When Brisbane-born Seaman* Molly Bowman joined Navy, she continued a family tradition, but was still unsure of what she wanted to do in the fleet.
Little did she know that within weeks of graduating her recruit training, she would be chosen to represent Navy recruits and honour 100 years of training at the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Recruit School at HMAS Cerberus.
Seaman* Bowman, who hails from North Lakes, Brisbane, joined Navy in September as a member of Barcoo Class General Entry 443 Taylor Division.
She graduated in November and, thanks to her demonstrated leadership and upholding Defence values, Seaman* Bowman was selected to speak at the special event and represent the recruits of 2025.
During the centenary official reception, Seaman* Bowman addressed attendees, speaking clearly and with a buzz of anticipation.
"I take great pride in representing today's sailors, and am truly grateful for this opportunity," Seaman* Bowman said.
"I hope our generation carries forward the legacy of the past 100 years and that the sailors who came before us would be proud of the sailors we are becoming."
The anniversary event, on December 11, was hosted Chief of Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond and attended by numerous VIPs, including senior Navy leaders and members of Parliament.
'In my short time wearing this uniform, I can already say Navy has changed me for the better'
"Thank you Chief of Navy, Sir," Seaman* Bowman said.
"I can assure you all that the current cohort of sailors are as dedicated and committed to serving our nation as those who joined 100 years ago.
"It's not, 'I have to go to work', it's 'I get to go to work'. And it's not, 'I have to defend my country', it's 'I get to defend my country'.
"Serving in the Royal Australian Navy is a privilege, and one I'm grateful to have."
Seaman* Bowman is a participant of the Navy Gap Year Program, and was encouraged to join Navy by one of her four brothers, Physical Training Instructor Petty Officer Trent Bowman, who has served for 10 years.
As part of the Gap Year Program, Seaman* Bowman will now be exposed to a variety of sailor roles at sea and ashore, blending in with crews and units as she moves around Australia.
On completion of the 12 month program, Seaman* Bowman will have the option to choose a sailor specialisation and continue her service.
Since graduating RAN Recruit School, Seaman* Bowman has enjoyed seamanship training at Cerberus, and is excited to engage in training at the School of Survivability and Ship's Safety in early 2026, before touring Navy bases and posting to HMAS Stirling in Western Australia.
"In my short time wearing this uniform, I can already say Navy has changed me for the better," Seaman* Bowman said.
"We're a part of an incredible community, and we're all lucky to serve in it."
