-Branch, Stephanie is playing a key role in supporting veterans and building stronger community connections. Her work focuses on bridging the gap for modern veterans — ensuring they feel supported, understood, and connected.

A major highlight of the conversation is the evolving vision for ANZAC Day in Greater Springfield. With a renewed focus on community, inclusion, and connection, Stephanie and her team are helping create a meaningful experience that honours the past while supporting today’s servicemen and women.

Her message is simple but powerful:
“Honour the past, support the present, and build the future.”

The full interview with Stephanie Shipman is now available here: Click Here to Listen