Sending signals for a century
The Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs) gathered at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance on 14 February 2025 to mark the Corps’ centenary

 

Article courtesy of the Department of Defence

Past and present members of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs) gathered at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance on 14 February 2025 to mark the Corps’ centenary. The event, attended by signallers, their families, veterans and a host of distinguished guests, celebrated a century of service, innovation, and sacrifice. 

Since the order was issued to form the Australian Corps of Signals on 14 February 1925, the Corps has played a crucial role in keeping the Australian Army connected, adapting to ever-evolving technology. 

Brigadier Deane Limmer CSM, Head of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals, praised the Corps’ adaptability and enduring commitment to Defence operations. ‘For more than a century, the Corps has been developing and responding to emerging technology, giving the ADF a competitive edge,’ Brigadier Limmer said. ‘Army signallers have been keeping the Australian Army and the ADF connected, leading the way in technology adoption and advancement at every turn. 

‘For a century, families have supported us and made sacrifices, making this year’s celebrations a show of gratitude for their part in serving alongside us.’ 

The Governor of Victoria, Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, reviewed the parade. She reinforced the importance of the signallers’ role, carrying messages that can mean the difference between hope and despair. 

‘On behalf of the people of Victoria, I want to offer our deepest appreciation for your service, for all the new skills and capabilities you are developing that are important for our future security, and the vital role you play each and every day through your service across our country and abroad,’ the Governor said. 

The Governor was joined by many signallers who are now senior officers in the ADF, including Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart AO DSC, and Chief of Joint Capabilities Lieutenant General Susan Coyle AM CSC DSM. 

Signallers have served in every major conflict since the First World War, from the Second World War to Korea, Vietnam, Western Sahara, Somalia, Cambodia and more recent deployments in the Middle East and the Pacific. Their expertise in skills such as electronic warfare, signals intelligence, telecommunications, information technology and cyberspace capabilities has been essential in warlike and humanitarian operations alike. 

Beyond the battlefield, signallers have been instrumental in disaster relief, recently deploying to the Pacific to restore communications after natural disasters. 

Mr Gavin Lee, President of the RA Sigs Association (Victoria) said he was immensely proud of the support and turnout by signals veterans from the Vietnam War, more recent conflicts and particularly members of the old 3rd Divisional Signals (CMF) and 108 Signal Squadron. 

‘We are looking forward to an even greater turn out on Anzac Day to commemorate and celebrate the centenary,’ Mr Lee said. 

For veterans and their families, the parade was more than a ceremony – it was a powerful reminder of their contributions and sacrifices. It also provided a chance to reconnect and reflect on their service. 

 

Image: Australian Army signallers during the 100th anniversary parade (Defence). For more images visit Defence News.