Having a defence background helps Mates4Mates Liaison Officer Matthew Jenkins in his work with ex and current serving defence force personnel.
Where do you live and what do you love about it?
I live in Kingston. The beach isn’t far away and it’s got a slight country feel without lacking in services, and who doesn’t need two Woolworths stores!
What’s the best thing about Hobart?
How accessible everything is. I can be out diving all day and be in the CBD within 30 minutes, or I can be out and about in the bush yet not be more than a small drive away from Hobart.
And the worst?
The current parking meter fiasco. That simple pleasure of rocking up to a carpark to find 20 minutes left on the meter when you haven’t got any change is something I think we all enjoy and it’s something we may never get back.
Tell us a little bit about your work?
I work for Mates4Mates as a Liaison Officer in a peer support role. We look after current and ex serving defence personnel and their families who have been affected by their service. I have a defence background and being able to work in a community of my peers is a rewarding experience. Tasmania has a large veteran community and Mates4Mates are a major part of the limited services available in Tasmania.
Where’s your favourite eatery?
That’s a tie – Room for a Pony or The Winston.
Where do you head for a coffee?
Capulus Espresso.
Favourite Hobart secret?
Watching The Big Swifty thrash out a quality cover of “Horses” at Brick on a Saturday night.
And outside of work?
I spend a lot of my time outdoors, either diving or bushwalking. The recent fires have put a small dent in the walking activities but the water is always calling. I would much rather spend my time under the water than on it.
A quote to live by?
“Blues, Boots and Hawaiian shirts Champ” – JWC Sheehan
