History of the Bugle Band
Jimmy Houston, a Scotsman and Wooroolin resident, enjoyed band music and playing the trumpet. He had been thinking about forming a Bugle Band and Brass Band for some time when, in October 1958, Vivian Jenkins and he had that historical conversation under the Camphor Laurel tree deciding to start the Wooroolin State School Bugle Band. It was not easy but in 1959 twenty-two band members were in uniforms, fully equipped and ready to play at the Wondai and Wooroolin Anzac Day Marches. This was their first performance.
The band was a great success and was invited that year to play at the inter-school athletics carnival, during Education Week and then at the Brisbane Exhibition. It has remained a success and continues today as one of the only surviving Bugle Bands in Queensland.
Jimmy Houston was band leader from its inception until shortly before his death in 1992. He was awarded Member of the British Empire (MBE) in 1979 for his service to the community. Jimmy will always be remembered in this district for his community involvement and particularly for his leadership and service to the band.
Performance and service to the community
Over the years the band has been to many events and played on many important occasions. Notable among these have been the Queensland Royal National Show, the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, the Brisbane School Band Festival, the Goomeri Pumpkin Festival and many other community fairs, fetes and shows.
This picture shows the current Band Leader, Mr Noel Selway.
Each year the Bugle Band participates in the Wondai and Wooroolin Anzac Day parades and plays an important role in these services by playing the Last Post.
Wooroolin State School P&C connections
The Bugle Band is under the control of the Parents and Citizens' (P&C) Committee and is managed by a group of parent helpers.
Over the years many families, students, parents and teachers have continued to support this great tradition.
The Bugle Band is currently made up of two components—Seniors and Juniors. The Seniors are the more experienced players whilst the Juniors are those learning.
The structure of the band is a Drum Corps made up of Side Drums, Kettle Drums, Bass and Tenor Drums. The Bugle Corps is made up of Senior and Junior players. On Parade, the Band consists of both components.
Members past and present of the Wooroolin State School Bugle Band at the Band’s 50th anniversary celebrations, 2009.