There have been more bands from the village this year than I ever - so many, I can hardly keep track of them all!  I am pretty sure that I heard one or two the other night - and there was another one out this afternoon (perhaps even two...).  Here are a few photos from the Great Brak River chapter of the Verenigde Geref Kerk SA Brigade:

I was sitting in a meeting when I heard the first band and unfortunately didn't manage to catch them - but the 2nd band of the evening was the Star of Bethlehem brass band - and I *did* manage to grab a few photos and make a small donation.  It's all part of the annual tradition here at The Island - going back decades no less.

FYI, according to this Great Brak River Museum Newsletter, the Star of Bethlehem brass band started in 1952 - and the continue to do well.  After hearing them, I can understand why - they were great!  If you're interested in some of bands that visited The Island in the early 1980's (ooohhh!), check out these videos.

The local marching band, comprised of enthusiastic youths from the village, paraded around The Island mid-evening on Tuesday, Dec 17th much to the delight of Island visitors (especially the youngsters, many of whom had never seen such a spectacle!).  I was busy manning the braai, but did manage to zip out and take a few photos.  Apparently, this was a bit of a rehearsal - they are due back sometime later in the month (trust me, you'll hear them coming!).