On 11 August 2018, the Perth Fortress Band (Bandmaster Matthew Barker) and Timbrels journeyed north for a minstry weekend in combination with the Geraldton Corps and the Geraldton City Brass Band. The events included a joint rehearsal and concert with Geraldton City Brass Band on Saturday, participation in the Sunday morning services at Geraldton Corps, a march of witness along the Geraldton foreshore, and a concert at the shore on Sunday afternoon.

Perth Fortress Band and Geraldton City Band combined, 11 August 2018

The Perth Fortress Band joined with the Geraldton City Band for a combined rehearsal on Saturday afternoon before a fellowship dinner and concert that evening. The concert took place at the Geraldton Anglican Cathedral – a lovely venue. The Dean of the Cathedral, Very Reverend Peter Grice, opened the concert in prayer. After Perth Fortress Band opened with Flashpoint (Martin Cordner), Major Paul Hately, Perth Fortress corps officer, welcomed the audience. He spoke of the inception of the Salvation Army and the reasons behind its mission, quoting from William Booth’s “I’ll fight” speech.

The evening was full of exciting, meditative, and traditional music. Many solosists from both bands were featured. The timbrels were also a lively addition to the concert. The night was a great success, with the funds raised going to support the Red Shield Appeal.

March along the foreshore in Geraldton, Western Australia, 12 August 2018.

The Perth Fortress Band and timbrel brigade led the Sunday morning meeting at Geraldton Citadel. Major Wendy Hately spoke on “The Greatness of God” and the band brought the message Nicaea – “Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty”. Once again the timbrel brigade was loved by all, offering drills set to Collaroy (Barrie Gott) and Montreal Citadel (Norman Audoire).

After the morning meeting, the band, timbrels, and members of the Geraldton Corps met on the foreshore, where they marched from the northern to the southern end. The band and timbrels then put on an afternoon concert. During the concert, the Geraldton Corps had a free sausage sizzle and a pop-up thrift shop. Many locals enjoyed the concert and one large group of youths made connections with some members of the band, asking what they were all about – a wonderful ministry opportunity.

Source:
Perth Fortress Band Facebook page
Others Magazine website, original article by Matthew Barker, others.org.au/news/2018/08/17/perth-fortress-takes-music-and-ministry-to-geraldton