Gallipoli Barracks Archives

Stan the Ram’s Legacy Lives On at Enoggera This ANZAC Day

The 8th/9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment at Enoggera is marking ANZAC Day by reflecting on over five decades of tradition linked to its distinctive regimental mascot—Stan the Ram.

Marching on Four Legs: A History of Stan the Ram at Enoggera

For more than 50 years, a succession of merino rams, each officially named John Macarthur but known to diggers as Stan, has served as the symbolic mascot of the 8/9 RAR. The battalion is based at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera. As ANZAC Day approaches, the battalion reflects on the enduring legacy of Stan the Ram, a tradition born in 1971 and still marching strong in 2025.

Caption: Private John ‘Stan’ MacArthur IX arriving at Enoggera barracks. (2020)
Photo Credit: Australian Army/Facebook

From Scone to Parade Ground

The tradition began in early 1971 when Mr W.W. Collinson of Scone, New South Wales, donated a purebred merino to the 9th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. With permission from the Macarthur-Onslow family, the ram was named Private John Macarthur I. This move is a tribute to Australia’s wool industry pioneer. However, among the soldiers, the name “Stan” stuck.

Formally presented on parade in March 1971, Stan quickly became a part of daily life and military routine. When 9 RAR was amalgamated with 8 RAR to form 8/9 RAR in October 1973, the new battalion retained the mascot without interruption.

Tales of Tradition and Discipline

Over the decades, Stan became more than a symbol—he was an active participant in battalion culture. Some stories are now legendary. In the 1970s, Stan I famously knocked down the brigade’s Regimental Sergeant Major, WO1 Lamb, outside Battalion HQ—a moment forever etched in the battalion’s collective memory.

Every Stan also leads parades and stands on review during commemorations. Stan V has taken part in significant events such as the 1992 Freedom of Entry to Brisbane and annual battalion birthday parades at Enoggera.

*Caption: John “Stan” MacArthur in the Brisbane Anzac Day Parade (2015)*
*Photo Credit: State Library Queensland*

Each Stan has held an honorary rank, starting at Private and sometimes progressing through promotions. The mascots are formally inducted, given service numbers, and assigned handlers—often junior soldiers tasked with training them for ceremonial appearances.

Stan’s Place in Ceremonial Life

The mascot’s fleece has been woven into regimental history in a literal sense. Over the past five years, the Caloundra Spinners and Weavers have processed the ultrafine wool from Stan—dyed in the battalion’s slate grey and beech brown colours—and braided it into ceremonial lanyards.

Stan the Ram fleece — *Caption: During the process of spinning and braiding Stan’s fleece.*
*Photo Credit: Mac Kerrie/Instagram*

These lanyards are now worn by battalion members on ANZAC Day, continuing a tactile link between the mascot and those who serve.

Stan the Ram Timeline (John Macarthur I–IX)

1971 – John Macarthur I
Donated from Scone, NSW. Became 9 RAR’s mascot. Then, 8/9 RAR’s mascot after the 1973 merger. Promoted to Corporal.
c.1979 – John Macarthur II
Killed by stray dogs after a pen relocation in 1984.
1984 – John Macarthur III
Served mid-1980s; donated by the Roberts family.
Late 1980s – John Macarthur IV
Mascot during ceremonial years until 1991.
c.1991 – John Macarthur V
Held rank of Lance Corporal. Joined the parade for Brisbane’s Freedom of Entry in 1992. Retired when 8/9 RAR disbanded in 1997.
2008 – John Macarthur VI
Revived mascot tradition after 8/9 RAR re-raised. Retired in early 2010s.
2013 – John Macarthur VII
Served through mid-2010s. Retired in 2019.
2017 – John Macarthur VIII
First to have a ewe companion, Lizzie. Retired in 2020.
2020 – John Macarthur IX (current)
Enlisted and serving as the present mascot. Appears in parades and public events from Enoggera.

More Than a Mascot

While dogs, pigeons, and horses played active roles in wartime, Stan the Ram represents a different contribution—symbolism, spirit, and connection. His presence at Enoggera has bridged generations of service, brought light-hearted relief to regiment life, and served as a community ambassador at schools, hospitals, and civic events.

