RAEME Association Queensland Inc

Everything is in place and ready to go for a great day. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣Spectators are coming from around the nation, many of whom were on the original parade 40 years ago. ⁣⁣

⁣⁣If you want to come but don't have a current Defence ID Card (DCAC), you MUST register NLT17 May 2026.⁣⁣

⁣⁣We have had a great response for dinner at The Stump after the parade. There are still seats available if you want to join us. Register via this link.⁣⁣

⁣⁣Arte et Marte

Ian Cook
Managing Editorial Team
Maintenance Matters
RAEME's Newsletter

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RAQ Darling Downs gathering - Toowoomba - Sunday 17 May 2026

Pictured above: Members and guests at the February 2026 luncheon.

We are pleased to confirm the next Toowoomba luncheon will be held on Sunday, 17 May 2026.

Following a strong start to the year, this function forms part of our 2026 program aimed at maintaining connection across our RAEME family, serving members, veterans, and partners alike.

As always, the luncheon is intended to be relaxed, informal, and inclusive and an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and strengthen the bonds that underpin our Corps community.

Event Details:

• Date: Sunday, 17 May 2026
• Time: Midday onwards
• Location: Toowoomba City Golf Club
• Lucky Door Prizes

We strongly encourage members to extend the invitation to others who may not be currently connected with RAQ. Whether serving, retired, or simply part of the broader RAEME network, all are welcome.

We look forward to another great turnout and to continuing the momentum built earlier this year.

Regards,

Pete Pile
RAQ-DD Rep

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

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Broncos ANZAC Eve clash - Brisbane

The ANZAC Eve clash at Suncorp Stadium provided a powerful tribute to service and sacrifice, with RAEME proudly front and centre throughout the ceremonial proceedings. Commanding Officer 7 CSSB, Lieutenant Colonel Daniel King, led the contingent, with a large uniformed presence on the field. In a first for the Brisbane Broncos, representatives from all three branches of the Australian Defence Force participated in the pre-game ceremony, joined by 180 uniformed personnel including soldiers from 106 Field Workshop, with more than 500 ADF members in attendance. The inclusion of a catafalque party and traditional ANZAC observances ensured the occasion remained grounded in solemn respect and remembrance.

The evening combined military tradition with national pride, as both teams entered through the centre tunnel and special tributes to ADF units were featured on player jerseys. Adding to the significance of the event, iconic Australian artist John Williamson delivered a moving halftime performance of True Blue, reinforcing themes of mateship, resilience, and service. The strong connection between the Broncos and the Australian Defence community was evident throughout, highlighted by the involvement of 7th Brigade personnel during the week. For RAEME, the visibility of its soldiers and leadership on such a prominent stage was a fitting recognition of the Corps’ ongoing contribution to Army capability and the enduring ANZAC spirit.

Images and article adapted courtesy of Brisbane Broncos

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RAEME Representation at Bomana - PNG

Above: L-R Retired ex-40th Class Apprentices, WO1 James “Max” Walker, and MAJ Scott “Babs” Babington at the Bomana War Cemetery PNG. Wreath laid on behalf of the HOC.

At the ANZAC Day Dawn Service, the hallowed grounds of the Bomana War Cemetery in Papua New Guinea served as a poignant backdrop for a special moment of RAEME remembrance. Representing the Corps were two retired ex-40th Class Apprentices, Major Scott “Babs” Babington and Warrant Officer Class One James “Max” Walker (RAQ Life Subscriber and Chairman's Award recipient), who made the pilgrimage to pay their respects to the fallen.

Above: Bomana War Cemetery Memorial.

In a significant gesture of continuity and respect, Max had the distinct honour of laying a wreath on behalf of the RAEME Head of Corps (HOC). The act served as a powerful bridge between the "Bluebell" craftsmen of the past and the modern Corps. 

The wreath was accompanied by a card inscribed:

Dedicated to the Men and Women of the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
Motto – Arte et Marte (Latin: “With skill and fighting”)
Wreath Layer – WO1 James “Max” Walker
on behalf of the Head of Corps RAEME and the men and women of the Corps
Lest We Forget

Above: the Bomana War Cemetery at dawn.

The dawn service at Bomana was exceptionally well attended, with a solemn and respectful atmosphere that underscored the enduring bond between Australia and Papua New Guinea. For Scott and Max, the opportunity to stand amongst the white headstones of their forebears on this sacred day was a deeply moving experience and a proud moment.

James 'Max' Walker

Arte et Marte