Association Award
Association Award
Australian Army Band Corps Association Award
CRITERIA:
The Australian Army Band Corps Association Award is awarded annually to a member of the AABC nominated by the Commanding Officer, Australian Army Band and Head of Corps AABC whose achievements have significantly contributed to the operational effectiveness of the AABC, the morale and esprit-de-corps of its members and enhanced the status of the AABC within the Army and the wider community.
2025 AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION AWARD
Sergeant Jonathon Apps
Sergeant Johnathon Apps has significantly enhanced the status of AABC within the Army, the ADF and the broader community through his leadership of ceremonial teams in his current posting with the Australian Federation Guard (AFG), and through his role within the AFG Operations Team.
The excellent quality of SGT Apps’ work has resulted in him earning the respect of his peers and commanders, demonstrated through his selection to represent the ADF at multiple significant international occasions. In 2023, he was the first member of AABC to be selected as a Catafalque Party Commander for the Gallipoli ANZAC Dawn service and in 2025 he was appointed the second-in-command of the France ANZAC contingent. His selection for these ceremonial events has significantly enhanced the reputation of AABC soldiers as being capable of high-level performance beyond the standard expectations of a specialist Corps. SGT Apps has also held key roles in the AFG’s contributions to the Coronation of King Charles III, PNG50 celebrations in Port Moresby and an individual deployment to Kiribati working alongside AFP personnel.
In addition to this high level of representation at Ceremonial events, SGT Apps has continued to develop his specialist skills. He dedicated significant time and effort to composing two marches which have been accepted into the ADF Ceremonial Manual as official unit marches. Gabuga is published as the official march of 1RTB alongside Rose Gloria, creating an indelible link between the Home of the Soldier, the traditional owners of that land (the Wiradjuri people), and the musicians who have marched alongside Army’s newest soldiers through the decades. Guarding Their Legacy was named as the official march of the Australian Federation Guard in July 2023. Both of these marches are quality compositions, and reflect highly on SGT Apps’ individual level of skill.
SGT Apps has distinguished himself through his outstanding contributions to the AABC as a representative of the Australian Federation Guard and as a musician of superior skill.
Dave Oakley
President AABCA
October 2025
2024 LCPL Joshua McKellar - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2024
Lance Corporal Joshua McKellar
The Citation reads:
Lance Corporal Joshua McKellar is posted to the Australian Army Band Kapooka as a vocalist. Lance Corporal McKellar’s versatility as a performer spans a wide range of styles and ensembles, enabling him to connect with a broad cross-section of military and community audiences. Of note, Lance Corporal McKellar represented the Australian Army Band with distinction as part of a 10-week deployment on Indo Pacific Endeavour.
Lance Corporal McKellar’s commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness is evidenced through his personal initiative to add specialist proficiencies to his skill set, even when additional remuneration is not available. Already a Musician Grade 3 vocalist, Lance Corporal McKellar successfully completed the Residential Phase of the Audio Engineer Course in support of filling a projected capability gap. Further to this, Lance Corporal McKellar is currently enhancing the training offered by the Defence Force School of Music with a Bachelor of Audio Production. His attendance on this course has inspired other members to do the same, thus ensuring future depth and capability in this area.
Lance Corporal McKellar willingly fulfils a variety of extra regimental duties, of which President of the Social Club has been just one example. His effective work in this area has resulted in many activities which have fostered a sense of inclusion and comradery within the sub-unit. These events have undeniably contributed to the morale and esprit of all members of the Australian Army Band Kapooka, including their families.
In the wider ADF, Lance Corporal McKellar is a member of ADF Golf, and successfully represented the Australian Army Band at the ADF Golf Riverina Regionals earlier this year.
Within the community, Lance Corporal McKellar’s sustained charity work over many years in the Riverina is nothing short of exceptional. Where an alignment of opportunity exists, Lance Corporal McKellar has successfully linked sub-unit tasking with a variety of community fundraising events that he has been associated with.
As a founding member of the Specialist Medical Resources Foundation, Lance Corporal McKellar has participated in numerous fundraising events, with at least $380, 000.00 going towards the provision of vital, life changing medical equipment and support. As a committee member for Relay for Life, Lance Corporal McKellar has been instrumental in coordinating events which have raised at least $200,000 for the Cancer Council’s research, prevention, and support services. A regular at Wagga Wagga Takes Two, Lance Corporal McKellar has participated in 14 iterations of this iconic local event, which has raised approximately $4, 000,000 for local charities since its inception in 2007.
