More Wanderers wanted

By Paul Pickering
IN RECENT times, the Happy Wanderers – one of the most celebrated musical ensembles in the Dandenong Ranges – have betrayed their own name.
Yes, they are still happy – as their audiences at nursing homes and hostels across the hills will attest.
However, the ever-increasing demand for their joyous brand of interactive entertainment has dictated that, far from taking a leisurely wander, they have had to speed up their touring schedule.
After performing about 110 gigs last year, the group is issuing a casting call for new participants in a bid to lighten the load on the current group.
On Monday, 20 August, the Dandenong Ranges Music Council will host a morning tea for anyone interested in lending their voice to the chorus of this iconic group. Formed in 1991, the Happy Wanderers have steadily developed an extensive repertoire of songs – as well as a broad fan base.
In 2004, the group received a Shire of Yarra Ranges Australia Day Award in the Community Groups category.
Today, the group consists of 11 ladies and pianist and guitarist Sam Derrick.
Sam, whose musical gift overshadows the fact that he is blind, leads the ladies in a range of popular songs and show tunes dating back as far as the early 20th century.
As group leader Win Kent notes, the Happy Wanderers experience is about sharing music and memories.
“It’s amazing how you can forget almost everything else but you still remember music,” she said.
“As we sing, it’s lovely to see so many memories flooding back.”
While the ability to rewind the musical soundtrack to their audience’s lives is reward enough for the Happy Wanderers, the physical and social benefits for the ladies are equally positive.
Most of the current group of ladies are retired widows, however, women and men of all ages are being welcomed as an injection of fresh talent.
Ultimately, the Dandenong Ranges Music Council is hoping to establish another group with its own identity.
Those interested in participating are invited to attend the morning tea at the Community Music Centre (on the grounds of Upwey High School) at 10.30am on 20 August.
Expressions of interest should be made by Wednesday, 15 August on 9754 6566.