BRASS band players were recognised recently as the Mount Gambier City Band held its annual awards presentations.
Musical director Dan Caton presented the Waawor Development Band awards alongside longest serving life member Graham Marks.
Bradley Shephard won the all-round performance award, while Katelyn Bowering received the award for the most improved.
Mr Marks recalled the band work of the late Percy Marks before presenting the Percy Marks Junior Bandsperson of the year award to Annabelle Mossford-MacGregor.
The senior band awards were presented by band vice-president and life member John Cruise and musical director Dan Caton, with Sarah Mossford MacGregor taking out the most improved trophy.
Quinn Kellock received the all-round performance award, while Bill Richards received the best instrumentalist award.
The major senior bandsperson of the year award was presented to Tom Dermody.
Mr Dermody was acknowledged for his work as secretary during the past 12 months.
After a busy day appearing in the Mount Gambier Christmas Parade and Lions Club Blue Lake Brass Band Festival, the band was also named the Lions Club Band of the Year.
Band president Craig Wood said the award was an unexpected, but welcome surprise.
“It was a reward for the hard work of many people over the last few years,” Mr Wood said.
“We have been working away on many aspects of our organisation, from renovating our hall to building our junior ranks.
“All the while we have maintained our community service and it is nice to be recognised by the Lions club in this way.”
Mr Wood said the band had worked hard for a successful and enjoyable year, with a few community commitments remaining before the annual Christmas break.
