Circa: 1964 – 1965
Home town: Salisbury
Members:
- Richard Culpin – Lead vocals
- Koos du Plessis – Lead guitar
- Jerry Barnard – Rhythm guitar & vocals
- Doug Smith – Bass & vocals
- Clive Kluckow – Drums
Additional members who regularly deputised for absent members who were away on military call-ups and commitments:
- Jimmy Mcdiarmid – Drifters’ drummer
- Dave McLennan – Drifters’ vocalist
- Ernie Mindry – Executives’ bass player
The BANDITS were made up of former Prince Edward school mates. During the disruptive years of military camps and conscription, various members of bands were called in to fill the void of those who were absent. Richard Culpin eventually left the group to join the Air Force and later became a distinguished pilot in South Africa. Tragically, he lost his life in a crash at an air show. Richard’s position in the band was initially filled by John De Kock, however, he soon made way for Jack McGroarty. During this period Jerry Barnard, Richard Culpin and Doug Smith were working together as draughtsmen in the Roads Department. Another of their contemporaries in the same office was Dave “Squeege” Lewis from the ETONIANS.
When Jack McGroarty joined the band, it was decided to change the name to the FUGITIVES. After playing for another year or so, the band members felt that the call to full-time professional could be heard. Clive Kluckow, however, did not to follow this path and chose to leave the band. He was replaced by Jim McDiarmid. Difficulties were compounded, however, by lead guitarist, Koos Du Plessis, also not wanting to turn professional.
After a short period of reflection, Doug Smith and Jerry Barnard decided to re-start the DRIFTERS.