Additionally, Lance Corporal McKellar frequently volunteers his time to assist with local music theatre productions, the results of which have generated many tangible recruiting leads. Despite the challenges of recruiting in regional centres, Lance Corporal McKellar’s direct involvement in this space has led to the completion of two successful male vocal auditions.
Lance Corporal McKellar’s charismatic leadership qualities, coupled with his embodiment of Good Soldiering principles, continue to serve as a positive example for his peers and superiors. Lance Corporal McKellar is a credit to the Australian Army Band Corps and the Australian Army. His service continues in the finest traditions of all previous recipients of this award.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
October 2024
2023 MUSN William Barker - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2023
Musician William Barker
The Citation reads:
Musician Barker is posted to the Australian Army Band Kapooka as a brass multi-instrumentalist. He has the distinction of holding trade qualifications for three separate brass instruments – euphonium at Musician Grade 3, as well as tuba and tenor trombone at Musician Grade 2. Often at short notice, his proficiency across these instruments has significantly contributed to the operational effectiveness of the Australian Army Band Corps by way of enabling subunit tasking to succeed across broad range of military and community engagements, especially when unplanned absences are experienced.
Musician Barker is a ‘go to’ choice for temporary duty, and his unique skill set is frequently called upon in order to support a variety of sub-units across ceremonial and concert events. Of note is his work in the international engagement space, In recent years Musician Barker has been an exceptional ambassador for the Australian Army Band Corps at official Anzac Day commemoration services held in Gallipoli, and VilIers-Bretonneux.
Musician Barker’s most recent contribution to sub-unit capablity and esprit de corps is evidenced through his creation and leadership or the Australian Army Band Kapooka Brass Quartet. Without prompting, Musician Barker noted the potential of this small team as well as the individuals within it – carefully sourcing repertoire, requesting training time, leading rehearsals and liaising with clientele – without expectation of career advancement, but purely for the passion of his trade and the enriched opportunity it afforded his fellow team members. His foresight in developing this ensemble has enabled musical growth amongst his peer group, and for dynamic programming to occur at the small team’s level.
In the community, Musician Barker freely gives his time to the next generation of brass players in the Riverina, chiefly by way of his recent ‘Trombonanza!’ workshop. In conjunction with industry partners at the Riverina Conservatorium of Music, Musician Barker’s shared knowledge serves both as an inspiration, and an opportunity not always afforded to young musicians in regional centres. In addition to this, Musician Barker’s commitment towards community music is evidenced by his recent performance at the NSW State Band Championships.
Musician Barker consistently performs all aspects of his duties as a soldier musician willingly and without hesitation. He is a credit to the Australian Army Band Corps and the Australian Army, evidenced through his musical abilities, and the example he sets as an Australian soldier. His service continues in the finest traditions of all previous recipients of this award.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
October 2023
2022 LCPL Amelia Johnson - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2022
Lance Corporal Amelia Johnson
The Citation reads:
Lance Corporal Amelia Johnson currently serves as a vocalist within the Australian Army Band Kapooka (AAB-K), and also provides significant additional capability on keyboards during a period where that position within the Band has remained vacant. Lance Corporal Johnson’s talents also extend to performing in varying roles in support of the weekly March Out Parades held at the 1st Recruit Training Battalion, both as a musician and as a parade Master of Ceremonies.
Always the consummate professional, Lance Corporal Johnson responded on very short notice when required to perform the Proclamation of the Accession of His Majesty King Charles III at Parliament House on 12 September 2022. Her performance of ‘God save the King’ was the first official performance of this anthem in over 70 years, and was delivered in front of the Governor-General and a live national broadcast audience.
Earlier this year, Lance Corporal Johnson provided mentoring support to the ADF Arts for Recovery, Resilience, Teamwork and Skills Program. Her mentorship over the course of the program was pivotal in assisting the recovery of ADF members who have been wounded, injured or become ill during their service. Lance Corporal Johnson’s teaching and mentoring skills saw a significant improvement in the singing capability for those within the music and rhythm stream, earning her the respect of her fellow mentors and participants alike.
Lance Corporal Johnson actively volunteers for ‘Kookaburra Kids’, a foundation delivering services to young people impacted by family mental illness. Her involvement within the ‘Defence kids’ program in particular has contributed to the awareness of mental health, coping skills and resilience within children of military families.
