PLACENTIA

First they were on. Then off again.

But El Dorado’s Golden Hawks marching band is back on the circuit to perform at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia.

Band members didn’t show any hard feelings Tuesday toward the Olympic committee, which had wavered over the past few months on whether to let the Golden Hawks perform; they were too busy trying to rehearse and raise money for the once-in-a-lifetime trip this summer.

Band Director Richard Watson said $800 has been raised for each of the 180 band members scheduled to make the trip, but a total of $3,000 is needed for each student. The money will cover food, transportation, lodging and uniforms. The band is planning a Great Aussie Barbecue on Oct. 17 at Irvine Lake to help raise money for the voyage. Information: (714) 993-5610.