After 23 years, Mr Wells was recognised as the 13th life member of the Ararat City Band.

Mr Wells said he was "very honoured" to receive recognition for his service.

"I definitely didn't expect it," he said.

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Mr Wells said joining the band had given him an appreciation for music.

"When I used to listen to music I used to just listen and it didn't have an impact on me," he said.

"But now when I listen to music I hear all of the melodies that are going on in the background."

The Ararat City Band can trace its history back to the 1850's, although in the early 2000's numbers dwindled, leaving the band in a precarious position.

"We got down to about five members at one stage," Mr Wells said.

"We were in a bit of trouble and couldn't really play anywhere.

"We just kept the music going."

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Ararat City Band president David Cosgriff said without the input of individuals like Mr Wells, "the band wouldn't be where it is today".

"Chris and the committee opened the band up to other instruments that aren't part of a brass band just to keep the band going," he said.

"Numbers increased and the band was able to live on.

"Due to the commitment to doing what was needed to keep the band going, we were able to, eventually, return to being a brass band again."

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Mr Wells joined the band late at age 48, meaning he was forced to not only learn what it was like to play in the band, he had to learn to play.

"As a player Chris (Mr Wells) has always been very dedicated and is always wanting to know how he can improve, " Mr Cosgriff said.

"Chris (Mr Wells) served many years on the band committee and has always been a member ready to help out in any way.

"He is early for rehearsal, always there to pack and unpack the band trailer before and after performances, always there to put his hand up for whatever needs doing."

"This award is testament to the fact that you don't have to be the greatest player in the world to be invaluable to the band. It's more than that. It's more a matter of the person you are."

The band also presented five further awards, along with acknowledging their development program participants.

Development Program

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