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.
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WO McFarlane was named as the 11th Regimental Sergeant Major to replace the outgoing WO Spinks.
WO Spinks expressed his gratitude to his colleagues, friends and family for their support during his nearly 40-year career.
This included senior appointments in 2nd Cavalry Regiment, Multinational 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,” WO Spinks said.
WO McFarlane said, “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.”
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.
WO 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.
“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," said WO McFarlane.