53-year-old Territorian Ken Mastop proves anybody can join the Australian Defence Force

Bucking the trend and enlisting in the army when most would be settling down, one Territorian is proving that no challenge is too great. Read his inspiring story.

If there is one thing Ken Mastop has taken away from his time at Kapooka, it is that nothing is beyond a person’s limitations.

The 53-year-old Territorian has returned home for Christmas after several gruelling months of training to join the Australian Defence Force.

The former technician will be posted as an ADF marine specialist after a few more weeks of training in Townsville.

Mr Mastop’s partner Michelle, eager to join him on his long-awaited adventure, has already half-packed up the house.

Ken Mastop enlisted in the Army in July, with the support of his partner Michelle Reman. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“A long time ago we were sitting out talking and she said ‘it still bugs you that you missed your shot, doesn’t it?’” he said.

“She was the one that really encouraged me to join and has backed me all the way … she’s been fantastic.”

While family commitments put the lifelong dream on hold, Mr Mastop said enlisting to serve at an older age had provided some valuable lessons.

Private Ken Mastop has joined the Australian Defence Force as a late career change to be marine specialist. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

“I have three kids of my own so I pretty much knew what I was going into,” he said of training alongside younger recruits.

“We all bounced off each other and when the young guys were struggling they would come to me for advice.

“Obviously being the young guns, they pushed me along and inspired me to keep going.

“I’m five-foot-five, 60kg and twice as old everyone else … and I completed it.

“You meet challenges you never thought you’d be able to meet.

“Joining the army is not beyond anyone’s physical or mental capabilities.”

Private Ken Mastop's late career change to be a marine specialist in the Australian Defence Force was supported by Captain Grant Carter, a Darwin-based ADF senior recruitment officer. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

Senior military recruiting officer Captain Grant Carter said life in the Australian Defence Force was unique.

“You’ll enjoy a rich and rewarding blend of career and lifestyle opportunities, fulfilling well-paid work, job security and benefits,” he said.

“There are more than 200 career opportunities across the ADF, featuring world-class training and education.

“So if you are like Ken, aged between 17 and 56, with a spirit for adventure, and a desire to give something back to your country, then we have a job for you.”

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