Pakenham Brass Band - the early years

The Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band was formed on April 24, 1951. It was also known as the Pakenham Brass Band. The band is still going strong and is now called the Cardinia Civic Concert Band. The Pakenham Gazette chronicled the formation of the band, and what follows are any articles I could find in that paper from 1951, 1952, 1953 and February 1954 when Pakenham hosted the Gippsland Massed Bands Display on Sunday February 21.

The Pakenham Brass Band in February 1954.

The Pakenham Gazette published very few photographs in the 1950s, apart from wedding photos of local couples, so this is a rare find. It was part of the publicity for the 

February 1954 Massed Band Display. 

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 19, 1954, page 1

Move to form Brass Band in Pakenham

Pakenham Gazette, Friday April 13, 1951 p. 1

Efforts are being made to form a brass band in Pakenham, and judging by the enthusiasm with which the proposal has been taken up, the project should be a success.

Mr Wally Hickmott, of Cardinia, is the prime mover and he has been greatly encouraged by promises of support. He has been pleasantly surprised, too, to discover how many former bandsmen there are in the district – and all willing to lend a helping hand with the proposed organisation. A limited number of instruments, too, is available locally. The proposal will be full discussed at a public meeting on April 24th and all interested – whether prospective members or not – are encouraged to attend.

By the way, if there is anyone locally with a band instrument which they wish to dispose of, Mr Hickmott would be glad to hear from them before the meeting. If the band is formed – and there seems every possibility that it will be – it will be necessary to purchase some instruments to supplement those already available; and if these can be obtained locally, so much the better.

Brass Band for Pakenham. Pakenham us to have a Brass Band of its own.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, April 27, 1951, p. 1

This decision was made at an enthusiastic meeting held last Tuesday evening, at which the proposal and its possibilities were outlined by Mr. W. Hickmott and Mr. E. McLean.

Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band is the name chosen for the new organization, and the following office bearers were elected: President, Mr R. Kirkland ; vice-presidents, Mr E. McLean and Mr W. Hickmott ; secretary, Mr. D. Weston ; treasurer, Mr R. Lansdown ; band master, Mr E. McLean ; deputy band master, Mr W. Hickmott.

Strong support has been promised by a number of former bandsmen in the district, and at least half of the instruments required are available. As the first method of obtaining the money required to purchase additional instruments, a direct appeal is being made to the public.

Band practice will be held on Tuesday evenings at 8 o’clock sharp, commencing next Tuesday at the Scout Hall. Anyone interested, irrespective of whether he has previous band experience, will be welcome.

The meeting closed with a hearty vote of thanks to Messrs Hickmott and McLean for taking the initial action to form the band. The formation of the band will fill a long-felt want in the town, and the officials are deserving of the fullest possible support.

[Before we continue we will look at the five men who formed the foundation committee of the Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band.
Kirkland, Reginald James. Reginald and his wife Doris lived at Pine Grove, Toomuc Valley Road, Pakenham. He was an orchardist and he served in the Army in World War Two. Reginald died in 1980, aged 75.
McLean, E. Not sure who this is. The Electoral Roll has a Williams and Daisy McLean in Main Street, Pakenham and a Ruth McLean and a Hector McLean, who was a farmer, so I am guessing he was connected to one or more of these people.
Hickmott, Walter Leslie. Walter and his wife Eleanor lived on Ballarto Road, Cardinia. He enlisted in the Army in World War Two and his occupation was listed as a dairy farmer and mail carrier. Walter died in 1970, aged 72.
Weston, D. I presume this is Alexander David Weston, listed in the Electoral Roll on Main Street, Pakenham, occupation pastrycook. Also listed is Hilda Kate Weston.
Lansdown, Reginald Charles. Listed with his wife Hazel, in Station Street, Pakenham. He died in 1996, aged 79. ]

Committee’s Appeal

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, April 27, 1951, p. 1

To the Editor.
Sir, - May we through your columns make a public appeal for funds for Pakenham and District Citizens’ Band, which was formed at a meeting held last Tuesday. The advantages of having such an organization in the town are too obvious to call for any comment by us. We are very fortunate to have available a number of band instruments but more are required, and it is to purchase these that we are appealing for funds. We would be pleased if you could acknowledge through your columns any contributions which are forwarded to us. On behalf of the Committee – Yours etc,
R. KIRKLAND, President
D. WESTON, Hon. Sec.
(We will be pleased to acknowledge any donations. - Ed. G.)

