The present band was formed in 1901 by Mr. Carl Stanley, Geo Lawson and J. Tyler and has continued to function ever since.

Mr. W.J. Wood was the first secretary, a position he held until 1908, and Mr. C.A. Richards was the first Treasurer but he resigned early in 1902 and his position was taken by Mr. John Wood, a position he also held until 1908. Mr. C. Bushel was the first Bandmaster but he did not stay long after the purchase of the first set of new instruments which were of very poor quality.

Practice at this time was held in St. Michaels Hall and the Band was, known as the Mitcham Brass Band, later this name was to be changed to Mitcham City Brass Band after Mitcham became a City.

To get the Band started, Mr. Lloyd Price loaned the Band forty pounds ($6,500)* which was to be repaid at Ten Pound ($1600) per year. This loan, together with donations collections, fees, etc. allowed the purchase of instruments and Hall Hire etc.

The following list is some of the Band expenses for the first year:-

• Bandmasters Allowance 10/- ($81 per year)
• Mr. Buscombe – Horse Hire 7/6 ($60)
• Hall Hire ￡5 ($800) per year
• Repayment of loan ￡10 ($1600)
• One tin of Kerosine fuel for lamps 3/11 ($32)
• E flat Tenor Horn ￡10/- ($1600)
• E flat Bass ￡17/10/- ($2800)
• Cornet ￡5 ($800)
• Bass Drum ￡4/ 17/6 ($650)

Members fees at this stage were 2/6 ($20) joining fee then sixpence ($4) per week.

The following is a list of subscribers and Vice Presidents of the Band in 1902.
Messrs. R. Barr Smith, A. Wilkinson, G. Wilcox, Dr. A.H. Gault Dr. F. Steele Scott, G. Conquest, F.C. Howard, J. Maslin, Rev. Clampett (later Archdeacon), F. French, W. Bradley, Tom Price M.P. (later Sir Thomas), M. Spiller, Lloyd Price, Dr. T.K. Hamilton, H.G. Price, R. Rymill, F. Grimes, and Hon. J.G. Jenkins. Donations from these men ranged from 5/ to Ten Pound.

In 1902/3 several young members used to go to the workshop of Mr. C.A. Stanley in Rose Lane, Mitcham, and practice with the aid of candles for light, this they did as many as three nights a week besides the regular Practice Night. The Auditors of the Band at this stage were C.W. Stanley, W.C. Vowels and E. Blythman.

In 1903 Mr. C. Allison took over the position of Bandmaster of the Band and held this position until 1911. (He was also conductor of Adelaide Vice Regal at the same time.) The Band made good progress under his tuition and in 1911 had grown to a strength of 26 players.

In 1906 the Band used to congregate in Mr. Gcdden’s Cow shed in Hawthorn and practice by candlelight and hurricane lamps.

In 1908, at its own expense, the Band enlarged the Rotunda on the Mitcham Reserve from which many open air concerts were staged by the Band for the benefit of the community over the coming years. During the year, as an inducement to younger players, the Weekly Subscription was reduced from 1/-  to sixpence.

By 1909 the Band possesed 23 instruments valued at about 125 Pound ($20,000) besides those privately owned by various members and played several times throughout the year at various Vice-Presidents homes. This helped to create a let of good feeling between the Subscribers and the Band Members. The Band was also giving fortnightly concerts on the Mitcham Reserve during the Summer as well as various other locations.

* Pound/Shilling/Pence conversion based on 2021 relative values

In 1911 a set of rules were drawn up as follows:-

1. This Band shall be known as the Mitcham Brass Band.
2. That the ownership of all instruments, stands, music and all other property shall be vested in the Trustees.
3. That no member shall have any ownership, in any of the Band Property, beyond what his vote as a member entitles him to, and, on leaving the Band, must give up all Band Property to the Secretary and pay any monies due.
4. That a Committee of 7 members be appointed to conduct all business. Such Committee not to hold office for more than 12 months without re-election. Should a vacancy occur, such a vacancy is to be filled at once.
5. That the Band’s accounts be audited once a year.
6. That the entrance fee be 2/6 ($0-25) and weekly subscriptions of sixpence ($0-05).
7. That such fines as the Committee may think fit shall be imposed for:-
   1. Playing instruments on the Kings Highway.
   2. Being late or absent from practice.
   3. Using bad language.
   4. Disobeying Bandmaster or his Deputy during practice.
8. That the Band must meet once a week for practice and the Secretary shall call the roll and list all who are present.
9. No member shall play in another Band without the consent of the Committee and the Committee shall expel any member for misconduct or systematic non-attendance or for being in arrears with contributions.
10. Any member leaving the Band shall return all property to the Band and make good any repairs if requested by the Committee.
11. The Bandmaster, or, in his absence, the Deputy Bandmaster shall have charge of the Band.
12. That the Committee refer all decisions to the full Band for confirmation.
13. That this Band cannot be disbanded as long as there are six (6} members opposed to that cause.
14. That every member, on being admitted to the Band, must sign his name to the above rules.

(At this time the Trustees were within the Band, but, some years later, the Trusteeship was entrusted to the Mitcham City Council, for security and posterity.)

In 1912 Mr. Laurie Chenoweth assumed control as Bandmaster, a position he held for 34 years and in 1913 the Band won its first of many contests. This was at the Strathalbyn Championships, gaining first place in the March, Waltz and own choice sections. Also during the year the Band completed 22 engagements.

In 1914 the Band purchased its first set of uniforms from G.J. Plenty and Sons at a total cost of 34 Pound 10/-  and it was at this time that the Band changed its venue to the Mitcham Institute (Now Youth Centre’) for practice, which, at this stage, and for the next 40 years was held on Monday Nights. At this stage the Band played at the pictures on the Price Memorial Oval. This they did until 1915.

During the first few years of Mr. L. Chenoweth’s leadership, the Band would stand in a circle for 2 hours of practice, this was also done during engagements and contests or any time that the Band played as a whole.

When the Band decided to sit, Mr. Chenoweth nearly resigned, he was so upset, he said that if it was good enough for him to stand, it was good enough for the rest of the Band to do likewise, his theory was that it affected the breathing.

During the First World War (1914-1918), the Band gave regular concerts at the Mitcham Army Camp at Colonel light Gardens although its membership had fallen to 12 players due to a great number of members enlisting in the Armed Forces, never the less it always seemed to survive. As well as entertaining the troops, the Band also presented the First Expeditionary Force with an E flat Bass and 36 pieces of music.

During this period, Mr. W.A. (Bill) Walters, who, at the time was Treasurer of the Mitcham Band, a position he held until 1932, became President of the Band Association (now S.A.B.A.) a position he held for a number of years. At this stage the Association meetings were held in the Jeweller’s Shop owned by Mr. H.G. Dali (who was Secretary of the Association), situated in the Central Market Arcade. Mr. W.A. Walters was followed by Mr. Eric Smith (also from Mitcham Band’) as Chairman of the Band Association.

During 1917 when Friday night shopping was in vogue, (this continued until World War Two when, for security reasons, it was discontinued and not re-introduced until the late 1970’s) the Band had a permanent engagement playing on the balcony of Peoplestores until 9-00 p.m.

In 1918 the Band contested in the Australia Day Competitions held on the Jubillee Oval where the University of Adelaide now stands and for three months they practiced 2 nights a week in addition to Sunday Afternoon Drill Practice. All this work was not in vain as the Band and Members returned from the Contest in a very honourable position. Of the six players who entered the Solo and Party section of the competitions one gained a first place, one a second, two thirds and two fifths. In the Band contest, against six other-City and Suburban Bands, Mitcham gained second place in the Quickstep and third place in the selections.

With the signing of the Armistice and on Armistice Day, the Mitcham Band headed the Motor and Allied Trades in the procession that was held in Adelaide, and after the procession was the only Band to remember the sick, and visited firstly the Children’s Hospital, then the Keswick Hospital, and the Home for Incurables, finally playing through the streets of Mitcham.

In these days, Christmas Eves were very busy when the complete band would go carolling. They would hire a pair of horses and a trolley from Mr. Ben Johnson of Brownhill Creek, and leave the Hall at 8-00 p.m. sitting around the outside of the trolley, jumping off at each home, play 3 or 4 carols, partaking of refreshments of every kind, then moving on to the next place. This would continue until about 7-00 or 8-00 a.m. Christmas Morning. In the weeks prior to Christmas, the Secretary, Mr. A.B. Michell would write to each Vice President (13 in all) advising them what time the Band would- arrive, but you can imagine with eating, drinking and talking how difficult it must have been to keep up to time. The lighting was supplied by means of kerosene torches, but by the time the Band was half way through the night, the members had memorised all the carols so that running out of kerosene did not affect the carolling.

