Above: RAQ NQ Committee Member and Life Subscriber Warrant Officer Jason Ballard leads the Townsville March contingent.
Yesterday, the Association once again witnessed the solemn commemoration of ANZAC Day. Marches in Townsville and Brisbane saw more than 300 RAEME veterans, their families, and members of the public gather to pay homage to the sacrifices made by Australian service personnel in war and peace, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
In Townsville, members joined the commemorations, a city with its own proud military history, to pay respects to those who have served. There was a pre-march gathering at Flynn's Hotel followed by a post march gathering at the conclusion of the March.
Above: Thankyou to our RAEME Representative Colonel Commandant BRIG Ed Smeaton who lead the Brisbane March contingent.
The crowds in Brisbane were out in full force as we witnessed the sight of veterans, families, and friends gather to commemorate ANZAC Day. The march in Brisbane wound its way through the city streets against the backdrop of Brisbane's iconic landmarks.
Many members this year were overseas for commemorations, including our Patron COL Tony Borg (RTD) who is at Gallipoli/ Tony passed on his best wishes and thoughts to everyone, on what is a very solemn occasion. Arte et Marte
Above: Members and guests at the Port Office Function in Brisbane (more images on our website and socials shortly)
Following the march, the Brisbane contingents gathered at our traditional watering hole, the Port Office Hotel, to commemorate and share stories of service, and build the camaraderie and Esprit de Corps for which the Corps is famous.
These events don't just happen without the help and support of many organisers, whose contributions make the day so special in Brisbane and Townsville:
- TTMO and OJT's who carried and escorted our banners
- Staff at both Flynn's and the Port Office Hotels
- Max Walker and Jason Ballard - Parade organisers
- Brian Daley, Adrian Butcher and Bruce Hermann
- RAQ NQ and RAQ Executive Teams
Above: Clarrie Sanders at eh Menin Gates Belgium. RAEME & REME, a chance meeting while waiting for the last post ceremony at the Menin Gate, Ypres, Belgium. Nice to have met you Andy (Photo courtesy of Clarrie Sanders)
As the day unfolded across Australia and around the world, the events all serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made by Australian servicemen and women throughout history. Through moments of solemn reflection and camaraderie, Australians unite to honour the courage, resilience, and enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.
Lest we Forget
