Celebrating a show like no other

An estimated 150,000 fans from across Queensland, and even across the globe, made their way to Suncorp Stadium from February 12–15 to see military bands, cultural troupes, rich storytelling and cutting-edge visuals. 

The show featured more than 1,000 of the finest performers from the UK, Europe, USA, Australia, New Zealand and beyond, including Australian Defence Force musicians, Scottish bagpipers, massed military bands, Tattoo dancers and more.  

Watching on in awe, attendees of all ages enjoyed the spectacle, commenting that it was a show like no other and, for some, worth the long journey to get there.  

“It’s music that we used to go into battle with. It's music that gets you fired up. It gets right down into your soul and in your gut. So, even if people don't have a military background, as soon as certain songs start playing, like ‘Sweet Caroline’, you feel it in your gut and that is why people keep coming back.” 

“It has no limits or bounds. It is something that people can connect with in so many different ways. It's inclusive and it's something that really brings people together – through music, through memory and through connection.” 

“It's an absolute once in a lifetime opportunity to see the Edinburgh Tattoo here in Brisbane. Having grown up listening to this type of music, it's absolutely impressive. It's phenomenal.” 

Also in the crowd was 104-year-old veteran and Cooroy-Pomona RSL Sub Branch member Elsie Dalzell, who was able to watch her great grandson, 21-year-old bagpiper, Nic McGahan, perform live in the Tattoo for the first time on the Saturday evening. 

Speaking to RSL Queensland ahead of the Tattoo, Nic said, “It is such an honour to be able to play at the Tattoo in Brisbane and know that my Great Nanna is finally able to see me play live – not just on TV.”  

“Every time Great Nanna hears I am coming to visit, the first thing she asks is if I can bring my bagpipes just to give her a little private recital.”  

Honouring our people 

The Tattoo’s theme, ‘The Heroes Who Made Us’, celebrated its magnificent 75-year history and all who have helped defend, support and enrich our communities.

With the show’s theme top of mind, many attendees reflected on their volunteer work and what they do to support their local RSL Sub Branch community. 

“My dad served with the Queensland Cameron Highlanders, the 61st battalion. When I was old enough, I joined straight away. I did my National Service in 1956. I didn’t go overseas but now I’m looking after the guys that did.” 

“For me, it's all the people I've served with and continue to serve with, within Defence or outside of Defence within the RSL. Everyone who is doing their bit to support the veteran community is a hero.” 

“They [veterans] don't need the pat on the back or anything like that. They're just out doing what they do quietly. That to me is a hero.”  

By sponsoring the event, RSL Queensland proudly celebrates the many individuals who make a difference – whether through military service or volunteering. 

RSL Queensland State President Major General Stephen Day DSC AM says the show’s theme, of honouring volunteers who build our communities, resonated particularly well with RSL Queensland and our 35,000 members across the state. 

“This is an outstanding event and was a landmark occasion for the veteran community here in Queensland – not just because of its military ties but also because of the focus on those individuals that support our communities,” MAJGEN Day said.