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!

RAEME National Network - Edition 06 of Maintenance Matters out now

Hi all,

The latest edition is out and may be viewed online or downloaded from:

This edition features:

  • A report on 1 CER's win at the Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣
  • An introduction to the new Chief of Army and RSM-A
  • A guide to Crafty of the Year nominations
  • Reports from RAEME members around the nation
  • Details of impending RAEME events
  • 5th Aviation Regiment - OSS
  • Book Review: Essentials of Land Warfare - The Soldier
  • A look at RCEME (Canada) and REME (UK)
  • And much more

Best Submission Winner: The winner of the $50 voucher for the best member submission this month is the 1 CER Workshop Team for their amazing efforts at the Beer Can Regatta (and for beating the Navy Team).  Lodge your submission to be in the running for the next edition.

How to submit. Visit here, you will find templates on this site for:

  • All submissions (which can be typed into the portal or uploaded to it)
  • Nominations to recognise members who have gone "Above and Beyond" to support their communities.
  • Notification of welfare matters, including the passing or failing health of our members.

RAEME Families. Thank you to those who have provided details about their RAEME family linkages. We’re still looking for more RAEME families with two or more generations who have served in our Corps. If any member carries a multigenerational RAEME story, we want to hear from them! Please ask them to share their details via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. so we can start the conversation. Help us celebrate the families who keep the RAEME spirit alive across generations.

Above and Beyond. We are also looking for names of former serving members who have gone Above and Beyond to support their communities. Please let us know who in your Association has worked to support their community so we can work together to celebrate them.

Thank you to all Associations and members who contributed material for this edition and those who are preparing submissions for future editions.

Ian Cook
Managing Editorial Team
Maintenance Matters

Featured

RAEME recovery support on Exercise Austral Shield 26 - FNQ

Above: Recovery Techicians from 108 FD WKSP recover a PMV-L on Exercise Austral Shield

Personnel from 108 Field Workshop, 11CSSB, recently demonstrated their technical skill and readiness while supporting the 12th/16th Hunter River Lancers during Exercise Austral Shield 26 in Far North Queensland.

Operating as part of Joint Task Force 629, vehicle technicians and recovery mechanics were called upon to recover a Protected Mobility Vehicle – Light (PMV-L). The late-night task required the team to assess the situation, diagnose the problem and develop a safe and effective recovery plan under demanding field conditions.

Working closely together, they balanced tactical requirements with vehicle safety, personnel welfare and operational efficiency to successfully execute the recovery. The task highlighted the importance of experienced technical support and demonstrated the professionalism, adaptability and teamwork that RAEME personnel bring to operations.

Exercise Austral Shield tests the Australian Defence Force’s ability to respond rapidly to domestic security threats and protect critical infrastructure and national resources. The contribution of 108 Field Workshop ensured the supported unit could recover its capability and continue the mission.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

ASEME keeps Project Digger race-ready - Townsville

Above: Project Digger at the NTI Townsville 500.

Personnel from the Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering (ASEME) have been working behind the scenes at the NTI Townsville 500 to keep Project Digger race-ready following a mechanical issue on the opening day of competition.

After a supercharger gasket failed during the Pro Burnout competition, CFN Stehn and CFN Findlay from the Vehicle Technology Wing commenced repairs. They  replaced the damaged gasket and carefully inspecting the manifold before reassembling the supercharger.

At the same time, CFN Loata began removing the existing fuel-tank mounting brackets in preparation for the installation of a larger, upgraded fuel tank as part of the next stage of Project Digger’s development.

The work provides a practical demonstration of the technical expertise, teamwork and problem-solving skills developed by Army tradespeople through their training. By diagnosing faults, conducting repairs and progressing future upgrades, ASEME personnel are helping to ensure Project Digger is ready to return to action.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence

The Cowlrick brothers Rockhampton - three brothers who served

Above: The grave of Craftsman Thomas Cowlrick at Charters Towers courtesy of James Farlow and memorial record courtesy of the Australian War Memorial.

Thanks to James Farlow for sharing a Facebook photograph of the grave and headstone of Craftsman Thomas William Cowlrick at Charters Towers. Further research revealed that Thomas was one of three brothers from Rockhampton who served Australia during the Second World War.

The accompanying studio portrait below shows the Cowlrick brothers together before their wartime service. From left are Sidney Vincent “Vince” Cowlrick, Harry “Billy” Cowlrick and Thomas William “Tommy” Cowlrick.

