After a brief hiatus due to COVID-19, Inverell Pipe Band has resumed band practice on Friday evenings. The band is encouraging young and old wishing to learn the Scottish bagpipes and drums to join in.

"Practice begins at 7.30pm in the Band Hall at 64 Ring Street. People can come along and receive free tuition in order to become a valued member of our band," member Philip Beaton said.

Appreciated financial support from the Sapphire Wind Farm enabled Inverell Pipe Band to upgrade a portion of instruments to more modern and advanced equipment.

Mr Beaton guessed the band's original bagpipes were purchased in the 1960s, while the drums were well over 30 years old.

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"[The Sapphire Wind Farm] have no idea how much help the grant was. With modern instruments and equipment, we can welcome new members and hopefully grow the band. The old bagpipes are beautiful, but the new bagpipes are modern and have upgrades that we need," he said.

Without members to play those instruments, there won't be much music to hear. Mr Beaton encouraged the community to also support the Inverell Pipe Band.

"We would love to see young and old people come along and learn a new instrument. They do not have to outlay any money in the beginning as we have pipes, kilts and everything you need. Until you learn and feel comfortable with the instrument, then you can choose to get your own equipment," he said.

The Pipe Band often performs on Anzac Day at both Inverell and Gilgai, as well as other community events including Carols by Candlelight. Unfortunately, COVID-19 has halted many of those events this year.

"We're back on track now and practising every Friday evening. We'd appreciate seeing you come along. Remember you're never too old or too young to learn something new."