Lance Corporal Johnson’s personal commitment to lifelong learning and professional development is evidenced by her ongoing postgraduate studies in teaching. She is an exemplary soldier musician demonstrating the highest standards of Defence values and Army’s ethos in keeping with the finest traditions of all previous recipients of this award.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President AABCA
2021 CPL Laura Jayne Burden - Band of the 1st Brigade (Darwin) - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2021
Corporal Laura Jayne Burden
The Citation reads:
Corporal Burden is posted to the Band of the 1st Combat Brigade as the Cadre Corporal. She is a qualified clarinet player and in previous sub-units has doubled on saxophone when required. Due to the nature of the sub-unit there is often a requirement for cadre staff to perform at parades during hours when the part time personnel are unavailable. With excellent foresight, Corporal Burden has developed side drum skills to fill the capability gap. This is attributed to her outstanding ability to complete the mission and get the job done.
The Cadre Corporal is a demanding and diverse role within the Australian Army Band. Members posted to these roles often work in isolation with broad direction and must show a high level of initiative. Corporal Burden’s commitment and extremely efficient manner, provides dedication of the highest degree in a sub-unit that is challenged by what the Head of Corps has previously termed a ‘capability mismatch’; that is, a part-time sub-unit supporting a full-time Brigade. Her ability to achieve continuous large volumes ofwork, without additional support is outstanding and admirable. Through her experience in her previous posting as an instructor at the Defence Force Correctional Establishment, she has been able to readily establish herself in an unfamiliar environment, build relationships with external units and civilian agencies, and ably support the extended vacancy of the Band Sergeant Major. She displays a positive and enthusiastic approach to challenging situations and can be relied upon to give frank advice to those senior to her. She puts service before self, with a demanding young family, and often absent serving spouse, and sacrifices her family time to fulfil her duty requirements. Corporal Burden has an outstanding work ethic that enables the unit to be operational and highly effective at all times. Her application to her duties, including additional tasks is exceptional and she is performing well above her current worn rank.
Corporal Burden’s professionalism and dedication across her entire role has greatly enhanced the Band of the 1st Combat Brigade, the Australian Army Band and the Corps in the Darwin region.
Corporal Burden displays the highest standards of Army ethos, is committed to continuous learning, and the epitome of a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer. At every opportunity this fine soldier/musician is an ambassador for the Australian Army Band Corps and her service continues in the finest traditions of all previous recipients of this award.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
8 October 2021
2020 LCPL Jacob Curro - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2020
2020 AABCA Award – Jacob Curro
On behalf of the Australian Army Band Corps Association Inc, the Head of Corps, LTCOL Dan Hiscock was able to present the Award to CPL Curro on his recent Command visit to the Australian Army Band Kapooka. The Award recipient was formally announced at the 2020 Annual General Meeting of the Association.
The award recognises CPL Curro’s unwavering dedication to duty and his involvement in the Australian Army Band Kapooka’s significant contribution to public affairs, recruiting, and esprit-de-corps through the production of recording media.
2020 AABCA Award Recipient LCPL (now CPL) Jacob Curro with LTCOL Dan Hiscock and the Regimental Sergeant Major WO1 Paul Davies.
2020 AUSTRALIAN ARMY BAND CORPS ASSOCIATION AWARD
Lance Corporal Jacob Jeffrey Curro
Lance Corporal Curro serves as a multi-instrumentalist, audio engineer and section leader in the Australian Army Band Kapooka (AAB-K). Lance Corporal Curro consistently excels in all of these roles, particularly as an Audio Engineer where he has made several highly valued contributions during his tenure. In 2019 he singlehandedly produced the sub-unit’s first promotional recording in over 20 years and throughout 2020 has led on the audio and visual production of six outstanding recordings for social media engagement, recordings that will contribute to another promotional recording currently under development.
The 2019 album, Off the Square has significantly enhanced AAB-K’s support to the Army Recruit Training Centre (ARTC) through the provision of music prior to March-Out Parades. The recorded music is played to enhance the morale and esprit de corps of all staff and recruits, and to entertain the family and friends of Army’s newest soldiers prior each of the March-Out Parades.
Lance Corporal Curro has been pivotal to the successful completion of these recordings. His expertise and knowledge of the ‘in-service’ equipment is outstanding, as are his personal skills and abilities, all of which have enabled the completion of the projects to the level achieved. Having previously completed a Master’s Degree in Audio Engineering, Lance Corporal Curro has demonstrated professionalism and dedication by upskilling his already impressive abilities to deliver a truly professional product for Army. His appreciation of the entire production process underpinned the highly valued guidance provided to the command team when planning and coordinating rehearsal and recording priorities, the end product therefore being a direct reflection of Lance Corporal Curro’s professionalism and commitment.
