Individual Investiture Ceremony of Major Joel Bray CSM and Corporal Meghan Manuzic CSM

Representing Commander, 1st Division, Australian Army, Brigadier Shane Gabriel DSC AM; Award recipients Major Joel Bray CSM and Corporal Meghan Manuzic CSM; your family, friends and colleagues; distinguished guests; ladies and gentlemen. 

I begin by acknowledging the Original Custodians of the lands around Brisbane, the Turrbal and Jagera people, and pay my respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and to any First Nations people here this morning. 

As Governor of Queensland and as the Honorary Colonel of the Royal Queensland Regiment of the Australian Army, I am delighted to welcome you to Government House for this Investiture Ceremony to honour two outstanding soldiers with Conspicuous Service Medals. 

Just as today’s ceremony is a meaningful occasion for our medal recipients, all similar ceremonies held this year have carried particular significance, as 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the introduction of Australia’s unique system of honours and awards. 

As the representative of our Head of State, His Majesty King Charles III, in Queensland, it is not only my official duty–but also my great privilege–to invest outstanding Queenslanders with their honours and awards. 

The Conspicuous Service Medal recognises meritorious achievement and service in non-warlike situations—an honour that holds particular resonance here in Queensland, where so many Australian Defence Force personnel and their families live and serve.  

From Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane to Canungra in the south and Lavarack in Townsville to the north, Queensland is home to thousands of men and women in uniform, including around 40 percent of the nation’s Army personnel. 

Their contributions, both at home and abroad, exemplify the dedication and excellence that the Conspicuous Service Medal exists to acknowledge. 

Today we recognise the exceptional service of two outstanding members of Queensland’s Defence community. Through their citations, we’ve heard how Major Bray and Corporal Manuzic have made lasting contributions to the Australian Army—strengthening its operational capability and enhancing its international reputation. 

Major Bray’s leadership in advancing collective training has set a new benchmark for large-scale exercises and global engagement. Corporal Manuzic’s actions during a critical deployment in the Philippines not only saved lives but also elevated Australia’s standing as a trusted military partner in the Pacific. 

While their paths differ, both recipients exemplify a shared commitment to excellence—through leadership, continuous improvement in combat readiness, and committed care for their colleagues. 

To the recipients, may these medals serve not only to recognise your achievements but also be a reminder that your work matters deeply to all of us. Australia is safer, stronger and more united because of your service. On behalf of all Queenslanders, I once again congratulate and thank you for your dedicated service to our nation.