Brunei International Tattoo 2011

Prince of Wales Award

The show itself, once all of the considerable preparations and rehearsals were over, ran for a five day period. Each day we were required to take part in an opening ceremony, our individual display, and a finale. The other bands ran similar routines and in addition, the daily show consisted of showing off immense military power and technology including Mirage and F-16 fighter jets, Chinooks, Black Hawk and Apache attack helicopter gunships, unmanned drones, tanks, armoured vehicles, stunt motorbikes, winged skydivers and a spectacular tactical demonstration of Special Forces storming a building. Our display concentrated on demonstrating Navy traditions with the use of bugle calls, boatswain’s calls, Beat to Quarters and a Cheer Ship. In addition, we also put an emphasis on producing a display with an internationally recognisable Australian theme. This was achieved by performing the acclaimed Waltzing Matilda, but with a twist! After forming our finale positions with a team of fanfare trumpeters at the front of the band, a formal flourish and chorale based on the melody was played, which led into a contrasting upbeat jazz version where the trumpeters relaxed and showed off their improvisation skills to the audience’s delight. Participating in international events such as these is always an enjoyable and educational experience, working closely with bands and military personnel from different and contrasting cultures. However, special mention must be made of our the New Zealand Army Band, with whom we worked particularly closely during our stay in Abu Dhabi, and who continued their spectacular routine even though their home town of Christchurch was devastated by the earthquake whilst they were in Abu Dhabi. In addition to the main show, both ourselves and the New Zealand Army band, entertained a large crowd at the Gala Dinner held at the Abu Dhabi Armed Forces Officers Club, each performing as a ceremonial ensemble and jazz group. The Armed Forces Officers Club, itself a highly impressive complex constructed of what seemed to be mostly gold and marble with a plethora of crystal chandeliers and an abundance of elaborate ornaments, will also no doubt be remembered by all band members for its extraordinary dining experience. This place was incredible and we were simply, and quite literally, spoilt for choice. For dinner, we were presented with an obscene amount of extravagant, sumptuous food from every nation thinkable. And only those wise enough to have left room were fortunate to have experienced the numerous desserts on offer! As well as the Gala Dinner and main show for IDEX 2011, the band also performed for a cocktail party and Ceremonial Sunset onboard HMAS Stuart, but it wasn’t all work, work, work. During our stay in Abu Dhabi, we also managed to cram in plenty of sightseeing, including a brief visit to Dubai. Of course there was the Ferrari World attraction mentioned earlier and close by our hotel there was plenty of action at the Yas Marina Formula One Circuit. Abu Dhabi, however, also offers a great cultural experience with an interesting history, friendly atmosphere, good food and shopping, as well as plenty of sights to see. In particular, the unique contemporary architecture stands out, with an array of interesting shapes and designs from modern day leaning towers to giant upright circular discs. Possibly Abu Dhabi’s most famous landmark though is the majestic Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. This remarkable structure boasts several world records including the world’s largest carpet and largest chandelier. Whilst we were there, we were lucky enough to have been given a detailed guided tour around this incredible building. All in all, our visit to Abu Dhabi turned out to be a very successful, enjoyable trip and an experience to remember.