31 at Band’s First Practice

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 4, 1951, p. 5

Pakenham and District Citizens’ Brass Band got off to a good start last Thursday night, when 31 attended the first practice. Amongst the number were experienced bandsmen and a number of young men keen to learn. Next practice will be held in Wednesday night. The treasurer (Mr R. Lansdown) acknowledges with thanks donations of £10 from Mr. D. Purves and £1 from Cr. P.B. Ronald.

Band Needs More Donations

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 11, 1951, p. 1

There was again a good muster of 25 at Pakenham Brass Band practice last Wednesday night – but there were not enough instruments to go round. It is to provide these instruments that the committee is seeking funds, and an appeal is again made for donations. Talent and enthusiasm are there, and if the funds to purchase additional instruments are forthcoming Pakenham will soon have a band to be proud of. Additional donation received – Mr W. Savage £1.

Band Concert a Musical Treat

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, September 28, 1951, p. 1

Although heavy rain affected the attendance at King’s Theatre last Friday night, there was a fair crowd present to hear the band recital arranged by the Pakenham and District Citizens’ Brass Band. Those who braved the elements were given a musical treat. The greater part of the programme was provided by the Melbourne and Metropolitan Tramways Band, and their selection of marches, waltzes, hymns and popular numbers won generous applause from the audience. Pakenham Band too received a very encouraging reception when they presented a bracket of two numbers.

In introducing the Tramways Band, Cr L.J. Cochrane, M.L.A., congratulated those responsible for forming the Pakenham Band and wished the new organization every success. He mentioned the possibility of obtaining a Treasury grant to assist in the formation of the Band, and offered his help in efforts to secure this. He warmly thanked the visiting Band for coming out to help the local Band.

Mr W. Hickmott presided. At the close of the evening a hearty vote of thanks was accorded the visitors at instance of Messrs. Hickmott and Reg. Kirkland. Pakenham Band’s funds will benefit substantially as a result of the concert.

Pakenham Brass Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, November 1, 1951, p. 1

At last Wednesdays meeting of Pakenham Brass Band Committee, the treasurer (Mr. Reg. Lansdown) had the satisfaction of presenting a financial statement showing a credit balance of £60, but within a few minutes amounts totalling only £3 less than that sum were passed for payment.

The Band is gradually improving its position and as funds come in additional instruments are purchased. Expenses of hall rent, etc.,for practices are met by weekly contributions from the enthusiastic bandsmen. Just how expensive it is to start a band will be realized from the statement that it cost just on £1600 to purchase a complete new set of instruments.

A fairly substantial sum has already been received in donations from residents who realize what an outstanding advantage it is to have a Band in the district; but much more money is needed to get the band fully equipped. To help raise funds, it was decided to circulate residents.

Mr W. Hickmott was elected secretary, in place of Mr. Alan Stephenson, who has resigned. Enquiries are to be made regarding affiliation with the Bands Association, and also as to the possibility of staging a band contest at Pakenham.

More Bandsmen Wanted – or No Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 1, 1952, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band established a few months ago is being considerably hampered by lack of sufficient players and at a meeting last Wednesday it was reluctantly decided that unless more support is forthcoming the band should go out of existence. Whether this step is taken will depend on the attendance at a meeting to be held next Wednesday evening.

