Despite the defence force being a male-dominated profession, females in Fiji are encouraged to take up positions in the force.

This is the statement made by Janessa Tree who is the Australian Navy Maritime Logistics Officer.

Tree is part of the forces on board the Australian Naval ship – HMS Adelaide that docked Suva’s Kings Wharf this morning.

She says rapid changes are happening globally and people need to be given a chance to attain their career dreams irrespective of gender and age.

“Certainly we do have more males in defence than we do have females. But our female population is growing rapidly which is amazing to see. I don’t face any challenges as in female on board I get treated just as any other person board. So I don’t see navy as being male-dominated at all”.

Australian Army certified pilot, Lieutenant Bonnie Hunt says everything is possible if you are willing to put in the hard work.

“It is a male-dominated career. However, I have not experienced any heartaches or challenges along my way. I’ve got a lot of male friends in this field and they are the ones that have gotten me through”.

Meanwhile, over 400 Australian Defence Forces are currently in the country to carry out certain social activities and spearhead capacity building session with the Fiji Naval and Military forces.

The Australian Defence personnel will depart our shores next week Thursday.