Nursing officer Captain Victoria Flegg has come a long way from the quiet seaside town of Ocean Grove in Victoria to providing critical health support on the Pacific island of Nauru as part of Operation Render Safe.
Captain Flegg is part of a small contingent supporting the Government of the Republic of Nauru with the safe disposal of a World War 2 500lb unexploded ordnance (UXO).
Her role is to provide health support and health logistics to the contingent.
Captain Flegg progressed from her humble beginnings at Ocean Grove Primary School to Army’s 4th Health Battalion.
Her adventurous yet caring nature led her to follow her brother into the Army, becoming a nursing officer in February 2016.
“I always wanted to do something in health care. But I also have a drive for adventure and challenge,” Captain Flegg said.
“When my brother joined, I found out about the Army and decided it was right for me too.”
While she trains in jujitsu for fun in Townsville, at work she is meticulous.
As part of the medical team on Operation Render Safe, Captain Flegg is responsible for planning and preparing for the dangers of a UXO disposal.
Her medical preparation has included an assessment of medical facilities, medical personnel and rehearsals for medical emergencies.
“The deployed ADF medical team were really impressed with preparations that have been made so far by the local health team present,” she said.
“It’s essential for us to maintain the highest level of safety for the Australians and the Nauruan people.”
Captain Flegg said Operation Render Safe 2023 was a cherished experience and a deployment she will always be proud of.
“I’ve really enjoyed being in Nauru. It’s a beautiful place,” Captain Flegg said.
“We toured the island and got to know the health support on location.”
Captain Flegg has deployed around Australia during Operation COVID Assist, Exercise RIMPAC in Hawaii and Exercise Olgetta Warrior in Papua New Guinea as a nursing officer.
