5. A Message from the Co-curricular Culture and Enrichment
6. The Formation of BBC Pipe Band in 1940
8. Pipe Major Report
10. Year 12 focus
12. Scotland Report
14. Performance Program
16. Thistle Highland Dancers
17. Reid School of Highland Dance
18. The BBC Old Collegians’ Pipe Band
20. Tartan Spectacular
22. 2025 Comp Season Results
24. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2026
25. A Message from the Director of Pipe Band
26. Awards
We encourage you to connect with us on social media.
MR STUART QUILL Head of the Arts | MIC Pipe Band | Brisbane Boys’ College
Stuart Quill is a dedicated educator and the Head of the Arts Department at Brisbane Boys’ College, where students thrive in dynamic and inclusive programs in music and the arts. With a passion for fostering creativity and performance excellence, Stuart also serves on the school’s Pipe Band teaching staff, guiding beginners on the snare drum and accompanying the band on tours across Australia and internationally. He is honoured to be part of programs that have helped shape a vibrant cultural community within the College.
Sounds of Scotland Concert Supported by the Lord Mayor’s Community Fund
A MESSAGE FROM THE HEADMASTER
SOUNDS OF SCOTLAND
The BBC Pipe Band is one of the most distinctive and enduring symbols of our College. At every significant moment in the life of our School, our pipers and drummers bring an unmistakable presence that reflects the brilliance and heritage of our great community. A heritage that in 2025 extends back over 85 years.
The commitment required of the boys in our Pipe Band is considerable and the College deeply appreciates the dedication and sacrifice they demonstrate in balancing their musical, academic and co-curricular pursuits. I also wish to acknowledge the outstanding leadership of our Director of Pipe Band, Stevie Stanley and the unwavering support and guidance of our Master
in Charge, Mr Stuart Quill. In addition, my sincere thanks go to all staff who contribute behind the scenes - from tutors and accompanists to those assisting with logistics, events and travel. Your collective efforts ensure that the Band continues to perform at such an exceptional standard and represent BBC with pride.
I truly cannot imagine life at BBC without the sound of the pipes and drums. It is always a source of great pride and emotion to see and hear our Pipe Band perform - none more so than on evenings like tonight’s Sounds of Scotland. Since its formation in 1940, the BBC Pipe Band has gone from strength to strength. Interest and participation have never been higher, ensuring that this proud tradition will continue to inspire future generations of BBC boys. As the Band continues to flourish, may it leave an enduring mark on all who are fortunate enough to be part of this remarkable School.
This evening’s performance beautifully entitled “The Big Blaw” refers to the warm up of the Pipe Bands before they burst through the gates of Edinburgh Castle. This is a time of camaraderie and friendship as the bands from throughout the world prepare for their performance. I can think of no better metaphor as we gather as a community to share the brilliance of our Pipe Bands.
Let us now sit back and enjoy an evening of magnificent entertainment celebrating our rich Scottish heritage and the exceptional talent of our BBC boys.
MR ANDRE CASSON Headmaster
A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF CO-CURRICULAR CULTURE AND ENRICHMENT
It is a true honour to be involved in such a successful and impressive program as the BBC Pipe Band. As someone still relatively new to the world of chanters, kilts, and tartan, I have been absolutely blown away by the discipline, rigour, and sheer energy that defines this program. In my first year as Head of Co-Curricular – Culture and Enrichment Programs, I’ve had the privilege of hearing our newly appointed Pipe and Drum Sergeants and Majors speak with passion about what this band means to them and their commitment to continuing and extending its proud tradition. Their dedication is truly inspiring, as is the tireless support of the Pipe Band Support Group –a band of parents whose hard work and generosity underpin so much of what we do. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received from this incredible community.
The band’s outstanding results on the international stage, and the exciting news that the BBC Pipe Band will feature front and centre at the Royal Edinburgh Tattoo in Brisbane next year, speak
volumes about the esteem in which this program is held both locally and globally. We are fortunate to have Mr Steven Stanley at the helm – a Director who leads with humility, passion, and unwavering dedication to building on this legacy. Alongside him, Mr Stuart Quill, our Master in Charge, plays a crucial role in guiding and supporting the program, particularly in ensuring that students’ academic studies continue with minimal disruption during international tours. Their combined leadership ensures the continued strength and success of this remarkable tradition.
