Lewis adds touch of brass

Otago Daily Times journalist and New Zealand Brass Band principal cornet John Lewis proved the difference at the Federation of Australasian Brass Bands championships at Coolangatta, Queensland, Australia, over Labour Weekend.

Lewis answered an 11th-hour call-up by Woolston Brass and helped the Christchurch band upset heavy favourite Brisbane Excelsior.

The top seven bands in New Zealand and Australia competed in the invitational event.

Lewis normally plays with St Kilda Brass in Dunedin.

Results were:2008 Yamaha Australasian Open Championship: Woolston Brass, 1; Brisbane Excelsior, 2; St Mary's Band Club 3.

2008 York Australasian Entertainment Championship: Woolston Brass, 1; Warringah Concert Brass, 2; Brisbane Excelsior, 3.