It's not too common for Barbershoppers in NZ to become fathers - or if they do, they aren't talking about it. However, one fairly well known young tenor has just taken on the joys and worries of parenthood.  Auckland's Sean Willmot and his wife Rachael have collectively produced a delightful baby daughter and, while she may grow up to be a Sweet Adeline like her grandmother, the baby seems to have arrived with a name more associated with the men's chorus.
 

"Sweet Georgia Brown" seems to have become the unofficial anthem of the COSBC, but both parents are adamant that was not on their minds when they chose the names "Georgia Kate."  Whatever, Georgia arrived just 12 hours ahead of a major get-together for the men and women of the Auckland choruses (first line of Sweet Georgia Brown - "She just got here yesterday").  Naturally, the timely arrival (and name) was cause for great celebrations as "Nan" (Sally Willmot - bass), Grandad (John Gomas- bass), Grandad (Ray Willmot - Lead), cousin Warren Willmot (Lead-in-waiting) and of course Dad (Sean) were swamped with handshakes and Barbershop cuddles at the dual chorus barbecue.
 

Welcome Georgia Kate - may your life be filled with music and harmony. Incidentally, the barbecue get together was officially planned as a housewarming at the new home of the COSBC and the Greater Auckland Chorus (of Sweet Adelines.) We have joined forces with Auckland's oldest Bowling Club and from here on you will find us at 13 Alpers Avenue Newmarket - a wonderful and historic venue.  We still rehearse (Mondays for the men - Tuesdays for the women) but it would pay to call an Aucklander for specific instructions on precisely how to find us - the new venue is on a one-way street system and easy to miss.
 

Ray Willmot