Lance Corporal Curro’s dedication across his broad ranging skill set greatly enhance the status of the Australian Army Band and his Corps at every ARTC parade, through online social media platforms, as well as the provision of promotional material for public relations and recruiting.
Lance Corporal Curro is brilliant at basics, committed to continuous improvement, and the epitome of a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer. At every opportunity this fine soldier/musician is an ambassador for the Australian Army Band Corps and his service continues in the finest traditions of all previous recipients of this award.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
14 November 2020
2019 MUSN Stephen Brock Taylor - AAB Adelaide - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2019
Musician Stephen Taylor
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Corps.
Since enlisting into the Army Reserve and joining Australian Army Band Adelaide (AAB-A) as a guitarist, you have rapidly become an integral member of the Band and have further enhanced the capability through your contribution as an arranger and vocalist.
In successive years you have made a significant contribution to the Unit’s successful support to the Army Aboriginal Community Assistance Programme at Yalata, SA in 2018 and short notice support to Jigalong, WA in 2019. Your enthusiasm, musicianship, arranging skills and ability to engage with audiences were a critical component of the Unit’s success on each occasion. You have made a similar contribution to AAB-A’s community outreach tours in 2019 (Mid North and Eyre Peninsula) which were key Unit priorities. More recently your support, again at short notice, to the Band of the 1st Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery’s Exercise BANDIT in Far North Queensland was outstanding; your keen sense of humour, work ethic and guitar skills were invaluable, as was your hidden talent as a vehicle mechanic.
You regularly provide reliable and professional support to other Bands in addition to your service in AAB-A. You are an exemplar for Army’s values and frequently adjust your full-time employment and personal commitments with an attitude of ‘that’s what I signed up for’. In addition to your skillset, your attitude itself is a force multiplier and inspires all who serve with you.
In a relatively short period of service you have become the epitome of a soldier/musician; musicianship, teamwork, flexibility all underpinned by an attitude of ‘service before self’. Your performance across all aspects of your role has significantly contributed to the operational effectiveness of AAB-A, the morale and esprit-de-corps of all you serve with and enhanced the status of the Australian Army Band Corps within Army and the wider community.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
26 October 2019
2018 MUSN Alex David O'Neill - AAB Sydney - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2018
Musician Alex David O’Neill
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Corps and the Australian Defence Force.
You are commended for your outstanding service as the Drummer, and Principal Percussionist, of the Australian Army Band – Sydney.
As a highly skilled Musician, you have proven yourself to be willing and able to provide vital capability to the sub-unit, through your dedicated and skilful contribution to a number of ensembles. A typical example of your dedication and professionalism to the Australian Defence Force has been the many hours of your own time that you have dedicated to mentoring an Army Reserve recruit member seeking to gain the necessary skills and attributes to transfer to the Regular Army.
Your personality and demeanour encourage high levels of enthusiasm, team work and productivity from those around you. Your eagerness to ensure that the product that is presented to the public is of the highest possible standard is an absolute credit to you. This is particularly evident in the musical contribution to the various bands and ensembles within the Australian Army Band – Sydney with which you are involved.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and exemplify the performance to which all members of the Australian Army Band Corps should aspire.
Gordon Lambie, OAM, CSM
President
AABC Association
2nd August 2018
2017 LCPL Nerrida Jade McCorkell - RMC Band - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2017
Lance Corporal Nerrida McCorkell
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Corps and the Australian Defence Force.
You have been commended for your outstanding service as the leader of the Drum Corps within the Royal Military College Band. As a Lance Corporal qualified on Oboe, you have proven yourself to be willing and able to fulfil and provide an integral capability and leadership role to this sub unit, through your management and training of the Drum Corps. Your dedication and professionalism to the Australian Defence Force has also meant that you have also personally dedicated many hours of your own time to provide training to the Drum Corps within Australia’s Federation Guard. This is an outstanding contribution given that the side drum is not your primary instrument.
Your personality and demeanour encourages high levels of enthusiasm, team work and productivity from those around you. Your eagerness to ensure that the product that is presented to the public is at its highest possible standard is an absolute credit to you. This was also very evident during your recent participation at the Basel Tattoo, where you personally coordinated workshops and lessons between the United States Old Guard Fifes and Drums and the Australian Army Band drummers.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and exemplify what the Australian Army Band Corps requires of its members.