As was previously stated, when the war broke out in 1914, many players were lost when they joined the Armed Forces and things looked very blue, but young players kept coming along to keep the old machine operational until after the end of the war in 1918 and the return of the troops.

1919 started with 26 active players and, by the end of the year, this number had increased to 34, this being the greatest number of active members on the roll at any one time in the history of the Band up until this stage.

In 1919 and 1920 the Band again competed at the Jubillee Ova] on Australia Day, but only gained minor placings.

In 1920 the Band played on a balcony in Hindley Street during the visit of the Prince of Wales (later King Edward 8th) as he was driven around the City of Adelaide with a Police escort. As the Prince rode by, the Band struck up “God Bless The Prince Of Wales” at which he looked up, saluted and gave a big smile.

Besides playing for the Prince of Wales visit, the Band took part in 19 other public performances during the year including visits to Charitable Institutions, Church Fetes, the unveiling of the Public School Memorial and concerts on the Mitcham Reserve, Kingswood Oval and Adelaide Rotunda.

To infuse members with some enthusiasm at this point of time, the then Secretary, Mr. A.B. Michell and Bandmaster, Mr. L.O. Chenoweth decided to donate gold medals for Best Attendance and Most Improved Player. (These awards were given for many years) The first recipients of these awards were Mr. G.F. Lawson (Best Attendance) and Mr. G. Hilditch (Most Improved Player)

In 1921 the Band contested at Tanunda in “C” Grade winning the Quickstep and various other sections. After the Tanunda success, Mr. A.B. Michell moved a motion that the Band compete at the Ballarat Competitions so, a Ladies Committee, under the leadership of Mrs. W. Godden was formed and they did a marvellous job in helping the Band to raise the necessary money to enable the Band to attend Ballarat in 1922 free of debt. However, the Band did not meet with much success at these competitions but tied for third place with the I.X.L. Band from Hobart. During this trip they stayed at the Military Arms Hotel off Bridge Street where the main Car Park now stands. A very amusing incident is told of this trip, although it could have been very dangerous. It so happened that a number of Bandsmen were sitting on the balcony of the Hotel with a former member of the Band who happened to have a slingshot with him when a man was passing with a horse and Masher Dray, the ex-member let go with a large shot which hit the horse on the rump where by the horse took off at great speed, upsetting the poor old man into the back of the Dray, luckily no harm came of it but the man was probably bewildered until his dying day as to what happened to his horse.

In 1922 a “Boot Club” was formed to which sixpence ($0-05) was contributed each week by every member and, when there was enough money, boots were purchased wholesale so that all were alike. (Boots were worn in those days) At a later stage a shirt fund was formed and the same action took place so that everyone dressed alike.

During the year the members attended 138 performances which included all practices and engagements some of which were playing at Bedford Park, The Stockade, Hospitals and other local affairs. As this was the Band’s 21st year of continuous operation, seven of the original members were now due for “LIFE MEMBERSHIP”, these “being the first Life Members of the Band, but, it is pleasing to record that there have been many others over the years.

Also during 1922 the clutching hand of the Federal Income Tax Department threatened the Band to such a degree that they felt it was not worth continuing when Mr. A.B. Michell (Honorary Secretary) took a very firm stand and, with the help of the “Mail Newspaper” exposed … the matter publicly, and the result was an order from the Federal Treasurer exempting all Bands from having to pay Income Tax.

From 1922 to 1927 the Band had a weekly Wednesday Night engagement playing at the trots at Thebarton until betting was made legal, and patrons would rather gamble than listen to Band Music or any other kind of music. Interspersed with this they also had another engagement with the Motor Cycle Racing at the Showgrounds once a fortnight on Saturday Nights.

In 1923 the Band once again competed at Tanunda in “C” Grade, again gaining several first places, and earned the distinction of being the best disciplined Band at the competitions. Also during the year the Band was fitted out with new uniforms.

In 1924 the Band once again made the trip to the “Mecca” of Bandsmen, namely Ballarat, without success as far as prizes were’ concerned, but two of the members met a couple of young ladies, who later became their wives, these members being Mr. W.G. Horsell and Mr. H. Kennedy.

Also in 1924 through the efforts of Mr. A.B. Michell, the whole of the Band and the Band’s property was made the property of the local council. At the time that the Town of Mitcham was proclaimed a Municipality, the Band, with the concurrence of the Council, was called the Mitcham District Band, and, later, upon Mitcham becoming a City, the Band followed suit and became the Mitcham City Band.

In this year the Band borrowed 200 pound ($400-00) from the Mitcham Council (which was repaid within 2 years) and purchased the following new instruments:- 3 Basses, 1 Euphonium and 1 Trombone. During the year the Band performed at 84 engagements (32 of which were trotting engagements) besides weekly rehearsals.

In 1925 the first Mitcham Junior Band was formed under the direction of Mr. Bert James and continued until 1932 when it was disbanded as the Senior Band was desperately in need of players.

The Band once again competed at Tanunda in “C” Grade in 1925 and carried off all the honours, Street March, Selections, and Quick Step as well as two other trophies, a unique experience at the time, and were recognised as one of the foremost Bands in the State, and certainly the most consistent.

In 1926 the Band was still in “C” Grade and once again competed at Tanunda, repeating 1925’s record. A week later they competed in the Adelaide Competitions and again won everything, this compelled promotion to “B” Grade, which was the highest Grade at the time. At this period of time the Band dispensed with weekly subscriptions and entrance fees (which were later reintroduced) and reimbursed members their fares and the Bandmaster’s fee was raised to 1 pound ($2-001 per week).

During the year Mr. Bert James who was then Deputy Bandmaster of the Senior Band and leader of the Junior Band was made a Life Member of the Mitcham City Band. He also made the Suggestion that in future the Deputy Bandmaster should conduct the full Band at practice from time to time as he found it very difficult on the occasions that the Bandmaster could not attend engagements to take sole charge of the Band. This was accepted and was done for a few years. During 1926 the Band gave only 120 performances including all rehearsals, 16 less than previous years much to the Bandmaster’s disappointment.

In 1927 the Band engaged Mr. 0. Summerton to be coach and Mr. Laurie Chenoweth (Bandmaster) played Solo Cornet so that they could compete at Tanunda in “B” Grade, again winning everything and beating the renowned W.S. May with his Glenelg Municipal Band, which was very gratifying to everyone. After this, the Band began to decline, as some of the older members felt that they had had enough and so pulled out, which meant that the Band did not compete again until 1932 and 1936 when, with practically a new team of officers and Bandsmen, they could only fill minor places, mainly because the Bandmaster could not get the response that he sought.

Never the less in 1929 Mitcham Band performed at a number of engagements. Among these were fetes at St. Peters College, and the Goodwood Orphanage, All Australian Exhibition and their first engagement on radio, this was a half hour programme on the A.B.C.

Also during the year the Band had much pleasure in filling in for Holden’s Band at the Royal Show and also performed at the dedication and unveiling ceremony of the Mitcham Soldiers Memorial Rotunda by the then Governor of South Australia, Brig. General the Honourable Sir Alexander Hore-Ruthven V.C., K.C.M.G., C.B., D.S.O. This gave the members of the Band a greater incentive than before to work to the advantage of the district and the Band by being able to utilise the Band Rotunda to greater effect than was able under the previous conditions prevailing at the Reserve.

Later this year Mr. A.B. Michell retired as Secretary after having completed 26 years in office, His place was taken by Mr. W.G. Hilditch.

In 1930 Life Membership of the Mitcham City Band was bestowed on W.A. Walter and W.G. Hilditch, this was gained for 21 years continuous service.

During this period and right through the Depression years collections were taken during some engagements and divided among the unemployed members of the Band (5 members) as there was no Social Security at this stage.

For many years between the two World Wars the Band played every year at the Childrens Hospital fetes without payment.

