G’Day Tigers,
As always, it is my privilege to write to you as Commanding Officer of 5/7 RAR, to provide
an update on what the Tiger Battalion has been attacking in the first part of 2025. The end of
2024 saw the continuation of preparation for 2025, setting a strong foundation for the Tigers
to pounce from on their return from Christmas respite. The first quarter of this year has seen a
broad range of individual and section level training, and a concerted focus on “being brilliant
at the basics.”

The Tiger Battalion has a new “Village Elder”, the Regimental Sergeant Major WO1 Joel
McMahon, with whom I’ve had the pleasure of serving with previously. The RSM has
brought a wealth of experience and education with him to 5/7 RAR. He is a fantastic role
model for the battalion (although maybe not at golf) and I look forward to serving the rest of
my tenure at 5/7 alongside him.

The relinking of 5 and 7 RAR saw the raising of A Coy, and they have wasted no time
cracking into the training year. Hitting it hard early, their first exercise in Tully will set the
scene for what’s to follow. This year the 5/7 RAR will move through the full continuum of
combat operations, being tested on multiple warfighting exercises before building up to Ex
TALISMAN SABRE. At the completion of this large scale multinational exercise, the
Battalion will focus on upskilling their soldiers and officers on a broad range of courses.
Throughout the year there are planned international engagements, working with our regional
partners to maintain our professional relationships, strengthen our bonds, and continue to develop our interoperability.

As always, the Tigers remain committed to the task, and this year looks to be busier than
most. On behalf of the Officers and Soldiers of the 5th/7th Battalion, The Royal Australian
Regiment – I thank our families and friends for the support, and wish you all the very best for
the coming year.

Duty First!
LTCOL Hugh Grogan CSC