In September 2009, the Parramatta Corps will be celebrating 125 years in the city of Parramatta, for which a number of events are being organised.

I am extending you an invitation to come  to the 'Men's Celebration Dinner' to be held in the Function Centre of The Salvation Army Parramatta, on Thursday 17^th September, commencing at 6.30.pm for 7.00pm meal.  The cost is $20 per head.

The guest speaker for this evening is Reverend Tom Hill.  He has been the trombone soloist with the Wellington (N.Z.) Citadel Band.

He was appointed choir master at Wellington Cathedral and was later ordained into the Anglican Ministry.

After serving in several parishes, Tom was offered the position as Chaplain and Head of Music at King's College Auckland, where he served until seconded into the NZ Navy during the Vietnam War.  He remained in the NZ Navy for the next 20 years, being the principal chaplain for the last 14 years of his tenure.

Upon retirement from the NZ navy, Tom served in PNG as Archdeacon of Lae. He moved to Australia where he was invited to become the Principal Chaplain of the Mission to Seamen until his retirement in 2004

During his years in the NZ Navy Tom led a small D Grade band [Waitakire] , in Auckland and over the next 10 years ( between tours of duty)  this band won its way through all the grades and become one of NZ's top A Grade bands

As a trombone soloist, Tom won 7 NZ National Titles and appeared internationally as a soloist with various symphony orchestras.

In sport, Tom has played representative rugby for Canterbury Province in NZ, as well as representing the RNZ Navy in rugby, cricket and golf.

Tom is currently an honorary priest in the Parish of Gosford NSW.

I would love you to come to share with the fellowship of this night. This evening is open to any other friends who wish to come as well.

Please confirm with me by Monday 7^th September your availability, and send remittance to me at my address 52 Woodbury St, North Rocks NSW 2151, made payable to The Salvation Army Parramatta.

Secure parking will be available under the Octagon building in Phillip Street just past The Salvation Army Function Centre.

Regards,

Warren Freeman