Les Hardy, Sir Rupert Hamer Award winner 2017

Congratulations to Les Hardy, formerly of the Federation University (Ballarat) Pipe Band who won the Sir Rupert Hamer Award for 2017.

The Award for outstanding services to the Pipe Band movement is presented annually at the Annual Ringwood Highland Games and recognised the first chieftain of the VHPBA from 1963 to 2004 – Sir Rupert Hamer AC, KCMG, ED. The award is the highest honour bestowed on a person by the VHPBA with the exception of Life Membership.

Les has made a significant personal commitment supporting pipe bands throughout his lifetime including tutoring, and other leadership roles. Les recently retired from playing with the band, but continues to support the band where and when he can.

Les was unable to be in attendance at Ringwood on Sunday when the award was announced, but a formal presentation will be made when a suitable opportunity becomes available.

Well done Les, you are a very worthy winner of the Sir Rupert Hamer Award.