Here stands the Melbourne University Regiment, a cornerstone of Australia’s Army Reserve officer training. Since 1884, this regiment has shaped countless military careers. It began as D Company, 4th Battalion of the Victorian Rifles. Back then it was known as the University Company.
General Sir John Monash served as a Colour Sergeant here. Later, he received his commission in the colonial militia. The Melbourne University Regiment became official in 1910. It then offered training to Melbourne University members. Public schools in Melbourne and Geelong also participated.
Notably, the Melbourne University Regiment did not deploy in the World Wars. Therefore, it carries no Battle Honours. However, many AIF officers and soldiers began here. They received initial military training at the Melbourne University Regiment.
In 1927, the regiment adopted a powerful motto. “Postera crescam laude” translates to “I will grow by the praise of posterity”. The University itself shares this motto. During World War II, in 1942, the regiment disbanded. But the Melbourne University Regiment re-emerged after the war. It was officially raised again on April 1, 1948. Its regimental march, “The Thin Red Line”, got approval in 1953.
Post Plan Beersheba brought changes in 2013. The Monash University Regiment disbanded and merged into the Melbourne University Regiment. Today, the Melbourne University Regiment falls under the 8th Brigade. Its headquarters are in Sydney. As part of the 2nd Division, it trains Army Reserve officer cadets. They also train other ranks.
The Melbourne University Regiment has three sub-units. These are Monash Company, Herring Company, and Rhoden Company. Training happens at three facilities. Officer cadets train at the former Monash University Regiment depot in Mt Waverley. The regimental headquarters and training company are at the Grattan Street depot in Carlton. A newly established RIC operates at Simpson Barracks in Watsonia. The Melbourne University Regiment is among the busiest Reserve units in Victoria. Training courses run throughout the year.
Many prominent Australians passed through its ranks. Sir Robert Menzies, a former Prime Minister, trained here. Sir Ninian Stephen, a High Court judge and Governor-General, also served. Sir Henry Winneke, a Chief Justice and Governor of Victoria, was a member. Even Barry Humphries, the comedian, has ties to the regiment.
A set of plaques near the Cenotaph commemorate the Melbourne University Regiment. They also honour the University’s involvement in World War One. These plaques serve as a tribute to its enduring legacy. The Melbourne University Regiment continues to shape leaders. It upholds a tradition of service and excellence.