John Franklin
President
AABC Association
October 2017
2016 SGT John Mackenzie - AAB Perth - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2016
Sergeant John MacKenzie
The Citation reads:
Sergeant John Mackenzie enlisted into the Army Reserves in 1998 as a Tuba player with the AAB-P. Since this date, he has significantly contributed to the ongoing operational effectiveness of the AAB-P by filling capability gaps within the unit.
He saw the need for an in-house sound engineer, so he attended defence and civilian courses to attain the competencies required. He is now the chief sound engineer for the unit, fostering younger members to attain similar skills.
Several years back, he identified the requirement for a lead guitarist within the unit, so he bought a guitar and diligently practised for many hours in his own time developing this skill to a very high standard. SGT MacKenzie is now the leader of the Rock Band producing phenomenal guitar solos essential for the contemporary ensemble.
This year alone, SGT MacKenzie recognised severe ARA staff shortages within the unit, so he reduced his civilian work hours in order to fulfil the role of the BSM during a very high tempo period of unit tasking. His no nonsense approach to time management and communicating with Band members has significantly increased the unit’s capabilities this year.
A requirement for unit drivers saw him attain truck licences during his personal time and is now the integral component for all self drive unit tasks locally and throughout regional WA.
On top of all this, SGT MacKenzie completed his part time University studies, and early this year he received his Mechanical Engineering degree with several high distinctions.
His willingness to contribute to Army whilst maintaining his civilian job, advanced study and a young family is a testament to his commitment to the Australian Army Band Perth.
SGT MacKenzie is the epitome of a “fight to get” soldier.
John Franklin
President
AABC Association
22 October 2016
2015 CPL David Shuttleworth - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2015
Corporal David Shuttleworth
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your valuable contribution to the Australian Army Band Kapooka (AAB-K) from 2011 to 2015.
During your tenure with AAB-K you significantly and positively influenced the morale of the unit through a variety of formal and informal methods, thereby enhancing the capability of the unit.
You very successfully planned and conducted a number of Adventurous Training activities that met the Commander’s intent of enhancing individual resilience, whilst developing teamwork and leadership. Throughout the planning and preparation phases you displayed organisational skills well above that of your worn rank, whilst during the conduct of the activities you exhibited a thoroughly professional demeanour and commitment to safety.
During the transition of the band from concert band to support band, you qualified on saxophone without detriment to your ability on the clarinet. You are now equally at home on either instrument with the result that you are often called upon to perform solos on both instruments, always to a very high standard. Also, despite some physical discomfort, you never fail to step in to play bass drum on parade if required. The fact that you do all of this willingly is testament to your professionalism and you provide a valuable role model for your subordinates and peers.
Finally and most significantly, your concern for the welfare of your peers and subordinates and your willingness to counsel them when appropriate is a trait that is highly regarded by your superiors. Although you are always thoroughly professional in these encounters, the fact that you often do it with a sense of humour is greatly appreciated by your subordinates.
During your time at AAB-K your sense of humour combined with your work ethic and professionalism have helped make the unit a more enjoyable and effective workplace. These traits are the hallmark of the Australian Army Band and are in the finest traditions of the Australian Army.
John Franklin
President
AABC Association
17 October 2015
2014 CPL David Portakiewicz - 10/27 RSAR Band - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2014
CPL David Portakiewicz
The Citation reads:
Corporal David Portakiewicz enlisted into the Australian Army Reserve in October 1994 and has served in the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment Band from this time. He assumed the role of Band Sergeant Major in January 2013 and has displayed exceptional leadership skills that have transformed the Band into a highly cohesive and extremely well regarded military band.
Corporal Portakiewicz assumed stewardship of the Band during a fractured and tumultuous period with the departure of numerous senior members from the Band, including the previous Warrant Officer Class One Band Sergeant Major. His professionalism and maturity throughout this period of organisational change greatly increased the retention of other Band members, many of whom were considering discharge. His experience, decision making and problem solving skills were highly evident as he embraced the duties of Band Sergeant Major. Corporal Portakiewicz promoted active engagement within the Band and the Regimental Headquarters, with a focus on skills development and ensuring professional performances were delivered every time.
From a recruiting perspective, Corporal Portakiewicz is to be commended. He has not only retained initially disillusioned members of the Band, and recruited diligently. The band has the highest retention numbers of any sub-unit within The Battalion.
