Finding the right harmony

By Sheree Hoddinett  

Harmony Haven Singing Group was born from a lifelong love of music, community and connection.  

For Frances Hiam, singing director of the newly launched group, singing has always been more than a pastime, it has been a constant thread woven through her life. That journey began many years ago, singing and performing in churches and festivals and later developing her voice with the guidance of a singing coach. What started as personal growth soon grew into something bigger. Frances formed her own choir in Hervey Bay, discovering immense fulfilment in watching singers grow in confidence, skill and joy.  

“Seeing people step into their voices and become real performers was incredibly rewarding,” she said. 

In 2023, Frances and her husband Peter moved to Ningi, where they joined a local choir together. Frances took on the role of assistant choir director and while the experience was enriching, the pull to create something of her own never quite left. That spark soon turned into a shared vision. Sitting down together, Frances and Peter mapped out what they believed a modern, welcoming singing group should look like. Those ideas evolved into a mission statement and in December 2025, Harmony Haven Singing Group (HHSG) was officially launched. 

At its heart, HHSG is a joyful and inclusive contemporary singing group that brings people together through the power of music. It is designed to be a welcoming space for singers of all backgrounds and abilities, where people can connect, express themselves and build genuine community through song. The group aims to bridge generations, encouraging bonding across a wide age range of adults, while also giving back through free community performances and affordable subscribed concerts. 

Frances has a clear dream for the future, that HHSG will become a respected and sought-after community singing group. 

“It will provide high quality concerts and free performances at community events and aged care facilities,” Frances said. “It will be known for its contemporary song library and unique arrangements combined with traditional choral arrangements, bringing a wide range of performers together in a fun and caring environment.” 

Its repertoire blends contemporary favourites with traditional choral arrangements, creating unique harmonies that appeal to both performers and audiences. From Stairway to Heaven and Time After Time to Stand by Me, Viva La Vida and A Thousand Years, familiar songs are reimagined with special arrangements that allow every singer to shine. 

What truly sets HHSG apart is its commitment to being a safe, non-judgemental haven. The group is built on strong values: inclusivity, joy, respect, community and growth. Singing is about enjoyment, not perfection. Every voice matters and learning is embraced at every level.  

HHSG is also proudly listed as a not-for-profit organisation. This allows the group to apply for grants and funding, keeping costs low and ensuring accessibility for members. With rehearsals held on Monday nights from 7pm at the Ningi Community Hall, HHSG is designed to suit people with busy daytime commitments, from working professionals, young mums, university students and retirees alike. The goal is simple: have fun, feel welcome and enjoy the shared experience of singing.  

Frances highlights the importance of singing in everyday life and said the health and social benefits are very important and greatly valued. With more than 40 enthusiastic members preparing for the group’s 2026 launch, the atmosphere is buzzing. HHSG has also secured the services of a professional singer to support performances, vocal workshops and coaching sessions, further enhancing the experience for members. 

“The level of excitement and anticipation in our new members is palpable,” she said. “We have a happy vibe going on and everybody loves our songs and the special arrangements we have to make everybody shine. 

“My husband Peter who describes himself as “just a shower singer”, puts it best: “You don’t have to be a great singer to have a great time. When you nail a song together, it feels incredible. The sense of belonging is profound”.” 

For anyone considering joining, Frances has a simple message: if you like singing, meeting new people and being part of a fun, welcoming group, Harmony Haven Singing Group is waiting for you. A sign-on night will be held on January 19, 2026 (7pm-8pm), at the Ningi Community Hall, with rehearsals running every Monday from 7–8.30pm at 1320 Bribie Island Road. Harmony Haven isn’t about being perfect – it’s about belonging, harmony and the joy of raising voices together. 

For further information, reach out to HHSG harmonyhaven@peterhiam.com or phone 0435 879 510.