1. Why did you audition for the new series of Sea Patrol? When did you find out you’d got the job? What do you hope to gain from this opportunity?

When I was given the opportunity to audition for Sea Patrol, I was very excited at the possibility of working on such a popular Aussie show. I received the news that my audition was successful on my eighteenth birthday, which made the moment all the more special – there was much celebration to be had! I hope that during my time on Sea Patrol I can further develop my acting skills under the guidance of my more experienced fellow cast members. It will be interesting to gain an insight into Navy life that I otherwise wouldn’t have had.

2. You’ll be replacing some much-loved characters. Are you worried about trying to live up to fans [or others] expectations?

The character of Jessica Bird is a new addition to the cast. There hasn’t been a gap girl in the previous seasons of Sea Patrol, so I don’t really feel that my character is a replacement for those that have left the show. She is also much younger than any of the Sea Patrol characters viewers are used to. With that said, I do feel the expectation to live up to the quality of performances that the series has produced so far, but I am determined to do the best that I can! Hopefully, the current fans will appreciate the new character and there will be new fans that will enjoy watching Bird’s journey in the Navy.

3. How does Sea Patrol differ from previous acting jobs you’ve had?

Where do I begin?! Well for a start, I’m living far away from home in sunny far north Queensland, which is entirely different to good old Melbourne. Living independently isn’t as scary as I thought it’d be, but it is still something I am getting used to. I have to say, I’m getting much better in the kitchen! Additionally, we spend several hours a day on patrol boats, which at times, feels like living in an entirely different world. I also had to undergo basic Navy training prior to filming so I could more accurately portray the role of a Navy Seaman. This is also my first acting role involving action scenes and coordinating movement with professional stuntmen. Neighbours and Snake Tales were great acting experiences, but they didn’t require me to do stunts like jumping between moving boats, and fighting terrorists who are trying to abduct me!

4. How are you settling in on set? What are the challenges of joining the cast of an established show?

At first, it seemed a bit daunting, but I feel I have settled in really well. Everyone has a great sense of humour and is so helpful and supportive, which made things a lot easier. Spending every day with the cast and crew, I feel like I am part of the Sea Patrol family already, and I have made some good friendships. The cast and crew are so experienced and professional, and I feel fortunate that I have been given the opportunity to be part of such a major production. It definitely feels like the perfect environment to grow and develop as a young actor. I guess one of the challenges that stands out for me, is getting my head around all of the Navy terms – they abbreviate absolutely everything!

5. Are you able to tell us a little about your character.

Jessica Bird has decided that after finishing her schooling, she wants to join the Navy for some real life experience. I think for a 17 year old, she has a lot of courage and intelligence, and as you will see, a year with the Navy definitely has an impact on her perspective on life. She is contemplating becoming a paramedic or a Navy medic, so if things work out, this ‘gappy’ may join the Navy full-time. She has stories of her own, some comedy, drama, and interesting interactions with the rest of the crew of HMAS Hammersley. At times Jess is naïve, but I think she has a good head on her shoulders. Her journey on the show definitely highlights how challenging it can be for Gap Year students in the Defence Force. Bird represents the younger generation – woo!