Rock on: Toowoomba-born band with rich history takes to stage

After first returning to the stage in 2015 and taking a two-year break, a historical band has reunited to host a charity concert.

Rehearsals are well underway for a legendary band that has reunited for a special cause.

Known for rocking out in venues across Toowoomba and the Darling Downs during the 60s and 70s, the band members of Chapter III are coming together for a special charity concert.

With a little help from their friends, band members Colin Zeller, Kerry Wright, Raymond Moore, Ian “Corky” Corkill and Warren Gelheer will take to the Rumours Convention Centre next month.

“Presented by JB’s Cabaret, it will be the fourth time Chapter III has performed a charity concert in aid of the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation,” Mr Zeller said.

“It’s an opportunity for the guys in our band to get together and let off some steam but there’s no better purpose than doing it for charity.”

Performing some of the greatest hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s, the popular band will perform a variety of music genres from Four Seasons and The Hollys to Paul McCartney.

Featuring a six-piece rhythm section with four vocalists, two-piece female vocal back-up group and three-piece brass section, the band will be joined on stage by many special guests.

Retiring from playing professionally 35 years ago, Chapter III was first established more than six decades ago.

But it’s not the first time the members have picked up their instruments again, first reuniting in 2015 and playing charity shows almost every year since.

“We’ll be playing a great variety of music for all age groups to enjoy and there will be anywhere up to 13 musicians on stage at any given time,” Mr Zeller said.

“The first year back together we had to close the doors at 1100 people and the support received since then has been very strong.”

Mr Zeller who is the band’s drummer said the group have spent hundreds of hours rehearsing for the upcoming gig – but it’s anything but a chore for the music lover.

“We’ve always loved it and with no disrespect to our early days but it was a form of employment back then but now we just play for pleasure and enjoyment,” he said.

“To see masses of people come and watch us play it’s a really incredible feeling and it’s reminiscent of the old days.”

Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s chief executive officer Alison Kennedy said all proceeds raised would be donated to the children’s oncology unit at Toowoomba Hospital.

“It’s a really exciting event that we love being a part of and it’s great to not only raise funds but to give these guys a platform to put on a great concert because they are part of Toowoomba history,” Ms Kennedy said.

“The money will go towards creating a more comfortable, beautiful and kid-friendly environment for patients.

“Col and Chapter III have been playing in pubs and clubs in Toowoomba and the Darling Downs for years – even though they are very qualified musicians, they are all volunteers and we are very grateful for their generosity.”

Special guests will include Maribel Gempel, Erin Hilton, Bronwyn Blanck, Alan Skerman, Graham Muller, Bob Donovan, Ron Smith, Warren Adams, Des Patch and Nev Hedge.

The event is part of the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s Christmas Appeal campaign.

JB’s Presents Chapter III and Sounds of the Shadows Wind Back The Clock Tour is at the Rumours Convention Centre at 323 Ruthven St.

Doors open at 6.45pm on August 28.

Cheese platters and drinks will also be available to purchase on the night.

Tickets are $45 and all proceeds will be donated to the Toowoomba Hospital Foundation’s children’s oncology ward.

To purchase phone [phone] or click here.

Originally published as Rock on: Toowoomba-born band with rich history takes to stage