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As the wife of an ADF member, Jan Purcell has focused on her love of illustrating while exploring the country. We stumbled across Jan’s amazing talent on social media, and we’re excited to share her story!   When did you start illustrating? I loved drawing from a young age.  This passion for art led me to study interior architecture at university, where I honed my ability to draw in granular detail.  When I first met my husband, I had no connection or real understanding of th

by Michelle Jarrett TRIGGER WARNING: Please be aware that this story contains material dealing with suicide and suicidality that could be distressing for some people. If you need urgent or crisis support contact a 24/7 service that can help you, such as Open Arms 1800 011 046; Defence Member and Family Support Helpline 1800 624 608; or Lifeline 13 11 14. In the Top End, behind my husband’s Defence duties, Cowork Coplay held me through my hidden battle. Darwin is geographicall

Change is one of the few certainties in life, yet it remains one of the most psychologically challenging experiences we face. Whether it’s shifting careers, adjusting to new family dynamics, or relocating, especially within a structured environment like the military, change disrupts our routines, identity anchors and sense of stability. But psychology shows us that change, while uncomfortable, is also the doorway to growth.   As Roy T. Bennett famously wrote, “Change begins a

Interview with Bron Millins - from RAFF Cook to Dog Handler Photo: Katja Lehnert of Canines by Katja 2026 Why did you originally enlist into the Air Force? From an early age, I had two career aspirations: to become a professional golfer or to join the Air Force. I come from a family with a strong Air Force background, so it was always on my radar to enlist. I was fortunate enough to achieve my first goal and spent four years competing on tour as a professional golfer. After c

June 2025 saw a significant change to the maternity options available to all families in the Top End with the cessation of private maternity services at Darwin Private Hospital (DPH). Despite this, the options for safe & personalised care have actually increased for families as a result of actions taken by NT Health and DPH.   Safety It is important to highlight that Royal Darwin Hospital remains the safest place to give birth in the NT. RDH was the location all expectant mot

Making a career change or going back to paid work can feel challenging, but you’ve got this! Pull up a chair and a cool beverage, and check out these suggestions from Claire Harris, Director of Human Quotient Group. Be kind to yourself Making a change, thinking about what really matters now and considering your return to ‘the office’ (if you choose) can be fun! Celebrate your intentions and your progress to date. The Australian Blueprint for Career Development includes 12 key

PLEASE BRIEFLY EXPLAIN YOUR MILITARY BACKGROUND: I joined the Air Force in March 2004 when I was18 years old. I initially joined as a Clerk Supplier with my first posting being to Newcastle NSW. After four years pf service, the Clerk Supply mustering ended, and I had a choice between Supply or Movements. I chose Movements and was posted to Townsville QLD as a Corporal. In my full-time career, I was deployed three times to the Middle East Area of Operations (two times as a Cle

Soccer plays a massive part in our family’s lifestyle. Elianna, my 1-year-old daughter, and I are proud cheerleaders of Dakota, my 4-year-old daughter, and her soccer team’s coach, Phillip, my husband. Yes, it is a dad-and-daughter soccer duo! In this present age, where gadgets take up so much of our time, I believe it is essential for my kids to live an active lifestyle outdoors. Thus, having a husband who is totally in love with soccer is a significant advantage. In fact, P

Transpersonal Art Therapy Supporting Defence Families in the Northern Territory. Living in the Northern Territory (NT) presents a unique mix of challenges and opportunities for defence personnel and their families. The vast landscapes, geographic isolation, and the transient nature of defence life often lead to emotional stress, social disconnection and mental health concerns. Amidst these pressures, an emerging therapeutic approach is gaining traction: Transpersonal Art Ther

Fishing Adventure review of YKnot Fishing Charters by The Top Ender Magazine. Our reviews help you make the most out of the Top End.

I have not had anything to do with Legacy since I was a girl, but I felt a strong alignment to Legacy’s vision with the work we do at The...

Celebrating the life and service of Vietnam Veteran Robert Shewring OAM GAICD