Army band strikes up for community events
Australian Army Band – Brisbane provided a soundtrack to rock Balonne Shire, south-west Queensland, at a mayoral ball on August 12.
CAPTION: Members from Australian Army Band – Brisbane perform at the Balonne Shire Council Mayoral Ball at St George, Queensland. Story by Captain Carolyn Barnett.
Musicians from the band also gave a special performance at the Day Out in Dirran on August 13.
Guests at the ball danced the night away with a Hollywood in Balonne-themed set, complete with dazzling chandeliers.
All proceeds from the ball went to the student bursary of the Country Universities Centre Balonne. A gala charity auction held as part of the ball raised $40,000, which will help fund about 90 university students to continue their studies in the region.
Balonne Shire Mayor Samantha O’Toole said the community support from sponsors for the ball was amazing.
“All the prizes for the auction and raffles were gifted,” Mayor O’Toole said.
“Our end goal is to provide funds for students, which enables them to stay in their home town while completing tertiary studies.
“It is important to us, as a community, to help our students be successful in their studies by assisting with funding for equipment, practical placement and tuition.”
CAPTION: Sergeant Deborah O’Toole from Australian Army Band – Brisbane performs a song at community day at Dirranbandi, Queensland.
Crowds enjoyed a special performance by the band the next day in perfect weather at Dirranbandi.
The eight-piece band provided music for a Day Out in Dirran, presenting a wide variety, including jazz and rock.
Officer Commanding the band Major Richard Mason said the band was pleased to support the events.
“Assisting tertiary students to study locally keeps these individuals and their skills in the community, while also supporting the council’s efforts to build resilience in the community as they head into another high-risk weather season,” Major Mason said.
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