The advantages of having in the district a band which would be available for many functions are so obvious as to need no emphasis. The small group of enthusiasts who conceived the idea of forming Pakenham Brass Band and have given up many hours of their time in an endeavor to get it firmly established have done yeoman service. Slowly but surely they have collected funds necessary for the purchase of instruments, of which a fair number is now available. However, it is an old saying that “one can’t make bricks without straw” and it is equally true that a band cannot be made without sufficient bandsmen.

That is the difficulty which confronts the officers to-day. And it is a problem which can only be solved in one way – by a number of residents coming forward and showing their willingness to sacrifice an hour or two each week to practice.

If you are interested yourself or if you know of anyone who may be interested, help to swell the attendance at next Wednesday’s meeting and give the officials encouragement in their efforts to help Pakenham and district.

Band to Carry On.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, February 8, 1952, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band is to carry on. This decision was reached at a meeting last Wednesday evening in view of the good response to an appeal for more bandsmen. That more players are still required anyone interested is invited to come along to band practice and Wednesday night at 8 o’clock. The Band is now intensifying practice in preparation for the next public appearance at Pakenham Show. 

Pakenham Show Should be a Brilliant Success

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 7, 1952, p. 1

The engagement of Pakenham Band to play during the afternoon should enliven proceedings. Not only this, but it should serve as a demonstration to the public of the usefulness of this new organization.

Pakenham Show breaks all records.  Band’s Good Performance.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 14, 1952, p. 1  

Pakenham Brass Band, under the charge of Bandmaster, Wally Hickmott, had their first full-scale appearance and won many congratulatory remarks. For a band which has been inexistence only a few months they gave an excellent performance. A bright future is predicted for them if enthusiasm can be maintained.

Brass Band’s Value to Town

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 2 1951, p.1

Following their performance at the Pakenham Show and again at the Anzac service last Sunday, Pakenham Band has been highly commended by district residents. The Band contributed greatly to the impressiveness of last Sunday’s service, and Bandmaster Wally Hickmott and his bandsmen were heartily congratulated and thanked. Every appearance of the band proves more and more its value to the community.

The Band is here to stay, thanks to the enthusiasm of a small number of members. There are two ways in which residents can assist – by making a donation to the band for purchase of additional instruments and by swelling the ranks of the bandsmen.

Uniforms for Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, June 20, 1952, p.1  

The committee of Pakenham Brass Band this week received an excellent offer of which they intend to take advantage. It was for the delivery to them of 30 complete uniforms, used but in first class condition, for £75. Purchase of the uniforms will put a severe strain on the Band’s funds, but the committee consider the opportunity too good to miss. With the policy of self-help which has been typical of them from the start, a number of the bandsmen will meet the cost of their own uniforms.

£10 Donation for Pakenham Band

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, July 25, 1952, p. 3

Berwick Shire Council at their meeting last Monday decided to make a donation of £10 to Pakenham Brass Band, towards the cost of purchasing uniforms. The motion was moved by Cr Ronald, seconded by Cr Dore and supported by the Shire President (Cr Robinson) and Cr Thewlis, all of whom paid tribute to the excellent job the band was doing.

The Pakenham Brass Band, pictured at the Berwick Show in February 1954

Weekly Times, February 10, 1954 https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/224912990

Band Get Uniforms

Pakenham Gazette, October 17, 1952 p. 1

Uniforms for Pakenham Brass Band – ordered several months ago – have now arrived. Interest in the Band is steadily increasing, stimulated no doubt by the knowledge that members have now reached such a degree of proficiency that they can now confidently accept outside engagements. The attendance at last Monday’s practice was the best yet. An encouraging feature is the number of young lads who have come forward in response to an invitation by Mr Arthur King to give then instruction.

In addition to playing at Berwick Show, the Band accepted an offer to play at Officer on 5th November. Other engagements are also under consideration. The Band acknowledges with thanks a donation of £2/2/- from Pakenham Racing Club.

Pakenham Show Tomorrow should break all records.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, March 13, 1953, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band will render selections during the day. They will be strengthened by some members of the Morwell band and will number in all about 30. About mid-day they are to march through the town to the ground.

