Great Barrier Reef Orchestra

ENCOURAGEMENT AWARDS

Supporting the next generation of North Queensland musicians

20+ musicians supported since 2013

Apply for 2026 || Join the Orchestra

2025 WINNERS

Do Young Park Violin

Do Young was one of the orchestra’s most reliable and committed members in 2025, attending consistently, arriving well-prepared, and fully engaged in rehearsals and performances.

He performed in every concert, including Amadeus, and communicated clearly and respectfully when unable to attend. His playing, work ethic, and attitude consistently lifted the ensemble and set a strong standard for others.

Sam Pankhurst Double Bass

Sam demonstrated consistent commitment and maturity throughout 2025. Aside from missing the June concert due to illness, he was well-prepared for all performances and communicated clearly regarding attendance.

He was a positive, reliable presence in the ensemble and has maintained strong engagement with music and the arts beyond Year 12.

ABOUT THE AWARD

The Encouragement Award recognises players who:

– Demonstrate steady improvement
– Contribute positively to the ensemble
– Consistently show effort and commitment

GET INVOLVED

Apply to be a member of the Great Barrier Reef Orchestra

Play with NQ Orchestra || Support Young Musicians

PREVIOUS WINNERS

2024

Congratulations to the recipients of the BRO Encouragement Awards for 2024: Joshua Weston (viola) and Sebastian Young-Florence (trombone & tuba).

Joshua Weston

Viola

Joshua Weston was a 2024 winner.

Sebastian Young-Florence

Trombone & Tuba

Sebastian Young-Florence plays trombone and tuba.

2022

Congratulations to the recipients of the BRO Encouragement Awards for 2022: Ally Quin (percussion) and Chinsia Burns (violin).

Ally Quin

Percussion

Ally writes…

Chinsia Burns

Violin

Chinsia writes…

2021

Congratulations to the recipient of the BRO Encouragement Award for 2021: Bridget Wegner (viola).

Bridget Wegner

Viola

Bridget writes…

2019

Congratulations to the recipients of the BRO Encouragement Awards for 2019: Francesca Adcock (oboe and cor anglais) and Lara Herlambang (violin).

Francesca Adcock

Flute / Oboe / Cor Anglais

Francesca was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2019.

Lara Herlambang

Violin

Lara was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2019.

2018

Congratulations to the recipients of the BRO Encouragement Awards for 2018: Lachlan Cutler (trombone) and Angus Marsh-Brown (French horn).

Angus Marsh-Brown

French Horn

Angus was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2018. Angus writes…

Lachlan Cutler

Trombone

Lachlan was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2018.

2017

Congratulations to the recipients of the BRO Encouragement Awards for 2017: Annie Doherty (French Horn) and Aidan Fitzgerald (Viola).

Aidan Fitzgerald

Viola

Aidan was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2017. Aidan writes…

Annie Doherty

French Horn

Annie was the recipient of a BRO Encouragement Award in 2017. Annie writes…

2016

The Barrier Reef Orchestra is blessed with a strong cohort of young musicians, who play a vital part in the growth and longevity of the ensemble. They never cease to amaze us with their talent, enthusiasm, and rigorous work ethic. A massive congratulations to our two Young Encouragement Award recipients for 2016 Elena James (Violin) and Daniel Harley (Horn). These two players have shown enormous dedication to their craft and to the Barrier Reef Orchestra. We wish them both the very best in their studies and look forward to seeing them next year for our 2017 season!