Topics: Pride of the Hunter, the Koalas march into four decades

This year marks four decades since the Marching Koalas' first tour abroad after they were formed following a visit from Newcastle's sister city high school marching band, the Apaches, from Arcadia.

Picture the scene: The drum major steps forward in full regalia. The tangerine ostrich feather cascading from the regulation slouch hat (homage to the Hunter's connection to the renowned Light Horse regiment) matches the jackets on the swelling band at his back. The vibrant colour represents the Hunter's setting sun; the black pants, a nod to the region's major resource export.

The major collects his mace, and the band strikes up. First: a rousing, thumping beat from the drum line lays the foundation, then the brass. The flags go up, and finally the woodwinds and then the whole ensemble begins moving in perfect coordination.