RAEME Association Queensland Inc

My daughter and her three other dedicated female surfboat rowers all aged 19–22 are chasing a dream of success in the U23 female Australian Surfboat Rowing League (ASRL) and Surf Life Saving Surf Australia (SLSA) Surfboat Rowing competitions, and requiring temporary accommodation on the Sunshine Coast just prior to the upcoming season starting late August.

Last season, they represented Emu Park SLSC alongside their coach and Sweep, achieving results that are largely unheard of for Queensland crews north of the Sunshine Coast, particularly given the lack of surf conditions, extra travel requirements, and opportunities in the region. Despite this, they consistently challenged the strongest crews in the country and came heartbreakingly close to major results throughout the season.

For the 2026/27 season, they will be rowing for Marcoola SLSC, where their Sweep is now based. They are fully committed to taking the next step in their development and are all relocating together for the season in pursuit of their goal. They are looking for accommodation on the Sunshine Coast whether temporary or for the whole season (September-early April). They are also looking for potential sponsorship opportunities to help make their dreams a reality.

Any assistance, advice, or connections would be greatly appreciated. Please feel free to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. support these four young athletes chasing their ambitious goal.

Here is a video of the girls competing at their first National carnival. After a protest they lost this title, but shows just how painstakingly close these girls from Emu Park came to great success in their first season of the sport, in a borrowed boat and after driving three days to compete in Wanda Beach NSW.

Kind regards,
Tim Costin

Editor's Note: Tim is the inaugural Master Artificer for the new ECN 222 Marine Technician (MT) Trade. He enlisted as a 47th Class Fitter and Turner Army Apprentice, and is a RAQ Life Subscriber. 

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Additional RACQ battery discount extended for RAQ Members

The RAQ is pleased to advise members that the additional RACQ battery rebate arrangement for RAQ members has been extended for another 12 months.

Under this initiative, eligible members can receive an additional $25 rebate on RACQ battery purchases and installations, providing even greater value and practical support to our serving and veteran RAEME community.

Full details of the discount arrangement, including eligibility and how to access the offer, are available in the Members Only section of the Association website:

RAQ Members Only Section (Must be logged in)

The Association sincerely thanks Royal Automobile Club of Queensland for their continued support of our members and the wider RAEME community through this initiative. Partnerships such as this provide practical benefits to our serving and veteran members while reinforcing the strong community connections that continue to support the Corps family.

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Army’s Apache fleet reaches six - Townsville

Above: The  newest additions to the fleet touched down in Australia last week with some help from the Royal Australian Air Force.

Two additional AH-64E Apache attack helicopters have been delivered to the Australian Army, marking another step in the transformation of Australia’s battlefield aviation capability.

The AH-64E Apache brings advanced sensors, weapons and teaming capabilities, preparing for future enhanced integration of crewed and uncrewed systems. The latest deliveries bring the fleet to six aircraft.

A RAAF C-17A Globemaster delivered the two Apache airframes.

A total of 29 AH-64E Apaches are being acquired from the United States through a Foreign Military Sales agreement under Project LAND 4503. All aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2029.

Commander Army Avn Cmd Maj-Gen David Hafner said the AH-64E Apache was replacing the Tiger armed reconnaissance helicopter, bringing significant capability improvements that would enhance the lethality and tempo of land and amphibious force manoeuvres.

“The Apache is the world’s most advanced attack helicopter, and the arrival of the fifth and sixth airframes in Australia marks another milestone in enhancing Army’s contribution to the reach, range and lethality of the integrated force,” he said.

“These aircraft will ensure our soldiers are better connected, better protected and more lethal in the most demanding operational environments.

“These aircraft will ensure our soldiers are better connected, better protected and more lethal in the most demanding operational environments.”

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence 

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Drones change the battlefield at ASEME Training Exercise - Puckapunyal

Above: CFN Aashere Manoj takes aim at Puckapunyal Military Area.

During a field training activity conducted between 18–30 March 2026 in the Puckapunyal Military Area, trainees from ASEME were exposed to the realities of modern warfare as drones became a constant presence overhead. Supported by the School of Armour Communications and Surveillance Wing, the activity provided soldiers with real-time enemy-perspective imagery, reinforcing how rapidly the modern battlespace has evolved into a fully three-dimensional environment.

Throughout the exercise, trainees were required to adapt their movement, concealment and survivability techniques while operating under persistent aerial observation. Instructors emphasised immediate detection and response drills, with soldiers trained to shout “Drone!” to warn nearby call signs before rapidly seeking cover. The clarity of the drone footage proved confronting for many trainees, clearly revealing faces, rank slides, weapon positions and movement patterns, even when soldiers believed they were effectively concealed. The activity highlighted the growing importance of counter-surveillance awareness and strengthened interoperability between Army training schools, ensuring future RAEME soldiers are better prepared for increasingly drone-saturated operational environments.

Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence

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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.