For most Australian Defence Force families, postings mean moving every few years. But for Naval Commander Simon Kelly and his family, one DHA-managed South Coogee property has been home for 32 years.
Now, after almost 42 years of service in the Royal Australian Navy, Simon and his family are closing the doors for the final time.
Simon receiving his Federation Star for 40-years’ service by the Commander Australian Fleet, RADM Chris Smith AM CSM, RAN
Simon enlisted in the Navy as an 18-year-old sailor in 1984, and attained the rank of Warrant Officer, before Commissioning and commencing a new career as a Naval Officer in 2010. His service was recognised last year with a Medal of the Order of Australia.
Despite the usual relocation demands of military life, Simon’s wife and son maintained a rare continuity in the South Coogee Service Residence. While Simon was posted inter- and intra-state, his family remained in the home, providing stability for his family.
This stability was not something Simon took for granted. As the son of a sailor who regularly uprooted, he understood firsthand the impact constant relocation can have on a family.
“Being able to provide that continuity for my family made a real difference. It meant my son could finish school without interruption, and my wife could build a supportive social network – both of which have been invaluable to our family's wellbeing during my frequent absences”.
Throughout Simon’s postings, DHA supported the family’s tenancy, providing what he describes as a reliable home foundation.
“Across three decades, the professionalism of DHA’s housing managers and support staff ensured my family had a responsive accommodation safety net I could rely upon when I wasn’t there. It gave me peace of mind that my family would be cared for while I focused on my operational and functional responsibilities at sea and ashore.”
This support extended to DHA property manager Zoran, who has worked with the family for 10 years. Simon commended his attentiveness and commitment, noting his genuine dedication to ensuring the home was well maintained at all times.
The Kelly family’s experience was shaped in part by the unique design of the South Coogee development the home sits within.
Purchased by the then Defence Housing Authority (now Defence Housing Australia) in June 1989, the Moverly Green development was considered innovative for its time, combining Defence and civilian housing to create a more integrated community. Construction began in July 1989, with half of the 159 cottages allocated to Defence families and the remainder sold on the open market.
This unique opportunity provided the Kelly’s to form lasting friendships with their neighbours. As one of the first mixed civilian and military developments of its kind, Moverly Green fostered strong connections, allowing the family to put down roots in a way that is rare in Defence life. When the family first moved in, the estate was newly planted. Today, the gardens are lush and established, mirroring the life they built over more than three decades.
Reflecting on his time in South Coogee, it was the ability to build a strong community over many years that Simon valued most.
"The sense of community that we’ve established during our occupancy is an enduring factor. Our immediate neighbours are all civilian, so our son grew up alongside their children. It also means we've been able to welcome our grandson into the home," Simon said.
For the Kelly family, the house has been more than just accommodation, it has been the backdrop to a lifetime of service, family milestones and enduring community connections.
As his time in the home draws to a close, Simon wrote to DHA’s Managing Director, to express his gratitude for the role the organisation has played in his family's life.
“The stability DHA has provided has contributed immeasurably to our collective resilience and quality of life, enabling me to focus fully on the responsibilities of service”.
As he approaches retirement, Simon will spend more time with his growing family and is considering volunteering with the Australian Maritime Museum or the Hyde Park Anzac Memorial.
This week, they will lock the doors for the final time and begin the next chapter of their lives together on Sydney’s northern beaches.