More than 80 members of the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra have spread the joy of
music to children in the South Pacific, while sailing on P&O's Pacific Encounter.
Members of the Orchestra, aged between 11 and 25 years, made the seven-day journey,
visiting schools in Noumea and Port Vila to perform concerts with the children, and make a
surprise donation of more than 100 musical instruments.
Hundreds of school children descended on Port Vila's Independence Park last Wednesday
to watch the BRYO perform a concert with local children.
P&O Cruises Australia supported the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra with a donation of
drum kits and the transport of the large donation to their various destinations.
Pacific Encounter Captain Roger Bilton said the voyage was a highlight and absolute joy.
"It's not every day that we have a full orchestra travelling onboard, and transporting such
precious cargo for a noble cause," said Captain Bilton.
"Our guests were even treated to a special performance onboard during their trip, making
the cruise truly one to remember."
Tour Organiser Wayne Thomson said the instruments will inspire children in the South
Pacific to learn the gift of music.
"The trip has been a lot of hard work by our members and P&O, but it was worth it to see the
smiles on the kids' faces as we surprised them with their own musical instruments," said Mr
Thomson.
"We're humbled to be able to share our passion for music with others and hope that they can
continue developing their own skills with these new instruments."
The voyage marked the 40th anniversary of the Brisbane Regional Youth Orchestra.