Brilliant Display, Big Crowd at Pakenham’s 38th Show. Band's Great Éffort.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday March 20, 1953, p.1

A special “Thank you” goes to the Pakenham Brass Band, who livened proceedings with a number of selections. The band is on the “up and up,” improving with every public appearance, and they are to be congratulated on a highly creditable performance. The Band is a great asset, not only to Pakenham but to the whole district, and Bandmaster Hickmott and his men deserve every support.

 Anzac Commemoration Service at Pakenham.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, May 1 1953, p. 1  

Organized by the Pakenham, sub-branch R.S.L., an Anzac Commemoration service at the Mechanics’ Hall last Sunday afternoon was attended by about 120 people. Prior to the service about 30 ex-servicemen assembled at the Shire Hall and led by the Pakenham Brass band, marched to the Mechanics’ Hall. [article continues with description of service]

[The Pakenham Brass Band was also played at the 1953 Anzac Day March at Emerald, see report in the Mountain Free Press of April 30, 1953, here.]

 Band is here to stay.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday May 8, 1953, p. 1  

The annual meeting of Pakenham Brass Brass Band is to be held at the Recreation Reserve pavilion next Monday night, and it is hoped that there will be a big number of residents present to give encouragement to an organization which in the two years of its existence has proved its great value to the community. Anyone who has heard the Band cannot but to have been impressed with its good performance. Under the leadership of Bandmaster Wally Hickmott, the young bandsmen are making rapid strides. Shortage of funds would have crippled an organization whose members were less keen, but in this instance the difficulty has been overcome by the bandsmen purchasing their own uniforms, paying all travelling expenses and in several instances providing their own instruments. The Band is at the service of all parts of the district at any time, and more engagements are coming in each week. On Saturday week they will play at the Pakenham races; on Coronation Day they have two engagements – at a combined Church service in Pakenham, in the morning and at a sports meeting in Upper Beaconsfield, in the afternoon; and in July they will visit Lang Lang for special Church service. If you feel that the band is doing a good job – and anyone not satisfied must be hard to please – make an effort to attend Monday’s meeting. And if at any time you care to make a donation to funds your gift will help in the purchase of more instruments.

Band Had a Good Year.

Pakenham Gazette, Friday May 15, 1953, p. 1

Despite heavy expenditure on uniforms and instruments, Pakenham Brass Band almost “squared the ledger” in the past year, it was reported to the annual meeting last Monday night. The statement of accounts showed a deficit of 7/5, but this was quickly wiped out, as the bandsmen immediately purchased members’ tickets at 10/6 each, and donations of £9/9/- were received.

Reports by the president (Mr. Reg Kirkland), bandmaster (Mr. W. Hickmott), and treasurer (Mr. Reg Lansdown) left no room for doubt that the past year had been one of advancement – progress in the musical education of the young bandsmen, greater public recognition of the Band, and consolidation of the financial position.

To provide the Band with more comfortable quarters, it was decided to apply for the use of a room at the Consolidated School for practices.

Up to the present the members have met all their own expenses in travelling to fulfil outside engagements, but it was agreed that after three functions which they have already promised to attend they should in future stipulate that the organisation which they are assisting should meet the cost of travelling by bus.

The following officers were elected for the ensuing years: - President, Mr. F. Dodds; vice-president, Mr. F. Lansdown; secretary, Mr. Ken Webster; treasurer, Mr R. Lansdown; auditor, Mr R. Ramage.

Band Auxiliary Raised £41

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, June 2, 1953, p.1

Formed only a few weeks ago the Pakenham Band Auxiliary had already done excellent work, in raising funds and assisting the social side of the Bands activities. It was reported to last Monday’s meeting of the Band that the Auxiliary’s two latest efforts – the holding of a street stall and the provision of afternoon tea at the Coronation Sports day had brought in the splendid sum of £41/0/3. The ladies were heartily thanked by the Band members for their practical help. It was decided that the Auxiliary should in future function as a separate body, electing their own officers and arranging their own functions.

