The Melbournaires recently welcomed another 75 new Australians at the latest citizenship ceremony in the Shire of Manningham. Among them was a well-recognized face, one of our own, the all-singing, all-bagpiping, George Arundel. George has lived in Australia for 53 years, and after casing the joint out for so long, decided he would settle here and become a real Aussie. Of course it helps if you are friends with the mayor. He has been a member of the Melbournaires for almost 20 years, and is also a member of Phoenix Chorus, one supported by the Melbournaires. It is said a Scotsman never loses his accent, and George is living proof. His melodious bass voice can be heard at rehearsals where he is trying hard to match vowels.

The Melbournaires Christmas party was held on the 9^th December at a new venue in North Ringwood. From comments from many members, thanks to the likes of our resident clown Andrew Wright, the evening was an obvious success. About 100 members and partners and friends attended, and were treated to waiter service and excellent food. There was even room in the restaurant to put up two sets of risers providing a more than friendly disposition for a crushed and bursting at the seams chorus. Nevertheless, the singing was enjoyed, both from the chorus and quartets, who performed under less than easy circumstances.
One of the highlights of the evening is always the naming of the Barbershopper of the Year. There are many deserving members of the prestigious trophy, and this year the winner was Andrew Wright. So no more a clown, but an honored member of the Melbournaires, well recognized for all the behind-the-scenes work he puts in. Over all, a great night and one that will possibly be replicated next year.
The Melbournaires would like to wish all barbershoppers a very happy and healthy Christmas season, and an exciting and successful New Year.