In 1931 the Band purchased a new set of uniforms (navy Blue in colour) from the National Clothing Co. for 112 Pound 1 Shilling ($224-10) and Caps from Cook Son and Co. Ltd. for 17/6 ($1-75) each for which the Band borrowed 50 Pound ($!Q0^Q0) from the Mitcham Council, to be payed back in instalments of 5 Pound ($10-00) per month, but after having paid back 20 Pound ($40-00), it was agreed between the Band and the Council that the Band give 8 concerts divided between Blackwood and Mitcham in lieu of the 30 Pound ($60-00) still owing.

Also in 1931 the Band took part in the Madame Melba’s Memorial Service, and assisted the R.S.L. in their Anzac Day Service and celebration, an engagement that they had been doing since the end of the war and have been doing at the same time of year ever since, and to show their appreciation, the R.S.L. donated a Bass Drum to the Mitcham Junior Band in 1980.

In 1932 the Band once again entered the contest field at both Tanunda and the Norwood Carnival without any success, coming last in “B” Grade at Tanunda and 2nd at Norwood and it was decided that the Band apply to the South Australian Band Association to be reclassified to “C” Grade. Due to financial difficulties and the Bank Balance being 2 Pound ($4-00) and losing a number of permanent playing engagements, the Ladies Committee, which had ceased to exist, was again put into operation under the leadership of Mrs. Geo Curtis to help raise funds.

At the end of 1933 and beginning of 1934 several of the Band members resigned to try to seek employment in other parts of South Australia and Australia. So the Band placed an advertisement in the paper for players, something they have done on numerous occasions since but alas without success.

In November 1933 a Social Club Fund was started by Mr. J. Pascoe, and each member paid 3 pence ($0-03) per week with which a Tatts Ticket was sent for once a month, and a lottery with the prize being 2/6 ($0-25) was also drawn by one of the ladies.

The following agreement was drawn up for allocation of any monies won at Tatts.
1/ If 10 Pound ($20-00) or under was won, all money to go to the Band Fund.
2/ If 50 Pound ($100-00) or under was won, 40 Pound ($80-00) would go to distressed Bandsmen and the balance to the Band Fund.
3/ If 100 Pound ($200-00) or over was won, 10 Pound ($20-00) was to go to the Band Fund, and the balance to be distributed amongst the members.

But alas there is no record of the Band ever winning anything.

1935 was Mr. L.O. Chenoweth’s Silver Jubilee Year as Conductor of the Mitcham City Band (25 Years), the Band started the year with 27 members, of this number 3 resigned during the year, but it is pleasing to record that 9 new members joined, thus making a total of 33 members at the end of the year.

During the year Mr. C.K. Horsell started up another learners Class with 15 boys.

During 1935 the Band performed at 26 engagements:- Asylum 11 times, Mitcham Reserve 5 times, Elder Park twice, Anzac Service at Mitcham, Kalyra, Childrens Hospital, Adelaide Hospital, Anzac Procession, Maughan Church, Adelaide Oval Band Concert. On Good Friday the Band invited the Hindmarsh Band to a picnic/cricket match at Blackwood Oval and it is pleasing to note that besides playing music, the Band could also play cricket, as they were victorious and won the “Ashes”. This year it was decided to present a Gold Medal to the Most Improved Player. It was also during this year that the Committee of the Band decided to hold its meetings on another night other than Band Practice Night (which had always been the case since the formation of the Band) so that more business could be attended to.

In 1935 Mr. W.A. Walter became the first member of the Mitcham City Band to receive the honour of life Membership of the S.A. Band Association.

In 1936 Mr. G.F. Lawson retired after 19 years as Chairman and was replaced by Mr. W.A. Walter. During the year the Band performed at 22 engagements:- Parkside Mental Hospital 12 times, Anzac Service at Mitcham, Anzac March in Adelaide, Wayville Oval on Christmas Night, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide Hospital, Home for Incurables and 2 concerts on the Mitcham Reserve.

To arouse the interest of the people of Mitcham, 2 citizen concerts were organised, one in July playing to a full house, but the collection was just fair, and the other good concert in October again with a full house and a much better collection.

In 1937 it was proposed that the Mitcham R.S.l. Anzac March commence from the Mitcham Institute (now Youth Centre) to the Reserve, where, as for the previous 20 years, it had been from the Soldiers Club Rooms (old Council Chambers) to the Mitcham Reserve, which was a very long march, (this has been done ever since.)

In 1937 the Band made a number of appearances on 5CL for the A.B.C. and various massed Band performances and various local contests, a total of 30 engagements. This was the first year that the Band took part in John Martins Christmas Pageant, but alas, they also lost one of their regular engagements, that of Parkside Mental Hospital after 23 years.

After the success of the previous year’s citizen concerts, another was staged to a full house in March, but alas the collection was very poor so the idea was dropped. Also an appeal for Honorary Members (non-playing) at 1/- ($0-10) was launched with a heart breaking result, only 8 enrolled, so this idea was also dropped for the moment and was not reintroduced for many years.

Two more members, namely Messrs. L.O. Chenoweth and W.G-. Horsell received their life Membership of the Mitcham City Band.

During 1938 Mitcham Band performed at a number of engagements to raise money in aid of the Bush Fire Fund besides again playing on 5CL and many other engagements (15 in all). But after all expenses were paid, (Bush Fire Fund and other expenses) the Band had only 10/- (SI-00) left over. During the year membership started to fall off slightly and at the end of the year they had only 27 players after commencing the year with 33 players.

It was very regrettable to see that up until this stage Mitcham was the only Band in the State not receiving a Civil Grant each year, (something that has changed since.) Mr. W.G. Hood received the award for the Most Improved Player for 1938.

During World War 2, the Band again worked very hard for the War Effort in spite of the loss of a number of members who had joined the Armed Forces. But enough of the “Old Brigade” remained to keep the Ship afloat with the assistance of some of the Junior Members and various outside Bandsmen. Also the Band purchased War Saving certificates with money received from engagements. It also helped the newly formed Mitcham Citizens Committee to raise funds for the War Effort, and at Christmas Time sent hampers to members overseas.

In June 1942 the Defence Forces took over the Band Room to store food for the Military Forces, which meant the Band had what room was left, but, on occasions, the Corporal in charge would treat the Band to Hot Coffee on practice nights, which was very welcome.

During these years the Band kept making regular appearances on the A.B.C. Concerts in City Council Parks, Unley, Blackwood and Mitcham Gala Days and many others.

During 1942, if the Mitcham District Council had not assisted the Band with finance to have their uniforms repaired and brightened up, and some uniforms altered to fit the younger members, it would have been in a very unhealthy position, as, at the time, there were not any paid engagements for Bands because if the Band received any donation at any patriotic demonstration, it was handed back to the organisation concerned. Also during this period Mr. M. Hood started another Learners Class which made excellent progress.

By 1943 the membership of the Band had dropped to 25 with 11 members serving in the Armed Forces. These being:- Messrs W. Hood, M. Horsell, H. Turner, N. Richards, G. Bowes, L. Yeomans, R. Chenoweth, R. Merkel, R. Alley, C. Smith and R. Maschmedt.

On October 9th 1943, Mitcham was the only Civilian Band that turned out and paraded the streets of Adelaide for the fourth War Loan Rally organised by United Theatres, and when the Band turned out on October 10th for another War Loan Rally it was accompanied by another Civilian Band.

In 1944, with the raising of the status of the Mitcham District to a Corporation, the name of the Band was changed to the Mitcham Municipal Band. This year the Band completed its 21st appearance for the Australian Broadcasting Commission and the Learners Glass had by this time increased to 19 members thus ensuring a bright future for the Mitcham Band.

During this period the then Secretary Mr. E. Brook approached the then Mayor of Mitcham Mr. W.A. Norman concerning a Band Hall of their own and he stated that in the near future a Town Hall would be built in Mitcham and he suggested that the Band make a note of such a room and when the time comes, write to the Corporation stating what was required and that they were prepared to work for it. This was done but to no avail, because, nearly 40 years later, the Band was still practicing in the Institute (Youth Centre).

In 1945 Mr. L.O. Chenoweth decided that after 34 years service to retire from the position of Bandmaster, his place was taken by- Mr. George Bowes who had been a member of the Band for 20 years and was a veteran of two World Wars and had been in charge of the learners Class for the past twelve months.

With the War over and all the servicemen returning, the Band looked forward to brighter days. At this period of time and after 44 years of continuous operation, the Band’s finance stood at 4 Pound 16/4 ($9-63). The membership increased slightly during the year, ending up with 27 players on the register. The Band played at 17 engagements during this period.

