Locomotive rock band, “The NAPODs” Rock!

“Thanks to Tony, the Locomotive Division Hornsby Depot Communication Coordinator, for sharing this fantastic story. It’s great to see our Loco members combining two of their passions, the railways and music! ” – Locomotive Division Secretary, Bob Hayden.

Read the story below.

Train Crew from Hornsby Maintenance Centre formed the rock band 3 years ago in 2015 to play the Depot’s Christmas Party that year…….and the Band is still going and enjoying themselves!

‘The NAPODs’ is an acronym for “Not At Point Of Duty” a disciplinary term that is used for Drivers and Guards by their managers.

“It’s sort of a play on words,” says guitarist and keyboard player Tony James. “Whilst we are playing, we’re not On Duty, and, I could be wrong, but I believe none of the guys in the band have actually had a NAPOD, I love it!’

Drummer Luke Meany adds, “It has very difficult to arrange times to practice with 9 members in the band, as we are all shift-workers. But I think we’ve managed ok. We’ve all played in bands before so we kind of know what to do. It’s been great fun playing with these guys too.”

The NAPODs play a variety of rock songs from the 60’s through to the 90’s, including songs from Roy Orbison and Chuck Berry right through to Creedence Clearwater Revival, John Mellencamp, The Angels, The Cars, Mental As Anything, and even Cold Chisel.

The idea came from bassist Yosip Lasek, who together with lead guitarist Mark Willis, realised there was a possibility of forming a band with their workmates. “All we did was ask around, and pretty soon we had a bunch of guys wanting to have some fun,’ says Mark.

Co-ordinator of The Hornsby Railway Social Club, John Mooney, has featured The NAPODs at a number of Social Club events. “The band is really well supported by the crew at Hornsby Depot.” says John, “Everyone is enthusiastic, and they have a top night dancing and socialising whenever the NAPODs play.”

Sharing the limelight as singers are Jaime Hill and Ian Hutchison, both with very differing styles. “Jaimes voice is great for those hard-edge rock songs, whilst I favour the mellow tones of the classics,” says Ian. Recently the NAPODs have welcomed 3 new members into the group – Nick Cotterill on Guitar, Wes Kirk on Bass and Vocalist Beth Vallely.

And the big question is: When will The NAPODs make their next appearance?

The NAPODs are playing an open show at the Berowra RSL on Saturday night 25^th August.

Then early in December following the Hornsby Railway Social Club Christmas Party at the Woy Woy Leagues Club.

The NAPODs are also happy to play at other events, whether it be for another Depot or outside events. Just contact one of the band members at Hornsby Depot for more information.