2 December 2024
The Royal Australian Navy Band Northern Territory (RAN Band NT) has rocked its debut cover band performance supporting the Top End community.
The ensemble performed several sets of popular hits for the No One Left Behind-sponsored International Men’s Day Lunch in Darwin on November 15.
The RAN Band’s seventh and newest unit was formed in early 2024, based out of HMAS Coonawarra.
The band will assist Navy in building positive relationships in the region through a variety of Defence commitments and public engagement.
Commanding Officer RAN Band Commander Cassandra Mohapp spoke about the inception of the unit.
“Back in 2021, the need for Navy band soft power agency in the Northern Territory was sponsored and supported by Navy’s Workforce Capability Steering Group, and has been achieved this year with the creation of RAN Band NT,” Commander Mohapp said.
“The unit is modelled on our existing reserve (part-time) bands, located in Brisbane, Hobart, Adelaide and Perth.”
'The musicians we have in Darwin are very talented and are already making an impact in the region.'
An initial cohort of full-time musicians established the unit, led by a chief petty officer musician bandmaster and leading seaman musician operations.
An active recruiting campaign is underway to expand its footprint and attract musicians from the Darwin music scene.
“The musicians we have in Darwin are very talented and are already making an impact in the region,” Commander Mohapp said.
“We are excited to increase the band’s numbers and broaden its capability, drawing on the skills and experience of local musicians.”
RAN Band NT has already provided support to numerous Navy and Defence official events, including Exercise Pitch Black and Kakadu, Navy Week 2024, Anzac Day, ceremonies and memorials, as well as state and international visits.
The band also joined forces with the United States Navy for the memorial of USS Peary.
The unit will provide unique capability in supporting Navy Community Engagement programs administered through Coonawarra, as well as Defence recruitment initiatives and international engagement.
'The local Darwin community is like no other in Australia, it has a charm about it and we grow fonder of it every day.'
Able Seaman Chris Ellis is a forming member of the NT band. As a trumpet/cornet player and bugler, he has already provided ceremonial support to numerous ceremonies and official engagements.
“Arriving and integrating at a new establishment was a little daunting at first,” Able Seaman Ellis said.
“Our main goal was to locate a permanent band room building, then we immersed ourselves in HMAS Coonawarra, the local ADF teams and the Darwin community.
“I’m glad to say all of our goals have been achieved, and the Coonawarra team has been the most supportive, friendly and helpful group of Navy people I have had the pleasure of working with.
“The local Darwin community is like no other in Australia – it has a charm about it and we grow fonder of it every day.”
Musicians interested in joining RAN Band NT should contact the RAN Band Audition Coordinator at navyband.audition@defence.gov.au or visit the ADF careers website at www.adfcareers.gov.au/jobs/reserves/navy/musician
The band will be holding an information session on December 3 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm, at Charles Darwin University, Casuarina Campus, Ellengowan Drive, Building Purple 5, Vocation Place. Expressions of interest should be submitted to navy.band@defence.gov.au
