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Meet Our Members
Pipe Major: Mark Hamill
Mark has played with Sydney Thistle for 10+ years and orignaties from Northern Ireland. Emigrating to Australia in 2013 Mark has been a piper in the band for many years, has acted as Pipe Sergeant previously, and assumed Pipe Major responsibilities in 2024.
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When not playing pipes you'll find Mark in the gym or socialising with freinds around the inner city areas. Professionally, Mark spends his time with a career in IT.
Pipe Sergeant: Richard Knight
Richard is one of our longest standing playing members within the piping ranks. Richard is well know within the piping community, having also acted as a piping judge and prior pipe major of Sydney Thistle.
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Richard recently retired and we wish him all the best for retirement. More time for piping, right?
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Drum Major:Â Doug Hall
Doug is 6ft 2", multi talented, has a loud voice, (required for commanding the band on parade), As well as drum major, he is also an active tenor drummer within the ranks.
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When not herding the band into military form, you'll find him in the bush camping with his family, or on his boat!
Drum Sergeant:Â Ross Culbert
Ross is a drumming legend, having played in bands across Australia over the years at the highest competition level.
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Ross is a self confessed family man, and when not at band can be found around the pool with his grandkids.
Band President:Â Victor Kerr
Vic is a Life Member and an active Piper amongst our ranks.
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When not at practice Vic can be found swimming, playing tennis or visiting family in Glen Innes (Northern NSW).
Band Secretary:Â Melissa Cameron
Mel is originally from Victoria, and is an acclaimed academic and scientist. In addition to her role as club secretary, she is an active side drummer.
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Outside of Thistle, Mel can be found socialising around Sydney's Inner West or buying new toys for her beloved cats.
Pipers
Pipe Major: Mark Hamill
Pipe Sergeant: Richard Knight​
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Pipers
James Bruce, Matthew McNeil, Elgan Alcorn, Dave Dillon, Stuart Robinson, Espie Watt, Jonathan Merritt, Matthew Lo, Matt Fung
Drummers
Drum Major: Doug Hall
Drum Sergeant: Ross Culbert
Drum Corporal: Steve Wells
Side Drummers
Melissa Cameron, Greg Lemme, Ryan Lui
Mid Section
Amy Dillon, Kristen Koumakis, Steven McAleer, Cheryl Wells, Keith Wright
