A year after being reformed, the City of Gosford Pipe Band is now in the process of putting band members in uniform and purchasing equipment for parades.
In October 2014, a group of Pipers and Drummers came together after community sentiment had called for the reforming of the City of Gosford Pipe Band.
Once a thriving community asset, the band ceased operation in the late 1990s.
The challenge of purchasing uniforms and parade equipment comes with an estimated price tag of $70,000. So far, the band has raised $10,000 and it is now offering the community the opportunity to contribute by making online donations.
Band president, Mr Douglas McFarland said he is thrilled that the band is at the stage of requiring uniforms.
“The uniform of the band connects the unit to its traditional roots, provides an image for the community to recognise and attach to, sends a message of discipline and order and fills members with a sense of pride, thus improving engagement and ultimately performance”, said Mr McFarland.
“As a grassroots organisation dedicated to being a long term community asset, it is important that we involve the community in the process,” he said. “Thus by putting the community in a position to assist, they will be able to instantly connect with the band and feel a sense of ownership when they see the band in its uniform,” he said.
“By building this together it creates stronger community links and is a great foundation of a strong relationship long into the future.
“As the City of Gosford Pipe Band, we belong to the city, not any one individual or organisation, but the city at large,” he said.
“These uniforms will become assets of the band and remain the property of the City of Gosford Pipe Band, a public, not for profit, incorporated association. “With good care these uniforms will become the image of the band for decades.”
Funds raised online will be used to purchase a set of drums and jackets. “We hope to be able to order these before the end of 2015.
Media release,
18 August 2015
Joshua Lucas, Dosh
Public Relations