Tonight’s performance is the culmination of countless hours of preparation and commitment, and I know you are in for an unforgettable evening. Immerse yourself in the music, celebrate the tradition, and enjoy The Big Blaw!
MS KATE ALBURY
Head of Co-curricular – Culture and Enrichment
THE FORMATION OF BBC PIPE BAND IN 1940
Extract from BBC Portal:
“It was decided on April 19th, 1939, that a senior cadet corps should be formed within the College, enlistment in which was to be voluntary.
Headquarters approved our training establishment of Company Headquarters and five platoons, including the Band.
with a splendid mace, they were the pride of Brisbane and its Scottish community.
The Band instruments, consisting of one bass drum, eight side drums, and ten fifes, have recently arrived. The Band should improve our marching a great deal.”
The platform on which the great tradition of the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band has been built was thus established.
In 1940, Robert Lawrie started school at BBC and remained there until 1941. Both his parents were native-born Scots. His father, James John Lawrie, was a member of the Caledonian Society and Burns Club, then located in Elizabeth Street adjacent to the Treasury Hotel. The Caledonian Society, as it was generally known, had the strongest and best pipe band in Brisbane at the time. Resplendent in its green MacKenzie tartan full uniform — kilts, jackets, plaids, and glengarries — and led by the Drum Major in his feather bonnet
Robert and his three brothers grew up in this tradition and became band members at a young age. His father, “Jimmy,” was a notable piper who passed on his skills to many young enthusiasts. Among them was Maurie De Hayr, who travelled from his school in Edward Street in the city to the Lawrie household in Paddington for lessons. Also among his pupils was Don Mackie, whose name was synonymous with pipe bands in Queensland for many decades.
When starting at BBC, Lawrie was already a young piper of some experience, knowledgeable in most aspects of pipe band music and of pipes and drums. Even into the mid-1990s, he was still sought after as a judge at band competitions, having been a long-standing Queensland Pipe Band Association judge and, at one time, its President.
Robert’s brother, Doug Lawrie, was also very active in piping and drumming throughout his life. Unlike his brother, his instrument of choice was the side drum, of which he became a wonderful exponent. He served as Head Drum Tutor with the BBC Pipe Band from 1987 to 1990 when Doug Thoresen was Director.
Robert Lawrie’s years at BBC coincided with the war years. The seriousness for Australia increased after Pearl Harbor at the end of 1941. An Army Cadet Unit had been formed in 1939. Instruments for a fife and drum band — including a full kit of bass drum and side drums — were supplied by the Army, along with bugles for bugle calls. The first members of the Band proved both brave and enthusiastic, if not too highly tutored, drumming for the cadets to march to. But no great strides were made otherwise musically.
(1940 – Speech Night – Piper R Lawrie)
Caption: Piper Robert Lawrie pipes Colonel Sir Leslie Orme Wilson, Governor of Queensland into BBC Speech Night 1940 at Jubilee Theatre, Toowong
An Accident of Fate
Piper in the early years of the Band, Gavin Boyd, has vivid memories of his time in the Band.
“By his own admission, Robert was not the greatest student. Maybe in a modern age it could be said that his attention span was a bit short. One day, the music master, Mr Jerry Middleton, glanced into a classroom as he walked past. He paused as he observed a boy holding a wooden ruler vertically, with his left hand above the right and running his fingers up and down as if he were playing a musical instrument of some sort,” Mr Boyd recalled.
Later inquiry revealed that the imaginary instrument was the chanter of a set of bagpipes.
The BBC Principal, Mr P. M. Hamilton, himself a Scotch Old Boy from Melbourne who was familiar with a school pipe band, became involved.
The first formal mention of the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band appeared in the 1940 Portal.
Listed as No. 4 Platoon in A Company under the leadership of Band Sergeant Dudley Griffiths, the Band began life supporting the Cadet Corps raised during the Second World War. Corporal Paul Messervy was shown as Platoon Sergeant.
