11 August 2025
For Major Brian Moore, life has come full circle.
Surrounded by his family in the very city where it all began, Rockhampton, Major Moore was recently awarded the Federation Star for 40 years of continuous service.
In August 1983, he raised his right hand and enlisted in the Army Reserves, joining the Royal Australian Infantry Corps at the 42nd Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment.
It was the year the internet was born, Return of the Jedi lit up cinema screens and the final episode of MASH aired on television.
Much has changed since then but Major Moore’s commitment to service has remained steadfast.
He has deployed to Cambodia, Rwanda, East Timor and Afghanistan. Each mission, he said, brought unique challenges and powerful life lessons.
“At the end of the day, each of these experiences has shaped me,” Major Moore said.
“Every deployment is unique because of what you learn from different nationalities and cultures. The end result is always about giving back to other countries.”
He recalls moments that left lasting impressions, such as watching children in remote areas walk great distances just to attend school; a reminder of the impact peace and security can have on everyday lives.
'You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.'
Major Moore said one of his proudest achievements was representing Army as a student and, later, an instructor at the United States Army Sergeants Major Academy in El Paso, Texas.
“To be able to learn from and teach not only US Army members, but also international students, was a real career highlight,” he said.
More recently, his role with 51st Battalion, Far North Queensland Regiment, brought him closer to the heart of community-based defence in northern Australia.
“It’s the nature of the role and the people you work with. You meet some truly remarkable individuals,” he said.
He was joined at the ceremony by his wife, Gil, daughters Georgia and Jontee and mother Moira, underscoring the vital role of family in supporting a life of service.
Reflecting on his career, Major Moore said: “You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
