In a civil ceremony at Melbourne's Old Treasury Building, and through
sweltering heat, the couple celebrated their wedding ceremony with family and close friends before heading on to the 'reception' at The Cooper's Hotel in the inner city last Saturday, January 5th.

The reception was attended by almost 100 people, most of whom were under the impression that they were there to celebrate Mark and Laura's engagement.

So, when Mark's Best Man, Dave Barker, announced that the couple had in fact married earlier that afternoon, the guests let out a cheer that could be heard from the MCG!

But if that was a surprise for the guests, another surprise awaited the happy couple when they arrived outside the reception venue.

Seeing what was going on, a police car pulled up and out stepped a very tall officer of the law. The officer then proceeded to offer the couple his heartiest congratulations and summarily handcuffed Laura to the car.

It was none other than Neil Bassett, Bass Trom player with the Kew Band Melbourne, who had recognised Mark and Laura and stopped to offer his best wishes. (And all concerned were more than grateful when Neil found the key!)

As has been previously reported on 4BRDU last October, Mark and Laura will be leaving for New Zealand this coming weekend so that Mark can assume his new role of Principal Trumpet with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra later this month.

We wish Mark and Laura Fitzpatrick all the very best for a long and happy life together.