The 1940 Portal reported:
“The Corps now possesses a Band, which has made remarkable progress during the year, owing to keen interest and hard work. Three sets of (Red Cameron) kilts were very generously donated by Mr W. Ross Munro, and one other was purchased by the Corps. We hope before long to have the whole Band in kilts, especially if other supporters follow the example of Mr Ross Munro.”
The photo of the Band showed eight side drummers, nine fife players, a bass drummer, as well as the College’s first piper, Robert Lawrie. Only four members of the Band were pictured in kilts.
(1940 – Cadet Corps Band)
(1940 – Our first ‘Kilted’ band members)
2025 PIPE MAJOR - NICK SHELBURN
2025 marked the 85th anniversary of the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band.
With over 120 students in the program filling three competing bands and numerous learner classes, the success should first be credited to the highly talented staff who keep all bandsmen engaged and motivated to become stronger players.
Across the campus, the Band fulfilled all annual duties — performing at Friday and Saturday fixtures, welcoming guests to special events, and commemorating days of remembrance such as ANZAC Day. What truly distinguished this year, however, was the program’s outstanding success on the competition field.
The BBC Pipe Band competes under multiple associations, including Pipe Bands Queensland, Pipe Bands Australia, and the Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association. Here in Queensland, all three
bands participated in smaller local competitions — this year held in Wynnum, Yeronga and Ipswich.
The Number 1 and Number 2 Bands, as in many previous years, once again dominated their respective competition levels with consistent excellence. This strength reflects the program’s structured development pathway, where smaller competitions provide vital experience for our newest musicians in the Number 3 Band. This year, they rose to the challenge superbly, securing two first places in the Development Grade — an outstanding achievement. Such success would not have been possible without the dedication and guidance of their tutors, Mr Aidan Scott (OC 2021) and Mr Patrick Gibson (OC 2022).
Moving further afield, the Number 1 and Number 2 Bands also competed once again at the Maclean Highland Gathering in New South Wales, where both bands came away with first places, continuing their undefeated run.
Photo at REMT26 Lauch at BBC, with REMT Creative Director Alan Lane BEM
The pinnacle of the local season took place on our home turf, Noblet Oval, where, on a sunny June day, the Queensland Pipe Band Championships were held. For many, this day was about experiencing the full Highland gathering — with food, drinks and stalls — but for the BBC Pipe Band it was a day of focus and determination. This paid off, as our Number 2 Band were crowned champions of the Juvenile B competition, and the Number 1 Band as Juvenile A champions, as well as securing second place in the adult Grade 3 competition. A huge thanks goes to the Pipe Band Support Group for ensuring the day ran smoothly and for being another anchor that makes this program so successful.
As the year progressed, the Number 1 Band continued to practise with a bigger picture in mind — the European and World Championships in Scotland. For all the boys in our top band, this was an opportunity to cement ourselves as one of the best school pipe bands not just in Australia, but in the world. With that, on August 5th, we boarded the long-haul flight and arrived in the small Scottish town of Stirling, where we began our preparations before even unpacking our bags.
The European Championships proved an immense challenge, with everyone fighting jet lag and lingering sickness. Nevertheless, we heard our name called — we had placed fifth in the Juvenile A grade! It was a huge achievement for the Band and gave us the drive for more at the World Championships in Glasgow.
Upon our arrival in the bustling city of Glasgow, there was a strong sense of community among the boys, as everyone knew they each had a part to play in achieving a placing. On the day, nerves were calmed thanks to countless hours of practice, and
we were placed fourth at the World Championships. I am so immensely proud of the boys who played — especially the 11 new members of the Number 1 Band this year who went the extra mile to strengthen our top group.
Looking back on this year, I am filled with pride for what the BBC Pipe Band has achieved and gratitude for the people who have made it possible. The countless hours of practice, the dedication of our tutors, the support of families, and above all, the commitment of the boys themselves have turned ambition into reality on both local and international stages. From our first practices on the school oval to our final moments in Scotland, the boys embodied the spirit of brotherhood, resilience and excellence that defines our band.
As Pipe Major, it has been an honour to stand alongside such talented young men and watch them grow as musicians and leaders. The 85th year of the BBC Pipe Band will be remembered not just for trophies and placings, but for the camaraderie and enduring tradition we have strengthened together. I am certain the sound of our pipes will continue to inspire and echo proudly through the College for many years to come.
