Dr Anthony Holley

Ahead of ANZAC Day 2021, we sat down with one of our military heroes Dr Anthony Holley. Dr Holley was recently promoted to Captain in the Deputy Chief of Navy’s Office, Canberra, to assume the role of Director Navy Health-R.

When did you join the Navy and how has it enriched your life?

I joined the Royal Australian Navy in 2005 following a permanent naval career in New Zealand. It has been a remarkable journey with service in Afghanistan, Iraq, the Persian Gulf, Indian Ocean, South Pacific Ocean, border protection, bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. It has created academic opportunities with the development and introduction of cryopreserved blood products, as well as incredible training opportunities to deliver clinical training and receive training across a range of diverse areas, including sea survival, leadership, communications and military skills.

How has your career at RBWH helped you progress in the Navy?

RBWH has allowed me to develop my clinical, teaching and administrative skills. The hospital has been incredibly supportive of developing a military career in parallel.

What does the role of Director Navy Health-R involve?

Director Navy Health-R is responsible to Director General Navy Health – Reserve (DGNH-R) for the strategic management of the Navy Health Reserve force. I ensure the clinical and military readiness of the Naval Health Reserve to meet current Navy and Defence capability requirements.

What did it take to be promoted to this level?

It is highly competitive process and relies on time, experience and past performance. It is a tremendous opportunity to put all of my operational experience to use at a strategic and planning level.