Billed as one of Scotland’s best days out the finale of the 130th Cowal Highland Gathering lived up to its reputation. Thousands of people from across the world gathered in Dunoon for the final day of the world’s most spectacular Highland Gathering with competitors, entertainers and spectators joining forces to make sure super Saturday was a day to remember. Crowds watched as over a thousand competitors fought to secure some Cowal silverware.
Dancers, pipers, heavy athletes and wrestlers were joined by entertainers including cyclists, axe throwers, stunt runners and musicians to ensure the Gathering’s crowds were wowed from early morning until the end of the day. The standard of competition was world class, with every athlete and competitor giving their all to leave the Stadium as a Cowal Gathering winner.
The biggest Highland Dancing competition in the world
Then came the biggest Highland Dancing competition in the world – the World Championship finals – with dancers from Australia, Canada and the USA pitting their skills against the best the UK has to offer. In the end, it was Aisla Gocan-Wright from London, Ontario who emerged victorious in the World Juvenile finals, followed by Rebecca Acob of Coldstream and Ellie Murgha of Townsville, Queensland. The trophy for best Scottish Juvenile Dancer went to Cody Fong from Kirkcaldy and the best Overseas Juvenile Dancer was Aisla Gocan-Wright. In the World Junior championship, Eilidh Gammons of Helensburgh, defended her title and held off the challenge of Katjana Bruinsa from Leduc County and Maria Monk of Glasgow.
The best Scottish Junior Dancer was Eilidh Gammons, and the trophy for the best Overseas Junior Dancer went to Katjana Bruinsma. The Adult World champion was Rebecca Thow from Aberdeen, followed by Marielle Lesperance from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, with Chloe McClean from Edinburgh in third. Marielle Lesperance is taking home the Mary McHarg Quaich for best Overseas Adult Dancer. The cup for best Scottish Adult Dancer went to Rebecca Thow.
Wonderful competitors
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Cowal Gathering, Fraser McCowan said: “On behalf of the Gathering’s organisers, I would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make sure the 130th Cowal Gathering goes down in history as the best party in town! I’d also like to thank the thousands of people who have come out to support the Gathering over three days. We’ve welcomed spectators not just from Argyll and Bute and Scotland more generally but from right around the globe, and the feedback we’ve received has been overwhelmingly positive. Of course, we wouldn’t have a Gathering at all without the wonderful competitors, who excelled themselves this year. Those of us lucky enough to have been here witnessed levels of performance never seen before. We all know how popular the traditional Highland Games events such as the piping, dancing and heavy athletics are, and of course they remain the main draw.”
The next Cowal Highland Gathering takes place at Dunoon Stadium from 28 – 30 August 2025. For details see: cowalgathering.com
Main photo: From left to right: Aisla Gocan-Wright, Rebecca Thow and Eilidh Gammons. Photo: Cowal Gathering
The Learned Kindred of Currie salutes the 2024 US National Scottish Harp Champion, Rhiannon Ramsey-Brimberg. The event was held in September at the Ligonier Highland Games in Pennsylvania.
Learned Kindred of Currie is the Title Sponsor of the US National Scottish Harp Championship and this month The Learned Kindred of Currie is proud to sponsor the Scottish harp event at Scotland Connecticut Highland Festival & Games as well as the Young Adult Literature Prize at the Royal National Mòd in Scotland.
Learned Kindred of Currie also supports events like The Pipes of Christmas, Tartan Day on Ellis Island and scholarships to young people around the world.
Even with the heavy rains and a change in venue due to flooding, history was made in Annan, Dumfriesshire on the 24th August, 2024 on what was to be a fine but windy day. The Annan Festival and Gathering of the Clans, was well attended and a great success.
The Festival consisted of a parade of the chiefs greeted by Fiona Armstrong, Lady MacGregor, Lord Lieutenant of Dumfries, performances by the Teviotdale Steel Bonnets and the Time Bandits covering Reiver history and weaponry. There were highland games, piping and dancing and a performance by the Scottish tribal group Clanadonia. Clan tents were available offering information on the history and genealogy of the respective clans and families present.
The final part of the programme was the inauguration of the Chief of Carruthers. The last stage of the process initiated in 2007 by the Clan Shennachie, Dr George Carruthers, FSA Scot, was about to be completed. A petition was presented to the Lord Lyon in 2017 to bear the chiefly arms of Carruthers, first registered along with all other Scottish arms in 1672 by the petitioner’s ancestor. As such in 2019 and after 210 years of dormancy and analysis of the documents and proofs accompanying the petition, Dr Simon Peter Carruthers of Holmains was confirmed Chief of the Name and Arms of Carruthers.
Ancestral lands
The inauguration on our ancestral lands to name him Chief, began with a procession led by the Convenor, Mr Michael Carruthers carrying the Society banner. He was followed by those Chiefs and Commanders in attendance, the Shennachie and his banner, the Chief’s Household, the Inauguration Chaplain, the Lord Lyon’s representative and the Chief and his heir with their banner. They were welcomed to the stage area by Dr George Haig, Advisor to the Chief, who handed the proceedings over to the Shennachie. He welcomed the Chief onto the stage and explained the importance of a confirmed chief to the official status of Carruthers as a Scottish clan and family.
The Lord Lyon’s representative Sir Crispin Agnew of Lochnaw, Albany Herald Extraordinary presented the Chief’s Letters Patent from the Lord Lyon on behalf of the Sovereign. He spoke of the Chief’s lineage being 22nd of his line, his legal right to bear the chiefly arms, the 1587 Act of the Suppression of Unruly Clans in which Carruthers are named and reiterated the importance that a Chief brings to the official recognition of any clan, both in Scotland and overseas. Sir Crispin Agnew finished with his best wishes and congratulations.
The presentation was followed by the Shennachie presenting the Chief with his symbols of office: A family bible, embossed with his arms, a Balmoral bonnet with the three eagle feathers of a chief, a gold ring with his arms upon it and finally a Cromach. Proudly wearing his three feathers, oaths were taken. Firstly, an oath by the Chief to his clan to preserve, protect and defend the name of Carruthers to the best of his ability. Secondly an oath of fealty and loyalty to the Chief by the Shennachie on behalf of all the elders and stewards of Carruthers. Finally, the oath from the clan to the Chief, who loudly pledged fealty and loyalty and a willingness to honour the traditions of their name.
Ancient custom
Following ancient custom and in line with the Chief’s faith, the Inauguration Chaplain, the Reverend John Pickles, minister of the Church of Scotland for the parishes Annan, Brydekirk, Dalton and Hightae, gave readings from Psalms and the Gospel of St Luke. The Reverend led all present in prayers and according to ancient tradition as a member of the kirk, gave his blessing to the Chief and then to all those gathered. The other Chiefs present were invited to give greetings.
The Chiefs of Clan Irving; Rupert Irving of Bonshaw, Hunter; Madam Pauline Hunter of Hunterson, Hanney; Dr David Hanney of Kirkdale, MacArthur; John MacArthur of that Ilk and the Commander of Clan McEwen; Sir John McEwen of Marchmont and Bardrochat gave their warm best wishes and Ross McEwen Esq, FSA Scot gave greetings from the Buchanan Chief; Michael Buchanan of Buchanan.
The Chief himself gave a heartfelt response to all greetings, all those from both the UK and overseas who had attended and to Annan the History Town Committee mainly Graeme MacGregor and Neil Carruthers for helping make it happen. He also thanked those who had worked in the background and supported him through his journey, namely George and Michael Carruthers and finally to his family, for their continued love and encouragement.
The Shennachie closed the proceedings, by declaring Simon Peter Carruthers of Holmains, Chief of Carruthers and commented on the fact that this was a culmination of a great many years of hard work and effort, and that by ensuring the legal process to have a Chief named was followed to the letter, today marked the final piece in a very long and arduous process. The celebration continued at the Annan Distillery with speakers, an inauguration dinner, appointments by the Chief and a ceilidh. He apologised to the latecomers, who sadly couldn’t attend.
Text by: George Carruthers.
Main photo: Dr Simon Peter Carruthers of Holmains.
Meet the Buchanans, a feature documentary from BAFTA award-winning producer Barbara Orton, has made its world premiere at the Tartan Film Festival in Los Angeles. For 300 years the Clan Buchanan has been without a chief. That is, until now… Historical fact and historical fantasy collide in Meet the Buchanans, which observes the coming inauguration of millionaire Scottish landowner Mike Buchanan as the newly confirmed Clan Buchanan Highland Chief, along with his wife Lady Paula and their teenage family.
Join the family in real Outlander style as the Buchanans attract tartan-mad enthusiasts from around the world. We meet characters drawn to Scotland by kinship, connection, and the excitement of the Clan’s first chief in over three hundred years – from two American sisters who wear the Buchanan tartan proudly, to Mexican Pedro Buchanan.
Cemented its place in Scottish history
The Buchanan family. Photo: Stewart Attwood Photography.
The driving force behind his claim to the title, Mike’s determined wife Paula planned the inaugural three-day bonanza and ceremonial regalia on their magnificent Highland estate in 2022. She is now the chief architect of his ‘coronation’ (well, much of it, if an ancient source can’t be found). Following in the footsteps of famous Buchanan house guest, the nineteenth-century Scottish writer Walter Scott – ceremony and ritual are being freely invented. This unique event took place at Cambusmore, Callander, the modern seat of Clan Buchanan and the chief’s ancestral home.
The ceremony cemented its place in Scottish history as the first for many hundreds of years, and the new chief swore an oath to protect and champion the Buchanan Clan. A hidden world of British wealth and privilege unfolds as the family uncover and invent fresh entitlements of the new role: revealing not only whether they can pull off this event, but also how history is made (up). Meet the Buchanans raises important questions around identity, historical values and traditions, belonging, and the place of Clans in the modern world.
The Buchanan sons with Malcolm Buchanan, Clan Buchanan Society International Oceania.
The newly-completed feature-length version began its festival circuit in August with the world premiere at the Tartan Film Festival in Los Angeles, organized by the St. Andrew’s Society of Los Angeles. A shorter version of the film was originally commissioned by BBC Scotland. The feature version which premiered at the Tartan Film Festival is supported by Screen Scotland. The film premier took place at Lumiere Cinema in Beverly Hills and was followed by a Q&A with the Clan Chief, Lady Buchanan, and producer and director Barbara Orton, hosted by BBC Correspondent Sandro Monetti. Following the week of the premiere, the film was screened at the Pleasanton Highland Games hosted by the San Francisco Caledonian Club where Mike will be the Honored Clan Chief.
A Clan story that’s not stuck in the past
The Buchanan with Lady Paula.
Barbara Orton, producer and co-director, says: “Now the feature version is finished, I can’t wait for festival and cinema audiences to see it and witness a contemporary view of Scotland, in a story about Clans originating in the modern world. It’s a Clan story that’s not stuck in the past.” Anthony Arnello, Events Director of the Tartan Film Festival added: “So often in America, people are fixated on dreams of discovering a long-lost connection to Robert the Bruce or a hope that they might in fact become a Clan Chief by some forgotten cousin. This film brings that fantasy to life, taking the viewer into the fold of becoming a Chieftain and along the way finding meaning, creating tradition, and building a legacy.”
An eagle display at the inauguration.
Clan Chiefs must be approved by the Lord Lyon King of Arms. The Lord Lyon has full judicial powers to enforce use of heraldry and coats of arms in Scotland through the Lyon Court, the last surviving ‘Court of Chivalry’ in the world. As well as those with the surname Buchanan, clansfolk also include those with Scottish roots and surnames such as Bohannon, Coleman, Colman, Cormack, Dewar, Dove, Dow, Gibb, Gibbon, Gibb, Gibson, Gilbert, Gilbertson, Harper, Masters, Masterson, Morris, Richardson, Rush, Rusk, Walter, Walters, Wasson, Waters, Watson, Watt, Watters, and Weir. In the modern day, these are known as affiliated families but were previously known as septs of the clan.
The Hamilton and Districts Pipe Band celebrates, this year,120 years of continuous service to the Hamilton community. The sound of bagpipes and drums have been synonymous with Victoria’s western plains since the earliest Scottish and Irish settlers sought to continue their own ancient culture in a new land. In 1904 the Hamilton Pipe Band was formed through the merger of the existing Caledonian Pipe Band and other players.
Amazing milestone
The band at the Glen Thompson Anzac Day, 2024.
