ADF participation in Townsville’s Australia Day celebrations

Guns blasted from the hilltops, flags flew, soldiers marched, the band played and guests were welcomed with a warm respect for country at the Australia Day flag-raising ceremony in Townsville.

CAPTION: Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment, on parade during the Australia Day flag raising ceremony at Jezzine Barracks, Townsville. Story by Major Taylor Lynch. Photo by Bombardier Guy Sadler.

The event, at the historic Jezzine Barracks, was a reminder of how integrated the ADF and the Royal Australian Regiment’s 3rd Brigade are in the Townsville community.

Deputy Commander of 3rd Brigade Lieutenant Colonel Ken Golder said it was important for Townsville to host the celebration and for the ADF to take part.

“In times of need, the ADF and North Queensland community are always there as one,” Lieutenant Colonel Golder said.

“The ADF, Townsville, North Queensland and greater Queensland community are so closely linked, it’s a garrison city.”

The event was hosted by Commander of the 1st Division Major General Scott Winter, and was attended by Queensland figures including Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill, Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Queensland Governor Jeannette Young.

The 3rd Battalion stood on parade as the Royal Guard, the Royal Australian Artillery’s 4th Regiment provided the 21-gun salute, and Army and Air Force members were part of the flag-raising ceremony.

CAPTION: Gunners from the 4th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, conduct a 21-gun salute during the Australia Day flag raising ceremony at Jezzine Barracks, Townsville. Photo by Gunner Greg  Scott.

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