31 January 2025
Flag-covered utes from the Northern Territory descended on Hidden Valley Raceway on Australia Day to the sound of classic Aussie Rock.
The smell of bacon and eggs filled the air.
The 24th annual Hot 100 Australia Day Ute Run was in full swing by 7am, with the mix of celebration and community spirit lifted by the revving of engines.
Outside pit lane, two vehicles stood out from the rest – an Australian Army Hawkei and G Wagon from 1st Combat Brigade.
Giving the local community a chance to see these impressive vehicles up close, the personnel were more than happy to share their experiences.
Lance Corporal Bryce Ryan, the driver of the G Wagon, said it was great to see the smiles on the faces lining the streets of Darwin.
“I have previously taken part in the event with my civilian vehicle; it was the first time going with Army,” Lance Corporal Ryan said.
“Hearing everyone yelling out and seeing them wave showed that they were happy to see the Army there taking part.”
As the National Anthem concluded, engines were started and horns sounded in unison. The convoy then headed to the Noonamah Tavern with the two military vehicles in the lead.
Arriving at the tavern, the Hawkei and G Wagon sat front and centre as hundreds of utes made their way into the grounds.
“The community had such a positive attitude to us joining in on their event,” Lance Corporal Ryan said.
Commander 1st Brigade, Brigadier Douglas Pashley, said the event was a perfect opportunity to showcase Army’s engagement with the Top End community.
“There is no better garrison town, and it is events like this that allow us to demonstrate to the community that we are here to support them,” Brigadier Pashley said.
“It was a really enjoyable and memorable activity for our soldiers to participate in.”
