RAEME - QLD

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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

RAEME Spanner Clubs kick off 2025 in Brisbane and Townsville – Friday 4 April 2025

Above: Attendees at the Spanner Club 7 CSSB

The first Spanner Club gatherings for 2025 got off to a flying start on Friday, 4 April, with successful events held in both Brisbane and Townsville. Judging by the impressive turnouts and positive feedback, these events were a great opportunity for RAEME members to connect, share stories and enjoy some well-earned camaraderie, in what is going to be a very busy year ahead!

The RAQ was proud to support both events, contributing $850 towards the BBQs. It’s always rewarding to see RAQ funds directly supporting our serving members and helping to strengthen bonds across the Corps.

In Brisbane, thanks go to MAJ Jesse Hughes and the team at 106 Fd Wksp for their generous hosting of the event and support of the popular meat tray raffles. Their effort and hospitality ensured a great atmosphere for all who attended. Special mention must also go to WO1 FJ Holden (6RAR ACE) and Joel Robinson (EIR Pl, affectionately known as The Boffin Man) for their outstanding coordination and enthusiasm organising the day.

Looking ahead, the Brisbane Spanner Club is planning to run quarterly events, offering regular opportunities for RAEME members in the region to come together and maintain the strong bonds that define our Corps.

Meanwhile in Townsville, the 3rd Combat Signal Regiment Technical Support Troop proudly hosted the North Queensland Spanner Club. Despite 3 BDE authorising an early knock-off that day, a strong crowd turned out from units across Lavarack Barracks, Ross Island, and the Townsville Air Force Base.

Attendees enjoyed a free BBQ sponsored by RAQ-NQ, with drinks available for purchase as they reconnected with mates from across the region. A standout feature was the RAQ-NQ merchandise stand run by WO2 Jase Ballard, where RAEME bucket hats flew out the door along with RAEME paraphernalia in anticipation of the upcoming ANZAC Day gathering at Flynn’s Irish Bar.

Also popular was the Milwaukee Tools stand, with attendees scoring stubby coolers and catalogues highlighting NSN-compatible Milwaukee gear. The day concluded with the Legacy-NQ raffle, raising valuable funds to support the families of our injured and fallen, a great cause embraced by all who attended.

The event was championed by the 3 BDE ASM, approved by the 3 CSR ASM, and spiritedly brought together by an enthusiastic 3 CSR Sergeant. A terrific afternoon was had by all, and planning is already underway for the next NQ Spanner Club, this time hosted by 4 Fd Regt

The RAQ looks forward to continuing its support of Spanner Clubs, helping to maintain the connections that make our Corps great. We look forward to commemorating ANZAC and many more great events in 2025!

Featured

ANZAC Day 2025 commemorations - Updated

Brisbane

Lead by our COL Comdt Queensland COL Piers Cambridge CSM, the 2025 parade will be held on Adelaide Street, between George Street and Creek Street. From the Governor of Queensland’s address at King George Square starting at 9:45am to the last marching participants at 12:25pm.

Current known information is:

RAQ are in Group 4, Serial 49
FUP - We will gather at Section J and will form up on George St across from Mary Street. There will be a large teardrop to identify the position of the about half way along that block towards Mary St Look for our Banner!
Scheduled to march off at approx 1030hr
Please make sure you are in place at least 30 minutes before this time
More information is at the RSL parade Committee Website

Any veteran that can no longer march is invited to take advantage of the jeeps driven by the owner members of the Military Jeep Club of Queensland or the golf buggies. Vehicles are inserted behind the relevant Ex-Service organisations listed on the Order of March to remain close to their peers.

Email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you require assistance or have any questions.

In 2025 the event may still face restrictions to comply with the Event Planning requirements, however it will be conducted on the traditional route (see maps) unless otherwise notified. Those veterans and citizens unable to attend are invited to watch the event on ABC TV and be assured that the Parade participation and spectator opportunities are reviewed as we approach the event.

Post March Function

We will again be hosted by the Port Office Hotel, who open on ANZAC Day specifically to cater for us. Information is on our Website, and tickets are available now.

Please note: This is a private RAEME function and a ticket is required for entry. To comply with the licencing requirements alcohol can only be purchased with a meal, The meal must be prepared, served and eaten on the premises. The Port Office Hotel will be open from approx 1000h and the Buffet Meal will be served from approximately 1200-1400h on the day.

Townsville

An invitation is extended to all current and past members of the Corps and friends of RAEME to attend our Annual ANZAC Day March & Function.

Flynn’s Irish Bar will open from 0630h on 25 Apr 25 and will remain open during and after the march. Flynn’s is a privately booked RAEME Function so please bring some form of RAEME Insignia/memorabilia (Cap, tie, tie bar, hat badge, collar dog, lapel pin, badge, patch, cufflinks etc to gain entry to Flynn’s). If you do not have any of these items, please have someone wearing RAEME memorabilia vouch for you via security at the door.