Under his leadership, the Band has been transformed from a non-effective and non-compliant cell, to a well functioning organisation with high esprit-de-corps. The Band has been utilised by the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment for numerous public relations and recruiting activities and has made a significant contribution to the initial recruitment process for force generation. Corporal Portakiewicz has proven on numerous occasions the competence and diligence required to apply ceremonial procedures in relation to parades conducted by the Band both in the ‘concert’ and ‘marching band’ formats. The Band has received numerous public accolades and appreciation throughout Corporal Portakiewicz’s tenure as Band Sergeant Major, the standing of the 10th/27th Battalion, The Royal South Australia Regiment Band remains held in the highest of regards within Adelaide.
Corporal Portakiewicz maintained a commitment to foundation war fighting skills for Band members, ensuring attendance at Infantry Minor Tactics training activities conducted by the unit. This starkly contrasted with the previous minimal participation of the Band and significantly enhanced unit training activities in 2013 and 2014, as well as positively influencing the internal perception of the Band.
What is acknowledged by the Commanding Officer is the fact that Corporal Portakiewicz is fulfilling a Warrant Officer Class One tenure as a Corporal. He steadfastly performs the administrative, disciplinary, supervisory and instructional duties of Band Sergeant Major. He effectively engages external units and organisations such as AAB-A and DFSM on matters specific to the AABC. This year, Corporal Portakiewicz has successfully completed all necessary promotion courses and is fully qualified for promotion to Sergeant.
Corporal Portakiewicz leads by example and his efforts as Band Sergeant Major as a Junior Non Commissioned Officer within the unit has been greatly appreciated by all members of the unit. Corporal Portakiewicz is a benchmark asset to his Corps; his achievements are in keeping with the finest traditions of the Australian Army Band Corps, the 2nd Division, Army and the wider community.
John Franklin
President
December 2014
2013 MUSN Robin Kidney - AAB Darwin - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2013
Musician Robin Kidney
The Citation reads:
In recognition of his exceptional commitment to the Australian Army Band Darwin over many years. MUSN Kidney enlisted in 1993 and, with the exception of regional ‘postings’ with the Northern Territory Police, has been a parading member of AAB-D for all of those twenty years.
Primarily a trumpet player, MUSN Kidney has been a regular bugler at significant events in and around Darwin over many years, including Anzac Day dawn services and at the Bombing of Darwin commemorations. He also notably bugled for President Obama’s visit in 2011. More recently, MUSN Kidney has taken up the challenge of learning the drum kit for AAB-D in the absence of a parading member on that instrument.
By committing considerable time and effort to this task, he has greatly enhanced the ‘week in – week out’ capability of AAB-D and this exemplifies the critical contribution that must be made by members of our Reserve bands to ensure they continue to represent the Army in the community at the highest standard. It also serves to ensure the independence of the band by relying less on personnel from other regions to meet the need.
MUSN Kidney is an enthusiastic and proud member of the band who always sees things in a positive light and this attitude flows on to band members around him, whether that be ‘on the gig’ or socially. He is a large part of the identity of AAB-D, and the band’s ability to perform at the level it does is in no small part due to MUSN Kidney’s enduring service and commitment.
Patrick S Steer
President
20 October 2013
2012 SGT Kirsty Janelle Bird - RMC Band - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2012
Sergeant Kirsty Jenelle Bird
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your significant contribution to the Australian Army Band Corps over many years and most recently as a Sergeant posted to the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon.
Throughout your career you have displayed the highest levels of professionalism and service ethos and have done so in a manner that has significantly enhanced the morale and ‘espirit de corps’ of those who have served with you.
During your posting at the Royal Military College Band you have achieved excellent results as the Group Leader, Librarian and in all other aspects of your duty statement. The way you ‘lead by example’ and your positive demeanour enhance the morale of those who serve with you, directly contributing to an increase in productivity. An aspect of your duty statement where you have significantly enhanced operational effectiveness is the progress and completion of ‘Distance Learning’ for part-time members of the band.
Prior to your arrival to the unit Distance Learning progress was limited and it was likely that several members would not complete the training within the course timeline. In early 2012 it was decided that Distance Learning training and management was to be addressed and due to your recent cadre experience in a Regional Reserve Band it was included in your duty statement. Immediately you reviewed all distance training, addressed the shortfalls and produced and implemented a plan. Since then all participants have completed the training successfully and parade regularly as qualified and effective members of their units. The qualified part-time personnel have increased their capability and efficiency, the increase a direct testament to your dedication and professionalism.
Your willingness and success with regard to the Distance Learning are a reflection of your commitment and service ethos in all aspects of your performance. Your professionalism is an example for all who serve with you and in the finest traditions of past and present soldier/musicians of the Australian Army Band Corps.