YEAR 12 FOCUS:
Year 12 students were asked the following questions:
1. What age were you when you joined the band?
2. What year were you when you joined the band?
3. What has been your most memorable moment?
4. If you could change one thing in your time in the band, what would it be?
5. Where would you like to see the band in ten years?
FINN CLAIR
1. I was 12.
2. Year 7.
3. Getting to travel to Scotland in 2024. That entire trip was really fun and it motivated me to be more involved in working hard for the pipe band.
4. I would change some aspects of the learner program. I think there should be some more focused classes for boys who come to BBC in grade 7/8, and because they haven’t been learning as long as some of the younger boys and could benefit from speeding up the learner book to get into number 3 band quickly.
5. I’d love to see the band being invited to all corners of the globe to go perform or compete, with a school trip organised every year.
JACOB DUVAL
1. I was 14 when I joined the band.
2. In the middle of Year 8.
3. The 2024 REMT tour. There wasn’t a single dull day in that 5 weeks. I loved almost every second of it!
4. I might’ve tried to make a push earlier in the year to support some progressing players new to the No. 1 band.
5. I would love to see them confidently cemented in Grade 2 competition and performing in Juvenile overseas.
JONAH GRAY
1. 12
2. Year 6.
3. Walking out onto the Esplanade over the drawbridge at Edinburg Castle to perform at The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo for the very first time.
4. It would be to enjoy every moment and not let nerves get in the way when performing
5. Taking the win at the Australian, European and World Pipeband Championships.
NICK SHELBURN
1. I started learning the bagpipes when I was 9.
2. I was in Year 3 when I started learning the bagpipes.
3. My most memorable moment would have to be the tour to Scotland this year. After all my time in the band, I was extremely proud to get the opportunity to be Pipe Major this year and lead the boys onto Glasgow Green at the World Championships. I created everlasting memories on the tour as the focus on growing and developing the standard of playing and not merely performance bought everyone closer together.
4. There isn’t much I would change, but if I could I wish we didn’t have COVID! We were due to do a tour in 2020 to Scotland, and like all others in the band it damaged my personal growth and development as a player.
5. In ten years, I’m certain the No. 1 band will have moved up to Juvenile grade. This will be as a result of the dedication from all pipe band staff and tutors. I also hope to see even more numbers coming through the program, with hopefully over 30 in each band at all times.
HARRY STANLEY
1. 13
2. Year 8
3. I enjoyed just participating with mates
4. I think it’s perfect as is
5. Again, I think it is perfect as is
DYLAN STEINKOHL-ANDRADE
1. 11 years old.
2. Year 6.
3. Roaming around Edinburgh Castle with my mates at sunset before marching onto the foggy esplanade in front of thousands.
4. I wish I’d joined earlier.
5. World champions.
A JOURNEY OF PRIDE AND ACHIEVEMENT FROM BRISBANE TO SCOTLAND
In August 2025, the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band embarked on an unforgettable journey to Scotland, proudly representing the College and Australia on the world stage. After months of preparation, countless rehearsals, and the unwavering support of families and staff, the band travelled across the globe to compete at both the European Pipe Band Championships in Perth and the prestigious World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow.
The trip was the culmination of dedication and musical development within the BBC Pipe Band program. The boys not only showcased their musical skill but also their camaraderie, discipline, and school spirit throughout every performance.
At the European Pipe Band Championships in Perth, Scotland, the band earned a strong fifthplace finish. While the boys were pleased with their performance in the competition arena, they were initially disappointed with the result — yet they used it as motivation to dig deep and refocus their energy towards the World Championships the following week.
At the World Pipe Band Championships, held on Glasgow Green, BBC competed in the Novice Juvenile A Grade against some of the finest school and youth pipe bands from around the world. Delivering an outstanding performance, the band achieved fourth place — a remarkable result that reflects the hard work and professionalism of every student and tutor involved.
Beyond the competition results, the tour offered invaluable opportunities for cultural exchange and musical growth. The band visited Stirling Castle, performed at Piping Live!, attended the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, and enjoyed the preWorlds concert by the Shotts and Dykehead Pipe Band at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall. Each moment contributed to a shared sense of pride and achievement that will long be remembered.
