Gawler Town Band

Fast Facts

Type of organisation:

Community Service

The Gawler Town Band, formed in 1860 by Philip Cheek, boasts over 160 years of history, evolving from its origins as Riggs' Gawler Band into a modern Concert Band, serving its community by providing music for numerous local events and fostering a strong musical tradition in Gawler, South Australia, with its rich heritage of performance and community involvement.

Key Moments in History:

• 1860: Philip Cheek, a flautist and conductor, forms the original Gawler Town Band.
• Early Years: Cheek hands leadership to William Riggs, a clarinetist, and the group becomes known as "Riggs' Gawler Band," establishing a fine reputation and performing for free at many community functions.
• Enduring Legacy: The band continues to entertain Gawler and surrounding areas, adapting over time to become a concert band featuring woodwind, percussion, and horns.
• Community Focus: A core part of the band's identity, both historically and today, is its dedication to community service and providing live music for local events.

The Band Today:

• The Gawler Town Band remains an active community group, and continuing its legacy of musical performance and community support.

please click here to view Peter Ryan and Mel Hardy talk on the history of the Gawler Town Band on February 5, 2026

please click here to view members the Gawler Town Band play Bohemian Rhapsody on February 5, 2026

Please click here to see photos of the Gawler Town Band over the years.

Please click here to see Peter Ryan and Mel Hardy talk on the Gawler Town Band history

Please click here to see band members play Bohemian Rhapsody at the GHT meeting

References

Gawler Town Band 1962. Jim Hadden Snr. back row 3rd from left. His son, Jim is second from right on back row.

Gawler Town Band

Memories of Gawler Town Band

Do you remember Gawler Town Band ? Then Join up and add your memory here.