Where - Flynn’s Hotel

When - from 0630-1330h

Townsville City March - The RAEME Form Up Point for the Strand March is Strand Park at 0830h with the March stepping off at 0900h, don’t be late. Look out for our Tricolour Banner!

New ADF pistol unveiled - Brisbane

Above: The Fitter Armament team at 7th Combat Service Support Battalion getting familiar with the new F9 pistols. The pistols are based on the SIG Sauer 9mm P320 X-Carry Pro, featuring a red-dot sight, torch and holster and they replace the legacy 9mm Browning Mk3 pistol.

A new era in close combat has begun with the rollout of the F9 Sidearm Weapon System (F9 SWS), now in the hands of Army and Air Force personnel. Based on the SIG Sauer P320 X-Carry Pro, the F9 includes a red-dot sight, torch, and holster, replacing the legacy Browning Mk3 pistol. Supported by non-lethal training equipment and the Weapon Training Simulation System (WTSS), the F9 is more than just a new pistol – it's a complete combat system. “The first thing you notice is that you are employing a system as opposed to simply a weapon,” said WO2 Mark Biviano, Combined Arms Training Centre. “It’s not just a weapon upgrade – it’s a complete shift in how we build deployable capability.”

Above: The ADF’s newest sidearm, the F9 pistol

The F9 is being delivered under Project Land 300, which also includes new sniper rifles, surveillance systems and fighting knives. Rollout began in 2023 and continues through to 2026, with 7th Brigade among the first Army units to receive the new system. Training is immersive and progressive, combining online learning through ADELE, simulation via WTSS, and live-fire qualification. In March, a train-the-trainer course at Amberley prepared instructors to deliver the new standard. “You don’t just fire 10 rounds and tick a box anymore,” said RAAF Warrant Officer Brett Moy. “You’ve got to apply the skills and meet the grouping and alignment standards.” The F9 SWS is supplied by Queensland’s NIOA Group with support from Victorian partners Aquaterro and Platatac.

Image and information courtesy of Defence

NT News - 1 CSSB - Darwin

On Tuesday April 1st, 1 CSSB had its 27th Birthday. To celebrate, 1 CSSB conducted a Battalion PT competition consisting of sub-unit teams battling through 21km on the rowing machines, with a concurrent team stores carry. As this was happening, the sub-units were also competing in a game of touch footy.

Once all the Officers and Soldiers had earned it, the Unit put on a BBQ breakfast and celebratory cake, cut by the youngest member of the Battalion.

Congratulations to the rowing winners - 101st Field Workshop Company, and our touch footy winners - 1st Transport Squadron.

Image and information courtesy of Defence

AIA2025 Drone Racing Tournament - Avalon

Above: Army Drone Racing Team pilots were presented the Inter-Service Championship Team award by Air Vice-Marshal Nicholas Hogan, CSC – Head of Air Capability, during a drone racing event at the Australian International Airshow 2025 at Avalon Airport.

The Australian International Airshow 2025 (AIA25) is a premier biennial event for the military aviation and aerospace industry. The Australian International Airshow 2025 will be held at Avalon Airport and selected Melbourne CBD locations from 25 March to 30 March. AIA25 provides the ADF with a platform to showcase current capabilities, future concepts in a collaborative and integrated manner to Government, military allies and partners, defence industry and the Australian public.

Image and information courtesy of Defence

ANZAC Round Cowboys Jersey - Townsville

Above: Australian Army soldiers from 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, and Corporal Riley Blennerhasset from 3rd Brigade Headquarters, present the 2025 North Queensland Cowboys NRL Defence jersey, at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, on 03 April 2025.

On Thursday 03 April 2025, the 3rd Brigade hosted the launch of the 2025 NRL Cowboys Defence Jersey at Lavarack Barracks. The image on the jersey was captured by 3rd Brigade photographer Corporal Riley Blennerhassett, showing soldiers of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, conducting an amphibious assault during Exercise Alon. This is the second year CPL Blennerhassett’s image has been selected for the jersey which is worn during the NRL ANZAC round.

Image and information courtesy of Defence

Featured

Sunshine Coast Lunch - Sunday 6 April 2025

Above: L-R COLs (Rtd) Steve Evans and Piers Cambridge. Guests included Mal Baird, Michael Berris, Ross Grant and Graham Clements at the luncheon.

The RAEME Sunshine Coast chapter kicked off 2025 in fine style with a well-attended gathering that saw around 50 members come together for a memorable day of camaraderie and connection. The event was marked by a warm atmosphere as old mates rekindled friendships and new acquaintances were formed, reminding everyone of the strong bonds that tie our RAEME brothers and sisters together

Above: L to R - Terry 'Sandles' Johnson, David Milosevic, Clive Parsons and Terry’s son, Troy Johnson, and a large group of attendees hanging on Terry words of advice and encouragement

The gathering boasted a fantastic spread of experience and service, with attendees ranging from their 30s through to our most senior veteran, the ever-inspiring Kevin Burns, aged 92. Kevin’s presence was a highlight, as always, offering a living link to our proud history.

