Deception Bay State High School has received a $10,000 grant to strengthen its percussion music program, becoming one of five schools nationwide to be awarded in 2025.
Background and Context
Deception Bay State High School has been awarded a 2025 Yamaha Great Start Grant, joining four other schools across Australia. The grant, announced by Yamaha Music Australia on 30 May 2025, is part of a national initiative aimed at supporting school drum and percussion programs.
Equipment and Program Details
The school plans to use the $10,000 funding to purchase timpani and snare drums. These additions are expected to enhance the school’s percussion studio, which already supports a marching drumline alongside other ensembles. Currently, around 70 students from Years 7 to 12 are involved in the school’s instrumental music program, with 20 participating in percussion.
Grant Objectives and Rationale
Yamaha’s Great Start Grant focuses on supplying schools with Yamaha drum kits, percussion instruments, Paiste cymbals, and other accessories to enrich music education. Deception Bay’s application, led by percussion specialist Bec Quain during her first term, was selected based on its potential to transform the school’s music offerings and increase student engagement.
Community Support and Vision
According to the school’s acting Head of Arts, the grant represents a significant opportunity for students and helps reduce financial barriers to participation. The school absorbs most program costs to ensure accessibility. There are also plans to grow the program further, strengthen partnerships with local primary schools, and increase real-world performance opportunities.
Outlook
The Yamaha grant is expected to play a key role in expanding music access and enhancing student experience at Deception Bay State High School. As part of a broader commitment to inclusive education, the initiative may set the foundation for further growth in arts engagement across the region.
Published 8-Aug-2025
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