29 April 2025
Sapper Chris Yarrow is in the first cohort of junior ranks to receive the prestigious Prince of Wales Award, which highlights not only his dedication to the Army but also his deep-rooted family history of service and craftsmanship.
Sapper Yarrow enlisted in the ADF as a carpenter, already qualified, and has steadily built his expertise towards obtaining his builder's licence.
His journey in the trade follows a proud lineage, making him the third generation in his family to pursue this path, and he is now completing a Certificate IV in Building.
The Yarrow family's history of service dates back to World War 1, when Sapper Yarrow’s great-grandfather, James Alexander Yarrow, fought on the front lines. James was shot in the chest. He survived thanks to a plate worn over his heart, and lived into his 70s.
Dragged from the battlefield by an engineer regiment and treated in an emergency room, his survival became a testament to resilience, a trait that continues to define the Yarrow lineage.
Sapper Yarrow’s military career has been as a reservist with 11th Engineer Regiment in Brisbane.
“I saw an opportunity to blend my career for building by adding in Reserve service,” he said.
“When I initially considered the Prince of Wales Award, I was told that my plans may not be eligible. But after I heard an officer talk on the award’s purpose, I was encouraged to apply.”
'I saw an opportunity to blend my career for building by adding in Reserve service.'
Among a competitive field of applicants, Sapper Yarrow was presented with his award at Government House, Queensland, on April 8.
“The last time I was at Government House, I was connecting downpipes,” Sapper Yarrow recalled with a smile.
“And today, I’m here receiving this award. It’s a moment I’ll remember, for sure.
“The training I plan to undertake will enhance my skills in health and safety, and leadership, but will also prepare me to take on greater responsibilities within ADF.”
Commanding Officer 11th Engineer Regiment Lieutenant Colonel Peita Fraser congratulated Sapper Yarrow on the contribution his civilian skills and experience brought to Army.
“This award will provide Sapper Yarrow with the opportunity to extend his qualifications in building low-rise structures – a qualification that will directly contribute to his Defence role as a carpenter in the 104th Construction Squadron of the 11th Engineer Regiment,” Lieutenant Colonel Fraser said.
“Receiving the Prince of Wales Award is a significant milestone, not just for Sapper Yarrow but for the Yarrow family’s enduring legacy of service, paving the way for continued contributions to both Defence and the wider community.”
The Prince of Wales Award scheme recognises and rewards ADF reservists and their civilian employers for dedication and commitment to ADF service, providing funding for professional development activities.
