For many veterans like Jannine, the values learned through military service including teamwork, compassion and resilience continue to guide their contribution to the community long after active duty ends.
“You will be wet, homesick and frightened, but the pride of the fleet will be you.”
Those words from an Australian Navy recruitment advertisement in the 1980s changed the course of Gold Coast Health Clinical Nurse Jannine Quigg’s life.
Inspired to enlist at just 17, Jannine served in the Royal Australian Navy from 1988 to 1997, including during the first Gulf War. Her early experiences shaped a lifelong dedication to caring for others, one that continues today in her work supporting patients, colleagues and fellow veterans.
Jannine grew up in a small country town in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, alongside her two older brothers. Life changed dramatically during her teenage years when her eldest brother was tragically killed in an accident, followed soon after by her remaining brother leaving home to live with family in western NSW.
“With limited job opportunities in the area and the weight of everything that had happened, I started Year 11 the following year but struggled to cope,” Jannine said.
“One day, while watching television, I saw an advertisement for the Navy. The catchphrase stuck with me. Something about it resonated deeply, and I decided to take the first step.”
That decision took Jannine far beyond her hometown, beginning with recruit training at HMAS Cerberus. She later served at HMAS Harman, HMAS Nirimba and aboard HMAS Tobruk, building resilience, discipline and a deep sense of service that would influence her career long after leaving the Navy.
As Anzac Day marks 110 years since the Gallipoli campaign, Jannine reflects on the importance of unity, remembrance and recognising the courage of all who have served past and present.
“With current conflicts overseas, this Anzac Day carries even deeper meaning for me,” she said.
“It reinforces that this time is about unity, reflection and national pride, and about remembering those who continue to serve.”
Today, Jannine continues that commitment as a Clinical Nurse in Mental Health and Specialist Services at Gold Coast Health. Her lived experience as a veteran informs her work supporting patients through complex and often challenging circumstances.
She is also an active member of the Veteran Employee Network, which provides a safe and inclusive space for veteran employees and allies to connect, share experiences and advocate for health and wellbeing.
Her story is a powerful reminder that service does not end when the uniform comes off.
