Donnybrook mums uplifted by choir

Meeting weekly has seen the members of the group, now named Local Vocal, is made up of young mothers who grow in strength, numbers and confidence.

Guitarist Holly Mickell said she was immensely happy with the direction the singers have taken, as well as being amazed at their progress.

"We learn the harmonies and have bonded so well in just one term," she said.

"None of us read music, but everyone loves to sing."

Irene Keusch summed up the feeling of the group, stating she never thought she could develop such a passion for music, which she sees as an escape from the everyday busy life of raising three young children.

"I have never sung in a choir before and am so happy I've joined," she said.

"The spirit of us singing all together in harmony is so uplifting; it has brightened up my whole life, with me and my children now singing all day long."

The group formed earlier this year when the Lions Club of Donnybrook was successful in its grant application from the Department for Communities.

Mrs Mickell said their share of the grant from Lions was $200 which paid the rent on the Donnybrook Recreation Centre room and gave them the start that has enabled them to make a difference in their own community.

Earlier in the year Lions provided $300 towards a post natal depression awareness day, which Mrs Mickell said was hugely successful and gave them the kick-start for the singing group.

She said new mums are most welcome, with no audition or music experience required and as an added bonus, a crach was available for their Monday morning group sessions.

Local Vocal has started busking at the monthly market and has been invited to participate in the Craig McLaren classical music fundraising concert to be held on Saturday; they will also be performing at the Lions Christmas Carols and Christmas Fair in December.

Mrs Mickell be contacted on 9731 1082 to provide more information.