Each brother served in a different capacity:

123417 Leading Aircraftman Sidney Cowlrick enlisted in the Royal Australian Air Force in 1943. He served until 24 January 1947, with his final posting being to No. 3 Embarkation Depot. Sidney passed away in Rockhampton in 1993.

QX23199 Sergeant Harry Cowlrick enlisted in the Australian Army in 1941 and served until 22 October 1945. His final posting was with the 2/11th Australian Army Transport Company. He passed away in Rockhampton on 28 November 1993.

QX54220 (Q114324) Craftsman Thomas Cowlrick, a fitter and turner in civilian life, enlisted on 7 June 1943. He served with the 5th Australian Advanced Workshop Company, Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (AEME). Tragically, Thomas died of illness in Australia on 30 September 1943, aged just 20.

Thomas’s headstone at Charters Towers provides a lasting reminder of a young tradesman whose service was cut short, while the photograph of the three brothers preserves the story of one Queensland family’s remarkable contribution during the Second World War.

Arte et Marte

Rest in Peace

RUTHLESS Program continues its push to cut Army red tape

In February this year, SNW introduced readers to the Reducing Unnecessary Tasks to Help Lethality, Efficiency & Strategic Success (RUTHLESS) program, an Army initiative aimed at cutting red tape, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and returning greater authority and accountability to frontline commanders.

Established by the Deputy Chief of Army and led by Deputy Adjutant General – Army Colonel Nick de Bont, the program was designed to give soldiers and commanders more time to focus on Army’s core function of warfighting. Since its endorsement in August 2025, RUTHLESS has engaged directly with soldiers and non-commissioned officers to identify frustrating and unnecessary processes.  

These are the latest updates from the RUTHLESS program.

Non-fair-wear inspections - Army policy contained in the Land Materiel Maintenance Standard Operating Procedures has been updated to remove the requirement for non-fair-wear inspections following unexpected damage to land materiel. The policy changes include removing the requirement to conduct a complete technical inspection that details a total cost breakdown, the introduction of a technical damage assessment for non-fair-wear, and amendments to align the new processes with the introduction of SAP S4.

AE230 clothing issue and exchange approval - The AE230 form has now been removed as a requirement for one-for-one exchanges (DEFGRAM 375/2026). Damaged and unserviceable items can be exchanged without completing an AE230. Continuing work will be undertaken with the phase-two goal also to remove the AE230 requirement for initial issue.

Drone operations - The Army Adaptability Board and RUTHLESS staff are conducting a broad review to examine the policy and other related barriers for the training and use of drones. The aim of the review is to remove unnecessary barriers and simplify processes to make it easier for soldiers to increase their knowledge and experience, including piloting, modifying and repairing.

Army Reserve health allowance - Army Reserve members are currently required to complete multiple steps and forms to access an annual allowance to assist with the payment of private health insurance. RUTHLESS is undertaking a review to simplify and potentially automate the process. This is expected to result in a reduction in GP reimbursement costs, reduced member administration requirements and streamlined processing for unit administration staff.

Weapon Training Simulation System - In support of the removal of AIRN, FORCOMD has approved the reclassification of WTSS facilities from ranges to training facilities. This change removes the requirement to apply range regulations and enables the WTSS to be used for realistic combat training, including dynamic-movement practices and close-quarters battle training. The reclassification will also improve future booking flexibility, with WTSS transitioning from TASMIS to the Training Area Management Booking System, allowing for short-notice bookings.

AD049 – vehicle authorisation and task form - A mobile application has been developed to replace the manual AD049 documentation required to be completed each time a service vehicle is driven. The mobile application would enable rapid signing on and off and digital record-keeping. Cyberworthiness verification will soon begin before user testing.

Image and article adpated courtesy of Defence

Featured

RAQ Lunch 2026 Mermaid Beach (AEME) SLSC - Saturday 22 August

Gidday all

It's that time of the year again when I start putting out reminders of the RAEME Gold Coast lunch. I will be putting out notifications in early June, July and August  (with a progressive attendance list in July and August) along with a final email /attendance list really close to to the day. So details are:

  • When: Saturday 22 August 2026
  • Where: Mermaid Beach (AEME) Surf Living Saving Club. Hedges Avenue Mermaid Beach
  • Time: 1200 to 1630 approx. The club needs to set up for the evening so request that we try to finish up about 1630 though we are welcome to relocate inside if we so desire.
  • Format/dress: This is a Gold Coast event so it's a pretty casual affair. If you are eating you pay for lunch at the meal ordering point. There is no table service ( apart from your meals which will be bought to you at the table). So order and pay for drinks at the bar however the RAQ is putting a few bucks over the bar so you will get a free drink or two, beer and wine only. There will also be a few lucky door prizes courtesy of the RAQ.
  • Who can come: Everyone. 