Community Singing aids Band Funds

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, July 3, 1953, p.1 

The funds of the Pakenham Brass Band will benefit considerably as a result of community singing held at the Mechanics’ Hall last Sunday night. Included in an interesting programme were items by the band. Mr Colin Blair acted as compere and the accompaniments were played by Messrs C. Gilbert (piano), C. Barnett (mouth organ), and Mrs A. Kennedy and Mr F. Ramsdale (accordions). Mr W. Hickmott, bandmaster, on behalf of the band, expressed their sincere thanks to the organizers of the Community singing (Messrs L. Cook, C. Lothian and R. McWatt) and all others who helped with the arrangements of the evening. In responding Mr Cook spoke of the great acquisition the band was to the district and the need for the public give all the support possible. The organizers desired to express their thanks to all assisted and particularly Mr. Reg Moloney, who lent and installed his sound system.

Band Gave Recital at Lang Lang

Pakenham Gazette, Friday July 17, 1953, p. 7  

Pakenham Brass Band had their first full night’s engagement last Sunday, when they visited Lang Lang to give a recital in connection with the 80th anniversary celebration of the Church of England. Apart from two vocal numbers the band provided the entire programme for the night. They gave an excellent performance for which they were heartily thanked by the Rev. M. Clarke and Cr. G. Ridgway.

Pakenham Brass Band made an Impressive Showing at Sale

Pakenham Gazette, Friday, December 18, 1953, p. 1

Pakenham Brass Band visited Sale last Sunday for their first big engagement – to take part in a massed band display. This young band put up a really remarkable performance considering that it is only 2 years since it was formed. In a discipline contest they came a very close second to Warragul, the judge announcing that he had great difficulty separating the two.

In the street marching they were awarded third place. The winner of the trophy was the Morwell Band. By the way, Drum Major Reg Kirkland, of Pakenham, filled the vacancy when Morwell’s drum major was unavoidably absent. He then returned by car to the starting point to lead Pakenham on.

In addition to taking part in the massed bands items, Pakenham Band presented a selection. Bandmaster Frank Walsh was in charge of the massed bands for two items. Altogether it was a notable day for the bandsmen and the big crowd of onlookers. The spectacle of some 250 bandsmen in uniform (totalling eight different bands) marching and playing made a great impression.

On Sunday, 21st February, there is to be a massed band display at Pakenham, arranged by the local brass band, and the occasion will be eagerly looked forward to.

[The Gippsland Times of December 14, 1953 had  a report on the Sale Massed Band Display - read it here.]

Girl members of the Pakenham District Band at the Back-to Koo Wee Rup North State School sports day held in October 1954 - Rosemary, Noreen and Rosalie Wells.  Rosemary and Rosalie were identical twins. Rosemary (Mynard) was involved for many years with the Cranbourne Shire Historical Society and curator of the Fishermans Cottage Museum at Tooradin.

Weekly Times, October 27, 1954 http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article224550347

Massed Band Display Delighted 1000 People

Pakenham Gazette, Friday February 26, 1954, page 1

A crowd estimated at close on 1000 last Sunday afternoon attended the massed band’s display at Pakenham Recreation Reserve – and enjoyed every minute of it. Six Gippsland bands took part and gave a really meritorious performance.

A big crowd assembled in Station Street to watch the bands move off to the Recreation Reserve, at the gate way of which was erected an archway – the work of Pakenham band Secretary, Mr Len Webster - bearing the words “’Welcome to Pakenham.”

The Bands took up their position at the northern end of the arena, then marched in mass formation to the southern end to group around a “platform” formed by the trays of two semi-trailers, kindly lent for the occasion by Dunning Transport Pty Ltd. The whole show was excellently compered by Mr Norman Ellis, of 3UZ.

