Whangarei becomes NorthCal
The 2014 Grade 3 New Zealand Champions, Whangarei and County, have rebranded in the lead up to their first season in grade two. They will now be known as the “Northern Caledonian Pipe Band”, or ‘NorthCal’ for short.
“This name reflects its position as the major competitive pipe band between the Auckland Harbour Bridge and North Cape and is more indicative of the area from which it draws its members” said Pipe Major, Bain McGregor.
“The band has had an outstanding 12 months, winning every competition it entered and culminating in the Grade Three National Championship in March this year in Tauranga. NorthCal has been promoted to Grade Two, and now has a new modern uniform which made its first public appearance at the Auckland Highland Games on the 22nd of November.”
The band has had a roster influx since coming to grade two, and has added some new names with Allan Rich, former Auckland and District Bass Drummer, joining the ranks.
Grade two will feature six bands at the 2015 National Pipe Band Championships in Nelson, including current champions St Andrew’s College, Temuka, City of Dunedin, South Canterbury, Canterbury Caledonian and now NorthCal.
Great stuff. NorthCal have made significant moves in the last 12-18 months and I wish them every success!