This success is not just about trophies or placings — it’s about what the experience represents: the pursuit of excellence, teamwork, and the spirit of adventure that defines the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band. The lessons learned, friendships formed, and memories made in Scotland will continue to inspire the next generation of BBC pipers and drummers for years to come.
As the band now looks ahead to the future — including performing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Brisbane and Auckland in February 2026 — we celebrate this milestone with great pride and gratitude. Congratulations to every member of the band on a truly outstanding achievement.
PERFORMANCE PROGRAM
FIRST HALF
GAEL SET: The Gael (Air, 6/8 and Jig) , Fair tae Middlin, The Silent Performer, Gael Jig
MARCHES: Minstrel Boy, Will ye no Come Back Again
HORNPIPES: Jolly Beggerman, Man from Skye, Clumsy Lover (joined by Thistle Highland Dancing Studio Dancers)
STRATHSPEY AND REEL: Jennifer Finlayson, Lt. Col DJS Murray
JIGS: Old Wife Mill Dust / Rocking the Baby
MARCH: Cabar Feidh
MARCHES: McKenzie Highlanders, Teribus
CEILIDH BAND: Wings, Loch Lomond, Barren Rocks
SLOW AIR: The Ruby
MARCHES: 85th Anniversary of Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band, The Rowan Tree
SECOND HALF
LEARNERS: Blue Bells of Scotland
SOLO PIPERS TAG: Nick Shelburn, Fred Bailey
REEL AND HORNPIPES: Masons Apron, Alick C McGregor, Sandy's New Chanter (joined by Reid School of Highland Dance (RSHD) Dancers)
JIG: Galician Jig
MEDLEY: Laura Ann McCallum, Kenny Gilles, Golden Jubilee of H.M. Elizabeth II. Sarah’s Song, Because He Was a Bonnie Lad, A Cup of Tea, The Red Fox
‘SHOCKWAVE’ Drummers Fanfare
SUITE: Steam Train to Mallaig
FINALE: Highland Cathedral.
FINALE: Top Deck in Perth (joined by Highland Dancers)
Raffle
Awards
Year 12 Presentations
ENCORE: Top Deck Perth
PLEASE FIND THE BIOGRAPHY FOR THISTLE HIGHLAND DANCING STUDIO 2025 BELOW.
Congratulations to the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band on your 85th Anniversary! Thistle Highland Dancing Studio is delighted to celebrate with you and perform once again at the “Sounds of Scotland” Concert.
Our selected dancers this year are Hayley Boyd, Katie O’Dwyer, Isabel Goodwell, and Abbie Palfrey. A special appearance by 10-year-old Abby Ashton was permitted, as her brother is a member of the BBC Pipe Band.
Isabel and Abbie, both university students, recently sat their Highland Dancing Teachers’ Exam and are eagerly awaiting their results. Katie is in her final year of a Bachelor of Speech Pathology at the University of Queensland. Hayley works as a primary school teacher and is the creator and instructor of her school’s dance team, which competes and performs at various school events. She is also a qualified Highland Dancing Judge and has performed in numerous Tattoos since 2017, including three performances at the Basel Military Tattoo in Switzerland, the South Africa Military Tattoo in Pretoria, and two performances at the Virginia Arts Festival Military Tattoo in Norfolk, Virginia, USA.
As always, the Thistle Studio, established in 1968, is very proud of its students, who enjoy participating in competitions, examinations, and displays. The Studio will conduct its final competition in November 2026, marking the 50th year of the Thistle ‘City of Brisbane’ Highland Dancing Championship.
REID SCHOOL OF HIGHLAND DANCE
Reid School of Highland Dance (RSHD) is a dance school based in Tennyson and Geebung, teaching traditional Scottish Highland dancing to girls and boys aged three and older. In addition to weekly classes, our dancers participate in exams, competitions, and performances locally, interstate, and internationally.
Comprised of multiple individual champion dancers, Team RSHD has also achieved notable success together in the creative performance side of Highland dancing, competing in choreography sections at the International Highland Dancing Festival of Australia.
