From military operations to fighting fires: CDU graduate reflects on return to study

Christine Robertson has spent the last decade strengthening her ability to support her community – alongside her work with military operations and as a firefighter – and today, she finally dons a graduation cap and gown.

Mrs Robertson was inspired by her experiences as a firefighter with the Queensland Fire Department (QFD) and former member of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) to pursue a Bachelor of Psychological Science.

For example, during her tenure in the RAAF Mrs Robertson took part in critical operations – such as the search for missing flight MH370 – that reinforced her sense of resilience and adaptability.

“Experiences such as these taught me a valuable lesson about myself,” she said. 

“I never graduated high school and I never believed I was smart enough to be accepted into university, but this experience showed me I was capable and resilient enough to face the pressure and challenges that inevitability come with studying in university.”

Now, Mrs Robertson is ready to face her next challenge, whatever shape that takes. 

“I still love my role as a firefighter and serving the community in a meaningful way, however my focus has always been becoming the best version of myself and my family, and I am excited for the future ahead,” she said.

She is one of 2117 Charles Darwin University (CDU) graduates around the country who completed their studies either in November 2024 or at the end of the 2025 summer semester in March.

“It’s an incredibly surreal and rewarding experience – at times, I envied those graduating ahead of me, but today I am deeply grateful to celebrate this milestone,” she said.

“This journey has shaped my identity and today I have the privilege of wearing many hats alongside my graduation cap: wife, mother, daughter, sister, and firefighter.

“I think this reflects the reality that we are not confined to one path and with support of the right people around us, we can pursue multiple passions and carve our own unique journeys.”

Graduation ceremonies will run from May 20 to May 22 at the Casuarina Campus, running at 10am, 2pm, and 6pm. Thursday's ceremonies will run at 10am and 4pm.