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

Raymond G Norman OAM Chairman’s Award Presentation - Mick Harris

Above: Mick Harris receiving the Raymond G Norman OAM Chairmans Award from RAQ NQ Comittee Chair Brian Robb

At last Saturday’s North Queensland Gathering, the RAEME Association Queensland proudly presented the Raymond G Norman OAM Chairman’s Award to Mick ‘Harry’ Harris.

Mick was recognised for his outstanding contribution as an inaugural North Queensland Committee Member and Merchandise Officer. His dedication, initiative and commitment significantly strengthened the presence and capability of the Association across the region. Establishing and growing RAQ’s footprint in North Queensland has required energy and persistence and was there from the start.

This presentation carries particular significance. Harry is the 31st recipient of the Chairman’s Award and just the second recipient since it was renamed the Raymond G Norman OAM Chairman’s Award. In recognition of his service, his name now appears on the RAQ Honour Board.

Members may not realise that Raymond’s story is printed on the back of each award. When the award was renamed, a commitment was made to Raymond’s wife, Karen, that each presentation would remind recipients and members of Ray’s tremendous contribution to our Corps and to the Association. His legacy of leadership, service and dedication continues to guide and inspire the work we do today.

Congratulations once again, Mick Harris. Thank you for your continued service to the RAQ and to the Corps in NQ.

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Strong Start to 2026 in North Queensland - 21 Feb 2026

Above: L-R Nick Shaw, Ian 'Dingo' Downey and Steve 'Kiwi' Schou at the gathering.

Our first North Queensland Gathering for 2026 kicked off in style in Townsville, with a terrific turnout of around 70 members and friends enjoying the balmy weather, good company, a nibble and a refreshing beverage.

It was a fantastic opportunity to reconnect after the holiday period and set the tone for what promises to be another big year for RAQ across the north.

RAQ NQ committee member, Brian Robb had the privellege of presenting Mr Mick Harris with a RAQ Ray Norman OAM award for Mick's service to the NQ region as the founding NQ merchandise member. Congratulations Mick.

Above: 'Young guns' from 3 RAR and 2 CAV.

Congratulations also to our lucky winners on the day:

  • $100 Member Draw: Aaron McLachlan
  • Meat Tray Draw: Mick McMillan

A big thank you to the team at the Bellevue Hotel for hosting us and helping make the day such a success. The venue, atmosphere and hospitality were spot on.

If this gathering is anything to go by, 2026 is shaping up to be a strong year for RAQ North Queensland. We look forward to seeing even more members at our next event will be Sat 13 Jun 26, from 1230h venue to be confirmed.

ANZAC Day - Don't Forget this year, 0630h openers at Flynn's Irish Bar, Strand March approx 0900h, then back to Flynns. 

Robert 'Tank Pontifex

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Supporting Operation Spanner Pack in 2026 

Above: L-R Spanner Pack OP PUK PUK July 2025. CPL Ben Woodhouse, CFN Jakob Vickers, L/CPL Todd Kitching, L/CPL Joseph Reaney -RNZALR welder, CFN Angus Frost

For 2026, RAEME Association Queensland has committed an additional $1,500 to directly support Operation Spanner Pack. 

Members and supporters who wish to further assist the program can also make voluntary donations via the donation page on the RAQ website. Every contribution directly assists in getting Spanner Packs to serving RAEME personnel and maintaining this highly valued connection with those deployed. 

Feedback, photos and stories welcome 

We are always keen to receive feedback on Operation Spanner Pack and greatly appreciate any photos, letters, or messages from members when packs are received. These contributions allow us to highlight the outstanding work our soldiers are doing and to continually improve the contents and delivery of future packs. Feedback and imagery also help demonstrate the real impact this program has on morale across the RAEME community. 

Deployed? Let us know 

If you are currently deployed on operations, posted overseas, undertaking long-term training, or if you know of a fellow RAEME member who is, please ensure the Spanner Pack Coordinator is informed. We will our best to organise a Spanner Pack and ensure our deployed members receive a reminder that the RAEME family stands firmly behind them. 