To celebrate this amazing milestone, on Saturday 26 October, the Pipe Band is reviving what was once an annual event and holding the Hamilton Highland Gathering 2024 in the Botanical Gardens. “The Pipe Band is just one of the many clubs and volunteer groups that make Hamilton a great place to live, work and play”, says Band president, Richard Murphy. “The Pipe Band is going to begin the event with a Street Parade made up of visiting pipe bands and local clubs”, Richard explains.
Southern Grampians Shire have sponsored the Pipe Band performances in the Botanical Gardens. Wannon Water has sponsored the Street Parade. Anyone wishing to contact the Hamilton and Districts Pipe Band can phone Ken on 0437 711 444, Richard on 0407 516 532 or see www.hamiltonpipesanddrums.org.au.
Main photo: The Hamilton and Districts Pipe Band, 1912.
The Sons of Scotland Pipe Band from Ottawa, Canada assembled another great group of musicians, dancers, and friends that joined them on their 20th trip to Scotland in August and it was just terrific. With daily practices in Edinburgh and guest players from Liverpool, Australia, France and across Ontario and Quebec, the band had a great time preparing for the World Pipe Band Championships where they had a great play.
The band performed at shows at Edinburgh City Chambers for Lord Provost Robert Aldridge, at the Palace of HolyroodHouse – where MC Matt Taylor set a new standard for audience experience engagement, then onto Tennent’s Brewery in Glasgow, and the final stop at Glencoe where the mist covered the mountains added to the atmosphere, but we played on.
More great trip opportunities
The band at the World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green.
The band’s international Drum Major Brian Wilson invited the pipe band to travel to Ireland just 10 days later, so PM Bethany Bisaillion and guest players from Ontario and Quebec made the trip to play in the 10th annual Belfast International Tattoo at the SSE Arena. As part of a pipe band of 100+ and alongside many other musicians and dancers, the band was honoured to receive this opportunity and truly enjoyed visiting Belfast.
With more great trip opportunities ahead of us, including playing at the Invictus Games in Vancouver in 2025, the band welcomes players to visit their website and see how they can join in and be part of their great travels.
For more details on the Sons of Scotland Pipe Band, or to get in touch, please visit: www.sospb.com.
You certainly can’t accuse Alan Cumming of being stuck in a rut. On the contrary, the Scot’s CV is a thing of wonder; a bewildering variety of films, TV series, voiceovers, musical roles, cameos and compelling comic turns. He has been in a James Bond film – Goldeneye – and illuminated successful movie franchises such as Spy Kids.
He has won a Tony award for starring on Broadway in Cabaret, gained Emmy and Golden Globe nominations for his work in the drama series The Good Wife and presents the American version of the Emmy winning hit show The Traitors. Some people approaching 60 – Alan reaches that milestone in January – might consider slowing down, but if anything, the opposite seems to be the case with this multi-faceted performer.
Never looking back
Currently he’s making a film with Brian Cox, creating a stage version of the cult TV series The High Life with Forbes Masson and flitting between the United States and Scotland so often that he must have racked up plenty of frequent flier air miles. Anybody who lives a nighthawk existence and channel-hops around old TV programmes from the 1980s and 1990s will have caught up with Alan at some stage, whether in Scottish staples Taggart and Take the High Road or such eclectic offerings as Rik Mayall Presents, Black Beauty, Blind Date or The Invasion of the Comic Tomatoes.
So, one can understand why he “hated” being asked to name his favourite performances from a career which prides itself on never looking back. Yet, as he said: “I’ve played so many people and creatures and I also don’t ever hang on to them, but am always moving on to the next person I am going to inhabit. It’s actually more important the kind of experience that I have on a set. That’s what I remember. Hopefully, it was a happy one, with kind people and it felt fun to come to work every day. But I suppose the characters from The High Life are in my mind again because we are working on a musical of the show for the National Theatre of Scotland and revisiting them has been such fun. I also really like Mr Floop from the Spy Kids movies. He touched the hearts of so many kids who are now young adults and so many people approach me in such a different way if they have watched those films. I’m very much enjoying the character I play on the US Traitors. I know that I’m officially the host of the show, but I’m acting my socks off and I love being the castle daddy.”
How vital the arts are to our lives
Alan isn’t somebody to throw in the towel in arguing for his beliefs. He might be frustrated at how arts and culture organisations always seem to be an easy target for parties of all political persuasions whenever they need to trim their budgets. But that doesn’t mean he won’t keep championing the need for greater investment and for youngsters from all backgrounds to have access to opportunities.
He said: “It’s sad that the arts is the first area to be hit by cuts when we need to pull in the purse strings, but is also the first area we turn to in times of crisis. Look at Covid, and how much we relied on artists and performers to entertain us, help raise money and try and make sense of what was happening to all of us. We constantly have to remind everyone how vital the arts are to our lives, and I find that really annoying. I guess because it’s worth can’t be quantified in spreadsheets, but rather through imagination and inspiration, people find it difficult to remember.”
And yet, despite these concerns, Alan has hardly been busier and is continuing his transatlantic sojourns to be involved in a diverse range of new ventures. He explained: “Right now, I am making a film near Glasgow with Brian Cox. He’s directing and we are playing brothers who have a family distillery. It’s a lovely film about the way you can’t run from your past, and how Scotland is a sort of siren, pulling you back home. I know that’s how it feels to me too. After that, I am doing some concerts in America and making another film in Scotland about the poet Jorge Luis Borges. The latter’s the fellow who once memorably described the Falklands conflict as being “a fight between two bald men arguing over a comb”.
It’s the sort of witticism which you can imagine Alan delivering on stage. He’s living his own High Life at the moment and there’s no sign of him being grounded any time soon.
The Isle of Rum has been designated as Scotland’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary by DarkSky International. The designation recognises the efforts of the Isle of Rum Community Trust and NatureScot to protect and promote the island’s special starry skies and nocturnal environment, as well as acknowledging its scientific and cultural importance. While Scotland has five designated International Dark Sky Places, the Inner Hebridean island is the first area to be designated as a Sanctuary following stricter night sky quality criteria to reflect its remote location and naturally dark night skies.
There are just 20 other International Dark Sky Sanctuaries worldwide, with only one other in Europe – Ynys Enlli or Bardsey Island in Wales. Over the past few years, Rum’s small population has been working to ensure that all lighting on the island is dark sky-friendly, as well as hosting astrological and educational events for the community, the local school, and visitors.
Amber Harrison, the Dark Sky Places Program Manager, said: “This certification represents the hard work and dedication of advocates, residents, and community officials who recognize the value of Rum’s natural and cultural resources and are dedicated to safeguarding them against human impacts into the future. Rum is home to a significant breeding population of Manx shearwaters and these efforts will ensure that their habitat is protected for years to come.”
Future aspirations include the establishment of a Dark Sky Tower in Kinloch village with telescopes available to all to view the night sky and views of the island’s dramatic mountain ridges. An all-sky camera and weather station in the village is also planned to provide round-the-clock online viewing worldwide. A year-round program of astronomy events and informative signs around the island will be put in place to educate visitors and locals alike on the importance of dark skies both for human health and for nature.
Alex Mumford, who led the Dark Sky bid while visitor services manager on the Isle of Rum, said: “We are thrilled to become Scotland’s first Dark Sky Sanctuary and relish the prospect of the impact we can have far and wide. It has been a long process and a lot of hard work has gone into this and we hope to provide inspiration around the world for other small communities to do the same. The work now begins to put our exciting plans into motion and we cannot wait.”
Nationally important natural heritage
Fliss Fraser, a director for the Isle of Rum Community Trust, said: “As a small Scottish island with a resident population of 40, we are really proud to have achieved Dark Sky Sanctuary status. Along with all the benefits for our natural heritage, we hope to encourage visitors to enjoy our dark skies as part of our ongoing sustainable approach to tourism.”
Most of Rum is designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR), recognizing its internationally and nationally important natural heritage. Rum National Nature Reserve is managed by NatureScot as a special place for wildlife and people. In spring and summer, the island’s mountain tops are home to one of the world’s largest breeding colonies of Manx shearwater. More than 120,000 pairs descend on Rum each year, representing around 25% of the world’s breeding population.
Lesley Watt, NatureScot’s NNR manager for Rum, said: “Dark skies are vital for many species to thrive, and this is especially so for Rum’s population of Manx shearwater. Along with many birds, light pollution can have a really negative impact on these amazing seabirds, particularly for fledglings who are active at night and are attracted to artificial light. When it is time for the Manx shearwater fledglings to leave Rum and make their first flight out to sea, light pollution can disorient them causing them to crash on land and never reach the sea or their destination. This designation is excellent news as by protecting our night skies we can ensure the island remains a safe haven for these birds and the many other species that make Rum so special.”
The Williamstown Highland Celtic Gathering is thrilled to announce its upcoming event, a vibrant celebration of Highland Scottish and Celtic culture. This much-anticipated gathering will be on Saturday, 26 October 2024, at the historic Seaworks precinct in Williamstown, a short train ride from Melbourne Central. Join in for a day filled with the stirring sounds of bagpipes, the grace of Highland dancers, and the strength of athletes displaying their skills in a mini-heavy games event. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a variety of stalls offering authentic Celtic food, drink, merchandise, and crafts, with plenty of activities to amuse the children all day.
Highlights of the Williamstown Highland Gathering:
Celtic Music: Immerse yourself in the playing of the bagpipes and Celtic folk music on the stage and all day in the Pirate Bar.
Celtic Dancing: Watch dancers of forms of Celtic dancing & all ages perform traditional and modern Celtic dances.
Heavy Events: Cheer on athletes as they showcase their skills in classic and traditional events.
Cultural Displays: Learn about Scottish and Celtic history and heritage through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Unique Merchandise: Take home a piece of the Highlands with crafted goods.
The Williamstown Highland Gathering is a family-friendly event that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of the Celtic people. It’s a perfect day out for anyone interested in experiencing the warmth and excitement of Highland Scottish hospitality. Tickets are available for purchase online. For more information, please visit the website or contact our event coordinator. The Williamstown Highland Gathering is an annual event that brings together the best of Scottish and Celtic culture in Melbourne. The Melbourne Highland Games and Celtic Festival Inc. is a not-for-profit organisation of dedicated volunteers giving access to all who identify with and want to celebrate Scottish heritage and culture.
Event details:
Date: Saturday, 26 October 2024
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Seaworks, Williamstown, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Cost: Children under 16 FREE, All concession holders $20.00, Adults $25.00
Jamie Lees, an Amherstburg, Ontario resident and co-owner of Jank Words & Pictures, has curated a unique historical exhibition titled: Left at The Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith at the Central Dundee Library in Scotland. On now the exhibition delves into the enigmatic story of Jamie’s great grandmother, Mary Petrie Smith, who, on September 14, 1911, left her two young sons in their pram outside a pub in The Wellgate, before leaving for Canada (her journey spanned several Canadian cities, including Montreal, Perth, Kingston, and Collingwood, where she rebuilt her life). Through a meticulous collection of artifacts, documents, photographs, and personal stories, Jamie presents an emotionally charged and historically rich narrative.
Dedicated to her great grandmother, the exhibition Left at The Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith allows Mary to finally share her side of the story that remained secret; untold for 113 years. Jamie’s journey to uncover the truth behind this family mystery has profoundly affected her, leading her from deep sorrow to a sense of peace as she felt her great grandmother’s spirit guiding her throughout the process. The exhibition invites visitors to explore various possibilities of what really happened that dark day in 1911 and what drove Mary to make such a drastic decision, encouraging them to form their own opinions based on the artifacts, documents, and personal stories presented. Jamie Lees said: “Left at The Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith has been an emotional journey of discovery and connection for me. It is a privilege to share my great grandmother’s story with the people of Dundee and to highlight the resilience and strength of women like her.”
Understanding of the historical landscape
Collaborating with The Wellgate Project and leveraging her expertise in visual storytelling with her husband, Jamie brings a deeply personal yet universally resonant experience to the audience. Frank D’Angelo, co-owner at Jank Words & Pictures, praises her dedication to preserving and sharing this heritage thoughtfully with a broader audience, fostering a stronger cultural connection between Canada and Scotland. In addition to the exhibition, there will be a series of related talks by guest speakers and interactive events to further engage the community with the historical themes and the stories presented.
Dr. Erin Farley, Project Lead and Library & Information Officer, Central Library, Dundee, Scotland, where the exhibition will take place, notes, “We’ve collaborated with Jamie in Canada from Scotland to create an immersive experience that sheds light on the social and cultural context of early 20th century Dundee. This exhibition not only honours Mary Petrie Smith’s legacy but also enriches our understanding of the historical landscape in which she lived.”
