Above: L–R. The 40th Anniversary Banner Party 2026 and the Corps Banner presentation in 1986.
The Corps proudly marked the 40th Anniversary of the Prince Philip Banner Parade at Gaza Ridge Barracks, Bandiana, commemorating the historic presentation of the Banner by His Royal Highness Prince Philip on 20 May 1986. First approved in 1983 and formally presented in 1986, the Prince Philip Banner symbolises the enduring identity of the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps — representing service, technical mastery, professionalism, unity, and pride in sustaining Army capability.
In the lead up to the parade, the weather across Bandiana had been bleak and rain threatened the day’s proceedings. However, just as occurred in 1986, the skies cleared in time for a perfect autumn day on parade. The original parade drew more than 4,000 spectators and represented RAEME soldiers from every Australian state, cementing the Corps’ place amongst Army units entrusted with ceremonial Colours, Standards, and Guidons.
Above: Major General Anna Duncan AM CSC, Commander Forces Command arrives in a period 1980s Ford LTD Staff Car.
The anniversary parade brought together serving soldiers, veterans, dignitaries, and members of the wider RAEME family in a ceremony reflecting both the precision and pride of the Corps. Hosted by Head of Corps Brigadier Gabrielle Follett AM and reviewed by Major General Anna Duncan AM CSC, Commander Forces Command, the parade showcased impeccable drill, military professionalism, and the continued relevance of RAEME’s technical trades across Defence. Adding to the historical atmosphere, Commander Forces Command arrived in a period 1980s Ford LTD Staff Car, reflecting the era of the original 1986 parade.
Above: HOC BRIG Gabrielle Follett.
HOC BRIG Brigadier Follett’s leadership and stewardship of Corps identity were central to the success of the anniversary activities.
"This parade is one of the key highlights of my career, genuinely,” said Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Head of Corps, Brigadier Gabrielle Follett.
“I've not been part of something that has gone back so far in time before. 40 years ago was before I joined the Army, and it's incredible to see and to meet today the veterans on parade on that day, to see the young soldiers and officers who are on parade now, and to see lineage through their customs and traditions.
“Our RAEME soldiers are innovative, they're collaborative, they're able to fight forward to where the equipment needs to be repaired or recovered, they fight back and they go again to support what every other part of our Army is doing.
“They take great pride in our colours, red, blue and yellow, and the hat badge that they wear every day.”
“And the parade - absolutely top notch!”
Above: The 40th Anniversary Banner Parade contingent with the Prince Philip Banner.
Also included in the parade were RAAF technicians, highlighting the evolving nature of technical trades, joint capability, and training across the ADF. Their inclusion reflected the increasingly integrated environment in which technical specialists operate across Army and Air Force capability streams, reinforcing the importance of shared technical mastery and interoperability within Defence.
Above: The Prince Philip Banner and all troops departing the parade ground after a splendid display of Corps pride!.
As the final rehearsal concluded the day before, WO1 Andrew McAdie reflected on returning to the same parade ground four decades after first marching there as a young Craftsman.
“It’s amazing to think I was a 22-year-old Craftsman, 40 years ago, standing on this parade ground. And now here I am, 40 years later, with that opportunity again,” WO1 McAdie said.
During the parade, WO1 McAdie undertook the ceremonial role of Artificer and recalled the extensive preparation undertaken by those on parade.
“We were well trained,” he said. “We practised an awful lot for the parade. We spent a lot of time on the parade ground and we were all fairly confident.”
Reflecting on the current generation of soldiers, he added, “From what I see, with the young troops, they are just as keen as I was, and am.”
Above: WO1 Andrew McAdie at the final rehearsal.
Following the parade, invited dignitaries, senior Defence representatives, veterans, and guests attended a formal dinner commemorating the anniversary. The dinner provided an opportunity for veterans and serving members to reflect on the significance of the Banner and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Corps.
At the same time, many members both serving and retired gathered at the Blazing Stump Hotel for a more informal Corps function reflecting the camaraderie for which RAEME is renowned. Veterans of the original parade mixed with younger serving soldiers, sharing stories and reconnecting with old mates, reinforcing the strong intergenerational bond that continues to unite the RAEME family.
Images and article adapted courtesy of Defence and Ian Cook
Editor's Note: Look out for a full wrap up of the Parade in the June Edition of Maintenance Matters.
Members recognised at Government House Ceremonies - Brisbane
Above: L-R Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, LTCOL Julian Fleming CSM and LTCOL (Rtd) Bob Cramp OAM.
Members of the Corps in Queensland were recently recognised during Investiture Ceremonies conducted at Government House, where awards were presented by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland.
Among those recognised was LTCOL Julian David Fleming, who was awarded the Conspicuous Service Medal (CSM) for meritorious devotion to duty as the Commanding Officer of the 9th Force Support Battalion. The award reflects his outstanding leadership, professionalism, and commitment to supporting Army capability and personnel.
LTCOL Robert (Bob) Cramp (Retd) was also recognised, receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the sport of shooting and to the community. His award acknowledges many years of dedication, contribution, and service both within the shooting community and more broadly across the community sector.
We extend our congratulations to both recipients on their well-deserved recognition and thank them for their continued service and contribution to Army, the Corps, and the wider Australian community.
1 CSSB News - Darwin
Above: Members of 101 FD WKSP sharpen their skills in a maritime environment.
How many RAEME tricolours are too many?? The answer is…..there is never enough!!
Last month, members of the 101st Field Workshop Company took to the water to sharpen their skills in a maritime environment.
A great training day delivering lessons afloat, strengthening teamwork, adaptability and readiness outside the workshop.
Image and article adapted courtesy of Defence
