2016 Leeton Outback Band Spectacular

The streets and parks of the town came alive in a crescendo of music that hit its peak at the Roxy Theatre on Saturday night when 187 members of the bands took to the stage to perform together.

“The power and the impact of all of those pieces could be felt throughout the theatre,” President of the Leeton Town Band Stephen Hill said.

However, he said it was the emotional impact of a tribute performed by Hornsby band the Golden Kangaroos for murdered school teacher Stephanie Scott that was the most significant moment over the weekend.

“In all honesty there was not a dry eye in the theatre,” he said.

“It has been a rough year for Leeton and these are the sorts of things that bring the community together.”

Mr Hill praised the community’s spirit over the weekend, attributing to it a big part of the weekend’s ‘huge success’.

“The support we had from the business houses in town was just so encouraging in terms of hard currency and equipment,” he said.

“One business lent us two semis for stages and a driver at 6.30am on Saturday.” 

“The bands that came were really well received, the weather was perfect, the crowds were appreciative and the combination of Sunday’s performance in Mountford Park with the farmers market – the atmosphere was just wonderful.

While many believed the festival was in its sixth year organisers say it has actually been running, albeit in a smaller capacity, since 2008.

“We found a poster for the original idea and we all remembered that first tiny band from then,” Mr Hill said.

The future looks bright for the festivals prospects with Mr Hill estimating half of the Leeton Town Band as made up of primary and high school students.

“It always augers well for the future and we always welcome new members,” he said. 

“I only started playing three years ago and I am 62, it is never too late and I would encourage others to get involved.”