Operation Spanner Pack remains a proud example of what the RAEME community does best, looking after its own wherever they serve. 

MAJ (RTD) Tom Cross 

Spanner Pack Coordinator 

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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!

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RAQ NQ Youth Member opportunity – Now Open

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

This is a unique opportunity for a motivated and passionate RAEME soldier or young tradesperson to become the voice of the next generation, helping shape the future of our Corps and the Association.

The Youth Member plays a vital role in bridging the gap between the veteran RAEME community and younger serving members. You’ll represent the views of young soldiers, advocate for their interests, and help strengthen engagement across North Queensland and beyond.

About the Role

As the RAQ Youth Member, you will:

  • Act as a liaison between RAQ and youth organisations, schools and communities
  • Advocate for the interests of younger RAEME members in RAQ discussions and decisions
  • Promote RAQ membership and participation
  • Assist with organising and supporting RAQ events and activities
  • Attend monthly RAQ meetings and provide updates on issues affecting young tradespeople
  • Contribute to initiatives and policies to ensure they are inclusive and youth-focused
  • Represent RAQ across communication platforms when required
Who should apply?

You don’t need to be senior in rank — this role is about potential, passion and leadership. Ideal candidates will:

  • Be a committed and enthusiastic member of the RAEME Corps
  • Have strong communication and people skills
  • Be willing to contribute time, ideas and energy to the Association
  • Be interested in advocacy, leadership and community engagement
What’s in It for you?
  • Real influence on the future direction of RAQ
  • Hands-on experience in leadership, advocacy and public relations
  • Networking with senior veterans and Defence industry leaders
  • To kick things off and to get you kitted up, a $100 RAQ Corps Shop gift voucher upon appointment and another in 12 months' time.
Have your say. shape the future.

If you’re passionate about the Corps and want to represent your generation within RAQ, we want to hear from you.

Applications (a short letter of introduction) should be sent to:
Paul Gibbs – Deputy Chairman RAQ
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Join us in shaping the future of RAQ for North Queensland and for generations to come.

RAEME National Network

Maintenance Matters - First edition is out now! - Reminder

Our new Corps-wide RAEME newsletter has officially launched, marking the start of a stronger, more connected era of communication across the Corps.⁣

A huge thank‑you to the Associations and members who contributed content—you’ve helped build real momentum for this new platform.⁣

⁣For the newsletter to thrive, we need stories from across the Corps, especially from serving workshops. To encourage contributions, the RAQ is offering a $50 gift voucher for the best published submission each edition. ⁣

⁣Calling all RAEME National Servicemen
⁣⁣

Following the recent 75th anniversary of the National Service, we would like to capture the stories of those Nashos who served in RAEME. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣If you were a Nasho, or if you know a Nasho who served in RAEME, please reach out to us hear or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Arte et Marte,

Ian Cook
Managing Editor

Who wants Hoodie in Summer?

HOC shop Hoodie

A reminder the Website to order RAEME Clothing from the HOC shop. Currently Unisex Hoodies now with tricolour and Flag on the sleeves, Womens/Mens T-Shirt, Womens/Mens Polo Shirt (with or without pocket) and womens/mens training shorts, all in a selection of colours is now live.

Orders can be placed on the website, paid for, add delivery for $18 anywhere in Aust, then wait for them to arrive. Orders will close at the end of each month with delivery expected in around two weeks.

If wanting to order bulk qty’s (20 plus) contact Shaun White (details on the website) and he’ll arrange everything. FYI, 15% of all sales come back to Corps Funds, to be used for national awards, recognition of service certificates/parchments to everyone as they leave the Corps, Artificer recognition, HOC presentations, disbursements to RAEME regions in support of functions and other Corps related activities.

The website is https://shop.hunterpp.com.au/raeme