Blaine Stubbs Class of 2019

Having secured an early acceptance to the University of Newcastle, Blaine Stubbs bid farewell to NGS in pursuit of a Bachelor of Music. It was during his formative years, particularly in the Year 7 Concert Band Program, that Blaine's passion for music found its voice. With a trumpet placed in his hands, the seeds of his musical career were sown. As he honed his skills on both the trumpet and the bugle, Blaine's appreciation for the artistry of music flourished into a steadfast ambition to make music his chosen career. Following his first degree, Blaine transitioned into a Master of Education at the University of New England.

Upon finishing school and alongside his university studies, he served as an Army Reservist, completing basic military training at Kapooka in early 2020. He pursued specialised military musician training and successfully auditioned as a trumpeter for the prestigious Army Band, a role he proudly continues to fulfill.

His commitment to community welfare shines through in his extensive volunteer work. Blaine generously devotes roughly 90 days each year to his reservist duties and serves as a volunteer army cadet staff member.

Among the highlights of his career are his contributions to the community, such as the support efforts in Lismore following the floods in 2022. He recently performed the solo bugle at the Newcastle ANZAC Day service as well as at 14 different schools in the region during their ANZAC services.

Reflecting on his formative years at NGS, Blaine has fond memories and received invaluable guidance from dedicated staff members, notably, mentors like Mr Young, Mr Barter, Mr Sherringham, Ms Pettengell, and Mr MacKenzie. They each played pivotal roles in shaping Blaine’s journey, nurturing his musical talents and fostering his interest in the Army Reserves.

Blaine’s journey at NGS began in Kindergarten and continued through to his Year 12 Graduation, marking a significant chapter in his life. Among the notable highlights are the Year 10 musical, and his involvement in the Jazz band, where he honed his trumpet skills. These influential experiences laid the groundwork for Blaine’s continued growth and success, setting the stage for his future endeavours in both music and military service.

Blaine underscores the profound impact of giving back and the transformative power it holds. For him, the essence of education lies not only in imparting knowledge but also in shaping young minds, guiding them towards unforeseen opportunities. Whether it's inspiring a student to pursue a career as an army band reservist or nurturing their aspirations in the realm of a professional career in music, Blaine's dedication to empowering the next generation is evident.

As he looks ahead, he remains committed to advancing his career both within the Army Reserve and in the field of education. With a passion for travel and a dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of his future students, Blaine is poised for a path marked by growth, service, and continued impact.