1946 saw the return of some of the Band’s members from active service and membership jumped from 27 to 34 members. After carrying out an inspection of the instruments that had given the Band many years of faithful service, it was decided that the time had arrived that they would have to look around for some new ones, but as these instruments were at a prohibitive price, and hard to get, the Band was compelled to have their old ones repaired and hope that they would still give a few more years service. Consequently the finances suffered and a loss was shown for the year.

Up until this time all the cups and trophies won by the Band had been in the care of the Bandmaster, but on the recommendation of Mr. L.O. Chenoweth (ex Bandmaster) they handed the cups and trophies over to the Mitcham Corporation for safe keeping and to be displayed in the Council Chambers. On accepting charge of the trophies on behalf of the Council, the Mayor, Mr. W.A. Norman assured all members that the Council would take good care of them, and, when the time came for the Band to be able to display them in their own room, they would be handed back. By this time he hoped that they would be double in number. Councillor C.R. Sutton supported these remarks, after which the members of the Band were entertained at supper by members of the Council. This year saw the learners Class that was started in 1942 come to an end. Also this was the year that Mr. Eric Smith from Mitcham Band was appointed the position of Chairman of the S.A. Band Association, and Sgt. R.B. Alley, the Band Euphonium player was promoted to the position of Bandmaster of the South Australian Regular Army Band.

Due to the Band having a new Bandmaster, it took the older members quite some time to get Mr. Chenoweth’s ideas cut of their minds and to get used to Mr. Bowes’ new methods, therefore, it was quite a period of time before the Band had completely settled down, but, by the end of the year, was back at its musical best.

The following engagements were performed during the year:- 105th Military Hospital twice, City Council Concerts three times, Anzac Service at Mitcham, Carols by Candlelight at Mitcham Reserve, Unley Oval on New Years Eve, Welcome Home to Ex-Servicemen of Mitcham at Hawthorn Oval, United Trades and Labor Day Procession, and two A.B.C. (5CL) Concerts.

1946 was another poor year as far as the financial side of the Band was concerned, due to the lack of engagements, (only 11 due to illness of the Bandmaster) and also a high repair bill which was necessary because of the years of service of their instruments, but they hoped to re-coup their losses in the New Year. After many years of absence from the contest field, it was decided to compete at Tanunda Contest on October 25th, and they performed with credit in gaining third place. To assist the Band in this quest, the Mitcham Corporation allowed the Band use of the Red Cross Rooms (free of charge) for extra rehearsals.

1946 saw a slight improvement as far as the financial status of the Band was concerned and the Band ended the year with a small profit in spite of some mere heavy expenses incurred by having to repair more instruments.

After Tanunda the previous year, the attitude and enthusiasm of the members became lax, and the Bandmaster and his Committee became worried. The outcome was that 4 members resigned, 3 members were not seen very often and so the Band decided not to go to Tanunda, thus undoing any good that was done the previous year. However several members entered the Solo and Party Competitions gaining 2 firsts, 3 seconds and 1 third place.

1948 was also the year that Messrs A.R. Michell, W.J. Hood, C.U. Hood and G. Michell completed 21 years continuous service and thus were made Life Members of the Mitcham City Band. The Band also carried out 14 engagements during the year but only 3 were profitable. They were:- Osmond Park, Anzac March and John Martins Pageant.

1949 was a very worrying time for the Committee to know how to keep the instruments in good repair, as new instruments were at a prohibitive price considering the Band’s financial status, although there was a slight improvement on last years balance, also new uniforms were needed badly.

In response to numerous requests, the Band revived an old custom of playing Christmas Carols in the City of Mitcham on Christmas Eve and. Christmas Morning, but, unfortunately, the night was spoilt by heavy rain. In spite of this, the Band was well received and performed very well. But alas, due to some of the members being wet through at about 4-00a.m., it was impossible to continue the programme. The membership at this stage stood at 32 with an average attendance of 22. It had been proposed that the Band compete at Ballarat this year, however, this did not eventuate, but instead decided to enter the 1950 All Australian Band Contest (N.B.C.) to be held in Adelaide.

1950 saw the Band being fitted out with new uniforms, the first since 1931, and it was very gratifying to have had a strong Ladies Committee working in conjunction with the members who. raised 330 Pound ($660-00) and supported generously by the Mitcham City Council so that they were all paid for. During the year the Band purchased a Bass Trombone for 10 Pound ($20-00) and repairs to instruments totalled 15 Pound ($30-00) but the Band still managed to make a small profit.

One disappointing aspect however, was the inability of the Band to compete in the Australian Band Championships (which were held in Adelaide) due to sickness and resignations. However the Social Committee (this committee had been very active for a number of years) organised a day trip to Mannum which turned out to be one of the most successful trips ever held up until this period.

The Band had a very busy year doing 25 engagements made up as follows^- 7 social events, most of these were for the Band Pete effort, John Martins Pageant, R.S.L. Remembrance Service in November, Anzac Service in Mitcham, Mitcham Gala Days, 6 concerts in the Reserve and 1 at Blackwood etc.

1951 was a very special year for the Band as it was the Band’s Golden Jubilee (50 years continuous service) and also coincided with the Jubilee of the Commonwealth, and to celebrate the occasion, a social was held on a Wednesday night in November to which all past and present members were invited. During the year Mr. Bowes started up another Learners Class, having a membership of about 12 boys.

Besides planning for the Jubilee celebrations, the Band performed at other functions the same as they had done for the past 50 years.

Some of the functions performed at this year were:- Mitcham R.S.L. Anzac Service, Womens Service Association, District Bush Nursing Association, St. Michael’s Fete, John Martins Pageant and Brighton Oval in aid of a Polio Case of a Bandsman etc. 2 of these engagements, namely Mitcham R.S.L. and John Martins Pageant, the Band had been doing for years.

In 1952 the Band started the year with a membership of 32 but only had 27 by the end of the year, but it is pleasing to note that the learners Class now had 18 boys in training, so the future of the Band looked very bright. Also it had been many years since the financial position had been so healthy with 56 Pound 6/3 ($112-62). This was chiefly through the hardworking efforts of the members.

This year the members formed an instrument fund and planned to raise 1000 Pound ($2000-00) to replace the instruments which, due to many years of constant use, were wearing out. Also it was the year that Mr. A.B. Michell completed 50 years continuous service (he joined the Band in 1902.

By 1953 the Band was starting to reap the benefits of the Learners Class that had started 3 years previously, when 5 of the learners were promoted to the Senior Band to fill gaps caused by resignations and sickness, however, the Band continued to perform at a number of engagements, 20 in all, including John Martins Pageant, Mitcham R.S.l. and a Coronation Concert etc.

An investigation was carried out during the year and it was decided that the amount required to equip the Band with a full set of new instruments would be in the vicinity of 4000 Pound ($8000-00) and not 1000 Pound ($2000-00) as was the previous year’s estimate and a long range appeal was planned. Already the fund stood at 127 Pound ($254-00).

In 1954 the membership had again grown to 31 with the Learners Class still going strong but was not progressing as well as was hoped due to the learners being at High School and Homework as well as other school activities were taking their toll on required practice times. * A fete was held during the year which brought 150 Pound ($300-00) towards the new instrument fund, thus giving a total of approximately 350 Pound ($700-00). At this period the Band was musically at a very low ebb so the suggestion was made to go to Tanunda the next year to see if it would help to raise the standard, but some of the members stated that they would rather have a good concert Band than a contesting one.

** The Band performed at the following engagements:- John Martins Pageant, Queen’s Progress (for which there were three rehearsals), Mitcham Reserve, Reserve on Victoria Terrace, Anzac and Rememberance services for the Mitcham R.S.L., Belair Carols on Christmas Eve and Ashford Hospital Fete etc.

