RAEME Association Queensland Inc

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Welcome

The RAEME Association Queensland Incorporated is a not-for-profit, volunteer, community service organisation, supporting the RAEME National Network by providing leadership to, and a focal point for, all RAEME affiliated Associations in Queensland, by promoting and recognising the corps and its achievements via independent memorial, celebratory, social, fundraising, sporting and other activities.

The purposes of the Association are to—

promote, provide or carry out activities, facilities or projects for the benefit or welfare of the community or any members of the RAQ as a community service organisation; and
promote the corps identity and reputation in Queensland; and
recognise and celebrate the achievements of the members of the corps in Queensland; and
provide a focal point for corps activities in Queensland.

The role of the RAEME is to ensure maximum operational availability of equipment to enable the commander to win the land battle. RAEME is a technical corps tasked with the maintenance of the Army's modern hardware and equipment. More on the Corps can be found at this link.

This site has been developed as a communication tool for RAEME members in Queensland. All attempts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information supplied. If any errors or broken links are found, or if you have any item or article for inclusion on these pages, please contact the webmaster.

RAQ Subscriptions

Annual subscriptions to the RAQ are due by 30 June each year. Subscriptions can be paid using either PayPal (fee free) or EFT by clicking the Icon below and logging in. Renew your subscription for $10 a year or upgrade to Life Subscription for $100.

New members please use the 'Online Registration' link under the Membership banner.

All proceeds are used to support and promote the goals of the Association.

Meetings and Functions

Are held on the first Wednesday of each month excluding January, the latest information is on the Events page

Craftsman Reserve 2025 Bourbon now available!

Bottles are now being dispatched and they’re moving fast. Of the original 500 bottles produced exclusively for the RAEME Association, we estimate only around 190 remain available for purchase — once they're gone, they're gone.

This year, our mates at Milton Distillery have lifted the bar again, experimenting with a refined mash to create a one-off bourbon crafted just for RAEME made from Australian Corn mash!. Expect a floral nose with hints of honey and vanilla, rolling into a warm, spiced finish a fitting tribute to the artisans of our Corps.

Raise a glass to exceptional craftsmanship and the spirit of those who always strive for perfection.

How to get yours

Ordering is now open — limited allocation remaining
Retail: $90 | RAQ Members: $80 (use the member-only discount code, make sure you login first or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.!)
Free shipping on orders over $130 — remember to select the free-shipping option at checkout!

Purchase exclusively via the distillery — click the button below or copy the link:

https://miltondistillery.com/product/raeme-bourbon-2025-limited-edition/

(Link is not publicly listed)

Important ordering info:

Members — don’t forget to apply your discount code at checkout.
You’re welcome to purchase other Milton Distillery products, but the $10 discount applies only to our bourbon (per bottle — buy as many as you like!).
With a large volume of orders to fill, please allow up to a week or so before contacting the distillery directly: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Cheers to our Craftsman Reserve Bourbon!

Featured

Annual RAEME Get Together - Bjelke-Petersen Dam

Above: L-R Greg Riley, Karen Cairns & Helen Neeson drawing the major raffle prize.

The 9th Annual RAEME Get Together has once again proved that the Corps spirit is alive and well, with more than 140 past and present RAEME members and their partners gathering for a weekend of camaraderie, entertainment and storytelling. What began as a small gathering in 2018 has grown into a popular annual reunion, featuring the traditional Friday “Happy Hour”, live entertainment, trivia, karaoke and the ever-popular charity auction, along with an informative briefing on upcoming DVA legislative changes.

Planning is already underway for the milestone 10th Annual Get Together in 2027.

Readers can catch the full story including highlights from the auction, trivia and the legendary RAEME Rock Show in the next edition of Maintenance Matters, due out on 15 March.

For Maintenance Matters to thrive, we need stories from across the Corps, particularly from serving workshops. To encourage contributions, RAEME Association Queensland is offering a $50 gift voucher for the best published submission in each edition.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Clarrie Sanders

ANZAC Day 2026 – Brisbane Parade and Function update

A quick update for members planning to attend the Brisbane ANZAC Day Parade on 25 April 2026.

The current Version 5 Order of March (subject to change) places:

Army – Group 4, step off approx 10:20 am
Army Associations – Group 5, step off approx 10:30 am

The RAEME Association Queensland will march in Section I, Serial 64, led by the Brisbane Pipe Band. Please remember our serial number (64) so we can form up quickly and move into position smoothly.

Form up will be on George Street near Charlotte Street, so members should arrive early to locate our serial.

Transport assistance remains centred around Queen Street.

