Defence Open Day to Return in 2025
Published on 11 July 2025
The Rockhampton Defence Open Day is returning in 2025 with a broad range of defence vehicles, machinery, career information, personnel and historical memorabilia on display for the community to view and learn about.
In 2025, the Rockhampton Defence Open Day is being delivered by Rockhampton Regional Council in partnership with Australian Army’s 7th Brigade.
It continues a longstanding tradition of community engagement and information sharing as part of local defence exercises.
Rockhampton and Central Queensland continue to play a critical role in national and international defence training and preparations.
This year’s Open Day will also coincide with the beginning of Exercise Talisman Sabre – one of the world’s largest defence exercises which will see more than 30,000 personnel from 19 countries participate in training activities at Shoalwater Bay Training Area as well as Rockhampton Airport.
The community is invited to join Council and representatives from Defence to view the exhibits and assets up close and meet defence personnel and learn about the role they play in defending and support the nation.
The event will be held at the Rockhampton Heritage Village and will be free of charge.
A free sausage sizzle will also be provided.
Details of the event are:
Defence Open Day
Mayor Tony Williams said Rockhampton has a proud history of working with defence during the regular military training exercises.
“We know how important our region is to Defence training and preparations and the role Shoalwater Bay and sites like Rockhampton Airport play in these exercises,” Mayor Williams said.
“The Rockhampton Defence Open Day is a really important way in which we can be part of those events, and learn and understand what our service men and women do and the tools and assets they have that protect our nation.
“I’m really pleased to see Council working with the Australian Army and others to deliver this event.
“I really encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the exhibits, learn about defence and its personnel and enjoy what promises to be an excellent day.”
Commander of the Australian Army’s 7th Brigade, Brigadier Giles Cornelia said 7th Brigade is looking forward to connecting with the community.
“Rockhampton has always made 7th Brigade feel welcome. Central Queensland has come to feel like a second home for our personnel who return here every year for our major exercises, including Exercise Talisman Sabre,” Brigadier Cornelia said.
“Our soldiers are looking forward to meeting the community at the Defence Open Day, showing them some of our equipment, sharing our experience working in Defence, and connecting with residents before the exercise begins.”
Communities, Culture and Heritage Councillor Drew Wickerson, said Rockhampton Heritage Village will have a range of Defence related exhibits open to the public.
“Rockhampton Heritage Village has a range of memorabilia, vehicles and replicas reflecting our region’s history dating back to World War II which we’ll be showcasing during the Defence Open Day,” Cr Wickerson said.
“Entry to the Rockhampton Heritage Village during the Defence Open Day will be free, so whether you’re a regular, visiting for the weekend, or have never explored the Village before, this is a fantastic event to wrap up the school holiday.”