The Army Reserve is recognising the contribution of mothers in uniform on Mother's Day by highlighting the commitment, resilience and leadership they bring to service.
Brisbane-based chemical engineer Lieutenant Katherine Tattersall, a newly commissioned officer, joined the Army Reserve two years ago after more than a decade working as a chemical engineer and raising her young son.
"My life pretty much looked like working full time, being a mum full time, trying to fit in exercise when I could, and pretty much just that," Lieutenant Tattersall said.
While she had wanted to join since university, Lieutenant Tattersall said the timing did not work out until later in life.
"I'd always wanted to join," she said.
"Life happened, and then I found myself thinking about it again and just decided to do it."
Balancing motherhood, a civilian career and military training was not always simple, but Lieutenant Tattersall said the flexibility of reserve service made it possible.
"It's definitely been a juggle," she said.
"Being in the reserves allows you to schedule your time, and you can decide when to ramp it up and when to ramp it down."
Lieutenant Tattersall completed the part-time officer commissioning pathway, balancing training requirements with family life and her civilian career.
She said one of the most enjoyable parts of the course was learning tactical exercise without troops (TEWT).
"I've enjoyed TEWT the most out of this whole course in terms of the learning activities and I really enjoy the analytical side of things," Lieutenant Tattersall said.
'To all mothers serving in the 8th Brigade and the wider Army, and to the mothers, partners and families who support our people, I wish you a very happy Mother's Day.'
A standout moment was Exercise Skyville, completed during module three of the commissioning pathway.
Lieutenant Tattersall said the activity, which involved about five days of food and sleep deprivation, became a defining moment in her training.
"It really tests you as a person," she said.
"If you can do that, then it gives you a lot of confidence coming out of it that you can achieve anything, really."
Lieutenant Tattersall was recognised for her leadership during training, describing her approach as one built on quiet confidence, careful planning and the ability to adapt.
"I'm not a very outspoken person," she said.
"I like to know all of the moving parts and analyse things before I make a decision.
"As an officer, you need to be flexible with your leadership style. You can plan very well, but you also need to be able to make quick decisions."
Commander 8th Brigade, Brigadier Scott Denner, said Mother's Day was an opportunity to recognise the mothers across the formation who continued to serve while supporting their families and communities.
"To all mothers serving in the 8th Brigade and the wider Army, and to the mothers, partners and families who support our people, I wish you a very happy Mother's Day," Brigadier Denner said.
"Your commitment, resilience and service are deeply valued, and your contribution strengthens Army and the communities we serve."
Now posted to the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, Lieutenant Tattersall said she was looking forward to the next stage of her career.