Jeep and buggy loading: Commonwealth Bank corner of Edward Street near Post Office Square
Veterans needing assistance on George Street should approach marshals at George & Elizabeth Streets or visit an Information Tent
An online transport booking form will be issued soon.

Toilets will be available at:

Queens Park
George Street opposite Stephens Lane
Eagle Lane

Everyman’s Services at Queens Park will again provide hot drinks for veterans.

Other Information

Due to security measures, spectators cannot watch from the Adelaide Street overpass near ANZAC Square.
Adelaide Street works are now complete.
ABC has CASA approval to fly a drone along Adelaide Street for parade coverage.
2026 marks 125 years of both the Navy and Army, with 7th Brigade expected to march over 2,000 troops and vehicles.

Post-March Function

Our traditional post-march gathering will again be held at the Port Office Hotel.

Subsidised tickets will be available on the RAQ website in the coming weeks. Members and guests are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as they:

Guarantee priority entry before 1:00 pm
Includes a meal and a couple of drinks

This has become a popular way for RAEME members and friends to reconnect after the march, so early booking is strongly recommended.

Members should monitor emails, Spanner News Weekly, and the RAQ and Brisbane Parade websites for further updates, including the media and transport forms.

We encourage all members attending to help present a strong, organised RAEME turnout on the day.

Arte et Marte

Army Open Day Events - Queensland - 14 March 2026

The Open Days are a celebration of 125 years of Federation and 125 years’ service by Army to Australia.

The following bases will be open on Saturday, 14 March 2026. Times vary by location, please see the list for exact times.

Be sure to register for tickets closer to the date; a link will be made available on this page.

Lavarack Barracks
Where			Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, Queensland
When			9:00 am to 3:00 pm
What’s on			Lavarack Barracks will open its doors to the public with a range of displays showcasing the people, capability, and equipment of its units. Visitors can watch the AH64E Apache and CH 47 Chinook landing, then explore static displays including the M1A2 SEP V3, Combat Engineer Vehicles, military working dogs, and more. Enjoy music from the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment Band, meet unit mascots, and grab a bite from the 10th Force Support Battalion Field Kitchen, with activities and attractions for all ages throughout the day.
Gallipoli Barracks
Where			Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera, Queensland
When			1:00 pm to 7:00 pm
What’s on			The Gallipoli Barracks Open Day event will include a range of displays from artillery, armour, signals, transport and engineering units, as well as infantry and medical teams, along with performances by the Australian Army Band, a planned 35 Squadron flypast, military re‑enactments, community and veteran organisations, historical military vehicles and a variety of amusement activities such as rides, a rock‑climbing tower, a giant swing and a giant slide. Don’t miss the fireworks display at 6:45 pm. Register for tickets via Gallipoli Barracks Open Day 2026 Tickets \| Eventbrite
Kokoda Barracks
Where	Kokoda Barracks, Witheren, Queensland
When	9:00 am to 12:00 pm
What’s on	Join us for a day of community and connection as the Land Warfare Centre at Kokoda Barracks opens its doors to the public. The event will feature military vehicle, weapons and equipment displays, along with simulated section attacks, physical training stands and the jungle obstacle course. There will also be children’s activities, including face painting and the jump tower into the Coomera River. Food and drinks will be available through the Queensland RSL sausage sizzle, the Salvation Army ‘Sally Man’, and local coffee and food vans. Please note this is a dry event and alcohol is not permitted. No special access is required to enter the base. Parking is limited so please follow signage and directions from soldiers on the day.
Army Aviation Flying Museum
Where	Army Aviation Flying Museum, Oakey, Queensland
When	10:00 am to 2:00 pm
What’s on		Army Aviation will be opening to the public to showcase a range of capabilities and history at the Army Aviation Flying Museum situated near Swartz Barracks. You will get a firsthand experience meeting the team behind Army Aviation. Come and hear their stories and learn how the aircraft operate. The event will also feature virtual reality displays and the opportunity to get up close to some of our equipment including a Black Hawk helicopter. External food and beverage trucks will offer a range of food and refreshments available for purchase. Register for tickets via Army Aviation Open Day 2026 Tickets \| Eventbrite

Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence

Featured

Happy 125th Birthday Army - 1 March 2026

Above: 125 years of service, strength, and dedication. Proud of our history. Click the image to view more.

In 2026, the Australian Army proudly marks 125 years of service to the nation.

The Army was formally established on 1 March 1901, following the Federation of Australia when the colonial military forces were amalgamated into what was then known as the Commonwealth Military Forces. Over time, this organisation evolved into the modern Australian Army, a professional and highly capable force that continues to serve Australia both at home and abroad.

