Adelaide Universities Regiment - Australian Army

From the CO...

“Command is a contact sport, and success in sport is built on highly functioning teams.”

The RSM WO1 Micheal Edwards and I—facilitated by Brig Mick Burgess, Honorary Colonel of the Adelaide Universities Regiment—formally handed over to the incoming command team, LTCOL Tyson Yew and WO1 Scott Chivers.

Under the outstanding leadership of Brig Arran Hassell CSC and WO1 Peter Kirkman (8th Brigade - Training - Australian Army), the RSM and I have been able to focus on our core mission: training the next generation of the Army’s junior officers and non-commissioned officers to lead Australian soldiers.

I’ve given everything to this role and loved every minute of it. I couldn’t be happier to pass the baton to Tyson and Scotty, who I know will do an outstanding job.

Finally, to my incredible wife, Megan - none of this would have been possible without your love and support. Thank you.

Sapientia Omnia Vincit

More good news!

Yesterday, WO2 Kierns was promoted to Captain at the Australian High Commission in London.

Posted to AUR in 2024, CAPT Kierns has been working in the UK since mid-2025, balancing his civilian employment with Army Reserve service—supporting both AUR remotely and the HICOM. His professionalism and dedication have been exceptional.

Congratulations from all of us!

AUR wrapped up 2025 on Tuesday with our Awards, Promotions and Farewells. Thank you to our Honorary Colonel, BRIG Mick Burgess for presenting the recipients with their awards.

Soldier/JNCO of the Year: CPL Quinn

Blackburn Trophy for Individual Efficiency: WO2 Lea

Instructor of the Year: WO2 Pilia’E-Smith

Outstanding Service to AUR: CAPT Couch

Congratulations!

WO2 Pilia’E-Smith was also presented with his Warrant and WO2 Franklin was presented with three bars to his Defence Long Service Medal, recognising his continued dedication and commitment.

A special congratulations to CAPT Lang, who was promoted to Major.

It’s been another big year for AUR. Thank you to everyone for your hard work and professionalism. Enjoy the well-earned break, and we look forward to hitting the ground running in 2026.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you all!

Congratulations and well done to our former CO. SA Cadets are in great hands!

Celebrating an incredible achievement from one of our own! 👏

Congratulations to Ilona Horan, Defence SA’s Director of Corporate Services and Land, on her recent promotion to Colonel and appointment as Commander of the Australian Army Cadets – South Australian Brigade.

In her new role, Ilona leads all 29 Australian Army Cadet units across South Australia, helping inspire the next generation of Defence Force leaders 🙌

As Australia’s largest youth development program, the Army Cadets fosters leadership, confidence and resilience in young Australians.

Having served with the Australian Army for over 18 years, Ilona transitioned to the Reserves in 2017 and has continued to serve our country while excelling in her role at Defence SA.

We are proud to support reservists with a long history of employing former Defence members, many of whom maintain Reserve careers alongside their civilian roles.

🎉 Congrats Ilona – your dedication and leadership continue to inspire us all!

Great work 10/27 RSAR… also great to see two recently graduated Lieutenants from AUR as a part of the contingent!

Yesterday, 38 of Army's newest Lieutenants (7 from AUR) graduated from the Sydney University Regiment (8th Brigade - Training - Australian Army) at Victoria Barracks, Sydney. Completing the Part Time Officer Commissioning Program, in addition to work/study/family commitments is a significant achievement. Congratulations, we are very proud of you! Sapientia Omnia Vincit

Planning started in Aug 24.

In Sep 25, members of AUR 8th Brigade (supported by HQ 9 Bde, 3 HB and 144 Sig Sqn) stepped off on the most arduous battlefield study tour.

This team walked in the footsteps of heroes, facilitated by Kokoda Spirit, on a life changing experience.

Here is but a sample of the memories captured.