Country Australia Type Infantry Size One battalion | Branch Army Role Light Infantry | |
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Active 1898-1960 and perpetuated by 5/6 Bn, The Royal Victoria Regiment (RVR) | ||
Formed in 1899 as part of the Victorian Scottish Regiment, the 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums is now the sole musical support for all battalions of the Royal Victoria Regiment. Currently the 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums operates as a part-time professional pipe band.
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Community of Practice
5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums is a part-time professional pipe band that provides ceremonial support to 5/6 RVR.Some members of 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums are serving Army Reservists from 5th/6th Battalion, Royal Victoria Regiment, other members are derived from other Army Reserve units / parts of the Australian Defence Force,and selected guest players.
RVR Pipes and Drums Association Incorporated
Initially formed in 1999 to supplement funding to enable 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums participation in the 2000 Edinburgh Military Tattoo, the RVR Pipes and Drums Association Incorporated also supports retired and civilian pipers and drummers that are active members of the Pipe & Drums. Donations to the Association are tax deductible. Distinctive uniforms are provided for retired and civilian members; retired and civilian members wear insignia of The Victorian Scottish Regiment. Retired and civilian members are also covered by insurance that is paid for by the RVR Pipes and Drums Association Incorporated.
Veterans and Civilians
Traditionally, pipers and drummers of 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums have been members of the 5th Battalion, The Victorian Scottish Regiment and later 5th/6th Battalion, Royal Victoria Regiment. However, as well as soldiers, it has become necessary to involve members of the wider Army, and selected guest players.the Pipes and Drums. Apart from support by the RVR Pipes and Drums Association Incorporated, guest players are not paid for any tuition, rehearsal or performances.
Serving Army Reserve Soldiers
It is preferred that pipers and drummers with 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums are serving army reserve members of 5th/6th Battalion, Royal Victoria Regiment Pipers and drummers who are members of the Australian Army Reserve wear current Australian Army uniforms are paid to learn, rehearse and perform. Learners are provided with tuition from Army reserve members and are able to attend courses conducted by the Defence Force School of Music. Members of 5/6 RVR Pipes and Drums have recently deployed on operations to East Timor, Solomon Islands and border protection duties as part of Operation Resolute.