Caption: Private John ‘Stan’ MacArthur VIII during his first Army haircut.
Photo Credit: 8/9 RAR/X

Far from being just a novelty, Stan the Ram remains a respected part of 8/9 RAR’s structure. Saluted on parade and honoured in the mess, each Stan has reinforced the regiment’s heritage and offered soldiers a reminder that tradition, mateship and humour hold a place alongside duty and discipline.

An Enduring Presence at Enoggera

ANZAC Day will be commemorated at Gallipoli Barracks on 25 April. Stan the Ram’s story continues through his current iteration. Whether on parade, in the field, or at a community event, he stands not only as a mascot, but as a living emblem of 8/9 RAR’s history, identity, and the enduring link between soldier and service.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Keith Payne VC: Local Training at Enoggera Forged Australia’s Most Decorated Soldier

Photo Credit: Australian War Memorial

Australia’s most highly decorated living soldier, Keith Payne VC AM, whose distinguished military career, including training at Enoggera Barracks, culminated in receiving the Victoria Cross for exceptional bravery in Vietnam, remains a dedicated advocate for veterans nationwide.

Early Life and Enoggera Training

*Photo Credit:* *Australian War Memorial*

Born in Ingham, North Queensland, during the Great Depression, Keith Payne grew up in a large family. He left school at 14 to become an apprentice cabinetmaker but found the trade unsatisfying. After a short period in the Citizen Military Forces (CMF), he joined the Australian Regular Army. His extensive service career included training at Brisbane’s Enoggera Barracks, known locally as ‘The Gap’. He was also posted to the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR), based at Enoggera, later in his career.

Decades of Dedicated Service

Mr Payne’s military life spanned several major conflicts and postings. He served in the Korean War with the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR). Later, he served in Malaya during the Emergency with 3RAR. His career saw him rise through the ranks, becoming a Corporal, Sergeant, and Warrant Officer Class II. He also served as an instructor at the Officer Training Unit in Scheyville, New South Wales, and served with the 2nd Battalion, Pacific Islands Regiment in Papua New Guinea.

Heroism Under Fire: The Victoria Cross Action

Mr Payne was appointed to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV). While commanding the 212th Company of the 1st Mobile Strike Force Battalion in Kontum Province, his unit came under heavy attack from a large North Vietnamese force. The company was surrounded on three sides, and his soldiers began to fall back under intense mortar, rocket, and machine-gun fire.

Despite being wounded in the hands, arms, and head by shrapnel, Mr Payne moved under fire, firing his weapon and throwing grenades to keep the enemy back while rallying his troops. He covered the withdrawal and helped organise a defensive position. That night, demonstrating exceptional courage, he spent around three hours moving through the dark, enemy-occupied area, searching for missing and wounded soldiers.

He located about 40 men, organised assistance for the injured, and led the group safely through dangerous territory. Payne later stated his actions were driven by his responsibility as a company commander to look after his soldiers and admitted he experienced fear during the intense battle.

Queen Elizabeth II awarded him the Victoria Cross in Brisbane for these actions. He is the last living Australian recipient of the original Imperial Victoria Cross. His valour was also recognised with the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star from the United States, and the Cross of Gallantry with Bronze Star from the Republic of Vietnam.

Life After Service: Advocacy and Support

After retiring from the Australian Army, Mr Payne served briefly as a Captain with the Sultan of Oman’s Army during the Dhofar War. Returning to Australia, he faced significant personal challenges, including struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) stemming from his war experiences, which affected his family life. His wife Florence said their strong relationship helped them through difficult times. Mr Payne has acknowledged that post-traumatic stress never fully disappears but affirmed that it can be managed.

He turned this challenging experience into a lifelong commitment to supporting fellow veterans. He became deeply involved in the veteran community, particularly counselling those suffering from PTSD. His advocacy includes lobbying for better health and mental care services, pushing for recognition of First Nations service personnel, and supporting campaigns like the one for Edward Sheean VC. He remains active in his 90s, working to ensure veterans receive the support they need, stating that inaction cannot continue for another generation.