The public are invited in celebrating this remarkable transatlantic connection and discover the compelling story of Left at The Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith, a story that peels back the layers of the life of a complex woman—abandoner, immigrant, bigamist, survivor, enigma. A paradoxical maternal path that shaped a family’s history.
Left at The Wellgate: The Untold Story of Mary Petrie Smith runs to October 14, 2024 at the Central Library, The Wellgate, Dundee. For more information, please contact Jamie Lees at [email protected] or visit The Wellgate Project’s website at www.leisureandculturedundee.com/event/33287.
On 17-18 August 2024, Clans Buchanan, Edmonstone, Fraser, MacDonald, MacGregor, MacKinnon, MacNichol and McPherson gathered and struck their tents at Kryal Castle, Ballarat. The haunting sound of the lone piper from the 5/6 Royal Victorian regiment calling the crowds to gather within Kryal’s mighty walls. A sizeable proportion of those attending were from the large Scots diaspora residing near Ballarat and in the Central Highlands region of Victoria.
This year’s event was also celebrating the 750th anniversary of the birth of King Robert I of Scotland. On both days the event was opened by the burly lads and lasses from Highland Muscle, who kept the crowd entertained with feats of strength including caber tossing, hammer throw and other expositions of superhuman strength. Crowd participation was encouraged and great fun was had by all.
Andrew McKinnon (Clan MacKinnon), Simon Abney-Hastings (the Earl of Loudoun), Frank McGregor (Clan MacGregor) and Malcolm Edmiston (Edmonstone Clan Society).
This was followed on the Saturday by the official opening of the event by our Chief of the Day, Simon Abney-Hastings, the 15th Earl of Loudoun. Mayor of Mirrabool Shire, Councillor Ally Munari also gave a great speech in support of the event. The Earl presented a mighty claymore known as the ‘Tarskavaig Toothpick’ to be awarded to the winner of the England versus Scotland joust. Shortly thereafter the massed bands including members from 5/6 Royal Victorian Regiment Pipes and Drums, Golden City Pipe Band, and the Ballarat Pipe Band regaled the crowd with many classics Highland tunes. Special mention to Malcolm Edmiston, Armiger and High Commissioner for Australasia for the Edmonstone Clan Society, who took the salute on Sunday the 18th in remembrance of those who served in the Australian Armed Forces with honour in Vietnam, including himself!
The castle walls were filled with lots of other attractions
Combined Pipes and Drums.
The Highland Dancing by the Victorian Scottish Union Highland Dancing with performers from Geelong Scottish Dance wowed the crowd with their Highland dancing demonstration and the tiniest dancers stealing the show. This year “Who is the real William Wallace?” with the real versus the woad covered imposter, again attempted to educate the crowd about how the historical William Wallace would have looked and sounded. It did seem that the woad covered comedian proved the most popular of our William Wallace’s. Following, was a joust between the knights of England and the mighty knights of Scotland. Andrew McKinnon, armiger of Clan MacKinnon and Commissioner for Australia for the Clan MacKinnon Society, jousted with his own heraldry and proved too good for the English taking victory and winning the might claymore for Scotland!
The castle walls were filled with lots of other attractions including Highland cows and the magnificent Scottish Deerhounds and lots of fabulous vendors selling Scottish food and wares. As the dusk drew in, the audience enjoyed the individual band performances from all band participating in the massed bands performance. As part of the action packed program, there was a Highland themed feasts held with haggis and delicious Scottish food served and a whisky tasting narrated by Craig Merson from the Whisky Company. The hungry attendees were royally entertained by Auld Alliance, a two-piece band playing stirring Scots classics who also called a few enthusiastic patrons up to dance at the post feast ceilidh.
Due the success of 2024’s event another one has been confirmed for 2025 with an announcement about the date to follow.
Main image: Andrew McKinnon leads Scotland to victory against the English in the Joust.
Scientists’ search for the source of Stonehenge’s iconic Altar Stone has intensified, with a new paper ruling out Orkney as where it came from. The new findings follow last month’s news (Scotland’s link to Stonehenge, the Scottish Banner, September, 2024) that the largest “bluestone” at the heart of Stonehenge came from the Orcadian Basin of north-eastern Scotland, and not from Wales as previously thought. Construction at Stonehenge began 5,000 years ago, with changes and additions to the ancient site happening over the next two millennia. Although it is unclear when the Altar Stone arrived at Stonehenge, it may have been placed within the world-renowned central horseshoe of stones during the second construction phase at around 2620 – 2480 BC. With many Neolithic monuments, and having the right geological features, Orkney seemed a likely candidate for the source of the Altar Stone.
North-east of Scotland
Published in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, the new research examined both the five exposed Neolithic-age stones at the Stones of Stenness and seven others at the Ring of Brodgar on mainland Orkney, similar in size and rock type to the Altar Stone. The research concludes that the six-tonne Altar Stone at the heart of the ancient site was not sourced from Mainland Orkney but elsewhere within north-eastern Scotland.
Professor Richard Bevins from Aberystwyth University, the lead author of the new study, has been investigating Stonehenge for the last 15 years. He said: “The mystery of where the stone came from is becoming clearer and clearer as we begin to rule out specific areas in north-east Scotland. This research is radically changing our thinking about the origins of the Altar Stone. It’s thrilling to know that our chemical analysis and dating work is slowly unlocking this great mystery. The Altar Stone is anomalous in many ways to both the bluestones and the sarsens at Stonehenge. Whilst, at six tonnes, it is nowhere near the size of the sarsens, it is substantially larger than the bluestones, with which it has previously been classed. It lies in an unusual position at the monument, occupying a near central location and not within either the Bluestone Circle or the Bluestone Horseshoe. It is also grey-green sandstone, unlike all the other bluestone rock types. As an academic, I have been fascinated by Stonehenge for decades. I and my other colleagues in the team will continue to work to pin down where exactly in the north-east of Scotland the Altar Stone came from.”
The new research adds to findings by Aberystwyth University and other UK and Australian scientists published last month in Nature that concluded that the Altar Stone came from north-eastern Scotland. In turn, this built on previous Aberystwyth University research that ruled out its Welsh origins and suggested that it should no longer be classified as a bluestone.
Main photo: The Altar Stone, seen here underneath two bigger Sarsen stones. Photo: Professor Nick Pearce, Aberystwyth University.
The 63rd Scottish Gathering and Highland Games held in Salado, Texas, is the oldest Scottish festival in Texas and hosts the largest gathering of Scottish Clans in the state. The landmark event has been sponsored continuously by the Salado Museum since 1961 with all proceeds benefitting the museum, a nonprofit organization (www.saladomuseum.org).
Heralding all things Scottish, the 3-day event (November 8-10) highlights bagpipe band, Highland dance and heavy athletics competitions and features a Clan Village with some 40 Scots Clans represented. Weekend activities also include performances by Celtic musicians, Bonniest Knees and Shortbread contests, and a multi-vendor Celtic marketplace.
Events begin Friday afternoon with an educational presentation on Scottish music history in the museum. A special Calling of the Clans torchlight ceremony takes place that evening on the banks of nearby Salado Creek. Festival grounds open Saturday morning with opening ceremonies held at noon that include a Bands and Clans Parade through the streets of Salado and a massed bands presentation on the grounds.
Sunday activities begin with the Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan and include pipe band and dance performances, live Celtic music, and a Dog Costume Contest. The Wee Scots Gift Shop is open all three days in the Salado Museum.
Islanders on the Hebridean Isle of Barra have launched an ambitious fundraising effort to replace the statue of the saint who gives the island its name which is in danger of being lost to the sea. The statue of 6th century Saint Barr, which stands on a small island in Barra’s Northbay area, was erected in the mid-1970s. However, over time its condition has deteriorated badly. It is showing extensive damage and is in danger of disintegrating completely. A campaign to raise £100,000 is now underway to have it replicated and replaced, with £10,000 already donated to the campaign.
Saint Barr showing deterioration.
The sculpture was created by local artist Margaret Somerville, who died in 2018, using concrete moulded around a steel frame. It depicts the Irish saint holding a shepherd’s crook aloft as he looks to the heavens. In Gaelic, Barra is Barraigh which translates as Barr’s Island. It takes its name from Saint Finbar of Cork who is believed to have been a follower of Saint Columba and introduced Christianity to the island. The exposed sea location and the Hebridean weather has meant that since its erection it is showing signs of extensive damage. The metal frame has become exposed and is rusting due to sections of concrete becoming brittle and falling off, mainly around the statue’s hands, arms and feet.
The fundraising campaign, which is expected to last several years, is led by a community group that came together due to the increasing concern over the statue’s condition and the danger of it being lost completely. They have engaged experienced sculptor Stephen Tinney to use the existing sculpture as the basis for the new statue. Stephen lives on the Isle of Skye but has family connections to Barra and is a regular visitor to the island. A mould of the existing statue will be taken so that it remains true to Margaret Somerville’s original work and recreate it in hard wearing bronze. It is also proposed to increase the statue’s size by 50% so that it is more prominent and visible from the shore.
A symbol of the island
Statue blessing, 1970s.
Michael MacNeil of the Saint Barr Statue Fundraising Group said: “For almost 50 years, the statue has been a symbol of our island and its rich heritage. It would be a huge loss if Saint Barr was to crumble into the sea completely without any effort to preserve Margaret’s work and her gift to the community. We know her family, who are supportive of the campaign, will not want that to happen. This project will see the statue recreated in a material that will withstand the worst of Hebridean weather and cope with its exposed seashore location.”
Increasing the visibility of the statue will enable greater public engagement and understanding of the statue through greater interpretation and storytelling. Fundraising group member, Michael MacKinnon added: “Margaret was a very popular and respected member of our community. She contributed so much to the life of Barra in so many ways from public artwork to teaching the clarsach (harp). It is important that we recognise her impact on Barra and ensure her main public artwork is visible, enjoyed and understood by future generations of islanders and visitors.”
Saint Barr’s condition with Margaret Somerville’s former home in the background.
The fundraising campaign has been kickstarted with a £10,000 grant from the Crown Estates Scotland. Theresa Irving of Northbay Community Council and member of the fundraising group welcomed the donation. She said: “We are so grateful to the Crown Estates for this funding towards replacing Saint Barr. This is a very welcome boost and a positive start to our fundraising. We know this is an ambitious campaign, but we are confident that islanders at home and away and those who visit will back it so that our saint remains in place.”
Glasgow’s visitor attractions are often world-class; think of Kelvingrove Museum, The Burrell and Glasgow Green. But there are visitor attractions that are lesser-known as well as other quirky and intriguing features that only locals are aware of – and often not many of them. Here are a few Glasgow surprises.
Smug’s St Mungo’ Mural, High Street.
‘Partick’ Thistle?
Everyone has heard of Glasgow’s alternative soccer team, the much-loved plucky underdogs Partick Thistle. Sport-inclined visitors may well want to go along and take in a game, but if you get hold of tickets the one thing to not do is head for Partick. The club was formed in 1876 and did occupy several home grounds, mostly in Partick, a former burgh now very much part of Glasgow that’s a couple of miles west of the city centre on the banks of the Clyde. However, in 1909 the club moved to their present home, Firhill, in Maryhill, to the north-west of the city centre. Thistle are noted for their distinctive if garish red and yellow colours; yet until the 1930s they played in blue, so even their look isn’t as traditional as you’d think.
Jenny Lind
Jenny Lind (1820-1887) was a soprano known as ‘The Swedish Nightingale’. She debuted in her native Stockholm at 18 and eventually taught singing at the Royal College of Music in London. Apparently (it’s a musical so I’ve never seen it) she appears as a character in the blockbusting film The Greatest Showman. So, what does she have to do with Glasgow? Well, remarkably, there is a small neighbourhood that is actually called Jenny Lind south of the river.
The homes there stand on what used to be part of the Pollok Estate and it is believed that Lind stayed in a cottage there during a visit to Glasgow. Subsequently, an inn was named after her and when the houses were built, the area took on the name of the inn. I wish it were a bus terminus; I would love to see the name ‘Jenny Lind’ on the front of a bus! Lind was a superstar in her day and there is also a beach in Queensland and an island in Canada named after her. But a district of Glasgow is surely the ultimate accolade?
The Sculpture that Disappeared
Concept of Kentigern.
Back in the 1970s, Buchanan Street was pedestrianised and one of the items of street furniture that appeared was a mysterious, abstract sculpture entitled Concept of Kentigern. It was the winning entry in a competition and was the work of artist Neil Peter Livingstone. It is an imaginative, symbolic envisioning of one of Glasgow’s patron saint’s miracles; St Kentigern (or St Mungo) restored a robin to life. It was unveiled in October 1977, the very month that I started at the University of Strathclyde, so I was in Glasgow daily and saw it a lot. I rather liked it but, sadly, in a city that prides itself on being a centre for art, much of the media and public response was hostile and mocking. I remember one local was quoted in the Evening Times as saying ‘It’s got nae heid!’
