He built the band hall.

He built the band by inviting young players to join.

He built positive relationships with all those he came into contact with. 

And he made us laugh.

Sale City Band wants every person in Sale and district to buy a brick to help build its new hall. The price, $1 each. The band, which has just received approval from Sale City Council to go ahead, needs about $25,000 from the public appeal to make up shortfall. The hall will cost more than $30,000.

President Mr Ken Garner said today be was looking for "plenty of support from all corners of the community." Help was not only needed through monetary donations but also in labor and support from businesses. The band had already been guaranteed materials by one leading Sale firm at wholesale price.

"If we could generate this type of aid with others, it will go a long way to achieving the goal - the new hall." Mr Garner said he would approach local service clubs for help in constructing the building. Most would be on a voluntary basis by band members with supervision by tradesmen and council's buildings supervisor.

The new hall with a fully equipped kitchen and instrument store will be built towards the rear of the Sale City Council-owned land. A driveway will run to where the present hall stands. Beautification of the area would take place with trees and a barbecue area. A car park for 11 vehicles would also be provided.

Mr Garner said that with the development, he hoped to generate new life for the band. The last few months there had been a growth in membership, particularly among young people.

Ken Garner is congratulated by the Mayor Mr Geoff Rossetti at the offical opening of the band room.

President of the Sale City Band, Mr Ken Garner (left) presented the president of the Bairnsdale Citizens' Band, Mr Leigh Venables, with an indoor plant for the band's new room, adjacent to Picnic Point Hall, when a number of Sale City Band members attended the official opening ceremony

The Sale City Band room was renamed after a musician who has been involved with it for more than 60 years.

At the band's annual presentation evening (December 2015) Ken Garner was surprised with the honour, and members of his family attended to share the moment. Mr Garner, a life member, past president, past secretary, past treasurer and committee member was rewarded for his valued involvement in all aspects of the band from fundraising to building the facilities with his own hands.

He continued to attend rehearsals and play-outs, and share his wisdom and witty stories with younger members of the music community.