Massed Bands Impressive
The bands were heard to good effect in numerous well-presented selections, but the “gems” of the programme were the hymns, “Rock of Ages” and “Abide With me,” played by the massed bands under the leadership of Pakenham Bandmaster Frank Walsh.

The bands were welcomed to Pakenham by Cr. P.B. Ronald, who apologised for the absence of the Shire President (Cr. D. Kinsella) owing to illness. It was very fitting, said, Cr Ronald, that the first massed bands display in this area should be held in Pakenham, “the capital of the Berwick Shire.” Pakenham people were very proud of their band and had demonstrated that pride fittingly by raising sufficient money to erect a musical shell in Bourke Park, adjacent to the Railway Station. He sincerely thanked neighbouring bands from Gippsland for coming along to take part in the display. As he saw it, a band had two duties – the first to entertain, the second to develop a sense of musical appreciation. To do this cost money. To further their musical education it was necessary for the bands to visit various centres and meet other bands. That entailed considerable expense.

£3000 to Equip Band
Few people realized, continued Cr. Ronald, the great amount involved in providing instruments for a band. To buy new instruments for a band of 30 men would cost in the vicinity of £3000. A new euphonium cost £150. Naturally few of the instruments being used on the ground that day were new. Most of the bands started in a small way with secondhand instruments and gradually built up. With the support and encouragement of the people of their respective districts they would continue to advance. The proceeds from that day were going to Pakenham band, to help defray the cost incurred by members in travelling to other centres and helping other bands, as they had been helped that day. Any donations which might be forthcoming would be greatly appreciated. He congratulated the bands on trying to help each other. He also congratulated the officials – Bandmaster Frank Walsh, Drum Major Reg, Kirkland, Secretary Len Webster and Chief Steward Frank Lansdown – on the excellent organization of the display. He also mentioned the Pakenham band was extremely fortunate to have an excellent Auxiliary, the members of which were providing afternoon that day and also helped in many other directions. They had raised a considerable sum of money for the Band. Cr. Ronald concluded by extending on behalf of the Shire President and Councillors and the residents generally a warm welcome to Pakenham.

Officials Impressed
Mr. Harry Oliver, President of the Central Gippsland Bands Group, also extended a welcome to the massed bands.

Capt. Hill, of the Victorian Bands League, acted as adjudicator for the day. Visiting officials were very complimentary regarding the organization of the day and remarked that this was the first occasion at a gathering of this kind that continuity in the programme had been attempted.

Two Trophies to Warragul : One to Morwell
Three trophies were awarded in connection with the display and Warragul had a “field day,” winning the awards for oval marching and discipline. Morwell won the prize for street marching. Points in these two marching competitions were as follow: Street March: Morwell 34, Warragul 32, Pakenham 29, Sale 29, Maffra 28, Traralgon 27. Oval March: Warragul 47, Morwell 46, Maffra 41, Pakenham 38, Sale 32.

Donors of trophies were: For the street march: Messrs W. Hickmott and R. Kirkland ; discipline, Bandmaster Frank Walsh ; oval march, Mr Frank Dodds (president). As usual, Mr Wes. Williams, of Dandenong, did an excellent job with his public address system.

Auxiliary’s Help
The Ladies’ Auxiliary, as usual, did a splendid job of catering. They provided free of charge afternoon tea for all the bandsmen, and although the patronage for luncheon was not a s great as expected, they will more than “break even.” It would be invidious to select any of the ladies for special mention. Suffice it to say that all members of the Auxiliary and many other willing helpers did splendid work.

Donations in cash and kind helped towards the financial success of the day. Amongst those to give cash donations were Cr. P.B. Ronald, and Messrs. B.J. Doherty, J. Richards, J. Emmerton and C. Plummer. Those who helped with donations in kind included Messrs. Lia, Gook, Cook, McLean, Whitelaw, Trew, Taylor and Atkinson.

Support Appreciated
Bandmaster Frank Walsh expressed his gratification at the support received. There was not one tradesman who was approached who did not willingly lend a hand, and the support of the residents was very encouraging to the Band.