In 1955 the Band membership stood at 32 registered members, 1 more than the previous year, but, due to various causes i.e. illness leave of absence etc., it had only 23 active, playing members, but the Band still took part in 20 engagements as follows^- Colonel light Methodist Fete, Blackwood Hospital, Plympton School Fireworks, C.T.A. Fireworks at Unley Oval, Mitcham R.S.l. Remembrance and Anzac Services, John Martins Pageant, Edwardstown School Concert, Mitcham Corporation in connection with the laying of the foundation stone at Westbourne Park R.S.l., Christmas Carols at Kingswood Oval, Belair Christmas Carols, Home for Incurables, Bedford Park Hospital and Mitcham Reserve 7 times. Of all these performances, the only paid ones were:- Plympton School Fireworks and C.T.A. Fireworks. The money received from John Martins Pageant was, at this stage, divided among the members taking part, and, as was the law at the time, the Band could not take up a collection at any Sunday engagement, therefore the finance at the end of the year was causing some concern.

In 1956 as in the past few years, the Band found paid engagements few and far between as the Public liked to have a Band at their function but were not prepared to pay for their services. The Band, however, did 10 performances for the year but they were not all paid ones. So to help with the finances, a fete was held in conjunction with the Institute Committee and the Youth Club in March, and the Band’s share of the profits was 87 Pound ($174-00)

Also during the year the Band started its first paper drive to help with the Band funds and this form of revenue has continued for many years.

By this time, the instrument fund which had been running for about 3 years, now stood at 499 Pound ($998-00), this however was still a long way short of their goal.

1957 was a particularly trying year owing to the fact that Brass Bands were generally experiencing difficulty in maintaining interest for their members and Mitcham was no exception, and the Bandmaster of the past 11 years was forced to resign on doctor’s orders due to illness, and Mr. Ken Horsell, the Deputy Bandmaster, took charge until another Bandmaster could be found. After some months, Mr. G. Yanderwerp was persuaded to lead the Band. At this stage the membership stood at 25 members of which there was an – average attendance of 20. The Band participated in U engagements during the year, these being:- Royal Show, Colonel Light Gardens Church Pete, Goodwood Boys Technical High School, Blackwood Fireworks, John Martins Pageant, Mitcham R.S.L. Anzac Service, Belair Community Centre, Davies Co-op Picnic, Blackwood Memorial Hall Opening Ceremony, and 4 concerts in the Memorial Gardens on Unley Road. After 55 years of active playing, Mr. A.B. Michell retired, although not now a playing member, he still maintained his interest by retaining the Position of Treasurer.

* 1958 was a very similar year to 1957 as far as the Band was concerned, with the exception that the Band was included in the Massed Band that appeared at the Royal Music Festival and River Pageant held at Elder Park in the presence of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This was possibly the highlight of the year. This was the second such performance, as on 24th March 1954, at Wayville Oval, in the presence of Queen Elizabeth XL and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh, Mitcham Band performed at the Royal Music Festival.** During the year the Band also competed at Tanunda and gained 2nd position.

By 1959, with the advent of Television, the Band was experiencing another phase in its existence, but, with the co-operation of its members, it was able to weather out the storm and by the end of the year had actually increased its membership to 32, but alas, the average attendance at rehearsals and engagements stood at 17. In spite of this the Band still managed to do 23 engagements such as:- Concert at Blackwood, Royal Show, Hockey Carnival, 2 Concerts at Belair Community Centre, Ashford Hospital, Mitcham Youth Fete, Brighton Carnival, Christmas Carols Concert, 4 Summer Season Concerts, Glenelg Carnival, Mitcham Red Cross Fete, Netherlands Society etc. “**This year the Band also competed at Tanunda in “C” Grade but only managed 3rd position, however, they did not disgrace themselves. During the year 2 more members were granted Life Membership after completing 21 years continuous service, they were Messrs E.C. Smith and M.H. Michell, also Mr. C.K. Horsell completed 50 years of active service.

By 1960, mainly due to having contested at Tanunda the previous 2 years, the Band had reached quite a respectable standard in music playing, but unfortunately, this was not maintained.

During the year 15 engagements were undertaken to everyone’s satisfaction, and with a credit balance of 244 Pound 3/2 ($488-32), the best for many years, the Band looked forward to the 60’s with hope and interest.

By this time the instrument fund was nearing its objective and it was hoped that these instruments could be purchased in the near future. As was previously stated, the advent of Television had a great effect on Banding and engagements in general for the first few years, as people would rather stop at home than go and hear concerts, whether it was a Brass Band or otherwise.

The Band again ventured to Tanunda this year, being their third year straight, hut, as in the previous two years, were not disgraced, hut did not take away any prizes.

1961 saw the fulfilment of the years of saving money in the instrument fund as the Band acquired 4 new cornets, 1 Tenor Horn, 1 Baritone, and 1 Euphonium, and as finance permitted, were going to purchase more. Even with Television being at its height, the Band still managed to do 14 engagements. At the start of the year the Band’s membership was 32, hut unfortunately, this decreased to 26 during the year with an average attendance of 18. During the year drastic renovations were carried out on the Institute Building and thus the Band did not enjoy full use of the Band Room. This year the S.A.B.A. organised a Bandmasters training class to which three members of the Mitcham City Band attended. The Band performed at 15 engagements during the year. The learners Class, although down to 5 learners, still continued to practice on Monday Evenings prior to Senior Band Practice with Mr. R. Clark as its conductor. Also this was the year that the first female member, Miss Rosalie Smith, joined the Band.

During the year the Bandmaster, Mr. G. Vanderwerp resigned and the Band advertised for a replacement Bandmaster, and, after a series of auditions, Mr. C. Britton was selected.

In 1962 Mr. C. Britton was granted leave of absence due to business reasons for the first part of the year and so Mr. W. Hood had to take over control of the Band as well as holdong down the Treasurers job. Membership of the Bard had improved slightly during the year and ended the year with 32 members. The Band had 20 engagements during the year (5 more than the previous year), some of those engagements were:- John Martins Pageant, Mitcham Air Force Evening, Belair Hospital Fete, Simpson Picnic, R.S.L. Anzac Services, Mitcham Red Cross etc.

As in previous years the highlight of the year was the Children’s Christmas Party. During the year, upon the request of the Band members, the practice night was changed from Monday to Wednesday Evening after over 50 years. Also at this stage some more enquiries were made in reference to the Band owning its own Band Room, but as before, this came to nothing. During the second half of the year, the Band had the misfortune of losing the services of Bandmaster Mr. C. Britton, upon him being engaged as a full time member of the South Australian Orchestra, and, after some serious consideration,

Mr. Bert Harding was invited to take charge of the Band, which he did in late November of that year, As has happened on many occasions before and since then, Mr. W. Hood took control of the Band for the period of time between losing Mr. Britton and Mr. Harding taking over.

In 1963, although the Band had just acquired the services of Mr. Harding, it decided after quite a few years of non-competition to enter the Australian Brass Band Championships which were held at Norwood on 27th to 30th March. Seeing that the Band only decided to enter in November, and it was not until mid January that any serious action was taken, leaving only a few weeks to prepare, and on top of this they decided to enter “B” Grade (this alone was a big step as the Band was graded “C” Grade at the time) it performed remarkably well to obtain 2nd prize. The membership for the year fell slightly to end the year with 28 members. This year saw the Band taking part in 16 engagements, e.g. John Martins Pageant, Mercedes College, 5 Concerts at National Park Belair, Star Theatre Unley, Blackwood Hospital Garden Party, Simpson’s Picnic etc. Also one of the highlights of the year was taking part in the Royal Music Festival at Elder Park on 20th February in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh.

1964 was a year of very little change in the Band membership, which remained about the same as the year before. The Band also took part in 18 engagements, a great number of which were for the same organisations as the year before. Although the attendance at these engagements was not very encouraging, the Band still performed

very well. Some members entered the Solo and Party competitions during the year and won 3 cups, which were duly handed over to the Council for safe keeping. At this stage the Band property consisted of:
INSTRUMENTS 36
UNIFORMS 32
MUSIC STANDS 27
MUSIC (Marches etc.)….Over 600. But this has greatly increased since.

During the year Mr. Eric Smith resigned as Chairman after having held the position since 1962, his position was filled by Mr. R.E. Brook. The finances at the end of 1964 were in a very healthy state. (Although no actual figure can be found) Also Mr. W. Godden resigned as a player, having joined the Band on May 17th 1904, and, with the exception of a few years away in the country, had given the Band 60 years service.

The early part of 1965 caused the Band some anxious moments when they started the year with only 26 players, and, after looking around the Band Room, realised that several of their members were nearing the end of their active career, but a sudden change in the second half brightened their outlook when, after losing 2 players, 10 new members joined the ranks, thus finishing the year with 34 members.