The sculpture was removed in 2000 and spent nearly two decades in storage. Happily, when City of Glasgow College’s magnificent City Campus opened in 2016, a new home was finally found for Concept of Kentigern outside one of the entrances. For more art inspired by St Kentigern/Mungo and his robin, head to High Street for street artist Smug’s wonderful gable-end mural.
Rottenrow Gardens
During my time at Strathclyde, there was an enormous hospital building on the hill opposite the McCance Building in Richmond Street, where I spent most of my time. This was the Glasgow Royal Maternity Hospital which operated on this site from 1860 to 2001. The main entrance was on Rottenrow and this became the shorthand name for the facility; Glaswegians will say, ‘Aye, I was born in Rottenrow.’ When it closed most of the hospital was demolished and the site was developed as a green open space by the University, something Strathclyde lacked in my day.
As such it now promotes mental health. There’s a typically quirky George Wyllie artwork on site; entitled Monument to Maternity, it’s a giant safety pin – how many safety pins did Rottenrow Hospital use in its lifetime, I wonder? The entrance to the hospital has also been retained as a grand gateway to the gardens.
Wild West Glasgow
In 1891, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show came to Glasgow, setting up camp in Dennistoun in the East End. Thousands of Glaswegians enjoyed seeing sharpshooter Annie Oakley and real live Native Americans. There was a sour aftertaste, though, as many of the Native Americans were effectively prisoners of war who had been given the choice of being locked up or becoming circus acts.
In any case, in 2006 a statue of Buffalo Bill was placed on the site of the show, becoming the focal point of a garden in a new housing development. Glasgow has always loved its Wild West. Roy Rogers’ horse Trigger famously was photographed inside the Central Hotel climbing the grand stairway! In the Southside you will also find Glasgow’s own Grand Ole Opry where there are weekly country gigs and other western-related activities. Howdy, y’all.
Bud Neill Remembered
Continuing on from the last subject, Bud Neill (1911-1970) was a much-loved Glasgow newspaper cartoonist whose best-known character was Lobey Dosser, the Sheriff of Calton Creek, a town in America’s Wild West populated entirely by Glaswegians. The humour ranged from pawky, to clever wordplay, to Pythonesque surrealism, though I suspect much of it would be incomprehensible to non-Glaswegians. Lobey Dosser’s horse, El Fideldo (or ‘Elfie’ for short) was remarkable for only having two legs; Neill claimed he could not draw four-legged horses.
So, the statue erected in 1992 in Neill’s honour, featuring Elfie with Lobey Dosser and sworn enemy Rank Bajin on his back, is said to be the world’s only two-legged equestrian statue. Perhaps it is. You’ll find it in Woodlands Road, just west of Charing Cross. To finish where we began; a regular character in Lobey Dosser strips was the GI Bride, who usually appeared carrying her child and trying to thumb a lift back to ‘Pertick’. In 2011, a statue of bride and baby appeared on the concourse at Partick Station. The two Bud Neill statues probably baffle many non-natives who see them. Well, now you know.
Text by: David McVey
Main photo: Rottenrow Gardens and the George Wyllie artwork.
Developed in the 1950’s as the Scottish rival to the legendary Austin Mini, the Hillman Imp began production in Linwood just outside Glasgow in the early 1960’s. The innovative car, and modern new factory which employed thousands of Scots, sadly never was the success it was made to be as the project was plagued with poor build quality, unreliability and low sales. The icon of Scottish motoring is still however fondly remembered as Eric Bryan explains.
In 1955 the British Rootes Group inaugurated a small car project with an eye toward designing a vehicle which would compete with the bubble cars of the time. The petrol shortages created by the 1956 Suez Crisis increased the British demand for small, economical cars and further sharpened Rootes’ determination to develop a viable entry into the compact car market.
Engineers Mike Parkes and Tim Fry produced two different prototypes of a model called the Slug, but the Rootes board members condemned the designs for their outward similarities to bubble cars. Instead, the board pointed to the Austin A30 and Ford Poplar as representing a more fitting direction in design for the proposed Rootes car. This decision instigated Project Apex.
Innovative design
A 1963 Rootes advertisement for the Hillman Imp. Retrieved from retronaut.com.
The Apex design was fitted with a rear-mounted aluminium 875cc Coventry Climax engine, and a newly-designed Adrian West transaxle. Both were considered excellent and ahead of their time. The Apex body shape, particularly the front end, took some inspiration from American cars such as the Corvair, and the now-familiar Imp lines emerged. Various factors caused Rootes to rush the Apex/Imp project in 1962, preventing the engineers from perfecting some features.
The Hillman Imp went into production at the Rootes factory in Linwood, 14 miles west of Glasgow, and burst onto the British automotive scene in 1963. Published road tests of the Imp praised its splendid gearbox, engine and handling qualities. But due to the hurrying of the project in its final stages, the Imp initially suffered mechanical difficulties and earned a reputation for unreliability. Rootes ironed out these problems, but the Imp’s rear-engine arrangement was overshadowed by the BMC Mini’s front-engine-front-wheel-drive design. However, this new compact saloon became the least expensive British car of the period. Though not reaching the iconic status which the Mini achieved in the mid-1960s, the Imp was an innovative design, and production as well as competition versions of the car had some famous wins in the Tulip Rally and at Monte Carlo.
Some basic specs
A peek into an Imp’s engine compartment. Brian Snelson, CC by 2.
The original Imp four-cylinder 875cc engine had a Solex 30 PIHT-2 carburettor, a compression ratio of 10 : 1, and produced 39 hp. The engine was positioned behind the rear axle at a 45-degree angle in order to fit. The aluminium gearbox had synchromesh on all four gears and was considered perhaps the best of its time. The Hillman Imp had a wheelbase of 208cm, a length of 353cm, a kerb weight of 698kg and a turning circle of 9.3m. The car’s top speed was about 122 km/h. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h was approximately 23 seconds, and the average fuel economy was 12.7 km/l. The 1966 Imp Sport variant had 50 hp and offered 0-100 km/h in 18 seconds and a top speed of 138 km/h.
One of the car’s innovative features was an opening rear window-hatch, which gave access to a small luggage area that could be increased by folding down the rear seat. Though not an actual hatchback, the Imp was a predecessor to that design and the first car with this option. The De Luxe version of the Imp, also introduced in 1963, was slightly heavier but had similar performance. Extras available for the De Luxe included radio, whitewall tyres, heavy duty shock absorbers, ventilator (opening wing windows), seat belts and reverse lights. The Imp Series I Saloon was replaced by the Series II in 1965 and the Series III in 1968. Production continued until 1976.
The Imp in competition
In races and rallies from January 1964 to April 1966 Imp competitors achieved over 60 team prizes, class wins and outright wins. Some of these Imps had an 875cc engine; others were powered by a 998cc motor. Competition Imps could be tuned to deliver from 75 to 110 bhp, depending on carburetion. By late 1965, Imps had beaten all but a handful of the highest-performing Minis, and in 1966 every high-profile club race was won in an Imp. Imps achieved outright wins in the 1965 Tulip and Tanzania rallies.
In the 1965 RAC Rally, Imps took 16 first places and made seven lap records. More Imp outright wins were achieved in the 1966 International Saloon Car Race at Silverstone, and the 1966 Nairobi Rally. The 1966 Swiss Tessin Rally saw another outright win accomplished in an Imp.
Imp Monte Carlo Rally results and controversies
Imp 1, the first Imp to roll off of the production line in 1963, at the Glasgow Transport Museum. Jordanhill School D&T Dept, CC by 2.0.
In January 1964, Imp team Ernie Hunt and R Mac (competition number 249) won the best performance by a British private owner and best performance from the Glasgow start at the Monte Carlo Rally. In the 1965 rally, Imp team Rosemary Smith and Margaret McKenzie (number 113) finished 22nd overall, fourth in the up to 1000cc GT class and second in the Coupes des Dames. David Pollard and Barry Hughes (number 95) driving an Imp achieved second in the up to 1000cc GT class and 15th overall. Rosemary Smith and Valerie Domleo drove Imp number 107 in the now-notorious 1966 Monte Carlo Rally. Though winning the ladies’ class and placing sixth (in the up to 1000cc unmodified production touring car class), number 107 was disqualified due to a last-minute rule change which declared halogen headlamps illegal. The competition number 35 Imp apparently suffered a similar disqualification in this rally.
Amongst other Imp teams competing in the 1966 rally, Tiny Lewis and Timothy Bosence (number 146) won the up to 1000cc modified production touring cars class, while Philippe Simonetta and Bernard Dirren (number 162) took second in the same category. Patrick Lier and Henri Vuarraz, number 136, took first in the up to 1000cc unmodified production touring cars class. Andrew Cowan and Brian Coyle drove Imp competition number 77 in the 1967 Monte Carlo Rally. In this car, Cowan and Coyle took first place in the production cars up to 1000cc class and 22nd overall, while Patrick Lier and Silvio Vaglio took first in the up to 1300cc GT cars class in an Imp. Peter Harper and Robin Turvey drove another Imp in this rally which, while running second in its class and 46th overall, fell out of the race on the rally’s last night with a carburettor failure. Imp team Smith and Domleo were likewise in this race, but crashed and were out, also on the last night. More Imps gave strong showings in the 1968 Monte Carlo Rally. Cowan and Coyle (number 45) took first in the 851-1150cc production touring cars class and 22nd overall, while Smith and Lowrey (number 169) took second in the Coupe des Dames.
Variants and more
The Imp was the basis of several other designs, such as the Imp Commer Van which appeared in late 1965. There was a boom for small vans in Britain created by a tax loophole, and this Rootes entry was designed to compete in that market. The cargo bed’s interior dimension was high enough to accommodate milk churns, had a 350kg capacity, and was required to be able to climb curbs while fully-laden. Rootes almost landed a Commer Van deal with the Royal Mail, but joy-riding postmen spoiled negotiations – the van was considered too fast! Rootes brought out the Sunbeam Imp Sport in 1966. This model’s 875cc engine, fitted with duel Zenith-Stromberg carburettors, produced 55 bhp and powered the car to a top speed of 145 km/h. The Hillman Imp Californian was a fastback coupé version of the car, which went on the market in early 1967. Also in 1967, Rootes introduced an estate version of the Imp, the Hillman Husky, often referred to as the Imp Estate. The Sunbeam Stiletto, which married the coupé design with the Imp Sport power-plant, began production in October 1967.
There were quite a number of other Imp variants, and many vehicles of other marques which used the Imp motor. These included the Probe 15, the TVR Tina, the Bond 875 Mks I and II, and various striking Costin-Nathan and Nathan creations. There were also the Blimp, the KVW Imposter and the Zagato Zimp. The famed Coventry Climax engine was further used in speedboats, hydroplanes (including in a world record holder), motorcycles, street-sweepers, and even in a go-kart and a hovercraft!
Text by: Eric Bryan
Main photo: A competition Hillman Imp Super at the 2011 Blenheim Palace Classic Car Show. Simon Q, CC by 2.0.
The International Clan Cameron Gathering was held from the 1st to the 4th of August at the seat of the Cameron chiefs, Achnacarry, in the west Highlands, near Fort William. This was the first gathering for 15 years, and the first hosted by the new chief, Donald Andrew Cameron of Lochiel, 28th Chief of Clan Cameron. The Covid pandemic delayed the planned 2020 gathering.
Lochiel giving the opening speech at the Gathering.
Hundreds of attendees came from all over the world, with major contingents from the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, France, and of course, Scotland. There were tours of the Achnacarry estate, a welcome reception, talks on various topics, a main day with all sorts of highland and agricultural displays, a ceilidh and a farewell BBQ on the final day to finish. Old clan bonds were re-established and new clan bonds formed, and it was truly a memorable time for attendees.
Main photo: The Australian contingent at the Gathering.
Vikings in the far north of Scotland prospered through handing in their swords and swapping raiding for farming and fishing, a new study has found. Research by a team of University of Aberdeen archaeologists has shown that despite their reputation as brutal plunderers, Viking settlers in Orkney found that ‘the plough was mightier than the sword’.
The study, published in the Journal of the North Atlantic examined archaeological evidence for Viking cemeteries from both Viking homelands in Scandinavia and Viking colonising sites in Britain, Ireland, and Greenland in order to better understand Viking populations, their size and composition.
