4 September 2025
Australian Army engineers marked a major milestone on Warraber Island, with the completion of their first community construction project.
The Kup Murri, a traditional Indigenous cooking pit, was completed and handed over to the community in August to be used during community gatherings.
This project is from a series of planned construction works by the 6th Engineer Support Regiment and the 19th Chief Engineer Works, under the Army Ailan (Aboriginal) Community Assistance Program (AACAP) 2025.
This ongoing commitment reinforces the strong association between the Army and the First Nations people in Australia and the Torres Strait Islands.
Commander 17th Sustainment Brigade, Brigadier Rebecca Talbot, said the achievement reflected the Army’s ongoing commitment to working hand-in-hand with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
“The completion of these projects is more than just a construction effort, it’s a demonstration of how Defence can partner with communities to deliver lasting benefits,” Brigadier Talbot said.
“Our soldiers have gained valuable experience operating in remote environments, but most importantly, they’ve built meaningful connections with the people of Warraber Island.”
Brigadier Talbot said the project also had a strong training benefit for soldiers.
“Working on AACAP develops the adaptability and teamwork of our engineers, tradespeople and logisticians in a real-world environment,” she said.
“The soldiers are sharpening their trade skills, directly enhancing their readiness while at the same time leaving behind something tangible for the community.
“I hope the Kup Murri and other projects through this program proves invaluable – I look forward to seeing more of these projects take shape.”