It was a great get-together that set the tone for a strong year ahead for the Sunshine Coast.

To keep updated, join the Sunshine Coast Chapter Facebook page.

To view all the pics, go to our photo gallery.

Regards

Terry & Tom

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1RAR Battalion Group recognised for service in Somalia - Townsville

Above: Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) Battalion Group were formally recognised for their service during Operation SOLACE in Somalia, with the presentation of the Meritorious Unit Citation.

On Monday afternoon at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville, members of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) Battalion Group were formally recognised for their service during Operation SOLACE in Somalia, with the presentation of the Meritorious Unit Citation. Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, served as reviewing officer for the parade and presented the citaion, reflecting on the efforts of those deployed in 1992–93, as well as the support of their families and the broader significance of the mission. Among those remembered was Lance Corporal Shannon McAliney, who died in Somalia just over 32 years ago, aged 21. His service, and that of all members of the Battalion Group, was acknowledged for its role in enabling the safe delivery of humanitarian aid under difficult and dangerous conditions.

Above: L-R Warrant Officer Class One Dean Goninan from 3rd Brigade Headquarters awards Australian Army soldiers from 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, their Meritorious Unit Citation for the units' service in Somalia, at Lavarack Barracks. WO1s Huck Berry and Dean Goninan at the post event function.

A number of Somalia veterans attended the event, amongst them two RAEME Veterans WO1 Dean Goninan and WO1 Huck Berry. Dean was a Craftsman with 102 Field Workshop/3 BASB during the original deployment. He was invited by the 1RAR Regimental Sergeant Major to present citations to members on parade, an honour he described as a privilege.

3 4 CAV Somalia 1993

Above: Dinsor, Somalia. 1993-03-23. Members of `B' Squadron, 3/4 Cavalry Regiment at work on the overhaul of an armoured personnel carrier (APC). They are serving with the Australian contingent to the Unified Task Force in Somalia (UNITAF). Image Courtesy of AWM

He also reconnected with WO1 Huck Berry (ARES), who had travelled from Rockhampton with family for the occasion. Huck, then a Corporal in 1RAR’s TSP, served in the same operation. The ceremony was a meaningful opportunity for veterans and current members alike to reflect on the enduring legacy of the deployment and the role it played in shaping Australia’s modern peacekeeping effort.

Images and information courtesy of Defence

6ESR Farewell and promotion – Amberley

6ESR Promtions farewell April 2025jpg

This week OSS recognised two important moments within the team.

They farewelled Corporal Paul Darcy (above left), who is leaving after 18 years of service to the Australian Army. Paul's contribution and professionalism have been greatly valued, and we wish him all the best for the future.

They also congratulated Lance Corporal Ben Laubscher (above right)) on his promotion to Corporal. Ben has shown strong commitment to his trade and is ready to take on the challenges of his new role.

Well done to both Paul and Ben as they move into new chapters of their careers.

Images and Information courtesy of Defence

Army Logistic Training Centre News - Wodonga

At Armament and Construction Wing, trainees (above) quietly work away at the 12.7mm Quick Change Barrel Browning Heavy Machine gun. Concentration and deep satisfaction hangs in the air…

Under close guidance from dedicated Wodonga TAFE instructors, these Army School of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers trainees hone their craft to one day deliver essential skills to the wider Army.

The #landdomaintrainingsystem delivers a trusted, world class training and education system, preparing #OurPeople to #FightTonight.

Soldiers and officers from the Australian Army School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering (above) have hosted an expert from one of the country’s most recognisable brands- BHP!

The visit, an opportunity to share knowledge, swap tips and tricks of the trade and nurture the Australian Army’s ongoing relationship with the community we serve.

The smell of sweat, deep heat and glory permeated the grounds of Latchford Barracks this week thanks to the ASEME 2025 Cross Country!

A true test of endurance, competitors battled scorching heat and a gruelling 7.3 km hilly course.

In the end, only the mightiest would emerge victorious, with Electrical and Electronics Systems Wing snatching the overall Wing victory, followed by Armament and Construction Wing in second and Vehicle Technician Wing in third.

In the men’s race, Gunner Smith claimed first place, with Corporal Brownlie and Lieutenant Rossato rounding out the podium.

On the women’s side, Private Mills secured the win, ahead of Corporal Kaindle and Sapper Noble.

A challenging but rewarding race, showcasing grit, determination, and exceptional performances. Until next year, ASEME!

Images and information courtesy of Defence