Dorothy, Peter Heard: Two Numurkah musicians recognised in Australia Day Awards

Two musicians from the Goulburn Valley with a century of experience between them have received top honours in the Australia Day Awards.

Two musicians from the Goulburn Valley with a century of experience between them have received top honours in the Australia Day Awards.

Dorothy and Peter Heard received Order of Australia medals for their contribution to the Numurkah Town Band, among a long list of other achievements.

Mrs Heard, the secretary and drummer of the local band in country Victoria, has been a foundation member and high soprano of Numurkah Singers for 50 years.

She was also a founding member of Polyphony for 18 years, and has held various roles at Numurkah’s Uniting Church.

Mrs Heard has been the entertainment organiser for the Pioneers Lodge Hostel, as well as the Karinya Nursing Home.

She’s also been the secretary of Numurkah Town Hall Committee since 1998 and spends her time volunteering for meals on wheels.

Mrs Heard was the Numurkah Citizen of the Year in 2016 and received the Numurkah Rotary Community Services award in 2010.

Mr Heard, a trombone player of 60 years, is the Numurkah Town Band president.

He is also a music librarian and former band leader.

Mr Heard spends his time volunteering at the Numurkah Town Hall and has held various roles at the town’s Uniting Church.

He has been the town’s bus driver for 11 years, is part of the Probus club and volunteers for Meals on Wheels.