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, with less than 180 bottles remaining 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

40th Anniversary Corps Banner Parade - Wodonga

Above: L–R. The 40th Anniversary Banner Party 2026 and the Corps Banner presentation in 1986.

The Corps proudly marked the 40th Anniversary of the Prince Philip Banner Parade at Gaza Ridge Barracks, Bandiana, commemorating the historic presentation of the Banner by His Royal Highness Prince Philip on 20 May 1986. First approved in 1983 and formally presented in 1986, the Prince Philip Banner symbolises the enduring identity of the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps — representing service, technical mastery, professionalism, unity, and pride in sustaining Army capability.

In the lead up to the parade, the weather across Bandiana had been bleak and rain threatened the day’s proceedings. However, just as occurred in 1986, the skies cleared in time for a perfect autumn day on parade. The original parade drew more than 4,000 spectators and represented RAEME soldiers from every Australian state, cementing the Corps’ place amongst Army units entrusted with ceremonial Colours, Standards, and Guidons.

Above: Major General Anna Duncan AM CSC, Commander Forces Command arrives in a period 1980s Ford LTD Staff Car.

The anniversary parade brought together serving soldiers, veterans, dignitaries, and members of the wider RAEME family in a ceremony reflecting both the precision and pride of the Corps. Hosted by Head of Corps Brigadier Gabrielle Follett AM and reviewed by Major General Anna Duncan AM CSC, Commander Forces Command, the parade showcased impeccable drill, military professionalism, and the continued relevance of RAEME’s technical trades across Defence. Adding to the historical atmosphere, Commander Forces Command arrived in a period 1980s Ford LTD Staff Car, reflecting the era of the original 1986 parade.

Above: HOC BRIG Gabrielle Follett.

HOC BRIG Brigadier Follett’s leadership and stewardship of Corps identity were central to the success of the anniversary activities.

"This parade is one of the key highlights of my career, genuinely,” said Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Head of Corps, Brigadier Gabrielle Follett.

“I've not been part of something that has gone back so far in time before. 40 years ago was before I joined the Army, and it's incredible to see and to meet today the veterans on parade on that day, to see the young soldiers and officers who are on parade now, and to see lineage through their customs and traditions.

“Our RAEME soldiers are innovative, they're collaborative, they're able to fight forward to where the equipment needs to be repaired or recovered, they fight back and they go again to support what every other part of our Army is doing.

“They take great pride in our colours, red, blue and yellow, and the hat badge that they wear every day.”

“And the parade - absolutely top notch!”

Above: The 40th Anniversary Banner Parade contingent with the Prince Philip Banner.

Also included in the parade were RAAF technicians, highlighting the evolving nature of technical trades, joint capability, and training across the ADF. Their inclusion reflected the increasingly integrated environment in which technical specialists operate across Army and Air Force capability streams, reinforcing the importance of shared technical mastery and interoperability within Defence.

Above: The Prince Philip Banner and all troops departing the parade ground after a splendid display of Corps pride!.

As the final rehearsal concluded the day before, WO1 Andrew McAdie reflected on returning to the same parade ground four decades after first marching there as a young Craftsman.

“It’s amazing to think I was a 22-year-old Craftsman, 40 years ago, standing on this parade ground. And now here I am, 40 years later, with that opportunity again,” WO1 McAdie said.

During the parade, WO1 McAdie undertook the ceremonial role of Artificer and recalled the extensive preparation undertaken by those on parade.

“We were well trained,” he said. “We practised an awful lot for the parade. We spent a lot of time on the parade ground and we were all fairly confident.”

Reflecting on the current generation of soldiers, he added, “From what I see, with the young troops, they are just as keen as I was, and am.”

Above: WO1 Andrew McAdie at the final rehearsal.

Following the parade, invited dignitaries, senior Defence representatives, veterans, and guests attended a formal dinner commemorating the anniversary. The dinner provided an opportunity for veterans and serving members to reflect on the significance of the Banner and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Corps.

