Clyde McDonald

Years of Service - 25

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Banding had always been a passion for Clyde who began playing baritone in the Winton Town Band in 1937.
He was 14 years old when his father and the three McDonald boys were active members of the band. Clyde played in the band for five years and took part in the local ANZAC day parades and concerts.

He then left the 'bush' with his new bride, Connie, and headed for the 'big smoke' - Brisbane - in search of a better job. He didn't continue playing until he returned to the bush via a transfer to Clermont in Central Queensland.

Sunnybank players Charlie Stewart, the Smith Brothers and Clyde helping Wynnum Manly band 1973

Now he had three daughters of his own and he immediately found them instruments and joined the Clermont Town Band on Bb Bass.

Clyde and daughter Annette, Melbourne Nationals 1978

Only one of his daughters, the youngest, Annette, grew to love the band as much as him and they both remained active players until Clyde was transferred back to Brisbane in 1970.

Connie and Clyde - Melbourne Nationals 1978

Clyde decided to continue his banding and briefly played with the Wynnum Manly Citizens band and with his 'mate' Johnny Bertram from SED RSL Band (formerly Brisbane Brass). He then met and befriended Doug Meneely who persuaded Clyde to come and play with the newly- formed Sunnybank & District Brass Band.
Clyde remained an active member until he passed away in 1995.

Clyde's dedication and commitment to Sunnybank Brass over these years was unquestionable. Had there been an attendance award in those early years, he would have won it as he very rarely missed a rehearsal or a playout.

He was the band's 'Right Marker' through twenty years of winning marching performances and took his role very seriously.

It was this quiet commitment that earned Clyde his Life Membership in 1992.