Norse colonies
Researchers were intrigued to find that the Viking communities that had settled in Scotland, particularly in the Orkney islands, had relatively good rates of fertility and higher rates of natural population increase, particularly when compared to settlements in Greenland. The first known Norse colonies are believed to have been established in the Northern and Western Isles of Scotland in the 9th century as bases for raiding activities in Great Britain by Vikings from Southern Scandinavia.
Professor Marc Oxenham, from the University of Aberdeen, said: “The Norse met very different conditions when settling in the diaspora. Scandinavians who settled in Scotland and Ireland were immigrants into existing communities and had to negotiate their way into these communities, whilst colonisers of Iceland settled a previously uninhabited land and settlers in Greenland were concentrated in isolated communities with what seems little interaction with the native inhabitants of the island and in ecologically very challenging conditions.”
Orcadian Islands
The study, which is part of a much larger British Academy funded project titled Human Stress, Resilience and Adaptation in Ancient Ireland and Scotland, examined these differences and the impact on population growth. They investigated Viking fertility rates – the average number of births per woman – and rates of population increase or decrease. Researchers found a very different demographic pattern in the Northern and Western Scottish Isles compared to other regions with a much higher proportion of children.
Professor Oxenham added: “Interestingly, we found the demographic health of Viking settlements in Greenland was relatively poor. Greenland was a challenging environment in which to seek out a living, and the Viking settlements were eventually abandoned by the 15th century AD. On the other hand, the research team was intrigued to find that the Viking communities that had settled in Scotland, particularly in the Orkney islands, had relatively good rates of fertility and higher rates of natural population increase. This suggests that a long history very effective of land management in Orkney – including the use of seaweed and manure, an increased focus on fishing, which along with evidence for good Pictish-Viking relations in the Orcadian Islands, likely contributed to a much healthier and vibrant community. Ultimately, the Vikings in Orkney found that the plough was mightier than the sword.”
Main photo: The Neolithic settlement of Skara Brae, Orkney. Photo: Kenny Lam/VisitScotland.
Experience the vibrant culture of Scotland right in the heart of Arkansas at ScotsFest 2024, Independence County’s largest annual festival. During the weekend of Oct. 18-20, the Lyon College campus will come alive with the rich sounds of bagpipes, the thrill of Highland athletics and the warmth of homecoming celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of Scottish heritage or just looking for a weekend filled with unique entertainment and camaraderie, this festival offers something for everyone.
Rooted in Lyon College’s Presbyterian heritage, ScotsFest is a celebration of the Scottish traditions that have been integral to the college’s identity since its founding in 1872. The college was established by Presbyterian ministers, whose Scottish ancestry inspired a deep connection to Scotland’s culture and values. This heritage is proudly honored each year through the Arkansas Scottish Festival, which has grown into one of the most significant celebrations of Scottish culture in the Southern United States.
The vibrant display of Scottish culture
Barleyjuice.
Dr. David Hutchison, vice president for advancement at Lyon College, said, “Lyon College is honored to be a part of the rich tapestry of Arkansas’ cultural heritage, and the Arkansas Scottish Festival stands as a testament to our commitment to preserving and sharing these traditions. Through music, dance and the vibrant display of Scottish culture, the Arkansas Scottish Festival demonstrates the power of community and the enduring partnership between Lyon College and our surrounding region.” The festival, which began in 1979 as a modest event on the intramural field, has evolved into one of Arkansas’s preeminent cultural celebrations. This year’s festivities are expected to attract over 6,000 attendees and generate significant economic impact for Independence County. Cindy Barber, executive director of alumni relations, highlighted the festival’s appeal. “ScotsFest is the perfect weekend to enjoy reconnecting with fellow alumni, faculty and staff, family and friends. Enjoy fun, delicious food, dancing, and yes, bagpipes! We can’t wait to see you.”
The weekend’s events kick off on Friday with open classes, a Founders’ Day choir reunion, convocation, a rocket-building workshop, and an alumni awards celebration and alumni social. Saturday will feature traditional Scottish activities including Highland heavy athletics, a dog show, Scottish dancing, a British car show, sheepdog demonstrations and pipe band exhibitions, alongside homecoming events such as student organization reunions, tailgating and a pep rally. Entertainment throughout the festival will include the internationally-known Celtic Rock band Barleyjuice. Formed in 1998 by pipers Kyf Brewer and Keith Swanson, the band has released seven albums of original and traditional Celtic songs, many of which have seen usage in movies and popular TV shows. Fans of Celtic radio and various music formats like Spotify, Apple Music and Pandora will recognize such popular songs as Weekend Irish, Get Your Irish On, Celtic Girl and Nancy Whiskey. Barleyjuice presently consists of Brewer (vocals, guitar, accordion, harmonica and bagpipes), Keith Swanson (vocals, bouzouk and bagpipes), Tucker Hill (bass and vocals), Chris Shepherd (guitar, mandolin and vocals), Johnny Benson (fiddle and vocals) and Jim Seamus Burkhardt (drums).
Scottish culture alive
Celtic songstress Misty Posey, entertainer and bagpipe educator Patrick Regan, and the award-winning Central High School Kilties of Springfield, Missouri, also will perform at ScotsFest. Jimmy Bell, director of the Scottish Heritage program, said, “This year we will have several pipe bands from around the region and great opening ceremonies with all the favorites: Amazing Grace, Scotland the Brave and others. It’s an experience that brings Scottish culture alive right here in Batesville.”
No Scottish festival would be complete without authentic Scottish cuisine, and ScotsFest 2024 is no exception. Attendees can indulge in a delectable array of traditional foods, including savory meat pies, flaky Scottish pastries, and other mouthwatering goodies that pay homage to the rich culinary traditions of Scotland. The festival culminates on Sunday with a Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan worship service and the annual Club 50 luncheon, ensuring a weekend rich in both cultural immersion and college spirit. Pam Palermo, senior director of conferences and events and festival director, encouraged attendance. “General admission to the festival is free, and we welcome everyone to join in celebrating our Scottish roots and Lyon’s strong community connections,” Palermo said. Some alumni and festival activities, including the Friday evening Alumni Awards Banquet and Saturday evening cèilidh feast and entertainment zone, are ticketed special events.
The most expansive and best example of blanket bog in the world, the Flow Country in the far north of Scotland has joined the Serengeti, the Galapagos Islands and the Great Barrier Reef in securing prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its globally important nature. This is a global first, as the Flow Country is the only World Heritage Site inscribed specifically for its peatlands. The World Heritage Committee approved the bid at its annual meeting in New Delhi awarding the designation, reserved for places of special natural, cultural, historical or scientific significance, for the Flow Country’s Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) in ecosystem quality. This makes it the UK mainland’s first World Heritage Site inscribed for the global importance of its natural ecosystems, and the country’s sixth site inscribed for natural criteria overall.
Globally rare
The Flow Country is a vast peat bog that covers much of Caithness and Sutherland in the north of Scotland and stores approximately 400 million tonnes of carbon – more than all the UK’s forests and woodlands combined. It is called blanket bog because it covers the landscape like a blanket and is a type of habitat that is globally rare, but one that is ideally suited to Scotland’s climate and maritime location. The 4,000 sq. km area is home to a hugely complex and fragile ecosystem with a vast array of plants that act as an important defence against climate change. The carbon stored by a 9,000-year accumulation of dead vegetation in the form of peat acts as a carbon sink. This sequesters (traps) and stores carbon, preventing it being released into the atmosphere, helping to prevent further emissions. It is also an internationally important place for wildlife, including upland breeding birds like red-throated diver, golden plover and greenshank. World Heritage Site status is predicted to help realise a wide range of environmental, social, cultural and economic benefits for the north of Scotland including the creation of skills and job opportunities in landscape restoration and conservation, growth in sustainable tourism and hospitality, and the potential of added value to new green finance models to attract global investment to the area.
Momentous moment for Scotland
Bid lead for the Flow Country World Heritage Site project and NatureScot Head of Operations for the North of Scotland, Graham Neville, said: “World Heritage status for the Flow Country is a momentous moment for Scotland’s people and their beloved landscape. This successful bid is testament to the hard work and determination of the Flow Country World Heritage project team as well as community members, scientific experts, businesses, landowners and public bodies from across the Flow Country who have been so generous with their time, knowledge and expertise to shape the bid for the benefit of the whole area. World Heritage Site status will lead to greater understanding of the Flow Country and raise the profile of Scotland’s peatlands globally for their value as biodiverse habitats and important carbon sinks. It is wonderful recognition of the expert stewardship of farmers and crofters in maintaining this incredible ecosystem as a natural legacy for future generations.”
The Fergus Scottish Festival delighted attendees in August with its 79th annual celebration, showcasing the rich tapestry of Scottish culture in a vibrant display of heritage, athleticism, and community spirit. The Festival grounds buzzed with excitement as thousands of visitors immersed themselves in a weekend filled with heavy events, Highland dance, music, and more.
The Festival also showcased an impressive array of attractions including clan displays, delicious Scottish fare, and fine whiskies from local distillers. The event hosted 50 Clans, 300+ athletes, 150 vendors and saw great attendance, with 23,000 visitors immersing themselves in the weekend’s festivities, which included standout moments such as the Professional Heavy Events Competition, the featured guest events with Outlander actors Maria Doyle Kennedy and Duncan Lacroix, and the Tattoo’d in Tradition ceremony.
80th anniversary next year
Photos courtesy of Fergus & District Camera Club.
“We’re thrilled with the entire weekend including attendance given the very Scottish weather” says Executive Director, Elizabeth Bender “Although it had a minor impact, it did not deter guests from joining the festivities. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers, partners, sponsors and everyone who attended for making the 79th Fergus Scottish Festival another success.” She adds “Stay tuned for exciting announcements coming for the 80th anniversary next year”.
Amidst all the busyness of this year’s event, the Fergus Scottish Festival team is already deep into planning for their 80th anniversary next year. Save the date for August 8-10, 2025 for a magical experience celebrating 80 years of heritage, music, athletics, education, and all things Scottish.
Stay on top of announcements and updates by signing up for the Festival newsletter and following the social media channels. Further details and news are also available on the Fergus Scottish Festival website at: www.fergusscottishfestival.com
To mark the 750th anniversary of Robert the Bruce’s birth, a new 3D model, produced from a cast of his skull, displayed to the public for the first time at Dunfermline Abbey. The 3D reconstruction is the most realistic likeness of Robert the Bruce to be produced to date, and was created as part of a collaboration between the University of Glasgow and Liverpool John Moores University Face Lab, which released the digital model a few years ago. Dr Martin McGregor, Senior Lecturer in History at University of Glasgow, first conceived of the model after the discovery of King Richard III of England’s skeleton in Leicester in 2012.
The model was produced using a combination of historical research and scientific analysis with advances in facial reconstruction techniques. The team used a 3D laser scanner to scan the cast of Robert the Bruce’s skull held at the University of Glasgow’s Hunterian Museum, which allowed the team to accurately establish the muscle formation from the positions of the skull bones.
Using CGI technology, realistically textured skin was then layered over the muscle structure. The nose is the least accurate feature of this facial depiction due to the bone deterioration. Historians have long debated whether Robert the Bruce suffered from leprosy. The team created two versions of the digital reconstruction, one without leprosy and one with a mild representation of leprosy. For the 3D physical model, only the version showing no visible signs of leprosy was portrayed.
Scotland’s greatest monarch
Dr Martin MacGregor with the 3D model of Robert the Bruce.
Dr Martin MacGregor, Senior Lecturer in History at University of Glasgow, said: “In a lifetime of only 55 years, Robert Bruce achieved the impossible and restored peace and freedom to a war-torn and colonised kingdom. Contemporary sources tell us much about his remarkable life, but virtually nothing about his appearance. This is what persuaded a team of historians, museum curators, geneticists, forensic scientists and medical artists to combine to create a new 3D depiction of the head of the hero-king, based upon the skull-cast taken from a skeleton in a tomb discovered within the ruins of Dunfermline Abbey in 1818. The head is dressed in a helmet surmounted by a crown, as worn by Bruce at his most famous victory, the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314. 750 years after his birth in 1274, it is fitting that Dunfermline Abbey, where Robert Bruce was buried in 1329, should host an exhibition which brings us face-to-face with Scotland’s greatest monarch.”
Alasdair Campbell, Interpretation Officer at Historic Environment Scotland (HES), said: “We are delighted to host the most accurate model of Robert the Bruce’s face to date. Robert the Bruce’s story is an important part of Dunfermline Abbey, and we are excited for visitors to be able to visualise this story in a new way, particularly as we celebrate his 750th birthday.”
