Within the day to day running of the Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery there are many activities that can be broadly classified as "Regimental Matters". These activities generally relate to the “espirit de corps” and well being of the Regiment and include such matters as customs and traditions of the RAA, ceremonial activities, history and memorials. In the very busy world of modern soldiering these activities, are not necessary given due recognition until it is too late and perhaps something of importance is lost forever. In the management of Regimental matters there are various RAA appointments, organizations and associations which play an important role and these include the Colonels Commandant and the Representative Colonel Commandant.
The Colonels Commandant and the Representative Colonel Commandant are appointed by the Chief of Army and play a vital role in the conduct of regimental matters but as a major portion of their business is conducted behind the scenes the appointments are not generally well known or understood.
Historically the Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery has six Colonels Commandant, one of who is appointed as Representative Colonel Commandant. Each Colonel Commandant is responsible for a geographical area based on the previous Military District structure of Army. Hence Colonels Commandant are appointed for Northern Region (1 Military District), Eastern Region (2 Military District), Southern Region(3 Military District), Central Region (4 and 7 Military Districts), Western Region (5 Military District) and Tasmanian Region (6 Military District). The appointments are filled by retired officers from either the ARA or ARES. The duties of Colonel Commandant are described in Royal Australian Artillery (RAA) Standing Orders. In general terms their prime function is to act as the principle point of contact for Regimental matters within their Military District and, when necessary, coordinate the activities of the different RAA organizations and associations
Use the links below to view bio of the current incumbent and past Colonel Commandants of the various regions.
Colonels Commandant Establishment The Honorary Colonel concept was ad hoc until 1955 when a Colonel Commandant was appointed in each State. This was promulgated as follows:
| |
“The Military Board has considered the scale of appointment, duties and privileges of Honorary Colonels / Colonels Commandant. MBI 186 dated 28 Sep 56 on this subject has been issued.” |
|
Review and Revised Structure. During 2016 - 2019 the RCC and HOR implemented a review of the role and support provided by the long-standing existing Colonels Commandant structure. The outcome saw a move away from geographically state based appointments and the adoption of a dedicated Colonel Command for each RAA Regiment. One of these CC will continue to be appointed concurrently as the Representative Colonel Commandant.
Representative Colonel Commandant Establishment The Representative Colonel Commandant was established in 1974 and, by exception, is an existing Colonel Commandant.
Click on Colonel Commandant Honour Board to view past appointments.
Use the links below to view bio of the current Colonel Commandants: |