During the year the Band Association saw fit to promote Mitcham to “B” Grade, largely due to the untiring effort of the Bandmaster, Mr. Bert Harding in trying to raise the standard of playing and being successful. Unfortunately, through lack of interest, the learners Class ceased to exist, and some serious thought was given to what could be done to encourage young people to learn Brass Band Music. The Band performed with great distinction at the following engagements:- Remembrance Service at Mitcham, 5 concerts at National Park Belair, Immanuel College, a series of 4 concerts in the Remembrance Gardens, Norwood Oval Marching Girls, Blackwood Hospital, Simpson Picnic, John Martins Pageant, Unley Chamber of Commerce, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Anzac Services at Mitcham And Blackwood, Mitcham Red Cross, Society of Sponsors, making a total of 22 engagements. During the year the Band purchased 2 Side Drums, 1 Bass Drum, 1 Tenor Trombone and had 2 Double B flat Bass’s reconditioned. The Band again decided to contest at Tanunda in November but alas, again did not take away any prizes, much to the disappointment of the Bandmaster, but this was somewhat expected, as Mr. W. Hood was unavailable, and because of the Band having to include several non-regular members and two permit players, and, added to this, the very unfortunate illness of a gallant old member Mr. K. Horsell, and further hindered by the irregular attendances at rehearsals which was a constant problem.

1966 saw the end of an era as far as the Band was concerned, for this was the year that Mr. Ern Brook retired as Secretary after having held this position for 33 years. His place was then filled by Mr. H.C. Rault and the date for the Annual General Meeting was changed from August to March after 65 years as this was thought to be a more convenient time to hold these meetings because if the Band was going to contest at the State Band Championships at the end of the year and was to change the Bandmaster, it would give the incoming Bandmaster more time to practice with the Band.

After the failure at Tanunda the previous year, the enthusiasm of the Band seemed to wane and they were struggling to keep alive. Perhaps it could be put down to set-backs they received when they lest 6 of their regular members, thus having a roll call of 27, but, unfortunately, not very regular attenders. Nevertheless, the Band still took part in 13 engagements such as:- John Martins Pageant, Mitcham Shopping Centre, Glenelg Carnival, Unley Chamber of Commerce, R.S.L. Remembrance Service, Myrtle Bank Soldiers Home, Carols by Candlelight on the Garden of Remembrance¬, and a series of 5 concerts at National Park Belair. At this time another learners Class was started, attended by 8 hoys and under the direction of Mr. R. Clark. It was hoped that this would produce some promising players.

Although the Band did not compete at Tanunda in 1967, it was a year of quite satisfactory achievements and fulfilments. It was with a feeling of regret that the Band received Mr. Bert Harding* s resignation as Bandmaster, this position was filled by Mr. W.J. Hood who had been assistant Bandmaster for several years and as such had taken control on a number of occasions over this period of time. The learners Class grew steadily during the year and although meeting under great difficulties, some of the boys had progressed quite well and were gaining further experience by performing with the Senior Band at engagements. At this stage the learners Class were meeting in the building alongside the Band Hall (later taken over by the Civil Defence Organisation) thus making the learners Class completely separate from the Senior Band.

As for engagements, this year saw a change in policy whereby the Band decided to visit a number of Homes and Institutions instead of playing at the Mitcham Memorial Gardens. (Which they had been doing for several years.) This venture proved a great success and was continued for a number of years. During the year the Band took part in 18 engagements.

By this time the Band*s financial position had become quite sound being boosted by two quite large donations during the year, thus enabling the Band to purchase instruments to the value of $1630, and thereby allowing more instruments to be made available to the learners Class. Also $1200 was transferred from the General Fund to a Uniform Fund with which it was intended to equip the Band with a much needed set of new uniforms as soon as ample funds became available. Also the members worked enthusiastically to raise funds through the salvage account, which will go towards the Band’s Building Fund. (This fund was transferred to the General Account in 1982 as it was decided that the cost of land and buildings was way beyond the means of the Band.)

1968 was very similar to the previous year both musically and socially. However, during the year, the Mitcham Council made a generous offer of land and finance so that the Band could build its own hall. This offer was that the Council would give the Band some land and one third of the cost of the hall, loan the Band another third, leaving the Band to find the final third, but alas this was beyond the capabilities at the time so the offer lapsed.

Once again in 1969 the membership of the Band became alarmingly low and an extensive drive was made to fill the vacancies. Although small in number, the Band still visited many homes and Institutions with a great deal of success, in all, the Band performed at 22 engagements such as:- Resthaven (Westbourne Park), Resthaven (Mitcham), Resthaven (Malvern), Little Sisters of the Poor, 5 concerts at National Park, Immanuel College, John Martins Pageant, Blackwood Scouts, Mitcham Christmas Pageant, Glenelg Christmas Pageant, Mitcham Senior Citizens, Brighton Lions Club, Mitcham Late Night Shopping, Blackwood Progress Association, Myrtle Bank Soldiers Home, Hillcrest Baptist Church, Mitcham R.S.l. Anzac Service and others.

Although there was a great deal of concern as to the decreasing membership of the Senior Band, the Learners Class, however, under the instruction of Mr. V. Carpenter, was progressing very well.

The Band continued to work in raising money towards the building fund although they realised that progress in this field was going to be slow, but they did not realise how slow.

In 1970 the Band had to limit its engagements to 17 due to the illness of the Bandmaster Mr. W. Hood, followed by the serious illness of his wife, and to sickness among the small membership, (21 members). Because of the unavailability of Mr. W. Hood the bulk of the conducting fell on the shoulders of the Deputy Bandmaster Mr. V. Carpenter, and Mr. Cyril Britton also helped out as a guest conductor on several occasions.

The Band had been carrying out an extensive membership drive over the previous 12 months but the results were very disappointing, also, because of lack of numbers, this was the first time in 24- years that the Band was unable to take part in John Martins Pageant. Even with the limited number of paid engagements, the Band concluded the year in a very good financial position, having a bank balance of $3058-79 made up as follows:-

GENERAL FUND $2409-47
UNIFORM FUND $400-00
BUILDING FUND $173-27
LEARNERS CLASS $46-90
LADIES CHRISTMAS TREE FUND $29-1

Very little change took place in the Band during 1971, the membership was still rather small, but, nevertheless, they managed to take part in 13 engagements. It was at one of these, namely Mitcham R.S.l. Anzac Day March on April 25th, that Miss Sue Russell, Mitcham Band’s first ever female Drum Major, took control of the Band for the very first time and performed very creditably. During the year Mr. W. Hood was forced to resign as Bandmaster (due to illness) after holding the position since 1967, his place was taken by Mr. V. Carpenter, who had been Deputy Bandmaster and Learners Class Instructor for some time.

Also during July the Learners spent a very successful weekend camp at Aldgate. Upon hearing of the Council’s purchase of the Old Mitcham Police Station, the Band once more approached them seeking a permanent Band Room but still to no avail.

1972 was very similar to 1971 as far as Banding was concerned, with the Band still having a small membership and therefore could only take part in 12 engagements, so several ideas were mooted, and investigated on how to improve the Band, for example, change of uniforms, change of instruments to low pitch to assist players, and a greater effort be made by members to impress the Council, and general public. However the Learners Class had been taken over by Mr. E. Brook during the year and was progressing very well.

The membership of the Mitcham Senior Band continued to decline during 1973 and 1974. During this period the learners Class was taken over by Mr. H.C. Rault and a Junior Band was formed which competed in its first contest in March 1973 and was successful by winning its division. This being the first of many trophies they won over the next nine years. Although small in number, the Senior Band was still able to perform at 9 engagements in 1973 and 8 engagements in 1974.

1975 saw Mr. H.C. Rault, who at the time was in charge of the Learners Class and Junior Band, take over the position of musical director of the Senior Band (which was down to 12 active members, the smallest membership since the First World War) from Mr. J. Bost. Because of the small membership of the Senior Band it was decided to combine both Senior and Junior Bands on a trial period so that they could carry out some engagements (13 in 1975).

When the two Bands combined, some of the Senior members expressed their concern at the Bands keeping their separate identities and suggested that the Junior Band be disbanded, but it was felt by others that if this took place, the Band would be non-existent within 12 months, so the Junior Band kept its identity, this was a very wise decision as the Juniors were able to compete” as a Band in a number of Junior Championships over the years with a great deal of success.

