Army welcomes 11th Regimental Sergeant Major- Army

After three years as the Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Don Spinks, AM handed the position to Warrant Officer Grant McFarlane, OAM at a parade in Canberra today.

Warrant Officer Spinks expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, friends and family for their support during his nearly 39-and-a-half year career.

This included senior appointments in 2nd Cavalry Regiment, Multi National Force and Observers – Sinai Egypt, 1st Brigade, Joint Task Force 633 on Operation Slipper and the Command Sergeant Major Forces Command – Army. 

“I have seen the Army grow into what it is today. It has been an honour to serve with, and lead, the talented soldiers of the Australian Army,” Warrant Officer Spinks said.

Warrant Officer McFarlane said it was a source of tremendous pride to be appointed as the 11th Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army.

“I thank Warrant Officer Don Spinks and his wife Jen for the commitment and dedication they have given to the office of Regimental Sergeant Major – Army,” Warrant Officer McFarlane said
.
“In my time, I have seen significant changes in the Army, but the qualities of our people have not changed – they are professional and committed to serving our nation.

“It will be a privilege to work alongside the rich talent that exists in our regular and reserve forces.

“I thank my wife and sons for the continuous support they have provided.”

The position of the Regimental Sergeant Major of Army was first established in 1983. The holder of this office is the only person in the Australian Army to hold the rank of Warrant Officer.

Warrant Officer McFarlane’s Army career to date has included holding Regimental Sergeant Major appointments at 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, 3rd Brigade, the Combined Team Uruzgan in Afghanistan, 2nd Division, and most recently as the Regimental Sergeant Major of Career Management – Army.

Media Note

Warrant Officer Grant McFarlane’s Biography is available at: https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/leaders/regimental-sergeant-major-army

Imagery of the parade will be available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/s20182241