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.

Pay with PayPal

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

Welcome Home to the Ship’s Army Establishment - Sydney

HMAS Choules has returned to Fleet Base East following an 87-day Indo-Pacific deployment in support of Exercise Pacific Partnership 2026.

Pacific Partnership is a United States-led multinational activity focused on strengthening humanitarian assistance and disaster relief capabilities across the Indo-Pacific region.

During the deployment, HMAS Choules visited the Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore and Malaysia. Navy and other Australian Defence Force personnel worked alongside regional and international partners to strengthen relationships, improve disaster preparedness and develop coordinated response planning.

The deployment provided valuable opportunities for participating nations to share knowledge, build interoperability and enhance their ability to respond collectively when natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies occur across the region.

Welcome home to the members of the Ship’s Army Establishment and all personnel who supported HMAS Choules throughout this important regional deployment.

Congratulations on a successful mission and a safe return home.

Article adapted from information and photographs supplied by Defence


RAEME National Network - Maintenance Matters out now

Edition 08 of Maintenance Matters, the national RAEME newsletter, is now available to read online or download.

This edition introduces a new streamlined format developed in response to reader feedback. While previous editions were received positively, many readers commented on their length. The refreshed format maintains the newsletter’s focus to its core purpose, connecting our people.

Information not directly related to RAEME people will generally be presented as a short summary with a link for readers who would like to learn more. 

Priority will continue to be given to:

  • Articles from Associations and serving members about recent or upcoming events
  • Stories about current workshop activities, exercises and plans
  • Features recognising members, including honours and awards, retirements, family connections and those who have gone above and beyond in serving their communities
  • Photos, photos and more photos!

Read Edition 08

The newsletter is available in three formats:

  • Download the PDF
  • View the online flipbook
  • Try the new mobile-friendly edition

The mobile-friendly version is a new format designed to make the newsletter easier to read on phones and other mobile devices.

Best Member Submission

Congratulations to Nathan Carnie and Ben Kolstad, who share the $50 voucher for the best member submission in this edition.

The two Top End members demonstrated the RAEME value of service before self through their after-hours firefighting work in support of their communities.

Members are encouraged to lodge their stories for the opportunity to be recognised in the next edition.

Share Your RAEME Story

Articles and other material for future editions can be submitted through the Maintenance Matters article submission portal.

The site includes templates for:

  • General articles and submissions
  • Nominations recognising members who have gone “Above and Beyond” in supporting their communities
  • Welfare notifications, including advice about the passing or failing health of Corps members
Special Request—RAEME Families

The editorial team is seeking stories about RAEME families with two or more members who have served in the Corps.

If your family has a multigenerational RAEME connection, the team would like to hear from you. Share your details by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to begin the conversation and help celebrate the families keeping the RAEME spirit alive across generations.

Special Request—Above and Beyond

Associations and members are also invited to nominate former-serving members who have gone above and beyond to support their communities.

If you know someone whose service to their community deserves recognition, please submit their story so their contribution can be celebrated in a future edition.

Thank you to every Association and member who contributed material to Edition 08, as well as those preparing submissions for future editions.


Call for Contributions – The Craftsman 2026

RAEME units and associations are invited to begin preparing articles for the 2026 edition of The Craftsman.

OCs, ASMs and Association Presidents are encouraged to identify members who can share their unit’s or association’s activities, achievements and highlights from 2026.

Articles should be submitted to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. no later than 11 December 2026.

Photographs may be embedded in the Word document, but the original image files must also be submitted separately to ensure the publisher receives high-resolution copies. Please do not submit photographs copied from other publications or the internet.

The electronic 2025 edition of The Craftsman is availalbe here.


ADF workforce reaches 25-year high

Marine Techs SGT Matthew Doogs McDougal SGT Warren Squizz Taylor and CPL Tyler Ty Griinke conduct inspections

Above: Marine Techs SGT Matthew Doogs McDougal, SGT Warren Squizz Taylor, and CPL Tyler Ty Griinke conduct inspections Aug 2026.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) reported growth in recruitment and retention during the 2025–26 financial year, with its full-time workforce reaching its largest size in 25 years.

  • The ADF enlisted more than 8,100 personnel, its highest intake in 16 years.
  • The full-time workforce now exceeds 64,000 personnel, its largest size in 25 years.
  • The separation rate fell to 7.4 per cent from 7.9 per cent the previous year, its lowest level in 15 years.

Recruitment increased across Navy, Army and Air Force. Defence reported almost 74,000 applications during the financial year and said it remains on track towards its target of 69,000 permanent personnel by the early 2030s.

The ADF recruits to over 300 roles, available to discover online at: www.adfcareers.gov.au 

Article adapted from information and photographs supplied by Defence


Can You Help? Iraq and Afghanistan Project

Above: Craftsman Cody Hunt, a vehicle mechanic with Task Group Afghanistan, prepares for another shift in the workshops at Camp Qargha, near Kabul, while deployed on Operation Highroad 2018.

This is a fishing expedition on behalf of RAQ Life Subscriber, veteran and RSL Sub Branch member Jeff Biddle.

Jeff’s local RSL Sub Branch is developing a memorial to honour Australian Defence Force personnel who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. A veteran involved with the project suggested that incorporating a component from a Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle that had seen operational service would provide a fitting and meaningful tribute.

Jeff is seeking advice about whether obtaining such a component may be possible and, if so, where the Sub Branch should begin its enquiries.

Members with knowledge of Bushmaster fleet management, Defence disposals, heritage collections or other relevant contacts are invited to assist. Even advice about the appropriate organisation or person to approach would be greatly appreciated.

