THE Port Macquarie Hastings Municipal Band has struck a chord of success, winning second place in the C Grade Concert Band division at the 2025 NSW State Band Championships on Saturday, 23 August.
The annual event drew six bands from across the state, including three from metropolitan areas.
For Port Macquarie, the result carries special significance as it marks the band’s first appearance at this grade level since 2009.
The silver finish builds on their first-place triumph in the D Grade division at the 2023 National Band Championships, which secured their promotion.
“The band’s performance was a testament to the immense dedication of its members, who are primarily local constituents, ” Band Secretary Brian Corrigan told News Of The Area.
Musical Director Amy Corrigan led the group of more than 40 musicians through eight weeks of intensive rehearsals before they travelled to Sydney.
The band’s membership spans all ages, backgrounds and abilities, creating a diverse ensemble that stood proudly alongside larger and better-resourced metropolitan and conservatorium competitors.
Community support played a vital role in the achievement.
The Port Macquarie RSL sub-Branch helped members cover competition and accommodation costs.
For the band, this victory demonstrates the strength of both musical excellence and community spirit.
By Sis HIGGINS
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