The model will be on show to the public for the first time at Dunfermline Abbey until Saturday 7 December. To learn more and book your tickets, please visit the Historic Environment Scotland website. Other events are also taking place across Historic Environment Scotland to celebrate Robert the Bruce’s 750th anniversary. A full list can be found at www.historicenvironment.scot/bruce. To find out more about the history of Bruce’s likeness and the leprosy debate, visit www.hes.scot/bruce-faces.
Join the City of Armadale to celebrate all things Scottish at the largest Highland Gathering event held in Western Australia that has people saying things like… “It’s different, the vibe is amazing, dogs are super cute, people are amazing and friendly to chat with, it’s a very unique event that really highlights a true highland gathering.” Also: “This event made a great day out for the family. I got to experience home away from home for a day! Such a connected and community vibe felt through the whole event. 10/10 would recommend and I will be back joining in again next year!”
And finally, “Come along for a fantastic day of fun with family and friends. The Armadale Highland Gathering is one of Perth’s best kept secrets for a wonderful immersion in all things Scottish.”
Variety of Scottish delights
The Perth Kilt Run.
The morning of Sunday 6 October begins with the fun and quirky Perth Kilt Run, the biggest and only fun run in Australia that’s done in a kilt! Run, walk or wheel the 2.5km Classic or 5km Warrior course, and for the first time… dogs are officially invited to participate in the Perth Kilt Run for 2024 (2.5km Classic course only.) BYO kilt or purchase one with registration – it’s a charity fun run with a difference and you’re guaranteed to have a good time. As you’d expect… the excitement doesn’t stop there.
The amazing sound of the massed bands.
Following the Perth Kilt Run, we roll straight into the Highland Gathering where you’ll have the rest of the day to experience Highland dancing, pipe bands and heavy event competitions, meet and greet Scottish dogs, explore Clan histories, watch friendly battles between the medieval groups in the arena, revel in live music, test your taste buds with the variety of Scottish delights, and lots more! This is a family friendly and smoke/vape free event hosted by the City of Armadale at Champion Lakes Regatta Centre.
It is one of the most staggering discoveries in recent archaeological history; one which could change the whole perception of where real power existed in Britain thousands of years ago. Archaeologists have long known that some of the stones at Stonehenge came from Wales and were transported about 125 miles to the site of the Neolithic monument on Salisbury Plain.
But a “jaw-dropping” study has revealed that one of Stonehenge’s central megaliths, weighing six tonnes, is 100% Scottish and must have been conveyed as far as 500-700 miles to the world heritage site which is as familiar to tourists as it is to Druids and fans of the film This is Spinal Tap.
The Altar Stone
The Alter Stone.
The new analysis found that the largest “bluestone” at Stonehenge was brought to the site from the north-east corner of Scotland – and scientists have admitted that the revelation could signify that Orkney was one of the most important centres in ancient British history. The megalith, which is known as the “altar stone”, was transported by our ancestors from at least as far as Inverness, and potentially from Orkney, but nobody yet knows how this was orchestrated. However, Rob Ixer, an honorary senior research fellow at University College London and one of the experts behind the study, which was published in Nature, said: “This doesn’t just alter what we think about Stonehenge, it alters what we think about the whole of the late Neolithic period. It completely rewrites the relationships between the Neolithic populations of the whole of the British Isles. The science is beautiful and it’s going to be discussed for decades. It is jaw-dropping.”
The Altar Stone, which is classed as a non-local bluestone, was long thought to have been transported to the site from somewhere in Wales. That belief was reinforced because a separate group of Stonehenge’s bluestones are now known to have been quarried in Pembrokeshire. But that theory has been comprehensively demolished. The study, involving experts from Curtin University in Perth, Australia; Adelaide University; Aberystwyth University; and UCL, originally aimed to examine the stone’s chemical composition and the age of the minerals within it. But nobody was prepared for this outcome.
Completely unexpected
Professor Nick Pearce at Stonehenge.
Nick Pearce, a professor of geography and earth sciences at Aberystwyth who is another of the report’s co-authors, said: “With that age fingerprint, you can match it to the same sort of rocks around the UK – and the match for the age fingerprint was a dead ringer for the Orcadian Basin in north-east Scotland. It was completely unexpected.” Although identifying the exact site will take further work, the scientists have narrowed the potential source area to encompass Orkney; a triangle of land around John O’Groats in Caithness; or a narrow coastal strip stretching south as far as the Moray Firth around Inverness and east to Elgin.
The finding may be astonishing, but the science is not controversial, according to Mr Pearce. He added: “This is very, very well-established science. It’s not something people can look at and say: ‘That can’t be right. The odds of the stone coming from elsewhere are “fractions of a percent”.
Photo: Blair Sugarman.
Nobody has yet figured out how the large rock was ferried – either over land or by sea – from the far north of Scotland to Wiltshire. But Skara Brae on Orkney is older than the Pyramids and demonstrates that people there knew how to build fortified, weather-proof shelters. They were also masters of creating standing stones and such features permeate Orkney.
Perhaps, we’ll learn in the future that their workers dragged the material down to Stonehenge – or should that be Stanehenge? – with an efficiency and precision it’s still hard to believe.
Text by Neil Drysdale.
Main photo: Stonehenge. Photo: John Nail.
**Further research has been released since this article was released which will feature in the October 2024 edition of the Scottish Banner.
Stonehenge’s Altar Stone origins reveal advanced ancient Britain
Curtin University PhD student Anthony Clarke and Professor Chris Kirkland at Stonehenge.
The new research led by Curtin University has revealed the findings point to the existence of unexpectedly advanced transport methods and societal organisation at the time of the stone’s arrival at its current location in southern England about 5,000 years ago. Curtin researchers studied the age and chemistry of mineral grains within fragments of the Altar Stone, which is a 50cm thick sandstone block measuring 5 x 1 metres, that sits at the centre of Stonehenge’s iconic stone circle in Wiltshire. Lead author PhD student Anthony Clarke from the Timescales of Mineral Systems Group within Curtin’s School of Earth and Planetary Sciences said analysis of the age and chemical composition of minerals within fragments of the Altar Stone matched it with rocks from northeast Scotland, while also clearly differentiating them from Welsh bedrock.
“Our analysis found specific mineral grains in the Altar Stone are mostly between 1000 to 2000 million years old, while other minerals are around 450 million years old,” Mr Clarke said. “This provides a distinct chemical fingerprint suggesting the stone came from rocks in the Orcadian Basin, Scotland, at least 750 kilometres away from Stonehenge. Given its Scottish origins, the findings raise fascinating questions, considering the technological constraints of the Neolithic era, as to how such a massive stone was transported over vast distances around 2600 BC. This discovery also holds personal significance for me. I grew up in the Mynydd Preseli, Wales, where some of Stonehenge’s stones came from. I first visited Stonehenge when I was one year old and now at 25, I returned from Australia to help make this scientific discovery – you could say I’ve come full circle at the stone circle.”
Study co-author Professor Chris Kirkland, also from the Timescales of Mineral Systems Group at Curtin, said the findings had significant implications for understanding ancient communities, their connections, and their transportation methods. “Our discovery of the Altar Stone’s origins highlights a significant level of societal coordination during the Neolithic period and helps paint a fascinating picture of prehistoric Britain,” Professor Kirkland said. “Transporting such massive cargo overland from Scotland to southern England would have been extremely challenging, indicating a likely marine shipping route along the coast of Britain. This implies long-distance trade networks and a higher level of societal organisation than is widely understood to have existed during the Neolithic period in Britain.”
In the halls of Bannockburn House, a Grade A listed historic Scottish landmark, a team of dedicated volunteers have uncovered a rare and fascinating piece of history that could have altered the story of the nation. Amidst the delicate plaster work and ancient wooden panelling, a musket ball hole has been discovered – a grim reminder of a previously undocumented assassination attempt of the legendary Bonnie Prince Charlie during the tumultuous Jacobite Rising of 1745. The announcement comes on the 279th anniversary of Bonnie Prince Charlie’s arrival on Scottish soil to try to regain the thrones of England, Scotland and Ireland on behalf of his father, James Stuart.
Bannockburn House
Bannockburn House.
But in January 1746, Prince Charles Edward Stuart, much better known as Bonnie Prince Charlie, took ill and convalesced at Bannockburn House. The large bedroom where he stayed, situated on the first floor’s west wing, is adorned with a delicate plaster frieze of mermaids and has multiple layers of ancient wooden panelling, some of which are hand hewn and painted. The Prince stayed at Bannockburn House at the behest of Sir Hugh Paterson, 3rd Baronet of Bannockburn, when the Jacobite army laid siege of Stirling Castle. During his time there, the Prince also met Sir Hugh’s niece, Clementina Walkinshaw, who nursed him back to health. A romance bloomed between the pair which carried on for many years after the Rising and they had a daughter, Charlotte, Duchess of Albany. It was also during this time, according to the house’s oral traditions, that an assassin fired a shot through the bedroom window, missing Bonnie Prince Charlie as he slept and lodged itself in the wall at the head of the bed. For centuries, the existence of this musket ball hole remained a tantalising legend passed down through the generations, its whereabouts shrouded in mystery, until now.
In April 2024, the hole was found under a secret panel by volunteer researchers on the House’s History Team. The team was aided by leading Jacobite historian Professor Murray Pittock of the University of Glasgow, and Stirling Council Archaeologist, Dr Murray Cook, who both confirmed the authenticity of the find. The Trust volunteers had been searching for the hole but had nothing to go on. Then volunteers arranged a visit with an 89-year-old Edinburgh resident, whose aunt was housekeeper for the last owner in residence, who provided the crucial lead. He told History Team Lead, Anne Monaghan and fellow history volunteer Anna Morrison that his aunt had taken great pride in looking after the bullet hole. As soon as they arrived back in Stirling, they contacted Catherine Bradley, lead volunteer researcher for the charity, who met them the next day to investigate the room.
Forensic evidence of an assassination attempt
“Anne and I noticed what appeared to be the edge of an inset panel in the wall when cleaning out the room furniture recently for conservation. I suspected that is where it may have been. It is across from a window, now hidden by panelling later put in the room sometime in the 1880s. I just didn’t have the evidence to look until now. It was an exciting moment as I opened it. I carefully lifted the panel and saw the splintered wood and I knew we’d found something very special,” Catherine said. She continued: “Anne asked me what I saw, and I remember giggling and saying, wonderful things! I knew we needed to be very careful not to damage it, so we documented it, covered it back up, and called in the cavalry.”
The volunteers quickly contacted Professor Pittock and Dr Cook for help. Dr Cook said: “I have visited the bedroom many times over the years and always tried to imagine the Prince and the resulting confusion from the musket fire and sounds of smashing glass alerting everyone to the assassin. However, to see the damage and to touch the spot sent a thrill down my spine – an incredible tangible experience and worth visiting Bannockburn House for this alone.”
Leading historian Professor Pittock, author of Culloden, The Myth of the Jacobite Clans, Jacobitism and many other works, said: “I am pleased to endorse that Bannockburn House Trust has almost certainly discovered forensic evidence of an assassination attempt on Prince Charles in 1746. This is critically important not only for our understanding of the Rising but also for the role the attack may have played in intensifying the relationship between Charles and Clementina Walkinshaw, which led to the birth of his only child.”
One of the most tumultuous episodes in Scottish and British history
The discovery was confirmed by Jacobite historian Murray Pittock.
Stirling Council Leader, Cllr Chris Kane said: “In the year of Stirling’s 900th anniversary celebrations, it’s remarkable that we’re still unearthing new discoveries about the area’s rich past – but this one is particularly exciting. This astonishing find at Bannockburn House sheds new light on the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie and one of the most tumultuous episodes in Scottish and British history. We are proud that Stirling is at the heart of the nation’s history which is showcased at our wide range of world-class attractions and impressive built heritage like Bannockburn House. It’s why people from all across the world are drawn into the area every year and we look forward to welcoming more visitors during our 900th birthday celebrations.”
But this remarkable find is now under threat from severe water ingress caused by the deterioration of the building. The Bannockburn House Trust, who look after the property, is urgently seeking funding to preserve this invaluable piece of Scotland’s past. The water ingress is from a deteriorating 17th century roof which features hand-hewn wooden slate pegs and carvings on the roof beams. The spectacular ornate plasterwork ceilings are also at risk. Urgent restoration is needed to prevent further damage to the important piece of Scotland’s history. The Trust is launching a major fundraising campaign to proceed with the work. “Our goal is to restore the building and protect the musket ball hole and other important historical features of Bannockburn House,” said Amanda Monaghan, spokesperson and operations manager for the charity. “This discovery is a tangible link to a significant event in our history, and it’s crucial that we act now to preserve it for future generations.”