After considerable discussions, the newly formed composite band decided to compete in “D” Grade at Tanunda in November 1975 and gained 3rd place, a very pleasing result as 75% of the Band were Juniors and inexperienced in Senior Competitions. Thus the future of the Band was looking very bright. It was also decided that seeing that most of the engagements would be carried out by the composite Band, that both Bands should have the same uniform and so the Junior uniform was adopted, this being a green and white striped shirt, yellow tie, grey trousers or skirt, green pullovers, black shoes, grey socks and black belt (for male members) at a cost of approx. $55-00 per set.

During May the Junior Band competed at Hahndorf gaining top honours in their grade for music, also Miss Sue Russell won the award for Best Drum Major. During the latter part of the year an extensive membership drive was carried cut, with both press adverts and visitations to various local schools, resulting in 6 new Junior and 1 Senior member. Also during this period a committee was formed to look into the price and availability of a new set of instruments. The Committee came up with a price of $12,000-00 for a set of Boosey and Hawkes instruments, for which an approach was made to the Council without any success. A Committee was also formed during the year to prepare a constitution for the Band after various members had expressed concern at the Band net having one.

At the 1976 A.G.M. it was again suggested that the two Bands amalgamate, but, after considerable discussion, it was again decided that they keep their separate identities, but, however, it was decided that both Bands be looked after by the one common Committee, having equal representation from both Bands, instead of the two separate Committees as had been operating in the past.

During the year many Senior members stated that they were not happy with the idea of too many competitions and the time taken practicing for them, and some indicated that they did not want any competitions at all, but were willing to help the Juniors in their venture, thus the Senior Band did not compete in the State Championships again until 1979. Nevertheless, the Juniors kept on competing with a considerable amount of success at Hahndorf winning the Oval March and Music trophy for their section, also Mr. G. Sadler won the Drum Majors Award for the Mitcham City Band.

As many instruments were wearing out fast and repair costs were increasing, it was decided that the Council should again be approached concerning assistance in purchasing a new set of instruments. But before the approach was made, a sub-committee was formed to carry out a thorough investigation regarding what assistance other Councils gave to their Bands etc. and, armed with these reports, a very successful approach was made to the Council early in 1977.

It was stated by various members during 1976 that in their opinion the Band had been selling themselves short on many occasions in the past, in the light of various functions having outlaid large amounts of money for such attractions as Humphrey B. Bear, Pat Cat etc. whilst the Band was only paid a mere pittance for its services, and, as the cost of maintaining the Band was increasing at an alarming rate, and the present income was not covering the expenditure, so a minimum fee was raised to $60-00 for any engagement.

During the year the Junior Band again combined with the Kensington and Norwood Junior Band and held a concert of very high standard in the Norwood Town Hall. Also during the year Mr. Norm Pedlar was awarded life Membership of the Band for completion of 21 years continuous service.

1977 saw a slight increase in the combined bands repertoire as the Junior members gained experience, but, still not reaching anywhere near their potential, much to the disappointment of the Bandmaster and the Committee. * The Junior Band once again competed in the Junior Band State Championships organised by the Hahndorf Contest Committee at Lobethal (as the Hahndorf Oval had been ruined earlier in the year) and again won their music section and came 2nd in the Street March, also, at his first appearance for Mitcham, Mr. Robert Tremethick won the Drum Majors Award, this he was to repeat again in the following two years. As had been done in previous years, another recruiting drive was carried out among the local schools and in the local paper, but, as had happened so often in the past, there was little success. During the year various members expressed a wish to have a change in uniform to short sleeved shirts and hat for the summer, but after much discussion by the Committee, it was decided to leave the shirts as they were and that a white towelling hat could be worn at outside engagements to protect members heads from the sun, these hats were to be purchased by the individual members.

Although the Council had offered to purchase a new set of instruments for the Band, it was not until 1978 that they all became available, but the Band did purchase two new Side Drums for the Junior Band from “John Reynolds Drum City” for $254-40.

As in the past couple of years, the number of engagements performed by the Band during the year increased slightly.

* After considerable amount of investigation, writing and rewriting etc., 1978 saw the introduction of the much overdue constitution which was received with a great deal of enthusiasm.

** This was a very memorable year as far as the Band was concerned, for it was not only the year that the constitution was introduced, but it was also during the year that the long awaited set of new instruments arrived and were duly handed ever to the Band on behalf of the Council by the then Mayor Mr. J. Morris at a special night held in July, to which all Councillors and their wives, Aldermen and their wives, and a representative from each service club in the Mitcham District and their wives were invited.

Before the official hand over, however, an instruction night was given by Mr. Bob Size from Brass and Reed Centre (the firm from which the instruments were purchased) on the care and cleaning of the new instruments.

The Band decided during the year that they would compete at the National Championships at Mt. Gambier in 1980, this however was later withdrawn as it was thought that with such a young and inexperienced Band, and with the ever escalating transport costs, it was not worth the effort.

During April the Junior Band once again competed in the championships held at Mt. Barker and organised by the Hahndorf Contest Committee with excellent results, winning 5 out of a possible 6 trophies, these were:- “B” Grade Music, Oval March, Stage Presentation, Drum Majors Award (R. Tremethick) and Highest aggregate points in music by a South Australian Band (this being a perpetual trophy, and only lost the Street March by one point.

During the year the South Australian Govt, gave the S.A.B.A. a grant of $25,000-00 to be allocated to registered Bands on a dollar for dollar basis up to a maximum of $1,500-00 per Band to be spent purchasing new instruments, and after much thought and discussion, it was decided that Mitcham Band should apply for $1,500-00, and, with the $1,500-00 put up by the Band, purchase a new Bass Drum for the Junior Band (for which the Mitcham R.S.L. payed half), 2 Cornets, 1 Baritone, 1 Euphonium and a Tenor Horn, this application was duly lodged and approved by the S.A.B.A., but it was net until 1979 that the Cornets, Baritone, Euphonium and Tenor Horn became available, and it took until March 1980 before the Bass Drum arrived.

The Committee decided that this was a good time to investigate the possibility of incorporating the Band as this should have the effect of moving liability from the Committee to the to the Band as a whole, in case of accidents etc. but after a great deal of investigation and discussion, and seeing that the Govt, were talking about passing a new act regarding rules of incorporation, it was decided to leave this idea for the time being.

As has been the case since the combining of the two Bands, the number of engagements carried out by the Bands increased slightly during 1978, (14 paid engagements and a number of unpaid ones) e.g. Brighton Rotary Club Mardi Gras Lions International Convention Australian Canadian Assoc. Australian Lutheran Aid Assoc. Labor Day Celebrations Edwardstown Primary School Girls Brigade, South Australian Camera Club R.E. Millard (100th Birthday), Glenelg Christmas Pageant Mitcham Senior Citizans Glen Osmond Baptist Carol Night Blackwood Apex Christmas Tree Festival, John Martins Pageant (this engagement the Band managed to get back in 1976 and had done ever since.)

1979 was a very busy year for the Band as it was in great demand, with many repeat bookings and quite a few new engagements, far more than they had done for many years, (total of 24) 10 of which included street marches, which, at the time, was very good because most Bands objected to marching.

* In November the Senior Band took part in the State Band Championships at Willunga in D Grade (the first time in 50 years that it was not held at Tanunda). Although the Band performed very creditably, they could only gain second place in everything (marches, music etc.) which, however, was quite an achievement considering that half of the members were still Juniors with the youngest member being only 11 years old, and all they needed was a little more effort and they would have easily taken home one or more trophies.

On March 31st the Junior Band however continued on their winning way by winning 5 out of a possible 7 trophies at the State Junior Championships held at Hahndorf, and the Drum Major, Mr. Robert Tremethick won his 3rd trophy, a very commendable effort, and Mr. Cliff Sorrell, the Adjudicator, gave the Mitcham Junior Band a great compliment, when, in his summing up prior to announcing the winners and presenting the trophies, by saying that the Mitcham Band was the most exciting he had ever seen in a Junior Band as far as Marching and discipline were concerned.

As had been done on many previous occasions, the Band carried out another recruiting campaign with newspaper advertisements, school visitations etc. but without success.

During the year the Band approached the Council requesting them to display the trophies in the Council Chambers in a position where they could be viewed by the rate payers, to this proposal the Council agreed to display some of the Junior Band trophies in the Council Chambers in November, the Band’s intention, however, was to find a permanent display case for all the trophies.