At the same time, many members both serving and retired gathered at the Blazing Stump Hotel for a more informal Corps function reflecting the camaraderie for which RAEME is renowned. Veterans of the original parade mixed with younger serving soldiers, sharing stories and reconnecting with old mates, reinforcing the strong intergenerational bond that continues to unite the RAEME family.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence and Ian Cook

Editor's Note: Look out for a full wrap up of the Parade in the June Edition of Maintenance Matters.

Members recognised at Government House Ceremonies - Brisbane

Julian Fleming May 2026 3

Bob Cramp OAM

Above: L-R Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, LTCOL Julian Fleming CSM and LTCOL (Rtd) Bob Cramp OAM.

Members of the Corps in Queensland were recently recognised during Investiture Ceremonies conducted at Government House, where awards were presented by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland.

Among those recognised was LTCOL Julian David Fleming, who was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM) for meritorious devotion to duty as the Commanding Officer of the 9th Force Support Battalion. The award reflects his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to supporting Army capability and personnel.

LTCOL Robert (Bob) Cramp (Retd) was also recognised, receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the sport of shooting and to the community. His award acknowledges many years of dedication, contribution, and service both within the shooting community and more broadly across the community sector.

We extend our congratulations to both recipients on their well-deserved recognition and thank them for their continued service and contribution to Army, the Corps, and the wider Australian community.

1 CSSB News - Darwin

Above: Members of 101 FD WKSP sharpen their skills in a maritime environment.

How many RAEME tricolours are too many?? The answer is…..there is never enough!!

Last month, members of the 101st Field Workshop Company took to the water to sharpen their skills in a maritime environment.

A great training day delivering lessons afloat, strengthening teamwork, adaptability and readiness outside the workshop.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

Featured

RAQ (NQ) Gathering – The North Shore Tavern - Sat 13 June 2026

Above: Members and guests at the Feb 2026 gathering

An invitation is extended to all RAQ, current and former RAEME members and all friends of the Corps to attend a RAQ (NQ) get together.

What – RAQ (NQ) Gathering

When – Sat 13 Jun 26 from 1230h – onwards

Where – The North Shore Tavern - Sports Bar - 37 Main St, Burdell, QLD 4818 Ph: (07) 4401 5000

RAQ (NQ)’s mid year gathering. Time for those south of the NQ border to book some travel (plane, train or automobile) to escape the cold and embrace the warmth. Let’s enjoy our great NQ weather, surrounded by good mates and social banter, RAEME NQ style.

RAEME Badge Raffle

$100 Member Draw

Bar Snacks 1330h

RAEME Merchandise will be on sale

Plenty of good company and much more….

Enquires – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

2026 Craftsman Port & Single Malt Whiskey

We are pleased to announce the official launch of this year’s RAEME Craftsman Port (Tawny).

In recognition of significant milestones within the Army and the Corps, Army Headquarters (AHQ) is proud to sponsor this year’s release. In collaboration with Chief’s Son Distillery, the 2026 Craftsman Series includes both a Port (Tawny) and a Single Malt Whisky, produced by a proudly Australian, veteran-owned business.

The RAEME 2026 Craftsman Release honours significant milestones in the proud history of both the Australian Army and the Corps. The year marks the 125th anniversary of the Australian Army, the 84th anniversary of the Corps, and the 40th anniversary of the Prince Philip Banner. This commemorative release recognises these important milestones and pays tribute to the dedication, service, and enduring legacy of RAEME soldiers—past and present.

Product Details

700ml Craftsman Port (Tawny) – $60.00

700ml Single Malt Whisky – $87.00

Postage – $19 (up to 6 bottles)

PLEASE NOTE – Max purchase of 6 bottles per order, in any combination.

Delivery will occur in batches throughout 2026.

How to Order

To place an order, please scan the QR code on the attached flyer or click on this link

All orders will be delivered directly to your door.

Orders are now open, with final orders closing on 30 September 2026.

This release provides a unique opportunity to secure a high-quality commemorative product while supporting a veteran-owned Australian distillery and celebrating the enduring heritage of the Corps.