Patrick S Steer
President
October 2012
2011 LCPL Justin Kennedy - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2011
Lance Corporal Justin Kennedy
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contribution to the Australian Army Band Corps as a sound and lighting technician.
Since joining the AABC, you have continued to develop your skills not only as a musician, but in the areas of sound and lighting. The result has been a greatly enhanced product, both nationally and internationally, that we, as a Corps, strive to portray.
Your roles have included being the principal sound engineer whilst posted to the Australian Army Band Melbourne, and leader of the sound team during your current posting at the Australian Army Band Kapooka. Your expertise and interest in this field has seen you selected for deployments to the Solomon Islands, Timor Leste, the Middle East and Afghanistan. During these deployments you have worked diligently to establish relations with both civilian and service personnel to enhance and produce performances that have greatly added to the morale of deployed troops.
In your current posting, you have been proactive in sourcing equipment to develop the sound studio, thereby greatly enhancing the capability of the unit.
Your preparedness to assist and impart your knowledge to others, and your willingness to go the extra distance to see the best possible product produced, is a credit to yourself and reflects positively on the AABC.
Patrick S Steer
President
October 2011
2010 CPL Greg Peterson - AAB Sydney - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2010
Corporal Greg Peterson
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Corps as a composer and arranger.
Since joining the AABC your compositional and arranging prowess has provided inspiration to all who have performed you works. You have duly earned the reputation for excellence, dedication and professionalism in this field.
Your original works, arrangements and transcriptions have been performed by both military and civilian ensembles throughout Australia and the world. Those that have been performed for deployed Australian troops throughout Iraq, Afghanistan and the South Pacific have been greatly appreciated by them and these performances have been valuable in building the relationship between the AABC and the wider Army.
In addition, you have made an outstanding contribution to major recording projects undertaken by the Australian Army Band Sydney, work that will serve to maintain the heritage of the Australian Army.
You are an exceptional role model to all musicians by producing consistently high standards in all tasks, engendering deserved credit to yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
Robert A Keatch
President
June 2010
2009 SGT Michael Lee - 1 RAR Band - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2009
Sergeant Michael Lee
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment and the Australian Army Band Corps. You have been commended for your outstanding service as the Rhythm Group Leader and Platoon Sergeant for the Band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment.
As the Platoon Sergeant, you have successfully combined the required traits of regimentation, loyalty, efficiency and ‘ability to get the job done’ and in particular, the increased administrative requirement for the transition of command of The Band of the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment from 1RAR to the Director of Music – Army.
As a musician, you have provided an integral capability to the Band’s primary ensembles of marching band, big band and rock band. In particular, your performance on ‘Drum kit’ and your management and training of the Drum Corps and the direction of the Rock Band has been outstanding. Your personality and demeanour encourages high levels of enthusiasm and productivity from your subordinates.
You have performed to a high standard throughout your career and your service in 1 RAR in recent years, has exemplified what the Australian Army Band Corps requires of its soldier/musicians.
Your dedication and professionalism inspires those who work with you and your service ethos, combined with a balanced sense of humour, makes you, in the eyes of many, the epitome of a service musician.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
Robert A. Keatch
President
13 June 2009
2008 CPL Andrew Barnet - AAB Brisbane - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2008
Corporal Andrew Barnet
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contribution to Australian Army Band Brisbane and the AABC.
You have been commended for your dedication and commitment as a musician and particularly in your contribution to enhancing the performance capability of the band as the trumpet section leader, leader of the brass quintet and your significant contribution to the brass group. Your willingness to devote your own time and resources to extend your personal skills and to motivate others in this vital area demonstrates the enthusiasm you have to ensure that your band performs at the highest professional level.
Your outstanding contribution as the bugler for the ANZAC Day ceremony at Villers-Bretonneux is typical of the professional attitude you consistently display towards the performance of your duties whilst representing the Corps, and the Australian Army, with dignity.
Your contribution to morale and esprit de corps with the Australian Army Band Brisbane is much valued as is your responsible attitude towards your duties as a Corporal. This extraordinary level of commitment and work ethic is highly valued and serves as an inspiration to those around you. Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
Congratulations are extended to Corporal Barnet who is a worthy recipient of the AABC Association Bruce Pinney Award.
2007 MUSN James Duquemin - AAB Brisbane - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2007
Musician James Thomas Duquemin
The 2007 Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contribution to the Australian Army Band Brisbane and the Australian Army Band Corps.
Your have been commended for your dedication and commitment as a musician and particularly in your contribution to enhancing the performance capability of the band as lighting technician and designer. Your willingness to devote your own time and resources to extend your personal skills and to do all the extra work involved in this vital area demonstrates the enthusiasm you have to ensure that your band has the technical resources to be able to perform at the highest professional levels.
