10 November 2006
Patron David Lewis was present, and gave us his very positive assessment of the progress that the choir has been making. He presented the Patron's Award for the past year - voted on by all the members - to Mick Rice. A very popular choice. Apart from leading the planning team for our Wesley Concert, Mick has the major task of Coordinator Performances and Practice, and has been doing an excellent job.
A special feature of the night was the presence of a number of Rugby Choir 'pioneers' - Dougal Whitton, Wayne Hickey, Colin Perman, Bill Salter, and Mike McGrath - and their partners. Dougall spoke about the creation of the Royals Choir, which goes back to 1987, and the way in which this eventually lead to establishment of the Australian Rugby Choir. Colin Slater was unfortunately not able to attend, but sent a letter of apology in which he congratulated the choir on its achievements. Other pioneers John Hillier and Goff Didier were also unable to attend, but were pleased to be invited.
President Alastair Crombie took the opportunity to present a cheque for the Band's Social Club to Major Geoff Grey, Musical Director of the Royal Military College Band in recognition of the support that the choir has had over the past year.
David Lewis, Geoff Grey, the rugby choir 'pioneers', and our musical staff, together with a dozen members who were recognised for their contributions to the choir were given a bottle of the '10th Anniversary Tawny Port', suitably labelled with the ARC logo.
Graham Mansfield did a very fine job of collecting and collating choir 'memorabilia' from the past ten years, even producing a photo booklet for each table It is hoped that some of the 'pioneers' may be able to help to fill early gaps.
Other highlights included the global premiere of a new song from Keith Jones, a cameo from the 'Cream', and a fine rendition of 'Stout-Hearted Men'.
A fine evening. Thanks due to Frank Bergersen and his team of volunteer for (again) doing the work!