Morning Melodies proves a winner

THE Terang Returned and Services League (RSL) sub-branch is celebrating another successful year of Morning Melodies, with just one more session to go in 2025.

Terang Returned and Services League sub-branch member Gary McKenzie is thrilled to see Morning Melodies growing from strength-to-strength to bolster the club’s fundraising efforts.

Morning Melodies, which brings a range of talented musicians to town on the fourth Monday of every month (excluding December), has proven a fundraising and social boon for the club.

The concept to bring the music sessions to town was the brainchild of club member and avid musician Gary McKenzie, who said 2025 had once again proven a success.

“It’s been fantastic this year,” he said.

“We’ve had so many talented artists coming down, including from Geelong, which everyone has enjoyed.

“It’s been really well received and really well appreciated as we’ve seen the crowds grow to in excess of 100 people.

“We’re at the point where bookings are essential – we don’t want to turn anyone away but we’ve had to put people on a waiting list.

“It’s just been fabulous, really.”

Mr McKenzie said Morning Melodies had continued to grow from strength-to-strength, with no signs of momentum slowing as events continue to sell out.

“It has been four and a half years now and is showing no signs of slowing down,” he said.

“It’s been really good but we know you can’t do it without the staff – the people who put it all together.

“Everyone is cooperative, hardworking and still loving the enjoyment people get from Morning Melodies.

“We get people visiting from as far away as Colac, Warrnambool – even people on busses.”

Mr McKenzie said Morning Melodies serves as an important fundraiser to support the RSL in its efforts.

“It’s been quite exceptional,” she said.

“We didn’t think it would do quite so well.

“It’s also good for the sponsors and we know people will often afterwards go to the hotels or cafes to get a bite to eat, so it works out well for everyone.

“It hasn’t much changed over the years but the quality of artists from locally and further afield, even some from New South Wales who could visit next year, has us optimistic for the future.”

The final session for 2025 will be held on Monday, November 24 from 10am at the Terang RSL Hall at 1 Shadforth Street.

To reserve tickets, contact Judy Walters on 0437 104 177.