Peer Phil

Peer Phil joined the Australian Army in 1999 and spent his first two Christmas’s away, one based at Kapooka and the other in East Timor.

During this period, he had limited contact with his family and recalls how “there was nothing better than getting mail from home.”

When things got tough, it was the mates he was serving with that made the separation from his family more bearable. He recalls the support of his Padre was especially valuable at this time.

When Phil spent his first Christmas back home, he drove with his family from Townsville to Tassie to celebrate with his mum and dad. He cherished every moment being around close family and committed himself to not worry about the “little things”.

Now working as an Open Arms Peer, Phil dedicates time to thinking about those serving away from friends and family, especially around this time of year, and always gives them “a quiet shout to get home safe.”

Phil emphasises that “it’s normal to feel the isolation.”

“There are a lot of people missing loved ones through no fault of their own. You’re not less of a person because you’re not together.”

Phil emphasises how important it is to “keep traditions, even if you’re not together. This might mean eating the same food, playing the same games, or watching the same things.”

Sometimes routine and tradition can help bridge the distance.

Phil reminds those in similar situations that “when you do get together with family, don’t put too much pressure on yourself to make it perfect, give your family a hug and cherish the time you have. If you don’t get the chance to get together on the day itself, focus on what you can do.”

If you are struggling and need someone to talk to, Phil’s advice is simple: “Don’t fight it alone. If you feel isolated, pick up the phone, there’s us at Open Arms, but there are a lot of other options too.”