All five bands of the New England Region in New South Wales; Gunnedah Shire Band, Tamworth RSL Brass, Narrabri Shire Band, Moree District Band, and Armidale City Band made the trip to Gunnedah to compete at the 60th Gunnedah Eisteddfod on Sunday 20 May.

This was the first time in 20 years that all five bands competed at their local regional contest.

Celebration

The day was one of celebration and socialisation with the local band, Gunnedah Shire Band, hosting a BBQ during the lunchbreak for all the participants.

The contest was divided into two sections; the first a hymn and test selection, won convincingly by the champion Gunnedah Shire Junior Band, and the second an entertainment contest won by a very well prepared (and entertaining) Moree District Band.

Results:

Hymn & Test Selection:

1. Gunnedah Shire Junior Band, 95
2. Armidale City Band, 88
3. Moree District Band, 85
4. Tamworth RSL Brass, 81
4. Narrabri Shire Band, 81
6. Gunnedah Shire Wednesday Band, 79

Entertainment Section:

1. Moree District Band,91
2. Gunnedah Shire Junior Band, 88
3. Gunnedah Shire Wednesday Band, 84
4. Armidale City Band, 83
5. Tamworth RSL Brass, 81
5. Narrabri Shire Band, 81

Adjudicator: Karen Newton