The next cohort of maritime human resource officers has graduated, with the event marking a significant milestone in their careers.
In a ceremony at HMAS Cerberus, the participants celebrated their graduation from the Maritime Human Resource Officers (MHRO) Application Course, which equipped them with the skills and knowledge to serve effectively across Navy.
MHROs play an important role in supporting command with professional personnel management outcomes, managing personnel operations at sea and ashore, and promoting the right balance between the interests of Navy and Navy people.
Sub-Lieutenant Julian Foord chose to be an MHRO to fulfil a role with a closer reach to people and greater influence on the way Navy looks after and manages its personnel.
“I’m looking forward to a new challenge and to develop both personally and professionally,” Sub-Lieutenant Foord said.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Julia Rickards, a former combat systems operator, is about to embark on her first posting as an MHRO. She is excited to be part of an emerging community and gain a better understanding of the value MHROs bring to the fleet.
Over the past 15 weeks, the dedicated officers underwent intensive training, immersing themselves in the intricacies of Navy human resource management.
From incident management to understanding pay and entitlements, the curriculum covered a wide array of essential topics.
The graduating class has a range of skills and backgrounds, including former sailors, direct-entry personnel and members transferring from Army and Air Force.
Acting Sub-Lieutenant Georgia Baker joined the Navy as a direct entry in August 2023. She was promoted from midshipman to acting sub-lieutenant on the day she graduated and received her primary qualification as an MHRO.
“I am most excited to consolidate all the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout the course,” Acting Sub-Lieutenant Baker said.
Senior MHRO Instructor Lieutenant April Betts enjoyed teaching the class and sharing her experiences.
Lieutenant Betts found the opportunity to mentor and coach the class highly rewarding as a new instructor at the Maritime Personnel School.
“I really enjoyed getting to know everyone and learning from their broad experience, whether that be from military service or their experience in the civilian sector,” Lieutenant Betts said.
“Each one of these graduates is an asset to the maritime personnel community and I look forward to working with them in future roles out in the fleet.”
