Wonthaggi musos off to Ballarat

NOT one, but two groups of Wonthaggi brass and percussion musicians are busily rehearsing to compete at the Victorian Bands League State Championships in Ballarat on Sunday, August 20. 

Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band are heading back to the competition for the first time since 2019, competing in the Open C grade section against 6 other Victorian community bands. 

Musical director Craig Marinus and 35 musicians, ranging from retirees to students from Bass Coast College, have been rehearsing every Friday night to prepare for their performance of a hymn, a test piece, an ‘own choice’ work and a march. 

Craig stated, “...I am really excited to lead the Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band at the State Championships in Ballarat this year. We have been able to emerge from the last couple of years with a strong and resilient band and have seen the growth of many youth members that are now playing an active part in the band and are the future of the band. It really is an exciting time and a great opportunity for us to continue learning and developing our playing skills both individually and as a band, while also contributing to our community and sharing fellowship and friendship. There’s A Part Of My Heart In Wonthaggi”. 

Wonthaggi Youth Brass, which is made up of current and former students from local schools including Bass Coast, Foster and Korumburra Secondary Colleges, spend their Wednesday evenings rehearsing at the bandroom with Musical Director Nick Beale. 

They will compete in the Junior C Grade section, performing three pieces.

Both bands, plus the training group and guest artists, will also perform in the Wonthaggi Citizens’ Band Annual Concert at the WUCAC on Saturday October 14. 

Tickets are now on sale- see www.wonthaggiartscentre.com.au for details, or follow the band on Facebook at www.facebook.com/WoniCitzBand to find out more about all upcoming performances.