BUDDING singers and musicians will be centre-stage this weekend as the Casterton Vice-Regal Band’s talent quest, Casterton’s Got Talent, hits the boards at the Town Hall.

The show kicks off at 2pm this Sunday, 19 June and convenor, Craig Wood said while entries had initially been slow to come in, a great line-up of talent was scheduled for the afternoon.

“It’s the band’s first time running an event of this kind and it’s a great chance for anyone to have a go and get some feedback on their performance,” he said.

“The event is aimed at giving emerging talent in the district a fun local competition to encourage them to work on their musical performance abilities.

“In that sense, it would be great to see some more youngsters give it a go.”

Trophies and other prizes will be on offer at the event, which is supported by the Glenelg Shire Council.

Mr Wood said the talent quest would provide a fun afternoon of entertainment for the local community.

“Being at the Town Hall and with a panel of guest judges, we’re sure it will be enjoyable to watch and we’re hoping for lots of community support and encouragement for participants,” Mr Wood added.

Entry to Casterton’s Got Talent will be by gold coin donation.

Mace and whistle change hands

RON McCormick has been named as the drum major of the Casterton Vice-Regal Band after Brian Sherry announced his intended departure.

The band said it was grateful Mr McCormick accepted the invitation to assist the band with its marching, citing a “wealth of experience” with marching bands.

It also said Mr Sherry had contributed significantly to the band as a drum major and musician, having also compiled a “valuable” book on the band’s history.

Mr McCormick said he would be willing to train any aspiring drum majors the skills needed, which the band called a “great bonus” for developing its future.

Anyone wishing to learn to become a drum major or learn an instrument is asked to contact the band, which rehearses at 7pm each Monday at the band hall.