Last update for members planning to attend the Brisbane ANZAC Day Parade tomorrow. There are a couple of small changes.
The updated Order of Marchplaces:
- Army – Group 4, step off approx 1020h
- Army Associations (US) – Group 5, step off approx 1030h
The RAQ will march in Section I, Serial 65, led by the Mackay North State Hight School Marching Band (2). Please remember our serial number (65) so we can form up quickly and move into position smoothly.
Form up will be on George Street between Charlotte and Mary Street, Sections A, E & H, Then B, F & I (Behind A, E or H). members should arrive early to locate our serial. Look for the RAQ Banner.
Our Patron Colonel (RTD) Tony Borg will lead our contingent.
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 can be submitted by those veterans requiring a buggy for the parade.
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 this year 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.
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
ANZAC Day Function Brisbane - Tickets now available
The good news is we have confirmed the post March Brisbane function will be held at the Port Office Hotel and ticket prices are cheaper than last year for members. The private RAEME function at the Port Office will be open from 1100h and the Buffet Meal will be served from approximately 1200-1400h on the day.
To enter prior to 1400h you will need to purchase a ticket. This is our most popular event of the year and is heavily subsidised by the Association. We strongly encourage you to pre-purchase a ticket as the simplest and easiest way to attend. Pre-purchasing gets you into the event.
|
Ticket Type (Per Person) |
Discount tickets to COB 21 April 2026 |
from 22 April and @ the door |
- RAQ Member
- Serving soldier
- One member or soldier guest
|
$22
|
$32
|
|
General Entry
|
$35 |
$45 |
Please note: This is a private function on ANZAC Day. For those guests attending prior to 1400h must purchase a ticket for entry.
Exchanging Tickets for Entry/Drink/Meal Vouchers
If you have pre-purchased tickets, the best option is to print out your E-ticket and bring it along on the day. It will be exchanged for:
- 1 x Priority Entry
- 1 x Hot buffet meal
- 2 x Drink vouchers
If you cannot print your ticket or forget to bring it, we will have attendee lists available to check, however this may delay entry to the venue.
Timings - Entry - Drinks - Meal
The Port Office Hotel will be open from around 1100 hrs. Drinks will be available for purchase using either a drink voucher or purchased across the bar. The Buffet Meal for those with Pre-Purchased Tickets will be served from approx 1200-1400 hrs.
If you are interested in becoming a member to save on the purchase price of tickets at member prices see how to join the RAQ here.
Bulimba Barracks redevelopment update
Above: Bulimba Barracks Redevelopment (March 2026) Apollo Road looking east over the site (Image courtesy of Bruce Hermann)
Progress continues on the redevelopment of Bulimba Barracks, with landscape planning advancing for the future Riverbank Park at Apollo Road, Bulimba. Latest Information from Brisbane City Council has informed recent refinements, supporting the transformation of the former barracks site into a community focused precinct while ensuring appropriate planning requirements are addressed.
An updated landscape approach places strong emphasis on protecting key natural and heritage features, particularly the Tree of Knowledge, which remains central to the design. Following consultation, improvements include setting back safety fencing from the shared pathway with turf treatment to enhance accessibility, and removing all planting within the Tree Protection Zone in favour of aged forest mulch to safeguard the tree’s long-term health. Practical elements such as double swing gates and defined vehicle access have also been incorporated to support ongoing maintenance needs.
Above: Bulimba Barracks Redevelopment (March 2026) Apollo Road looking north east over the side (Image courtesy of Bruce Hermann)
Heritage considerations remain a priority. The existing memorial stone along the Apollo Road frontage was carefully removed last year, protected during construction, and will be reinstated within the completed Riverbank Park, ensuring its significance is retained as part of the site’s future landscape.
Recently Brian Daley was able to take a good look at the Bulimba Camp now all roads and land are waiting for houses.
Brian said, "The workshop holds lots of memories and I checked out the RAEME Memorial still under its blanket, waiting to be put up next to the Tree of Knowledge sometime in the future".
Thanks Brian and Bruce for keeping us in the loop on the redevelopment.
ADF Leadership changes announced
Above: L-R Vice Admiral Mark Hammond AO, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM, Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley AM CSC RAN
The Government has recommended a series of senior leadership appointments within the Australian Defence Force, subject to approval by the Governor-General, Sam Mostyn, with changes to take effect from July 2026. Vice Admiral Mark Hammond will be appointed Chief of the Defence Force, following a distinguished 40-year naval career. Since becoming Chief of Navy in 2022, he has played a key role in shaping capability outcomes, including Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program under AUKUS and the future surface fleet.
The Government has acknowledged the outstanding service of outgoing Chief of the Defence Force, Admiral David Johnston, who will retire after more than 48 years of service across Navy and joint appointments. His leadership has been central to the implementation of the 2024 National Defence Strategy and the development of Australia’s future force.
In Army, Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will be appointed Chief of Army, becoming the first woman to lead the service, while the Government also recognised the significant contribution of outgoing Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.
Rear Admiral Matthew Buckley will be promoted to Chief of Navy, bringing extensive submarine and capability experience to the role. The Government extended its sincere thanks to all outgoing leaders and their families for their service and commitment to the nation, noting these appointments will be formally considered by the Federal Executive Council.
Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence
RAEME National Network - Maintenance Matters
Hello All,
Edition 03 of RAEME's Newsletter, Maintenance Matters, can now be downloaded or read online:
This edition features:
-
An invitation to the parade for the 40th Anniversary of the Prince Philip Banner Presentation
-
Details of our new Chief of Army
-
Plans for ANZAC Day nationwide
-
Photos from recent Corps gatherings
-
Plans for future RAEME events
-
Corps RSM Update
-
A guide for how to play PACMAN
-
And much more
Best Submission Winner: The winner of the $50 voucher for the best member submission this month is CAPT William Crain, 16 ASB. Lodge your submission to be in the running for next edition.
To submit an article for future editions, visit here.
Future Editions will include a new series in which we will celebrate the continued service of members after their discharge. If you wish to nominate someone who has gone Above and Beyond to serve the Corps or their communities, you may nominate them at the same link as above. Look for the special template when you get there.
My sincere thanks go to all Associations and members who contributed material for this edition and those who are preparing submissions for future editions.
Arte et Marte,
Ian Cook
Managing Editorial Team
Maintenance Matters
RAEME's Newsletter