So there it is. Pencil the date in. Please only come back to me and advise that you will be attending as I don't need a swag of emails advising you are not attending. I can work that out for myself.

Regards

Eddie 'Beans' Bevans

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RAEME Reserve/CMF Reunion - Sherwood/Indooroopilly RSL - Sunday 23 August 2026

The annual RAEME Reserve/CMF Reunion will again provide a great opportunity for serving and former members of RAEME, members of associated Corps who served with RAEME units, families, friends and others with an interest in the Corps to come together and renew old friendships.

The reunion is a relaxed and informal gathering, offering the chance to catch up with mates, share memories and maintain the strong bonds formed through service. Whether you served in the Reserve, CMF, Regular Army, or alongside RAEME units, all are welcome to attend.

There will also be great raffles on the day, including gift vouchers and wine.

The reunion will be held at the Sherwood/Indooroopilly RSL Sub Branch, 2 Clewley Street, Corinda, conveniently located next to Corinda railway station. The event will run from 1100 to 1600, with casual dress and barbecue catering provided. The cost is $5 per person.

For catering purposes, RSVPs are requested by 10 August.

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Recognising Families Sculpture - AWM - Canberra

A national campaign is underway to recognise the unseen service and sacrifice of the families of Australian service personnel and veterans through the commissioning of a Recognising Families Sculpture at the Australian War Memorial. Led by the Recognising Families Committee, the sculpture will be the first public tribute dedicated to the families, parents, partners and children who serve without salute. It will honour the more than one million families who have stood behind the one million Australians who have served in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions, including the more than 103,000 who died as a result of service.

When service calls, families step up too, through the love they show, the support they give, the hope they hold and the quiet sacrifices they make to sustain life at home. To bring this nationally significant tribute to life, the Committee is seeking to raise $500,000 to commission, create and install the sculpture as part of the Australian War Memorial’s national collection. Organisations, community partners and supporters are encouraged to help build awareness and support the campaign.

For more information or to make a donation, visit recognisingfamilies.org.au  or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Image and article adapted courtesy of RSLQLD

Exercise Black Prince 3 - Cultana Training Area

CFN Jeremy Tjong May 2026

Above: CFN Jeremy Tjong, 1st Armoured Regiment, prepares the Callisto 50 heavy-lift uncrewed aerial system at Cultana Training Area during Exercise Black Prince 3.

Exercise Black Prince 3, a blank-fire training activity with multiple experimental systems in use in a live force experimentation scenario, took place at the Cultana Training Area, South Australia, between 18 and 29 May 2026. Battlegroup ANZAC, comprising personnel from 1st Armoured Regiment, 1st (Australian) Division, 2nd Division, Forces Command and the New Zealand Army, conducted pre-deployment training ahead of deploying to United States Army National Training Centre for Project Convergence Capstone 6 in July 2026. The Exercise concluded with a live-fire exercise where Army’s first Uncrewed Ground Vehicle detonation occurred, as well as live First Person View Uncrewed Aerial System strikes.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

A debt of gratitude to a former Chief

Above: Former Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart and Deputy Chief of Army Major General Chris Smith.

On 8 July 2026, the Australian Army farewelled Lieutenant General Simon Stuart following the completion of his tenure as Chief of Army and 39 years of service.

In a farewell address, Deputy Chief of Army Major General Chris Smith reflected on Lieutenant General Stuart’s leadership, character and lasting contribution to Army. He highlighted his courage, integrity, compassion, humility and curiosity, as well as his commitment to strengthening Army’s profession, challenging unnecessary bureaucracy and preparing soldiers and commanders for the demands of future conflict.

Major General Smith described Lieutenant General Stuart’s legacy as a major transformation of Army achieved without fanfare, slogans or glossy brochures. He said the former Chief had restored a clearer sense of purpose, encouraged professional study and intellectual curiosity, strengthened accountability and sought to return greater authority and responsibility to Army’s leaders.

Concluding the address, Major General Smith thanked Lieutenant General Stuart on behalf of a grateful Army: “You have done your duty.”

Read Major General Chris Smith’s full farewell speech

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

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.