Annual subscriber renewals due 30 June 2026

Above: L-R RAQ Members Barry Shipway, Peter Matthews, Tom Cross, Gary Bonner, Michelle Lafferty and Ty Bodle at the Feb 2026 Monthly Meeting.

Annual subscription of the Association runs from 1 July until 30 June each year. Annual subscribers with membership expiring in 2026 will receive a renewal email at the end of this month. Renewing can be done at any time.

Membership is the lifeblood of our association and I encourage you to renew your annual subscription or consider upgrading to our most popular membership, Life Subscription.

To upgrade to Life subscription, Login to the RAQ Website and go to Membership > My Details >My Membership >Annual Subscription >Life Subscription and click on "Upgrade" and follow the prompts. If you have any problems, contact our Membership Officer.

As a reminder all financial subscribers are entitled to:

Subscription to Spanner News Weekly

Minimum 10% discount off items purchased from the online shop

Discount off member events throughout the year

Access to member only website content

Lifetime membership of the Mermaid Beach AEME Surf Life Saving Club

100% of all funds go to support the goals of the Association.

Not sure what level of membership you have? CLICK HERE

From Appy to Major – Reid retires after 32 years of service

Above: L-R CO 11 CSSB LTCOL Will Morrison farewells MAJ Reid Ossington from Army after 32 years service.

After more than three decades of service to the Australian Army, including 15 years in the ARA followed by 17 years as a Reservist, MAJ Reid Ossington officially retired from service at the start of May 2026, closing an important chapter in a long and distinguished RAEME career.

Reflecting on his time in uniform, Reid acknowledged that it was the soldiers and junior officers he served alongside who kept him motivated to continue serving for so many years.

Throughout his career, Reid expressed deep gratitude for the experiences Army provided and for the many outstanding men and women who helped shape him along the way. He credited the Army with providing the foundations for a successful civilian career and spoke proudly of his journey from Army Apprentice to senior officer.

Of greatest importance, however, was the support of his family. He paid special tribute to his wife Simone, acknowledging the sacrifices she made throughout his service, particularly during long absences, weekends away, and late nights. He also recognised his two sons, who often missed valuable time with their father while he balanced the demands of military service and family life.

Proudly describing himself as both an “appy” and a “bluebell”, Reid reflected fondly on the unique bond shared by Army Apprentices and the lifelong connection to the Corps.

The RAEME family congratulates MAJ Reid Ossington, 49th Intake Apprentice VM, on his outstanding service and wishes him and his family all the very best for the future.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

Bulimba Barracks redevelopment moves forward - Brisbane

Above: Aerial view of the old Bulimba Barracks. Image courtesy of Ray White

The former Bulimba Barracks site continues its transformation, with land sales now underway as part of what is being promoted as a premium riverfront residential community only five kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.

Located on a 20.73-hectare Brisbane River frontage site adjacent to HMAS Moreton, the redevelopment will see the historic military precinct converted into a master planned waterfront community featuring residential allotments, parklands, sporting fields, recreation areas, retail amenities, and extensive green space connected to surrounding riverwalks and cycling networks. The development also maintains close proximity to the popular Oxford Street dining and lifestyle precinct and the Apollo Road Ferry Terminal, providing direct ferry access into the Brisbane CBD.

Above: View from 'Barracks Avenue', Image courtesy Bruce Hermann.

A number of residential lots are currently being marketed, with prices ranging from $1.5 million through to $2.5 million. Available allotments for sale ranging from 305sqm to 550sqm. The largest currently advertised site, Lot 76 on Hood Street, offers a 550sqm homesite within the future riverside community.

The redevelopment represents another significant change in Brisbane’s evolving military landscape, with the former barracks site transitioning from Defence use into one of the city’s newest residential precincts. While the area’s future will focus on waterfront living and lifestyle amenity, the site will remain familiar to many current and former Defence members who spent part of their careers associated with Bulimba Barracks and the broader Defence presence in the area.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Ray White