Anyone who may be able to help can contact Jeff Biddle through Facebook.


ADF Supports NFL at the G - Melbourne

ADF support NFL Melbourne Small

Above: RAAF Roulettes together with the United States Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey Aircraft perform a fly past over the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the first National Football League regular season game in Australia.

Australian Defence Force (ADF) and U.S Marine Corps (USMC) members came together at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), for the first regular season NFL game in Australia, commemorating 25 years since the September 11 attacks, honouring those who lost their lives and reflecting on our enduring alliance. 

Article adapted from information and photographs supplied by Defence

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Investiture Ceremonies Australian Honours and Awards - Brisbane

 

 

Above: Warrant Officer Class One Wayne Davis OAM and Lieutenant Colonel Jason Long CSC.

Her Excellency has presided over the second of seven Investiture Ceremonies being held at Government House this week, presenting Australian Honours and Awards to outstanding Queenslanders.

Recipients recognised during the ceremony included members of the Australian Defence Force who were acknowledged for distinguished and meritorious service, as well as Queenslanders honoured for their contributions to veterans and their families, education, manufacturing, health care and community service.

The ceremony also marked a significant milestone, with Her Excellency investing her 1,000th honours recipient since taking office.

Warrant Officer Class One Wayne Davis OAM
For meritorious performance of duty as an Artificer Sergeant Major and as the Master Artificer Technician Electrical for the Australian Army.

Lieutenant Colonel Jason Long CSC
For outstanding achievement in tactical logistics design and enabling 3rd Brigade’s transformation to an Armoured Formation.

Congratulations to all recipients and their families on this well-deserved recognition.


RAEME Sunshine Coast Chapter – Annual Luncheon 2026 - Maroochydore

Above: L-R Greg 'GS' Smith, Mal Norrie, Lloyd Bowles and Kim Veness.

The RAEME Sunshine Coast Chapter Annual Luncheon was held on 12 September 2026 at the Maroochy RSL, with 72 guests registered to attend. A few unfortunately had to withdraw at the last minute due to colds and influenza, but those who made it along certainly made up for it!

The lively crowd was buzzing before, during and after the luncheon, with plenty of conversation, laughter and the usual RAEME camaraderie.

The Maroochy RSL once again delivered an exceptional three-course meal, which certainly set the tone for what turned out to be an excellent afternoon.

Our guest speaker, Suzanne Shipp, delivered a captivating and inspirational presentation. Suzanne shared how she progressed from humble beginnings, overcame challenges and ultimately made a real difference in her own life and the lives of others.

 

Above: L-R LTCOL Alex McDonald. Liz Fitzgibbon and Suzanne Shipp

A big thank you to Suzanne for sharing her story and reminding us of the importance of having the courage to set high personal goals—and then the determination to achieve them.

LTCOL Alex McDonald provided a well-received update on matters affecting RAEME personnel and gave those present an insight into issues and developments relevant to the Corps.

RAQ Chairman Pete Matthews was then called upon to propose the toast to the Corps. Pete followed this with a brief RAQ update, welcoming new members in the audience and paying his respects to those members of the RAEME family who have passed away.

Above: L-R Chris and Kerry Wrangle with Kath and John Kingston

Overall, it was a great afternoon of mateship, memories and RAEME camaraderie, with many first-time attendees already committing to join us again next year.

Photographs from the Day

All photographs from the luncheon are available on the RAEME Sunshine Coast Chapter Facebook page or in the Photo Gallery.

Next Year’s Annual Luncheon

Saturday, 11 September 2027

Be sure to save the date!

Next RAEME Sunshine Coast Get-Together

The next Sunshine Coast activity will be held at the Brightwater Hotel on Sunday, 22 November 2026.

Be sure to put the date in your calendar. We will have a larger-than-usual array of lucky-door prizes, which could come in very handy with Christmas just around the corner!

A big thank you to Charmaine, JD and Pete Yates for their assistance in bringing the luncheon together.

And, of course, a sincere thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the day such a success.

Arte et Marte

Sunshine Coast RAQ Chapter

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


Rough terrain, important mission - Queensland to South Australia

Above: Soldiers from 7 CSSB prepare to support the 2026 Great Endeavour Rally..

A team of 13 vehicle technicians from 7 CSSB took on the ultimate outback challenge while supporting the 2026 Great Endeavour Rally.

The rally travelled along a gruelling 3,500-kilometre route from Toowoomba, Queensland, to Mount Dare in South Australia. Crossing red dirt, creeks and remote outback tracks, the team provided vital mechanical support to keep rally participants moving through some of Australia’s most demanding terrain.

 

7CSSB GER 2026 3

Above left: Mechanics from 7 CSSB carry out running repairs on a rally vehicle, helping to keep participants moving throughout the challenging 3,500-kilometre outback journey.
Above right: A member of the 7 CSSB support team presents RAEME merchandise to a young supporter during the 2026 Great Endeavour Rally.

Along the way, the team also engaged with regional and remote communities, proudly representing the Australian Army and the Corps of Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

The RAEME Association Queensland provided additional Corps merchandise to support the team during the rally and help promote the RAEME spirit throughout the journey.

Most importantly, this epic outback adventure helped raise crucial funds for the Endeavour Foundation, supporting lifestyle, learning and employment opportunities for people with disability.

7CSSB GER Rally 2026 2

Above: The team reached Opalton in outback Queensland

Congratulations to the members of 7 CSSB on completing this challenging and worthwhile journey. Their efforts demonstrated the technical expertise, adaptability and determination for which RAEME personnel are renowned, delivering practical support across rough terrain in aid of an important mission.

Article adapted from information and photographs supplied by Defence