The day was a treat for current and aspiring Drum Majors. There were 25 experienced and not-so-experienced Drum Majors in attendance, together with six members of the Drill Advisory Board, four observers and a handful of supporters and assistants – all up, there were 40 people enjoying a great day of drill and marching tuition.

Enthusiasm

It was very encouraging to see the enthusiasm with which the trainees took up the activities. Most trainees were practising their newly-developed skills in the breaks and asking many questions of the trainers. It was also particularly exciting to see so many younger people come along.

Training for 'newbies'

Currently, most Drum Majors are just selected from within their bands and not trained. The Boot Camp was designed to provide initial training for “newbies” and advanced skills development for more experienced DM’s.

Flourishing and twirling

A special session was led by Geoff Bellis of the Victorian Highland Pipe Band movement. He demonstrated the art of flourishing, which included twirling and throwing the mace. Geoff made the whole thing appear easy, however our trainees had projectiles flying everywhere!

Youth Band "Guniea Pigs"

During the afternoon, the Victorian State Youth Brass Band assisted the Drum Majors by being the “guinea pigs”. It was a hot and sultry afternoon, but the band members didn’t complain once.

Thank you

A huge thank you to Walter Pope, Dean Hughes and all the members of the VSYBB for helping to make this event a success.

On behalf of the VBL, I wish to extend a huge thank you to the members of the Drill Advisory Board who did the preparations and training on the day...VBL President, Chris Bowman.

VBL President, Chris Bowman said, "On behalf of the VBL, I wish to extend a huge thank you to the members of the Drill Advisory Board who did the preparations and training on the day: John Kelly, Jan Davey, Kevin Herdman, Michael Mathers, Paul O’Toole and Darryl Wagstaff."

"Unfortunately, a recent operation precluded Keith Moore from attending, but I know he was fully supporting the day."

"Thank you also to Helen Gray and Irene Magoulas for preparing lunches, teas and cold drinks for everyone."

Free DVD

A free DVD will be available shortly for all who attended the day.

To keep the energy that was produced on the day, another training day is planned for later in 2008. The next session will include more sessions for either advanced or novice skill levels.