In a landmark moment for the Australian pipe band community, the Governor Macquarie Memorial Pipe Band (GMM) is proud to announce that internationally acclaimed drummer and multiple-time Grade 1 champion Mark Romer will commence as Leading Side Drummer from 2025. Romer will reunite with GMM Pipe Major Barry Gray, rekindling a partnership that helped shape the modern Australian pipe band scene over many years.

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This renewed collaboration comes over three decades after their celebrated tenure at the City of Blacktown Pipe Band (1991 - 1993), which included winning Grade 1 contests in Scotland, broadcasts on the BBC, and with their No. 2 band finishing the World Championships 2nd overall.

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Together, Gray and Romer will lead GMM on a campaign toward the 2026 World Pipe Band Championships in Glasgow. GMM plans to field two competitive outfits, with an eye towards podium success for both teams.

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A Legacy of Musical Excellence

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Barry Gray, with over 50 years of piping experience, began his musical journey in 1971 with the Fairfield Police Boys Club. He later served as Pipe Major of the City of Blacktown Pipe Band for over two decades, earning national recognition through multiple championship titles and three album releases. A decorated soloist and international performer, Gray has shared concert stages with Paul McCartney, John Farnham, Bryan Adams, Delta Goodrem and more.

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Mark Romer brings unmatched drumming pedigree. From his early days in the Parramatta Police Boys and Fairfield Police Boys bands, to his tenure as Drum Sergeant in Grade 1 at St Marys and City of Blacktown, Romer has amassed six Australian Grade 1 Drumming titles. Internationally, he has competed with elite Grade 1 bands in Scotland, including under Jim Kilpatrick at Polkemmet and under Tom Brown at Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia.​

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The Road to Glasgow

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GMM is no stranger to the international stage, having previously competed at the World Championships in 2010, 2012 and 2017, with impressive results including 6th in the European Championships, and 10th at the World Championships in Novice Juvenile. GMM has also represented Australia in Singapore (2015) and Kuala Lumpur (2023).

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A Call to Ambitious Players
 

This partnership is more than a reunion – it’s a rallying cry to drummers and pipers ready to challenge themselves at an international level. Gray and Romer’s leadership promises a renewed focus on high performance, musical development, and global ambition.

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If you’re a player looking to lift your game and be part of a committed team aiming for international success, we invite you to join us. Expressions of interest can be directed to secretary@gmmpb.com.au.