RSHD fosters a culture of teamwork, allowing our dancers to develop their own innate ability to rise to any challenge with passion, self-confidence, discipline, and resilience. We take pride in enabling our dancers to enjoy all aspects of Highland dancing — expressing their creativity while
maintaining the traditions of a sport rich in Scottish history.
The team is led by Principal Teacher and professional physiotherapist Caitlin Reid, who has enjoyed a highly successful career in the sport, achieving Commonwealth, Australian, and International Champion titles, as well as performing in multiple professional international tattoos, including those in Basel, Belfast, and South Africa.
The BBC Old Collegians’ Pipe Band (the “Old Collegians”) formed in 1990, inspired by the 50th anniversary celebrations for the Brisbane Boys College school pipe band. Since then the band has evolved and grown to become a stalwart of the Queensland pipe band scene.
The band’s tartan is Campbell of Argyll as a nod to the family of Jessie Campbell Robert Philp, whose daughters generously donated the grounds upon which Brisbane Boys’ College was constructed in the late 1920s It also bears the green, white and colours, and a happy resemblance to the Maclean tartan worn by the BBC School Pipe Band, which means we look even more fabulous on combined event days.
The history of the band is intertwined tightly with the history of its senior members. A handful of 25-year-plus “lifers”, they form the band’s very stable foundation, guiding and influencing every aspect of the band’s culture, including the choice of music, band tuition, selection of beer at band barbecues, and trivia discussions at chanter practice.
Augmented by a slow but steady influx of new blood over the years, the band now sports a truly multigenerational membership, with strong camaraderie, a healthy appetite for entertaining pipe band music, and an increasingly good retention of geography facts and post-1960s rock history.
The band’s Pipe Major is David Jerrard. He accepted the role when founding member and original Pipe Major, Andrew Taylor, moved to Sydney, temporarily, with work in 1999-2000. Despite repeated attempts, he has been unable to hand it back since.
Leading Drummer is Will Gibson who was Drum Sergeant in the school band in 2021
The band has competed in NZ twice and also the World Champs in 2024, finishing a creditable 8th in Grade 3, 4th at European Championship.
The Old Collegians Pipe Band enjoys strong and mutually supportive relationships with the BBC School Pipe Band, the BBC Old Collegians Association, and the Brisbane Boys’ College itself. But we march to our own tunes - and recruit accordingly. New members are always welcome!
TARTAN SPECTACULAR AND QUEENSLAND PIPE BAND CHAMPIONSHIPS AT BBC
The sound of pipes and drums filled the air at Brisbane Boys’ College on Saturday, 21 June 2025, as the College proudly hosted the Tartan Spectacular and Queensland Pipe Band Championships. The event brought together the very best of Queensland’s pipe band community for a full day of music, competition, and celebration of Scottish culture.
Throughout the day, Noblet Oval came alive with the stirring sound of hundreds of pipers and drummers from across the state. Bands competed across multiple grades for the title of Queensland Champion, performing disciplined March, Strathspey, and Reel sets alongside dynamic medleys that showcased both precision and creativity. The high standard of playing across all grades reflected months of hard work and dedication from every ensemble.
Beyond the competition arena, the Tartan Spectacular offered something for everyone. Visitors enjoyed Highland dancing, clan and cultural displays, and a vibrant market village filled with Scottish fare and festival stalls. Families, friends, and supporters created a wonderful atmosphere of camaraderie, pride, and shared tradition.
The event highlighted the strength and spirit of the pipe band community, with a special focus on youth development and education. Brisbane Boys’ College was honoured to host so many talented young musicians, whose passion and teamwork continue to ensure a bright future for the art of piping and drumming in Queensland.
The College extends sincere thanks to Pipe Bands Queensland, adjudicators, volunteers, and the many schools and community bands who participated. Together, they made the 2025 Tartan Spectacular and Queensland Pipe Band Championships a truly memorable celebration of music, culture, and community.
