Code One, the longest continuous band ever in Australia and quite possibly the world, is to break up after 122 years.
Members of the Victoria Police department formed Code One in 1891 and despite the occasional line-up change the band was kept going … until now.
A caller to Melbourne radio station Ross & John’s breakfast show on 3AW today phoned in the rumour that the long-serving Victoria Police band was being disbanded due to lack of funding.
Police have now confirmed that the band is breaking up due to cost cutting measures. They claim they can have an additional 45 more officers on the frontline using the funds currently allocated to Code One.
Code One is a five-piece rock band featuring Leading Senior Constable Brian Carbery on vocals and percussion, Lorena Novoa on lead vocals and percussion, Richard Bennett on drums, Simon Deppeler on bass and Rick Varlet on guitar and vocals. Additionally, Andrew Murray is the group’s Music Director.
According to the Victorian Police website, “Code One is successful in reinforcing safety messages to the community.
“The band plays pop music from early 50s through to the latest ‘Top 40’. Everything from Santana to Farnham, ABBA to Simple Plan, Kylie to Madonna.
“Code One is highly acclaimed as one of Melbourne’s hottest groups. A versatile band and a crowd drawer, creating immense impact with audiences wherever they perform”.
Code One’s last public performance was for the Echuca Blue Ribbon Foundation Ball on August 31.
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