ADF FAREWELL PARADE FOR THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) today held a Farewell Parade for His Excellency the Governor-General of Australia, Major General Michael Jeffery, AC, CVO, MC.

Speaking at Sir Thomas Blamey Square, Russell, Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, paid tribute to the outgoing Commander-in-Chief and his wife.

“It is my great privilege to host this parade.  Today, we mark the end of 54 years of service to the community by Major General Michael Jeffery.  We also pay tribute to the very significant contribution made by Her Excellency Mrs Marlena Jeffery to Australian society during this time,” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.

“It has been a pleasure for ADF personnel to see a soldier as Governor-General of our nation.  At a time of high operational tempo, it has been reassuring for our personnel to know that their Commander-in-Chief and his family know from experience what it means to serve our nation, and the unique demands that are placed on our personnel and their families.

“On behalf of the men and women of the ADF, I thank you for your service to the ADF, not only for the past five years as our Commander-in-Chief, but also for your impressive service since you graduated from the Royal Military College in 1958.

“You are a man who spent your entire working life displaying courage and determination, intelligence and skill, leadership and tenacity, compassion and humour.”

His Excellency Major General Michael Jeffery said he and his wife were greatly honoured by the Farewell Parade.

“Without doubt, one of the highlights for me personally as Governor-General has been my role as Commander-in-Chief of the ADF and the opportunity to meet so many of our current serving personnel,” the Governor-General said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Air Chief Marshal Houston and all the men and women of the ADF – both here at home and overseas – for your outstanding work and commitment as you embark on the work of our nation in places around the globe.

“You are renowned the world over for your professionalism, skill, resolve and compassion.  You are sought after as coalition members.  You are reliable and you are devoted.  You are Australia’s finest and it has been a great honour to be your Commander-in-Chief.”

Media note:

• Vision of the parade will be fed through to networks at Parliament House.
• High resolution images of the parade will be available from approximately 2pm AEST from the Defence website – www.defence.gov.au/media/download

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: (02) 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664