Warm welcome for RAAF at Freedom of Entry parade in Cleveland

Hundreds of Redland Coast residents and visitors lined Shore Street West in Cleveland on Saturday morning to witness the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) ask for the right to enter Redland City.

The centuries-old military-civilian tradition held on Saturday 13 April marked the 10th anniversary of when the RAAF was last granted entry on 12 April, 2014.

Redland City Mayor Jos Mitchell, who officially inspected the parade prior to the march, said the ceremony had deep historical significance and is accepted as the most honourable distinction a city can bestow upon a contingent of the Australian Defence Forces.

“Freedom of Entry recognises Redlands Coast’s proud connection with the RAAF and our community’s continuing generosity to all Defence Forces personnel,” she said.

“It was such a delight to see the smiles on faces, the applause, and warm welcome that spectators gave the servicemen and women in the parade.

“We welcomed them into our homes, our communities, and our city during the war years – and we welcomed them again on Saturday.”

The ceremonial military parade, proudly presented by Redland City Council, involved the No.95 Wing of the RAAF being challenged by Queensland Police Service Inspector Michael Morier with the RAAF Parade Warrant Officer presenting a scroll affirming their right of freedom of entry to Redland City.

As the parade then proceeded from Raby Bay Harbour Park to the ANZAC Centenary Park, a fly-over was conducted by a RAAF C-17A Globemaster III aircraft.

Freedom of Entry to the City dates back to the Middle Ages when cities were fortified by walls to protect residents from invaders – right of entry to outside armed forces was a privilege rarely granted but came as a sign of respect for the protection and friendship offered.

The parade featured military members dressed in ceremonial attire, swords drawn, bayonets fixed, battle honours flying, and the Royal Australian Navy Band Queensland playing.