With the ever increasing costs and inflation the Committee of the Band decided to raise the fees for engagements to $70-00 within the Mitcham Council Area and $75-00 outside, as this was not thought to be excessive compared with some other Bands and other forms of entertainment.

1980 was Mr. W.G. Horsell’s year as it was the year that he was honoured by being awarded Life Membership of the South Aust. Band Association which, due to a slight misunderstanding, had to be presented to him by Mr. V/.J. Hood (an ex Bandmaster) at a Wednesday Night practice in July, also the Band gave him a surprise party in October to celebrate the completion of 65 years continuous service as a player with the Mitcham City Band, having joined the Band on Oct. 6th 1915, to this night invitations were sent to his family, the Mayor and Mayoress of Mitcham (Mr. and Mrs. K.W. Pearson) Mr. R.R. Millhouse M.P. for Mitcham and his wife, and many of his friends and ex Band members. This event was televised by A.D.S. Channel 7 and shown on State Affair.

Due to the fact that the Band’s Euphonium players had applied for 12 months leave of absence because of studies, the Band could not take part in as many engagements as were done the previous year, but they still performed with a great deal of credit in the engagements that they did participate in, such as:- Dunkirk Veterans March, Girls Brigade March, Salvation Army 100 years S.A. Centenary Celebrations march through Adelaide, Blackwood and Brighton Rotary Fairs, S.A. Camera Club, Glenelg, Blackwood and John Martins Pageants etc.

Because of the National Band Championships held at Mt. Gambier at Easter 1980 which also included a Junior Band Contest, the State Junior Band Championships format was changed from a graded contest to an open grade youth festival of music held at Hahndorf on July 5th, to this contest Mitcham decided to send a greatly reorganised band from the previous year, due to members turning 18 (thus becoming Seniors) and a number of resignations, but, nevertheless, they performed with great distinction and won the music and stage presentation trophy, beating the last years “A” Grade champions Klemzig No. 1.

During the year a number of the younger members formed a social club committee to look after the social and entertainment side of the Band, some of the functions were the surprise party evening for Mr. W.G. Horsell, Ten Pin Bowling, A Tour Through the Advertiser, Christmas Barbeque and organised a competition to find a design for a Band Tee-Shirt.

1981 was a year of both pleasure and great disappointment, it was very pleasing to see the Junior Band once again win the Junior Band Contest at Hahndorf and Peter McIntyre win the Drum Majors Trophy. As for the Senior Band, early in the year saw a reasonable attendance at rehearsals and engagements, resulting in some quite good performances, however, as the year progressed, resignations and declining attendances had a marked effect on musical performances, but, nevertheless, the Band was still able to accept 18 paid engagements as well as some charity performances such as Senior Citizens Homes, Minda Home and Bedford Industries.

* At the Annual General Meeting of the South Australian Band Association two more members received Life Membership of the S.A.B.A. (for completion of 50 years service to Banding), these members were Mr. W.J. Hood and his cousin Mr. C.U. Hood in June of this year the Mitcham R.S.L. presented the Junior Band with a new Bass Drum at an open air concert given by the Band.

On a disappointing note, during October, the Bandmaster Mr. H.C. Rault handed his resignation to the Committee to come into effect from the last engagement in December, and after discussions with Mr. Rault and the Committee Mr. Ray Sadler was asked to take charge of the Senior Band and Mr. W.J. Hood was asked to take charge of the Junior Band until a replacement Bandmaster could be elected at the A.G.M. in April. However this did not meet with the approval of some members of the Senior Band and a Special General Meeting was called for January 20th 1982 and chaired by the Mayor of Mitcham Mr. K.W. Pearson, the outcome of which was that the Committee had worked within the constitution and their actions were upheld. It was decided at this meeting that the position of Bandmaster; be advertised in the paper and that all applicants be given the opportunity to conduct the Band prior to the A.G.M. so that the Band could then make their own choice.

After the advertisement was lodged the Band received 4 applications for the position of Bandmaster and 1 application from a possible player, of these 4 applications Mr. E.K. Collins was selected at the A.G.M.

During the first 3 months of 1982, under the leadership of Mr. Ray Sadler, the Band made a remarkable and rapid recovery and achieved a dramatic difference to its sound generally and playing numbers that they thought previously impossible.

At the Annual General Meeting the Committee suggested a change to the Constitution Clause 7 so that the Bandmaster had the option of serving on the Committee only if he wished and was not compelled to do so as was the case in the past

1982 saw a vast musical improvement in the band, this was entirely due to the efforts of the new musical director Mr E. Collins, who introduced the band to a new type of music that interested both the young & old members & cemented the band together as a team of musical friends.

Also due to the efforts of Mr D. Curnow. the band purchased a new set of uniforms, consisting of blue trousers, blue coat with darker blue collar, & waist coat (purchased from Brian Ferrari, for $40-00 each), light blue shirt & tie for day wear, & dark blue bow tie for evening engagements. This uniform made its first public appearance in October at a special concert held in the Mitcham United Church Hall for an audience of invited guests. The concert was called the “New look New Sound Concert” because it also introduced the bands new sound to the public, also during the concert Mr. V. Carpenter, received his life membership of the Mitcham City Band having completed 21 years continuous service.

1982 also saw the culmination of something that the Mitcham City Band had been working & hoping for since it first started, that being their own home and thanks to the efforts of the Mayor Mr. K. Pearson & Town Clerk Mr. Wirth. the band was able to obtain a permanent home in the former Mitcham Junior Primary School Principal’s Office on Belair Road.

As the band had decided to concentrate its efforts on developing a concert program & not enter any competitions during the year several members assisted The City Of Adelaide Brass Band compete at Tanunda & Mount Gambier thus gaining further experience & cementing friendly relations between bands.

During the year a new dimension in sound was added to the band with the purchase of a Glockenspiel (or Bell Tyra when held in a upright position & used for marching) for the percussion group.

The bands membership improved slightly during the year & by the end of the year the average attendance at practice was 24. As had been the case for a number of years the band once again had a very full year with engagements.

One disappointing aspect of the year was the Junior Bands inability to compete at the Junior Championships at Hahndorf this was the first time it had missed in 10 years.

The bands social club continued to operate with its usual efficiency organizing such functions as Ten Pin Bowling Nights, Picture Night, B. B. Q. etc.

* At the 1982 South Australian Band Association A.G.M. our newly appointed Musical Director, Mr. E.K. Collins, was honoured by becoming a Life Member, having completed 56 years continuous service to banding, but as he was unable to be present, the honour was bestowed on him at the A.G.M. of his previous band, i.e. Kensington and Norwood.

The band continued under the Directorship of Mr. E.K. Collins who had come to the band for a short time and stayed for a number of years. Under his direction the band made numerous trips to the country. These trips included Victor Harbor, Jamestown and Tumby Bay. The band continued to grow and improve under his direction.

1987 saw the retirement of Mr. E.K. Collins. He left the band in a good healthy condition. During this year Ray Curson was appointed as Musical Director with Arthur Cooper as Chairman, Andrew Deer as Secretary, Bill Pegram as treasurer and The Hon Robin Millhouse as President. Ray Curson continued with the band as Musical Director for two years. During this time the band competed in D Grade without much success at the State Band Championships at Tanunda and the National Band Championships which were held in Adelaide. The senior band hand not competed in any contests for quite some time so this was a significant milestone. In 1988 Mrs. M. E. (Betty) Deer took over the rains as Secretary. A position which she held in excess for ten years

1989 saw some changes to the band. This was Arthur Cooper’s last year as Chairman. Ray Curson resigned as Musical Director and was replaced by John Hooper. A position which he held for only a short time. The standard of the band at this time was an average D Grade band. The hunt was now on again for a new Musical Director. Later in this year Reg Chapman came to the band to help out for a while. He worked with the band which went to the State Band Championships at Tanunda with only a short rehearsal time. The band played well and won the contest outright in D Grade. A feat which had not been known within the band for many years. The band continued under the direction of Reg Chapman until 1993. During this time the band successfully competed at the State Band Championships at Tanunda, National Band Championships in both Melbourne and Sydney, and several journeys to the Royal South Street Contest in Ballarat. The band progressed quickly through the grades with a number of wins and at the time Reg Chapman left the band it had regained its place within B Grade and was going very strongly.