The restoration project is estimated to cost millions of pounds, as the building needs to be carefully studied, conserved, and restored to its original condition. The charity also has daily running costs and upkeep. It is launching fundraising bids to raise the necessary aid and is appealing to history enthusiasts, residents, and supporters of heritage preservation to contribute through the donate button on their webpage. “We invite everyone to join us in this important effort,” added Ms Monaghan. “By restoring the house, we can safeguard this fascinating piece of history and ensure Bannockburn House continues to inspire and educate.”
Main photo: L to R: Amanda Monaghan, Professor Murray Pittock, Anne Monaghan and Catherine Bradley with the bullet hole.
The Board of the American Scottish Foundation (ASF) are honored to announce that the 2024 Wallace Award will be presented to Sir Jim Walker, CBE, for his outstanding contribution to transatlantic relationships and to Scotland’s world of food and drink. Walker’s, with a global reach and over 1400 employees, celebrate in 2024 their 125th anniversary.
Sir Jim Walker is the grandson of Walker’s Shortbread founder Joseph. Along with his brother Joe and sister Marjorie, he helped to develop the company from being a village bakery selling only in Speyside, Scotland to an international company represented in around 100 overseas markets. Walker’s Shortbread has now become a flagship of Scottish foods, and the company has become the largest family-owned biscuit manufacturer in the UK. In 2022, Sir Jim was knighted in Queen Elizabeth II’s last Birthday Honours list and subsequently was invested by King Charles III at the Palace of Holyrood, Edinburgh. The Honour of Knighthood was in recognition of exceptional services to the food industry.
Young Scot Wallace Award
Siobhan Mackenzie.
Alongside the Wallace Award, ASF introduced in 2023 the Young Scot Wallace Award to recognize a young person of Scottish descent who is making exceptional strides in their field of endeavor. THE ASF are delighted to announce that the Young Scot Wallace Award will be presented to Siobhan Mackenzie. The award-winning young designer has already made an exceptional contribution to the world of fashion and design – taking it forward in a fresh new and yet classic direction. Siobhan Mackenzie is a self-named authentic Scottish fashion label, founded in 2014, when the designer was twenty-one years old.
The company takes its inspiration from its Highland heritage- set up by Siobhan Mackenzie who is a multi-award winning Fashion Designer from The Black Isle. Siobhan champions a Made in Scotland ethos where traditional craftsmanship and modern design thinking are fused together to create the brand’s signature aesthetic. An advocate for slow fashion and sustainability, the designer is proud to work in contrast to the fast-fashion industry. Mackenzie’s upbringing influenced the choices within her business, her father, an environment officer for the Scottish Environment Protection Agency installed sustainability into her as a child. The luxury brand has gone on to be featured in the likes of the Scottish Banner, Forbes, GQ, Elle US, Kobe Fashion Museum Japan and The V&A Dundee Museum. Clients include Jared Leto, Justin Bieber, The Royal Family, The Commonwealth Games, Bergdorf Goodman & the LVMH group.
The Annual Wallace Dinner and Awards will take place on Friday, November 1 in New York. The evening will also mark the 50th anniversary of the first Scotland Week, organized by the American Scottish Foundation co-founder, Lady Natalie Douglas Hamilton during the week of November 10th, 1974 – a template for the ever-growing New York Tartan Week celebrations of today. There will once again be an extensive online and in person silent auction of exceptional items. The Wallace Awards evening will benefit the ongoing work of the American-Scottish Foundation directed to the ASF Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton Youth Bursary Program
This year’s World Pipe Band Champions have been crowned after a spectacular finale of the renowned international contest in Glasgow. Inveraray & District Pipe Band took the coveted title after seeing off stiff competition from runners-up Field Marshal Montgomery of Lisburn, Northern Ireland, and Simon Fraser University (Canada) who finished third. It is the third time that Inveraray & District has been crowned World Champions, having previously lifted the trophy in 2017 and 2019. This summer has proved a winning season for the Argyll and Bute band as it also took the top prize at the Scottish Pipe Band Championships, held in July in Dumbarton.
The pinnacle of the pipe band competition calendar
The World Pipe Band Championships at Glasgow Green, on August 17, 2024, in Glasgow. Photo: Alan Harvey / SNS Group.
The prestigious international championships, which are the pinnacle of the pipe band competition calendar, were held on Friday 16 and Saturday 17 August at Glasgow Green. With 204 bands from 13 countries taking part in the 2024 ‘Worlds’, more than 7,000 pipers and drummers took to the field to compete in the ultimate battle of the bands. The biggest contingent – 119 bands – was from Scotland, the second largest – with 25 bands – was from Northern Ireland, and the third largest national representation was from the USA, which entered 18 bands. The line-up of nations competing also included countries as far afield as Australia, Oman and Hong Kong – which took part in the championships for the first time.
Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group.
A much-loved event that’s hugely popular with spectators from near and far, the contest always attracts thousands of visitors to Glasgow Green to experience the stirring sights and sounds, and memorable atmosphere, of the event. Attendance at this year’s premier pipes and drums showcase was around 35,000. Audiences all over the world were also able to view it thanks to live streaming by the BBC and via the www.theworlds.co.uk website. Glasgow, a UNESCO City of Music, has a long association with the World Pipe Band Championships, having first hosted them back in 1948, and staging every edition of the event since 1986. Every year, the Worlds culminates in an impressive spectacle when all of the competing bands march into the arena and past the Chieftain of the Worlds to assemble on the field and play Scotland The Brave together, before the presentation of well over 100 trophies across the various contest grades, and the final announcement of the new World Champions.
The level of talent that’s thriving in the international pipe band community
Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group.
The event is delivered by culture and sport charity Glasgow Life on behalf of The Royal Pipe Band Association with support from EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Events Directorate. Glasgow’s Lord Provost Jacqueline McLaren, Chieftain of The World Pipe Band Championships, said: “Glasgow is very proud of its long association with the Worlds, and privileged to host an annual event which not only has such significance to the global pipe band community but is also an important celebration of Scotland’s culture and heritage. The championships are immensely valued; they enhance the city’s international reputation as an outstanding events destination, boost tourism, and contribute greatly to our local economy. We are grateful to The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association for continuing to trust us to stage its flagship contest, and Event Scotland for its support of the event. Our thanks also go to every one of the incredibly talented musicians who have gathered on Glasgow Green to treat our audiences to an incredible display of their skills, and to everyone who joined us to support this year’s thrilling championships. And our congratulations go to the 2024 World Champions, Inveraray & District Pipe Band.”
Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group.
Colin Mulhern, Chief Executive of The Royal Scottish Pipe Band Association, said: “Competition for this year’s Worlds was incredibly close, and our top Grade 1 bands battling for the ultimate title of World Champions had a fiercely-fought contest. They, and all of our competitors this year, did themselves, their bands, and their countries proud. And Inveraray & District are very worthy winners; their achievement in securing the 2024 World Champions title was outstanding and they deserve huge congratulations. It was fantastic to have so many great bands, from so many countries, taking part in this year’s Worlds – and of course, so many supporters and spectators coming together for this year’s championships. That’s a clear indication of the level of talent that’s thriving in the international pipe band community, and the passion of musicians the world over. It also demonstrates the strength of global interest there is in the championships, and in the traditional music and culture of Scotland.”
Next year’s World Pipe Band Championships will be held on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 August 2025.
Photo by Alan Harvey / SNS Group.
World Pipe Band Championships 2024 results
Grade 1
Inveraray & District (Scotland)
Field Marshal Montgomery (Northern Ireland)
Simon Fraser University (Canada)
St Laurence O’Toole (Ireland)
Peoples Ford Boghall & Bathgate Caledonia (Scotland)
Police Scotland Fife (Scotland)
Shotts & Dykehead Caledonia (Scotland)
Scottish Power (Scotland)
Police Scotland Federation (Scotland)
78th Fraser Highlanders (Canada)
St.Thomas Alumni (USA)
Johnstone (Scotland)
Closkelt (Northern Ireland)
City of Dunedin (USA)
Grade 2
Ravara (Northern Ireland)
North Stratton (Canada)
Pipe Band Club (Australia)
Glasgow Skye (Scotland)
Uddingston (Scotland)
Ulster Scottish (USA)
Manorcunningham (Ireland)
Buchan Peterson (Scotland)
MacMillan (USA)
Royal Burgh of Annan (Scotland)
Portlethen & District (Scotland)
Los Angeles Scots (USA)
City of Edinburgh (Scotland)
Peel Regional Police (Canada)
Tullylagan (Northern Ireland)
St. Joseph’s (Ireland)
Kilchoman Distillery Isle of Islay (Scotland)
Coalburn IOR (Scotland)
Greater Midwest (USA)
Grade 3A
Oban (Scotland)
Dartmouth & District (Canada)
Vale of Atholl (Scotland)
Guelph (Canada)
Denny & Dunipace (Scotland)
Greighland Crossing (Canada)
Grade 3B
Uddingston Strathclyde (Scotland)
Burntisland & District (Scotland)
Cross Borders (Spain)
Methel & District (Scotland)
Cloughfin (Northern Ireland)
Arbroath (Scotland)
Grade 4A
Irvine Memorial (Scotland)
Ballyboley (Northen Ireland)
William Kerr Memorial (Northern Ireland)
Upper Crossgare (Northern Ireland)
City of Dunedin (USA)
Cullen (Ireland)
Grade 4B
Black Raven (Ireland)
2 Scots (Scotland)
Altnaveigh (Northern Ireland)
Moneygore (Northern Ireland)
Govan Community (Scotland)
Letterkenny & District (Ireland)
Juvenile
George Watson’s College (Scotland)
St Thomas Episcopal School (USA)
Dollar Academy (Scotland)
Preston Lodge High School (Scotland)
Novice A
George Watson’s College (Scotland)
West Lothian Schools (Scotland)
Scots College No.1 (Australia)
Brisbane Boys’ College (Australia)
Dollar Academy (Scotland)
Renfrewshire Schools (Scotland)
Novice B
Scots College No.2 (Australia)
Burntisland & District (Scotland)
Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia (Scotland)
Intrepid Scottish TV adventurer Paul Murton is encouraging people across Argyll to put their best foot forward and explore the peninsula during this year’s Cowalfest walking festival. A list of 24 walks and events have now been finalised by the Cowalfest organising committee to be held over a five-day period from the 12th to 16th September.
Paul, who grew up in Ardentinny and is well known for his longstanding Grand Tours of Scotland TV series, commented: “The vast panoramic seascapes of Loch Long, Holy Loch and the Firth of Clyde complemented by the wonderful Cowal hills were my inspirations as a child. This is the place that nurtured a desire for adventure that has never left me and that’s what I attempt to reflect in my TV programmes. I always wanted to know what was over the next hill and what amazing views that could be experienced. It’s fantastic to know that events like Cowalfest provide a great opportunity for folks to experience that sense of wander through a wide variety of guided walks aimed at all abilities. This is where the Highlands start, both geologically and aesthetically, and it should be as widely accessible as possible. There are so many stories, so much history and awe-inspiring nature to be experienced across Cowal. There’s the magnificent Benmore Botanic Garden, a perfect starting and point for a trek along the banks of Loch Eck which offers some inspiring views as well as lots of myths and legends, and the history which you can find in spades at places like Historic Kilmun. Both of those places have been featured in my Grand Tours programmes and played a part in my childhood.”
Highlight the nature and history of the Cowal area
Paul who attended Dunoon Grammar School, Aberdeen University and the National Film and Television School before embarking on a life of adventure that took in a myriad mountains across the globe added, “There’s also a popular five-mile hike from Ardentinny to Carrick Castle near Lochgoilhead that will feature in the Cowalfest programme. It follows the shorelines of Loch Long and Loch Goil. Walking festivals provide participants with the ability to engage in the vistas and learn all about what helped to shape them as well as providing a boost for our physical health and mental wellbeing which has become such an important issue in recent times.”
Andy Armstrong, chair of Cowalfest, commented: “Paul embodies the adventurous spirit that has been a part of Cowalfest since its inception 20 years ago. After last year’s false start due to the weather and a couple of years when the pandemic took its toll, I’m delighted to say that we have put together an ambitious programme of walks and events that seeks to highlight the nature and history of the Cowal area. There will be a geology walk through Innellan, a historic trek around Kilmun and a foraging nature walk as well as various walks and talks around the peninsula aimed at all levels of experience and fitness. There really is something for everyone. We have also been boosted recently with grants from Western Ferries and the National Lottery Community Fund that will go a long way to helping us get Cowalfest back on the map.”
