Regiment granted freedom of entry
Residents of the suburb of Redcliffe celebrated the Brisbane-based 1st Signal Regiment as it exercised freedom of entry in Moreton Bay on October 18.
CAPTION: Soldiers and officers from Army’s 1st Signal Regiment march through Redcliffe, Queensland, during a City of Moreton Bay freedom of entry march. Story by Captain Nigel Jacobs. Photos by Lance Corporal Luke Donegan.
About 120 officers and soldiers, escorted by the Queensland Police Service, took part in the march along Redcliffe Parade.
In keeping with tradition, the march was ‘challenged’ by Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Kevin Guteridge.
CAPTION: Commanding Officer 1st Signal Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Katie Burrup orders the parade to halt as Queensland Police Assistant Commissioner Kevin Guteridge raises his hand for the ‘challenge’ during a freedom of entry march through Redcliffe.
Assistant Commissioner Guteridge demanded the name and purpose of the incoming military force, before allowing the unit to continue its march.
Commanding Officer 1st Signal Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Katie Burrup said the event demonstrated the longstanding relationship between Defence and the community.
“It was an honour to march along Redcliffe Parade with the support of the community and the Queensland Police Service,” Lieutenant Colonel Burrup said.
Regimental Sergeant Major 1st Signal Regiment Warrant Officer Class One (WO1) Jason Harvey said it was an honour to take part.
“The Australian Army’s 1st Signal Regiment has a special bond with the people of Redcliffe that dates back 30 years,” WO1 Harvey said.
“This march also has special significance because it is taking place on the 100th anniversary of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals.”
After inspecting the regiment, the Mayor of Moreton Bay Peter Flannery said the event strengthened ties between the community and the service men and women of 1st Signal Regiment.
“These ceremonial honours remain the oldest, and one of the highest civic honours bestowed of a city,” Mayor Flannery said.
“The granting of a freedom of entry is a symbolic honour that demonstrates trust, loyalty and a sense of community between the city and the military unit.
“We look forward to continuing this strong and meaningful bond for many generations to come.”
Mayor Flannery said, as a former serving member, granting freedom of entry held special personal significance.
“I know the pressures they are under and the commitment they make to the community and the country,” Mayor Flannery said.
“It was an honour and a privilege to be the reviewing officer for the freedom of entry and it’s something I will remember forever.”
Upon granting freedom of entry to 1st Signal Regiment, Mayor Flannery presented Lieutenant Colonel Burrup with a framed scroll.
CAPTION: Lieutenant Colonel Katie Burrup and Warrant Officer Class One Jason Harvey receive the freedom of entry certificate for the City of Moreton Bay from Mayor Peter Flannery.
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