Results of the Queensland Championships, including the Champion of Champions results for the season:
Development Grade
1st Scots PGC Pipes and Drums
2nd Brisbane Boys College No 3
Drums Scots PGC Pipes and Drums
Dress Scots PGC Pipes and Drums
Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 3
Novice Juvenile B
1st Brisbane Boys College No 2
2nd Qld Police Juvenile Pipes and Drums
3rd Scots PGC Pipes and Drums
Drums Qld Police Juvenile Pipes and Drums
Dress Qld Police Juvenile Pipes and Drums
Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 2
Novice Juvenile A
1st Brisbane Boys College No 1
Drums Brisbane Boys College No 1
Dress Brisbane Boys College No 1
Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 1
Grade 4B
1st Maclean Pipe Band
2nd Gold Coast Tweed Pipes and Drums
3rd Brisbane Boys College No 2
Drums Wynnum RSL Pipe Band
Dress Qld Police Juvenile Pipes and Drums
Champion of Champions: Qld Police Juvenile
Grade 3
1st Queensland Police Pipes & Drums
2nd Brisbane Boys College No 1
3rd Old Scotch Pipes & Drums
Drums BBC Old Collegians Pipe Band
Dress/Drill Queensland Police Pipes & Drums
Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 1
Grade 2
1st St Andrew’s Pipe Band
2nd Emmanuel College Highlanders at UQ
Drums St Andrew’s Pipe Band
Dress/Drill Tied
Champion of Champions: St Andrew’s Pipe Band
2025 COMP SEASON RESULTS
Wynnum RSL Comp
Maclean Highland Gathering
St Andrew’s Comp
/ NJB
Ipswich Pipe Band Comp
Qld State Champs at BBC
Huge step up for our Number 1 band this year, competing in Grade 3. But we have acquitted ourselves well. Super proud of the team!!
With Champion of Champion in:
Development Grade Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 3
Novice Juvenile B Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 2
Novice Juvenile A Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 1
Grade 3
Champion of Champions: Brisbane Boys College No 1
For the past nine years, The Adventure Traveller has assisted Brisbane Boy’s College, Families and Friends with their travel requirements and we look forward to continuing our support for years to come.
BRISBANE BOYS’ COLLEGE
PIPE BAND INVITED TO PERFORM IN THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO
We are immensely proud to share that our Pipe Band has been officially invited to perform in the world-renowned Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, to be staged in Brisbane and Auckland in February 2026.
This prestigious invitation marks an extraordinary milestone in our College’s proud history, as BBC will be the only school band in the country invited to take part in this international production. The Tattoo’s 2026 tour will celebrate its 75th anniversary, bringing together more than a thousand performers from across the globe.
For our young pipers and drummers, this is truly the experience of a lifetime. To perform alongside elite international musicians and military performers on the grand stadium stage will be the culmination of months of dedication, rehearsal, and teamwork. This opportunity not only showcases our students’ musical excellence, but also their discipline, commitment, and camaraderie — qualities that lie at the heart of the Brisbane Boys’ College spirit.
Our Pipe Band Director, Mr Stevie Stanley, said this achievement reflects the band’s growing reputation both nationally and abroad.
“To be recognised by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and included among such esteemed performers is a huge honour for our College. It’s a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, staff, and the broader BBC community.”
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is one of the world’s most iconic celebrations of music, pageantry, and culture. Originating at Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, the Tattoo’s international productions bring that same spirit to audiences worldwide. The 2026 performances at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and Auckland’s Eden Park promise to be spectacular celebrations of heritage, unity, and performance excellence.
Our participation continues a proud legacy of international performances for the BBC Pipe Band, which has represented the College at the Tattoo in 2018, 2022, and 2024, as well as at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo: Salute to Australia in Sydney in 2019.
Beyond the thrill of performance, this experience will offer our students invaluable educational opportunities — building resilience, leadership, and global awareness that extend far beyond the music.
As preparations begin, excitement is already building across the College community. With long rehearsals ahead and the promise of unforgettable performances on the world stage, we could not be prouder of our students. The Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band stands ready to represent our school, our community, and Australia with pride and distinction.
A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR
Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band
I am very humbled to be Director of the Brisbane Boys’ College Pipe Band in its 85th year, and I could not be prouder of every single student involved — from our newest learners taking their first steps with the practice chanter or drumsticks, through to the members of our Number 1 Band performing on the world stage. Since 1940, each student has contributed to the legacy, spirit, and sound of the BBC Pipe Band, and their commitment and camaraderie continue to this day.