His dedication to veterans and their families has earned him further recognition, including the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and later being made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM). The mental health ward at Greenslopes Private Hospital in Brisbane is named the Keith Payne Unit (KPU) in his honour. Living in Mackay, Queensland, with his wife Florence, Mr Payne continues to serve his community.

Published Date 07-April-2025

Recognition at Gallipoli Barracks: Major Robert Sawford Awarded for Years of Service

Gallipoli Barracks became the stage for a meaningful ceremony as Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart presented Major Robert Sawford (retd), affectionately known as “Rawby,” with a first and second Federation Star.

Read: Enoggera Scout Achieves Coveted Baden-Powell Award

The awards recognise his decades of service to the Army and the Royal Australian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RAEME).

A graduate of the 32nd intake of Army apprentices, Major Sawford began his career in 1977 as an electronics tradesman. Over the course of 17 postings, he served in roles spanning Australia and abroad, retiring in 2022. He reflected on his career with gratitude, highlighting the diverse opportunities it afforded him.

Australian Army officer Major Robert Sawford receives his second Federation Star from Lieutenant General Simon Stuart at Gallipoli Barracks, Brisbane (Photo credit: Sergeant Dustin Anderson/defence.gov.au)

Among his career milestones was participating in Exercise Longlook in North Yorkshire, England, during which he joined Exercise Lionheart, the largest NATO troop movement since World War II. In 2001, he led the Ninox Validation and Support Team, conducting critical evaluations of night-fighting equipment across Australia’s defense forces. This role also involved supporting infantry troops in East Timor, a mission later commended for its success and value.

In 2012, Major Sawford served as a team leader during Exercise Pacific Partnership aboard the United States Navy Ship Mercy, delivering humanitarian aid to the Philippines, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Outside his military service, Major Sawford’s personal life reflected a touch of history. He married Jennifer Waddington, the eldest daughter of Lord and Lady Waddington, at the Church of St. Margaret, Westminster Abbey, with a reception at the Palace of Westminster attended by Margaret Thatcher. A London newspaper called the union “Ms. Waddington will wed Wizard from Oz.”

Major Sawford humorously recalled addressing concerns during his officer selection board in 1999 about his wife’s suitability for officers’ mess functions. He assured the panel that Jennifer, who had been presented to Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, had attended far grander events.

Read: New Resource from Play Matters to Support Enoggera Playgroup Families

Summing up his journey, Major Sawford described his career as incredible and heartfelt, emphasizing the significance of the recognition to him, his family, and his colleagues. His decades of service leave an enduring legacy of leadership and dedication to the Australian Army.

Published 6-January-2025

Australian Army to Acquire New Unmanned Aerial Surveillance System, Build Gallipoli Barracks Facilities

Photo Credit: Instituto Pacific / insitupacific.com.au

The Australian Army is set to acquire twenty-four new uncrewed aerial surveillance systems to be manufactured in Brisbane. Facilities at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera will also be established to support the delivery of these new capabilities.

Boeing’s Insitu Pacific Pty Ltd has been tapped to supply the Australian Army with 24 of their signature “integrator” platforms, associated ground systems and integration services. The acquisition is meant to boost the Army’s capabilities in gathering intelligence, undertaking reconnaissance and surveillance missions, and acquiring targets for weapons systems across the Australian Defence Force.

Production of the unmanned aerial surveillance system has already commenced, with delivery expected in 2023 and 2024.

“This is just one example of the way the Morrison Government is growing our sovereign capability,” Minister for Defence, the Hon Peter Dutton MP said regarding the acquisition which is part of the Defence’s $650-million investment.

“This project will enhance the Australian Army’s capabilities by harnessing the innovation and cutting-edge technologies being developed right here in Australia.

The new platform will be manufactured at Instituto Pacific’s facility in Brisbane whilst the components will be sourced from suppliers around Queensland and across Australia. The project will be further supported by a $56 million investment in facilities to be built at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.

Minister Dutton said that 80 per cent of the $650 million budget will be spent in Australia using Australian companies and technology to manufacture, maintain and operate the platform throughout its life. A total of $307 million alone will be committed to the acquisition and initial contract period with Instituto Pacific Limited and is expected to support 130 new and existing jobs in Brisbane and across Australia.

