An engineer by trade, Signaller David Muwandi decided he wanted a challenge, so he joined the Army Reserve and hasn't looked back.
"I joined for adventure, a challenge and fun," Signaller Muwandi said.
But he admits it was an adjustment for his wife, son and daughter to get used to, with some help from Army-issued confectionary.
"My kids are little soldiers themselves; when I enlisted and did basic training at Kapooka for five weeks, it was absolutely shattering for them," he said.
"Now they've become accustomed to it and always look forward to having me back, hearing the fun stories and bringing home M&Ms from the ration packs."
Deploying on his first major activity, Signaller Muwandi participated in Exercise Austral Shield, supporting 11th Brigade's task force headquarters at RAAF Base Curtin, near Derby in northern Western Australia.
"My role is to assist in maintaining the radio network between various units across the operating area," Signaller Muwandi said.
"This ensures communication and the dissemination of information to support mission success."
Operating in the field environment certainly delivered the challenge Signaller Muwandi was after - from maintaining a 24/7 radio watch, to establishing antenna farms and rapidly responding to in-scenario enemy threats.
"It's a rare opportunity to be part of Austral Shield and it's been a good experience," he said.
"It's been very exciting, exhausting as well, but that's part of the fun."
In his second year of service with the Army Reserve, Signaller Muwandi is keen to keep developing his skills and is a proud member of 109th Signal Squadron.
"The variety of activities is quite interesting, but there's just so much more to learn and to keep me engaged," he said.
"I'm really happy to be part of Defence, part of the Army, and particularly part of the Signals Corps."
His advice to anyone thinking of joining the Army Reserve: "You won't know until you try, but I guarantee you'll love it, and if there's anyone considering joining, they shouldn't think twice".