This year has been truly special. Our Scotland Tour was an incredible success — not just in competition, but in the personal growth we witnessed in each student. They embraced long days of travel, rehearsals, and performances with professionalism and pride, representing BBC with distinction at both the European and World Pipe Band Championships. Watching their confidence grow as musicians and as young men was one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
The opportunities available to our students through the Pipe Band program are remarkable — from
competing internationally to performing at major events like the upcoming Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Brisbane and Auckland, to sharing the stage with their peers at home. Each experience builds skill, resilience, teamwork, and a lifelong love of music.
Tonight’s Sounds of Scotland concert is always my favourite night of the year. It’s a celebration of everything we stand for — tradition, excellence, and community. To see our bands take the stage, from the learners right through to the seniors, fills me with immense pride and gratitude.
To our students, staff, parents, and supporters — thank you for being part of this incredible journey. The sound of the BBC Pipe Band continues to grow stronger each year, and I couldn’t be prouder to lead such a talented and dedicated group of young men.
AWARDS
BBC CHAIRMAN’S SHIELD
Donated by Mrs Jacqueline McPherson, ex chairman BBC council.
The BBC Chairman’s Shield is awarded to the Most Improved Piper and Most Improved Drummer of the BBC Pipe Band over the past 12 months.
2016: A Manchadi (piper), W Gibson (drummer)
2017: A Scott (piper), P Gibson (drummer)
2018: F MacDonnell (piper), A Scroggie (drummer)
2019: H Burnie (piper), C Wilkinson (drummer)
2020: M Stephen (piper), J Woodward (drummer)
2021: D Steinkohl-Andrade (piper), L Qi (drummer)
2022: O Reardon (piper), J Duval (drummer)
2023: P Thiruchelvam (piper), E Bailey (drummer)
2024: A Irving (piper), A Cameron (drummer)
THE PETER DORNAN AM TROPHY
Outstanding Contribution of a BBC Pipe Band Junior Member of the Year
The bronzed piper is awarded to a Number 2 or 3 Band player (piper or drummer) who has demonstrated enthusiasm, a willingness to learn and to improve, and who simply ‘went the extra mile’ for himself and the BBC Pipe Band in the last 12 months.
2016: Liam Docherty
2017: Christian Binggeli
2018: Duncan Shore
2019: Nicholas Shelburn
THE SMITH FAMILY DRUM MAJOR’S MACE
The Smith Family Drum Major Award, it is custom-made Drum Major Mace with the BBC Crest and Brisbane Boys’ College engraved into the mace. The Jordan Smith Mace is presented to the incoming Drum Major.
2022: Drum Major Thomas MacDonnell
2023: Drum Major Harrison Williams
2024: Drum Major Jacob Duval
2020: Fred Bailey
2021: Alexander Middlemis
2022: Gus Lawrence
2023: Hugo Maclean
2024: Archie McClure
LEARNER PIPER, SNARE AND MID-SECTIONS AWARDS
These awards will be presented to the Learner Piper and Drummers who have shown the most enthusiasm and work ethic throughout the year in either bagpipes, snare drum and bass/tenor drum.
2024: (Piper) James Kemp (Snare) Charlie Grant (Tenor) Riyan Warrior
THE DAVID BELL MEMORIAL SHIELD
Kindly donated by the Pipe Band Support Group, The David Bell Memorial Shield is awarded to a Middle School piper or drummer who has shown exceptional spirit and service to the Pipe Band and the BBC community during the year. This award is presented in Mr Bell’s memory, who was Head of Middle School here at Brisbane Boys’ College at the time of his passing.
2023: O Reardon
2024: P Thiruchelvam
New Awards presented at Sounds of Scotland.
Jordan Smith Book Prize, which is presented to the exiting Drum Major, recognising the contribution of the Drum Major to the Pipe Band.
Senior School Awards:
Presented to the Most Outstanding Senior Pipe Band Drummer of the year:
Presented to the Most Outstanding Senior Piper of the year:
Pipe Band Chairman’s Medal:
Middle School Awards:
Presented to the Most Outstanding Grade 9 Pipe Band Drummer of the Year:
Presented to the Most Outstanding Grade 9 Pipe Band Piper of the Year:
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