Warragul band

The Warragul Municipal Band found itself facing ever-increasing costs associated with maintaining its range of brass and timpani instruments in good condition.

Becoming aware of the problem, and recognising the contribution that the band made to the local community, Gippsland Forest Masonic Lodge decided to organise a barbecue sausage sizzle, courtesy of Bunnings in Warragul, to help the band with its instruments' renovation and renewal program.

The event proved successful in raising over $1000 in local donations for the band. The Lodge then made an application for additional support from a Masonic charity, via Freemasons Foundation Victoria, which generously added its own donation to the initiative, bringing the total sum raised to $5000.

Representatives from the band were warmly welcomed to the presentation of the donations, held recently at the West Gippsland Masonic Centre in Warragul. The band "played for their supper" by performing a medley from their extensive repertoire, before joining Gippsland Forest Lodge members for an informal dinner.

On being presented with the joint-donation by Gippsland Forest Lodge's Ken Brown, Warragul Municipal Band President, Hans van

Meurs, said "We are extremely appreciative for the generosity and support shown to us by Freemasons Foundation Victoria, the members of our local Gippsland Forest Lodge, and local residents who supported the appeal.

"This donation will assist us greatly in keeping our wide-range of instruments in top condition and also help us to continue performing to the high-standard that we and our audiences expect."