During Pride Month we shine a light on the strength, resilience, and achievements of the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s a time to stand together, celebrate identity, and advocate for equality and inclusion—ensuring no one feels alone in their journey toward acceptance and belonging. We would like you to meet Sam … 

Sam’s story begins in 1976, when, at just 15 years old, she joined the Royal Australian Navy. Back then, she was known as Tom—a young recruit eager to serve his country. Over the next 21 years, Tom built a distinguished career, serving on both the east and west coasts of Australia, including time aboard a survey ship in the north. 

In 1988, seeking a new challenge, Tom transferred to the Navy’s fire branch at HMAS Albatross in Nowra. He spent three years there before moving to Perth in 1990 to become a firefighter at HMAS Stirling. By 1993, he was leading fire teams aboard naval ships. Tom’s dedication and leadership were evident, and he remained in the Navy until his discharge in December 1997, continuing in the reserves for some time afterward and then joining Ventia’s (then Transfield) privately owned firefighting team. 

Transitioning from the Defence Force to civilian life brought a new rhythm. No longer on call 24/7 or subject to the rigid structure of military life, Tom found a different kind of balance. While the conditions changed, what remained was a deep desire to serve.

 Working with Ventia’s firefighting team allowed him to continue supporting the Defence and Navy community—something that gave pride and purpose.

It’s not just a job, It’s a way to keep giving back to the people and values I’ve always believed in.

Living Authentically: Sam’s Journey of Courage and Identity

Beneath the dedicated hard work and uniform, Tom carried a personal truth. Since the age of five, he had known he was different. It wasn’t until 2015—decades after joining the Navy—that Tom transitioned and became Sam. Coming out was a monumental step, not just personally but professionally. She described the experience as revealing her “whole world.” 

As a firefighter Sam knew that trust and honesty are vital to operational success. In high-pressure environments where lives are on the line, being able to rely on one another without hesitation is essential. That’s why she felt it was so important to be honest with her colleagues about her identity. Her decision to live authentically wasn’t just about personal truth—it was about maintaining the integrity and cohesion of the team and was met with support from colleagues and friends alike. 

Pride, Purpose, and Everyday Joy

Today she continues to serve as a firefighter and especially loves working at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia. Sam is surrounded by an accepting and supportive team. With 27 years at Ventia - and its previous iterations - she feels a deep sense of loyalty, pride, and belonging. For Sam, continuing to serve the Defence and Navy community in this way is not just a job—it’s a calling. 

The location’s not bad either. Each morning, as she drives across the bridge to the base, she often sees dolphins playing in the water and in the evenings, the sunsets over the base never get old and offer a quiet reflection. These small, everyday experiences deepen connection to the place she serves. 

Sam also thrives on the physical and mental challenges of firefighting. “I love learning how far I can push myself,” she says. Whether it’s mastering new techniques or responding to high-stakes situations, she finds strength in testing her limits and growing through the experience. 

Inspiring Others and Representing Inclusion

Her transition was more than a change of name—it was a transformation of identity, courage, and authenticity. As a Dad of two and grandfather of three it was not a decision she look lightly when she underwent gender reassignment surgery. She openly shares her story at Curtin University, where she inspires students with her journey of transformation, leadership, and authenticity. Her presence bridges generations and experiences, showing young people the power of living truthfully. At these occasions Ventia is proudly represented as a safe and inclusive workplace that ensures Sam is able to bring her whole self to the job everyday. 

Celebrating Diversity at Ventia

At Ventia we celebrate and embrace diversity across our business - diversity in background, age, gender, skills, experience and thought.

Read more about Ventia's approach to diversity, equity & inclusion here.