The brass band community across the world has offered its congratulations to conductor Mark Ford following the news of his award of the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the King's 2025 Birthday Honours.

Contribution

The award recognises his contribution to music education and the arts.

A former Head of Bands and Music Teacher at St Leonard's College and Head of Bands, Brass & Percussion at Wesley College Melbourne, he was also for a five year period, a professional musician with the Royal Australian Navy Band.

With extensive teaching experience over 40 years standing, he has also gained acclaim as performer and conductor — winning three Australian National A Grade Championship titles, and as a leading adjudicator.

He has also worked overseas as a conductor and was the Principal Conductor of the Australian National Band.