Freedom of Entry March comes to Queanbeyan

Published on 23 June 2023

As part of celebrating 80 years since its commissioning, on 1 July Queanbeyan will bestow trust and confidence in HMAS Harman through the Freedom of Entry March.

During medieval times fortress walls afforded cities protection from outlaw bands and attacks by feudal lords. The citizens of those walled cities wisely refused to allow entry to armed groups unless they were sure that those arms would not be used against them.

The granting of permission to enter a city became the mark of trust and confidence by its citizens. This privilege, not readily won and highly prized, was known as Freedom of Entry.

In the case of the Navy, Freedom of the City recognises the defence of seaport cities and towns. However, as many vessels in the contemporary Royal Australian Navy fleet carry the names of land-locked centres, the honour has been extended to include inland cities like Queanbeyan.

“To see the Navy enter armed, with swords drawn, bayonets fixed, colours flying, drums beating and band playing will be a special honour for Queanbeyan,” Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council Mayor, Kenrick Winchester said.

Members of the public are encouraged to line the streets for the Freedom of Entry March, particularly at the intersection of Crawford and Monaro Street. From this vantage point the Navy will be stopped by the NSW Police Force before being inspected by Mayor Kenrick Winchester.

Once entry is authorised a scroll party takes custody of the scroll and the Australian White Ensign is escorted by a Colour Party into the staging area and marches continue to Queanbeyan Park.

Address:

• Royal Australian Navy to march from the Queens Bridge on Monaro Street.
• Challenge ceremony at intersection of Crawford and Monaro Streets.
• Continue along Monaro Street and Lowe Street to Queanbeyan Park.