“People may not have always associated Brisbane with the defence industry in the past, but projects like this demonstrate the real opportunities advanced manufacturing can offer now and into the future,” Member for Brisbane, Trevor Evans, said.

Army’s Move From Enoggera To Rockhampton Expected To Create Thousands Of New Jobs

As the 7th Brigade relocates from Enoggera to its new base in Rockhampton, the Gallipoli Barracks will be undergoing much-needed upgrades, to make it a hub to develop new capabilities to support space- and cyber-warfare.

Read: Australian Army to Acquire New Unmanned Aerial Surveillance System, Build Gallipoli Barracks Facilities

The establishment of new ADF bases in Central Queensland, which includes the new Rockhampton base, is expected to create around 21,000 jobs and provide up to $4.5 million boost to the regional economy.

Enoggera training — Photo credit: 7th Brigade – Australian Army/Facebook

Central Queensland Regional Organisation of Councils (CQROC) said Army’s 7th Brigade has outgrown its home at Gallipoli Barracks in Enoggera.

The Enoggera barracks, according to CQROC is a high cost-of-living destination for Army personnel and their families, as it is located away from its primary training area, the Shoalwater Bay Training Area.

“To ensure Army’s 7th Brigade can be ready now and future-ready, it needs to be relocated to a new base adjacent to its primary training area. More training, more often, will strengthen the 7th Brigade’s capabilities to defend Australia and its interests,” CQROC stated in its Defence Strategy.

In September 2021, Kennelly Constructions was selected to deliver the works for the Gallipoli Barracks.

The firm is aiming to achieve 100 per cent local content for the project in a bid to support the local economy.

“I am pleased to see Australian businesses thrive and create a stronger industry in the Defence market,” Minister for Defence Industry Melissa Price said.

rockhampton military base — Plans (Photo credit: CQROC)

Meanwhile, the new military base at Rockhampton ensures that new military facilities will be closer to emerging security threats in the South Pacific.

Some of the key base precincts of the Rockhampton Army Base include the brigade headquarters, vehicle storage, medical and artillery facilities, sports precinct, golf course, mounting facility, and a commercial precinct.

New Military Vehicles to be Based in Gallipoli Barracks at Enoggera

Rheinmetall Defence Australia has announced their successful tender for the $5 billion LAND 400 Phase 2 contract. Under this contract, Rheinmetall is set to deliver up to 225 combat reconnaissance vehicles to the Australian Army, with over 100 of the new military vehicles to be based in Lavarra Barracks, Townsville and Gallipoli Barracks, Enoggera.

Rheinmetall Defence Australia’s BOXER 8×8 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle for the LAND 400 Phase 2 Credit: boxercrv.com.au

Opportunities are expected to grow in Queensland after Rheinmetall Australia’s big win in the hotly-contested LAND 400 Phase 2 program. The first 25 military vehicles will be built in Germany. Australians will be put into teams to learn the necessary skills in Germany before coming back to Australia to build the remaining 200 CRVs. Most of the military vehicles will be built in Queensland.

In a statement, Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said, “The LAND 400 Phase 2 contract to deliver the next generation of combat reconnaissance vehicles to the Australian Army is a catalytic project, and attracting a global defence giant like Rheinmetall to Queensland will create opportunities for local industry for decades to come.”

The project is expected to be an economic game-changer since it will create 450 advanced manufacturing and engineering jobs for Queenslanders. It is expected to contribute $1 billion into the state’s economy in the first 10 years.

Photo credit: www.rheinmetall-defence.com

Three Brisbane businesses that had teamed up with Rheinmetall will particularly benefit from this project. These are NIOA based at Brisbane airport, G & O Kert at Acacia Ridge, and Hilton Manufacturing at Wacol. These companies will hugely benefit from the transfer of technologies and skills, making them even more competitive. This opportunity also opens up more work for locals in Brisbane and nearby suburbs, and provides more highly-skilled jobs in the local community.

Following the successful bid for the LAND 400 Phase 2 program, Rheinmetall will establish its manufacturing hub, the Military Vehicle Centre of Excellence (MILVEHCOE) in Brisbane.