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
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.
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
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
