The Third Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3 RAR) are finally here!
After years of planning and months of anticipation, the men and women of 3 RAR are, this week, beginning work at their new lines at Lavarack Barracks following their move from Holsworthy Barracks in Sydney.
They are getting down to business in their state of the art facilities, which are anticipated to be the envy of many units around the country.
3 RAR’s arrival means the three original Battalions of the Royal Australian Regiment are based in the same location for the first time since 1948.
The Commanding Officer of 3RAR, Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL) Trent Scott has said his soldiers are adjusting to Townsville and are looking forward to being officially welcomed by the Council and community on 10 February.
“We are looking forward to commencing work and meeting with residents at our welcome parade at the Strand next week.” LTCOL Scott said.
“It will be one of a few occasions that mark our official arrival in Townsville and I know all of us are grateful for the support of the community,” he said.
The move commenced last November with the majority of the soldiers and their families completing their move early in 2012 for what will be a busy year for the Battalion; as they settle in to their new location they will also be preparing for deployment later in the year.
Along with the Welcome Parade on 10 February the Battalion is also looking forward to their first Kapyong Day in Townsville on 24 April when they will officially open their new headquarters at Lavarack Barracks.
The Welcome Parade is at 10am on 10 February at ANZAC Park at the Strand Townsville; all members of the public are invited to attend.
Media contact: Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999
