Reception in support of the Queensland University Regiment Association

Former Supreme Court Justice, the Honourable George Fryberg; Queensland University Regiment Association President, Mr Craig Blanch; Patron of the Association, Brigadier Sam Harrison MBE RFD (Retd); Queensland University Regiment Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Ben Dullroy and Former Commanding Officers; Australian Defence Force personnel, Regimental members and friends; distinguished guests.

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 today.

Graeme and I are delighted to welcome you all to Government House this afternoon.

As many of you know, Graeme and I share a strong personal connection with the Army Reserve. Graeme served for many years in the Australian Reserve, including with the Queensland University Regiment, and we both share a deep appreciation for the unique role the Reserve plays in maintaining close links between Defence and the broader community.

Vice-Regal representatives have long maintained close connections with the military. My predecessor as Governor, the Honourable Paul de Jersey also served––in the Queensland University Regiment no less––and has spoken proudly and warmly about the ‘great formative experience’¹ of his time there.

The 125th anniversary of the Australian Army this year offers us a particularly fitting opportunity to reflect on the role of the Australian Defence Force in not only defending our nation but supporting our communities, and much of this community engagement occurs through the Reserve structure.

The Reserve forces help maintain strong links between Defence and civilian life, with members drawing on their everyday professions and local connections to contribute skills, leadership and practical support in times of need.

And while the role and structure of the Queensland University Regiment have changed considerably over its lifetime, the Defence values at its core – of courage, respect, integrity and excellence – have endured.

This commitment is reflected in the Regiment’s ongoing training and professional development activities, such as the recent professional military education sessions examining emerging drone and counter-drone technologies to better prepare personnel for contemporary operational challenges.

Skill building, and the development of personal and strategic capacity, are fundamental to all Army training. They directly support the Army’s broader remit, from the ultimate demands of wartime service to humanitarian support overseas, border protection, and disaster relief at home.

In a world of accelerating technological change and complex geopolitics, training under the guidance of experienced soldiers and officers offers exceptional opportunities to learn, adapt, and engage meaningfully within the Army’s contemporary strategic and adaptive learning culture.

The skills developed through this service are carried forward into civilian careers, strengthening not only individual capability but also the broader skills base of the nation, be that in professional, vocational or community-based work. 

As Anzac Day approaches, attention rightly turns to honouring the sacrifices of all who served our nation in the Defence Forces, and those who stood ready here at home to support them.

Graeme and I look forward to speaking with all of you here today about your experiences with the Queensland University Regiment and as members of the Association. Thank you.