For 125 years, generations of soldiers have answered the call to serve their country. From defending Australia in times of conflict to contributing to peacekeeping missions, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief operations, the Army has played a vital role in protecting the nation and supporting Australian communities.

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC, reflected on the significance of this milestone, noting that for 125 years the Australian Army has been a trusted national institution, deeply connected to the community and committed to protecting Australia. He emphasised that the anniversary is an opportunity to honour the generations who have served while reaffirming the Army’s ongoing commitment to the nation and its people.

Throughout 2026, a range of commemorative events and activities will be held across Australia to celebrate this significant milestone. These events will recognise the history, achievements and sacrifices of Australian soldiers, while also highlighting the important role the Army continues to play in safeguarding Australia’s security and supporting the community.

As the Army marks 125 years of service, it stands as a proud reminder of the dedication, courage and professionalism of the men and women who have served and continue to serve Australia.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence

Run Army - Brisbane and Townsville

Click on the image to view more

Our goal is to deliver a world-class event which results in an unrivalled partnership, demonstrating support for serving members, veterans and the wider community.

Run Army is a great way for people to come together for a fun running event, alongside those who commit their lives to protecting them. It is a chance to say thanks for the job they do, and to show support for their efforts on this one special day of the year, in the lead up to Anzac Day.

We invite the community to join us in recognising the ANZAC spirit and push themselves physically and mentally alongside current serving soldiers, and our First Responders from the Queensland Police, Queensland Ambulance and Queensland Fire and Emergency Services. Run Army has already raised close to $1 million in support of Legacy, Queensland Police Legacy, The Firefighter Cancer Foundation, QAS Legacy, SES Gift Fund, and The Surf Life Saving Foundation.

Run Army is experiencing significant growth, aiming to increase participation at the Brisbane race, from 8,000 in 2025 to over 15,000 by 2027. On top of the current 5 kilometre and 10 kilometre races, 2026 will see the inclusion of a 2.4 kilometre course and a 15 kilometre Chiefs Challenge.

Run Army supports those who serve and stands united in our commitment to those who stand on the front lines for us every day. 100% of the donations goes directly to charity.

For more information and to register for the event, visit the official Run Army website.

Brisbane

29 March 2026
6:00 am – 10:00 am
South Bank Parklands and Brisbane City, Brisbane

Townsville

19 April 2026
6:00 am – 10:00 am
The Strand and Jezzine Barracks, Townsville

Virtual

19 March – 25 April 2026
Visit Virtual Event – Run Army for information

Image and information,adapted courtesy of Defence

Army Littoral Capability Boost - WA

Above: The Austal and Commonwealth contract negotiation teams at Henderson shipyard during the contract signing ceremony.

Army’s ability to operate and fight in Australia’s coastal and regional environments has taken a major step forward with the signing of a $4 billion agreement to build eight Landing Craft Heavy (LCH) vessels. Based on the Damen Naval Landing Ship Transport 100 design, the vessels will be capable of transporting more than 500 tonnes of equipment and vehicles, enabling Army to manoeuvre and sustain land forces across the Indo-Pacific during both operations and humanitarian assistance missions.

The new fleet will support Army’s transformation under the 2024 National Defence Strategy, enhancing its ability to operate in littoral environments such as beaches, rivers and coastal areas. The vessels will provide the lift needed to deploy key capabilities including Abrams tanks, HIMARS rocket systems, Boxer reconnaissance vehicles and Redback infantry fighting vehicles. Construction will take place at Austal Defence Australia in Henderson, Western Australia, with work commencing later this year and all eight vessels expected to be delivered by 2038.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence

RAQ NQ Youth Member wanted!

The RAQ is calling for expressions of interest for a Youth Member (North Queensland) to join the RAQ Committee.

This is a great opportunity for a young RAEME soldier or tradesperson to represent the views of the next generation, help shape the future of the Corps, and strengthen connections between serving members and the veteran community. The role involves attending monthly RAQ meetings, supporting events and engagement activities, promoting RAQ membership, and helping ensure Association initiatives remain relevant to younger members. Rank is not important, enthusiasm, commitment to the Corps, and strong communication skills are what matter.

The successful applicant will gain valuable leadership and networking experience, including connections with senior veterans and Defence industry leaders, and will receive a $100 RAQ Corps Shop voucher on appointment and another after 12 months.

If you’re passionate about RAEME and ready to represent your generation, we want to hear from you.

Send a short letter of introduction to:
Paul Gibbs – Deputy Chairman RAQ
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.