This extraordinary level of commitment and work ethic is highly valued and serves as an inspiration to those around you.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
2006 SGT Russell Paynter - AAB Kapooka - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2006
Sergeant Russell G. Paynter
The Citation reads:
In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Kapooka and the Australian
Army Band Corps.
Throughout your many years of service, but particularly during the past two years, you have demonstrated
the highest standards both musically and personally. You have contributed much to the unit’s effectiveness
in your role as Sergeant Group Leader and Leader/Trainer of the Big Band. You have also fulfilled the duties
of Training Sergeant enthusiastically, establishing an effective programme that has enhanced the unit’s capability.
You have consistently applied yourself to the tasks demanded of Sound Engineer and have provided a high level of sound management. Your leadership of the Big Band has been exemplary and has always been of the highest standards. As a consequence of these efforts you have been instrumental in maintaining high morale within both the Big Band and the unit as a whole that has seen the unit receive many accolades from the public.
You have demonstrated a high personal performance standard that sets a fine example to your subordinates and peers alike.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
2005 WO2 Rohan Stubbings - AAB Tasmania - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2005
Warrant Officer Class 2 Rohan Stubbings
The Citation reads:
In recognition of outstanding achievement and performance, in particular your outstanding contributions to the Australian Army Band Tasmania and the Australian Army Band Corps.
You have demonstrated the highest levels of achievement as a soldier and musician, actively promoting the interests of the Australian Army Band Tasmania by your professionalism and profile within the local Defence Community. This has made you a valued ambassador for the AABC. As a musician, you have continually inspired members of the Band by performing consistently to a very high standard and demonstrating the dedication and commitment required of a soldier-musician.
Your personality and demeanour encourages high levels of enthusiasm and productivity; your keen sense of humour ensures a positive and friendly working environment. As a Band Sergeant Major, you have successfully combined the essential traits of regimentality, loyalty, efficiency, proficiency and ability to get the job done.
You have been one of the true characters of the AABC over many years and in many people’s eyes you are the epitome of a service musician.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
2004 SGT Andrew Heron - RMC Band - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) award 2004
8233966 Sergeant Andrew James Heron
The Citation reads:
You are awarded the Australian Army Band Corps Association Award in recognition of your outstanding contributions to the Royal Military College Band and the Australian Army Band Corps.
You have demonstrated the highest levels of professionalism as a soldier and musician. Your dedication to the aims of the Australian Army Band Corps has been exemplary. You have arranged and supervised training and testing in respect of weapons proficiency and other aspects of AIRN compliancy. Your supervision of the conduct of these activities has ensured excellent results within the unit.
Your leadership in relation to the training of small musical groups within the band has ensured excellent performances, which have been received very warmly by the general public.
You have displayed sound leadership to your subordinates, and have provided accurate and timely advice to the higher levels of command within the band. Your many appearances as a soloist with the band have been of the highest professional standard, and have been of great benefit to the musical presentation of the band.
Your efforts reflect great credit on yourself and the Australian Army Band Corps.
2003 SGT Rod Mason - AAB Sydney - Citation
AABC Association (Bruce Pinney) Award 2003
Sergeant Roderick Mason
The Citation reads:
In recognition of outstanding achievement and performance, in particular the concept and production of the ‘Camouflage Exposed’ recording which combined the talents of the music industry, leading Australian musicians, local governments and the Australian Defence Force to raise awareness of, and funds for, the homeless people of Sydney. The recording became the highest selling independently released Jazz album of 2003, selling 2,000 copies in ten months, and was nominated for an Australian Jazz Award as ‘Australian Contemporary Jazz Album of the Year’. In the presence of the Governor of New South Wales on the 4th of August 2003, the members of Australian Army Band Sydney were extremely proud to present a cheque for $20,000 to RecLink.
Sergeant Mason has excelled in leadership by inspiration and has established a reputation as an outstanding example of dedication and professionalism, whether as a recruiter, public relations promoter or consummate musician in both the military and civilian arenas. His personal drive and enthusiasm were significant factors in the success achieved by the Australian Army Band Sydney during deployments to East Timor in 2001 and 2002.
He has provided exemplary service to the people of Australia, working tirelessly and diligently to enhance the reputation of the Defence Force in the community. He is an exceptional role model to all and demonstrated a consistently high standard of performance which brings great credit to himself and the Australian Army Band Corps.