Each year on 25 April, Australians pause to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have worn our nation’s uniform. At Birdon, ANZAC Day is not just a moment of national commemoration—it’s a deeply personal day for many of our people.
Among our workforce are 14 Australian Defence Force veterans whose experience spans the Navy, Army, and operational deployments across the globe. From shipboard engineering to peacekeeping, supply chain management, and tactical communications, their contributions reflect the diversity and dedication of Australia’s defence community. What unites them is a legacy of service and a commitment to excellence—values they bring into their roles at Birdon every day.
This week, Birdon teams around the country came together over ANZAC Biscuit Morning Teas to reflect and recognise. ANZAC biscuits were purchased through Coles, with proceeds supporting Bravery Trust—a charity providing critical financial and wellbeing support to veterans and their families. Supporting Bravery Trust is just one way Birdon continues to stand beside those who have served.
As we commemorate ANZAC Day, we share the stories of our veteran colleagues whose lived experiences shape our culture and strengthen our connection to Australia’s defence mission.
Sarah Yuen
General Manager Assets and Service Contracts – Port Macquarie
Royal Australian Navy, 1996–2006 – Marine Engineering Officer
A former Marine Engineering Officer in the Royal Australian Navy (1996–2006), Sarah Yuen brings a decade of frontline experience to her leadership at Birdon. She served on the commissioning crew of HMAS WARRAMUNGA and undertook operational roles during vessel interceptions at Christmas Island. Her Navy experience, especially in ship repair and refit, laid the foundation for her current role managing government vessel operations and freight contract. For Sarah, ANZAC Day is an opportunity to share Australia’s history with her children. She values Birdon’s support of veterans, particularly through initiatives like Bravery Trust, which demonstrates meaningful recognition beyond the workplace.
Mark Albertson
Executive General Manager Maritime and Defence – WA/NSW
Royal Australian Navy, 1992–2005 – Aircraft Maintenance, Avionics
Mark served with the US Navy post-9/11 and now leads Birdon’s maritime and defence portfolio. He sees ANZAC Day as a solemn time for reflecting on the selfless contributions of those who served and did not return. His recent ANZAC Day at the Isurava Memorial in PNG reflects his ongoing connection to service and sacrifice. Mark believes Birdon’s sponsorship of Bravery Trust is vital, providing practical support and demonstrating that industry values the service and transition of veterans.
Wayne Henry
LC-M Systems Engineering Team Lead – Henderson
Royal Australian Navy, 1989–2002 – Combat System Maintainer/ManagerWayne Henry joined Birdon in 2024 after a 13-year Navy career (1989–2002) as a Combat System Maintainer and Manager. His operational deployments included post-Gulf War DAMASK operations and peacekeeping missions in the Solomon Islands and East Timor. Now leading Birdon’s LC-M Systems Engineering Team, Wayne brings over three decades of defence sector experience—both in uniform and as a defence contractor supporting the Anzac Class frigates. For him, ANZAC Day is a time to reflect on the past and honour those who served.
David Rushton
Manager Maritime Programs – Port Macquarie
Royal Australian Navy, 1979–1989 – Submarine Weapons Electrical Engineering OfficerA former Submarine Weapons Electrical Engineering Officer, David Rushton served with the Royal Australian Navy from 1979 to 1989. His career highlights include Australia’s first sub-launched Harpoon missile test and early involvement in the Collins Class submarine project. Since joining Birdon in 2024, David supports delivery of the Young Endeavour Replacement, LC-M, and AV-L programs. He sees ANZAC Day as a time to reflect on the sacrifices of past and present ADF members, including his own children who serve today. Birdon’s support of Bravery Trust, in his view, reinforces the vital need to support service members through transitions and hardship.
Benjamin Heron
Data Manager – Port Macquarie
Royal Australian Navy, 2010–2016 – Communications and Information Systems Sailor
Benjamin served on exercises including Talisman Sabre and supported ADF satellite operations globally. He received a Commander’s Commendation for his training contributions. Benjamin joined Birdon in 2025 as part of the Technical Services Team for the Amphibious Vehicle – Light program, where his experience in tactical communications and naval training continues to benefit Defence-focused projects. ANZAC Day, to Benjamin, is a moment to remember the personal sacrifices made in service. He sees Birdon’s support of Bravery Trust as a small act that can make a big difference to veterans in need.
David Miter
Integrated Logistics Manager – Port Macquarie
Australian Army, 1997–2018 – Supply Chain/Warehouse Manager (Reservist)
David’s 21-year career included deployments to Bougainville, Iraq, Afghanistan, and multiple domestic humanitarian missions. He held key logistics roles in supply chain and weapons management. David joined Birdon in late 2024 and now supports the AV-L program and Young Endeavour Replacement. ANZAC Day is deeply personal to him—a time to honour mates lost, remember shared hardship, and reflect on the unrecognised strength of families. David believes Birdon’s support of Bravery Trust shows the company stands for more than business; it stands for service and community.
Joshua Kelly
Dredge Operator – Bulga
Royal Australian Navy, 2016–2025 – Marine Technician
Joshua Kelly transitioned from the Royal Australian Navy to Birdon in 2025 after nearly a decade as a Marine Technician. His service included boarding operations and international deployments, with highlights including work on advanced naval systems. Now based at Birdon’s Bulga mine site, Joshua values the team’s support and how smoothly his shift to civilian life has been. ANZAC Day holds special significance for him and his family as a day of remembrance and unity. Joshua credits the Birdon team with making his transition from military to civilian work seamless and meaningful.
Carly Bakes
Industry Engagement Manager – Sydney
Royal Australian Navy, 2012–2020 – Logistics and Supply Chain Sailor
Carly Bakes served as a Logistics and Supply Chain Sailor in the Royal Australian Navy from 2012 to 2020, with deployments to Egypt and the Solomon Islands. Now leading industry engagement for Birdon, she plays a key role in supporting the Young Endeavour II program and strengthening national partnerships. She sees ANZAC Day as a profound moment for honouring service, preserving stories, and fostering intergenerational understanding. Birdon’s support of Bravery Trust, to her, reflects genuine recognition and commitment to the wellbeing of the veteran community.
Laing Newbury
Boilermaker/Fabricator – Port Macquarie
Australian Army, 1980s – RAEME, Forward Repair Team Commander
Laing served with the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME) in the Australian Army, where he led forward repair teams—providing vital technical support to frontline operations. Since 2005, he has worked with Birdon on and off, most recently contributing his expertise to the Young Endeavour II project. For Laing, ANZAC Day is a time of reflection—honouring the sacrifices made by service personnel and remembering family members who served and are no longer with us. He believes Birdon’s support of Bravery Trust is a great initiative that shows real appreciation for veterans and the challenges they face after service.
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Birdon proudly recognises and honours all veterans in our team—not just on ANZAC Day, but every day. Their service continues to strengthen our business and our contribution to Australia’s defence and maritime future.
Lest we forget.