What a Tartan Month it’s been! It began with the annual Kirkin’ ‘O The Tartan service at The Scots’ Church on 30th June with the Parade of Clans piped into The Scots’ Church by Presbyterian Ladies College pipers. Clans were announced and welcomed in both Scottish Gaelic and English as they laid their tartans in front of the communion table. The following Sunday, in the lead up to the Melbourne Tartan Day Parade, morning pop-up performances by Old Scotch Pipes & Drums in The Block Arcade and The City of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band outside Melbourne Town Hall attracted crowds of City shoppers. There were Highland Dancing displays on the terrace of the Old Treasury Building by Victorian Scottish Highland Dance Inc. and the Glenbrae Celtic Dancers, while The Robert Burns Club of Melbourne held a poetry reading in the Treasury Gardens beside Robert Burns’ statue. The plaintive sound of the pipes called as pipers played on the balconies of the Old Treasury Building, signalling it was time for the Melbourne Tartan Day Parade.
Melbourne Tartan Festival Parade.
The Hon.Ted Baillieu, Chieftain of Pipe Bands Victoria (and former Premier of Victoria) led the Official Party of John Jeffreys, Chairman, Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation, Carol Davis, CEO, Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation & Clan MacLennan Chief’s Commissioner Australasia and Frank McGregor, Clan Gregor Chief’s High Commissioner Australia & Honorary Consul of the United Kingdom, Tasmania. The official party was followed by representatives of Scottish Clans and Societies, a massed pipe band led by Pipe Major Ben Casey, highland dancers, and members of the Scottish Terrier Club with their wee Scotties. After parading down Collins Street, a pipe band recital and mass Highland Fling finale was held under the portico in the forecourt of The Westin Hotel Melbourne, to the delight of hotel guests, staff and spectators. The acoustics were spine tingling!
But it didn’t end with the Tartan Day Parade. During Melbourne Tartan Festival month there were two sold out Burns Suppers at Il Duca Restaurant in East Melbourne, featuring acclaimed tenor John Carlo Bellotti, a high energy cèilidh dance, community outreach with visits to two nursing homes by the Glenbrae Celtic Dancers, Poetry in the Pub hosted by the Robert Burns Club of Melbourne, the Victorian Pipe Band Association Recital and Solo Piping Championships, Family Research in person sessions and online lecture with the GSV, Scottish Enlightenment lecture at the Menzies Institute, Melbourne University, an exhibition and exclusive behind the scenes tour of Old Treasury Building, online lectures and a CBD Scottish Connections walk with social historian and curator Kenneth Park, Scottish Gaelic language and culture immersion class hosted by the Scottish Gaelic Society of Victora and two concerts at the Kew Court House Theatre, the first featuring traditional singer of Scots’ song, Fiona Ross and the second, The Scotsman, Graeme McColgan.
The Lord Lyon
Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, the premier event of the month-long festival the Melbourne Tartan Festival Gala Dinner & Concert on the 20th July was made all the more special with the presence of Guest of Honour, Dr Joseph Morrow CVO CBE KStJ KC LLD DL FRSE, the Right Honourable the Lord Lyon King of Arms. Lord Lyon had accepted an invitation extended by the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation to spend 10 days in Melbourne during the final week of the Festival. After ascending the red carpeted grand staircase of Melbourne Town Hall, guests enjoyed drinks and canapés in the foyer before entering the glittering Main Hall. A grand and ceremonial welcome followed, as the official party, led by Lord Lyon, was piped in. A sumptuous gourmet dinner accompanied by fine wines and concert style entertainment followed. Alan Beck, immediate past President of the Robert Burns World Federation delivered a memorable Address to a Haggis. Later in the evening Alan gave a stellar vocal performance before an enthusiastic audience.
Lord Lyon was treated to some of Australia’s best Scottish/Australia’s talent, with this year’s feature band, Old Scotch Pipes & Drums, Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club with guest singer Fiona Ross and a superb Highland dancing set from the Royal Scottish Official Board of Highland Dancing. The City of Melbourne Highland Pipe Band accompanied the Glenbrae Celtic Dancers, before Glenbrae dancers joined Celtic rock band Claymore onstage to close out the night while guests danced the night out.
Melbourne Tartan Festival Ceilidh.
During the evening Dr Joseph John Morrow CVO CBE QC LLD DL FRSE The Right Honourable the Lord Lyon, King of Arms presented the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation Chairman John Jeffreys and Chief Executive Officer Carol Davis with the Foundation’s recently granted Coat of Arms, hand painted on velum by the Court of the Lord Lyon Heraldic Artist. It was a fitting conclusion to what had been a wonderful celebration of Scottish culture and heritage by the Scottish/Australian community during an action packed July.
During his visit, Lord Lyon met with Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC, The Governor of Victoria, presented the Sugden Oration, ‘A Right Royal Year’, at Melbourne University, attended a reception in his honour at the Consulate Residence honour hosted by Mr. Stephan Lysaght, Consul-General of the United Kingdom, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania, A Scottish Celebration Dinner at The Melbourne Club, dropped in on the VPA Solo Piping Championships, addressed the assembly at Scotch College Melbourne, had a guided tour of The Scots’ Church Melbourne and attended several welcome lunches and dinners where he met many local Scots. There were also less formal visits to an AFL game at the MCG, a Bellarine Peninsula Winery for lunch and Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary where Lord Lyon had his first up close encounter with a kangaroo. As we farewelled Lord Lyon, who was a most gracious and engaging guest, we urged him to ‘haste ye back’!
Text by: Carol Davis All images courtesy of Melbourne Tartan Festival/Adam Purcell – Melbourne Ceili Camera.
The sweltering heat couldn’t keep the crowds away from Glengarry Highland Games 75th edition. From the opening of the gates on Friday morning to the last notes in the music venues on Saturday night, Games fans celebrated their favourite summer event and their Scottish heritage. The Games organizing committee and the hundreds of volunteers had big smiles on their tired faces as the massed bands completed their performance and left the field.
And what a Games it was! On Friday, athletes in the Women’s, Amateurs and Masters overcame the oppressive heat to show off their skills in the heavy events. Pipers and drummers found shady spots as they competed in their solo events. Crowds packed the air-conditioned venues to watch a sold-out harp workshop and the Youth Fiddlers showcasing the best of young Glengarry fiddlers. In the covered Patron’s patio, the seats were filled as Scotland’s National Chef Gary MacLean, wowed them with his cooking skills and his humourous commentary while he created mouth-watering Scottish favourites on two Coleman stoves. The samples of his offerings were quickly scoffed up even down to scraping the cooking spoons. The Metcalfe Centre overflowed with people enjoying not only the cooler air but also a superb lineup of Glengarry musicians of all ages.
75th special event
World Champion for the third straight year, John Van Beuren of California with Bill Crawford, co-chair of the Scottish Heavy Events World Championship, along with Rod MacLeod from the Games Heavy Events Committee.
This year’s Tattoo saw full grandstands with the area from the grandstand to the infield lined with rows of chairs some put in place since Thursday morning by people wanting to secure the prime spots. The fans were not disappointed as massed bands, the MacCulloch Dancers, the RCAF Pipes and Drums with their graceful dancers, Glengarry’s Hadrian’s Wall, Scotland’s lively Gleadhraich, and Cape Breton’s Barra MacNeils kept the crowd clapping and cheering. One much anticipated part of the evening was this year’s 75th special event, a drone show. And it was amazing as the black night sky became alive with coloured dots that circled around and then moved into popular shapes like a fiddle with a moving bow, a dancer’s shoe, the flag of Scotland and to great cheers, the Canadian flag. As the last drone twinkled off, a fantastic fireworks display erupted to top off a memorable Tattoo and day.
Saturday brought more heat and more people. One event that drew a huge audience and roars of approval was this year’s presentation of the Scottish Heavy Events World Championships. Ten athletes from around the world soon showed the crowds why they were world class athletes. The Games has seen some remarkable heavy events, but the feats of these athletes were amazing. In temperatures close to 40C, they competed throughout the day under the sun. At the end of the day, the competition crowned John Van Beuren of California for the third straight year as World Champion in Scottish Heavy Events. Over in the Wee Bairns area, a record number of 2,000 children visited the shady area set up with a petting zoo, pony rides, face painting and entertainment. The Clan parade at noon hour reminded the filled grandstands about the pride of Scots for their tartan and their traditions as clans circled the infield with the banners flying followed by loyal clansmen waving to the crowds. The Official Ceremonies were most poignant as this year’s President Don Gamble, grandson of Games co-founder, Doc Gamble, welcomed his uncle Reg as Guest of Honour.
Revered Scottish tradition
Highland dancers performing for the crowds.
As part of the 75th commemoration, twenty people who attended the first Games in 1948 were seated in a special area and recognized by the President for this accomplishment and for their long-term support of the Games. Many of those recognized have attended almost every Games.
A full afternoon of athletic events, Celtic music, shopping and visiting was capped off by the moment most Games fans wait for all year and that was the massed pipe bands performance at the closing of the Games. This year was one of the best with fifty pipe bands filling the infield cheered on by a capacity crowd. The drum fanfare which was inaugurated last year attracted over 80 drummers from the pipe bands who performed without a flaw with the crowds erupting frequently with cheers and applause. Then when the Ottawa Highlanders Pipes and Drums started up the first notes of Amazing Grace, the crowd grew silent and listened as every note lingered. When the other thousand pipers and drummers joined in, the music swelled to a crescendo before the Highlanders took over to complete the piece. The thunderous appreciation from the audience was not only for the musicians on the field but also a salute to another wonderful Games.
The 75th edition of the Glengarry Highland Games was a perfect celebration of our storied past and a signal that this revered Scottish tradition will continue to be a fan favourite for another ¾ of a century and more. See you next year at the Games and we’ll get to do it all over again.
Mark your calendars now with August 1 & 2, 2025. For full details on competition results, go to: www.glengarryhighlandgames.com.
The Bernera Riot trial took place 150 years ago on July 17, 1874 – the same year Scottish law firm Innes & Mackay was founded.
A Highland law firm has uncovered ties to a historic court case that prompted major changes in Scots law. Charles Innes, founding partner of Innes & Mackay, secured a verdict of not guilty in the first documented legal victory for Highland crofters – representing three men for their participation in the Bernera Riot of 1874. The victory is known in legal circles as the beginning of crofters’ ‘fight back’ after the Highland clearances, leading to the Napier Commission and land reform in Scotland. But Innes & Mackay’s involvement in the case, which took place the same year the firm of solicitors and estate agents was founded, has only just come to light, thanks to trainee solicitor Amy Macleod.
Bernera
Charles Innes led the first legal victory for crofters in Scotland. Photo: Bernera Museum.
“My family has lived on Bernera for several generations, and Charles Innes’ name is legendary on the island,” said Amy. “There’s even a housing scheme named after him. But it was only recently, when researching the 150th anniversary of the riot, that I discovered that the Charles Innes I grew up hearing tales of was the same man that founded the law firm where I now work!” Great Bernera, known simply as Bernera, is a small island off the coast of the Isle of Lewis, home to fewer than 300 residents. The landmark legal case stemmed from an eviction notice served to 57 crofters on the island by Sir James Matheson, then owner of Lewis, via the Chamberlain of Lewis, Donald Munro. Amy explained: “Donald Munro was already an unpopular character on Bernera. So, when his men served the eviction notices, the community was understandably outraged at losing their livelihoods. Some crofters approached the men serving the notices as they returned to their boat on March 24, 1874, and during the encounter one of the officer’s oilskins was ripped.”
On April 8, crofter Angus Macdonald was arrested while visiting Stornoway for his part in the incident. With Macdonald resisting arrest and subsequently taken to prison, the Riot Act was read as a large crowd gathered. “When word of Angus Macdonald’s arrest reached Bernera,” continued Amy, “a group of croters marched 27 miles to Stornoway to demand an audience with Sir James Matheson to voice their protest. Angus Macdonald, Norman Macaulay and Iain Macleod then received summonses to appear in court to be charged with the assault of Colin Maclennan, the Sheriff Officer who had served the eviction notices. Charles Innes represented the three men on July 17 and 18 – holding his own against the prosecution until 10pm, when the judge delivered a verdict of not guilty.”
Key moment in Scottish history
To mark the 150th anniversary of the Bernera Riot, Bernera Community Association and Bernera Museum will hold a 27-mile commemorative walk on September 7, 2024 – supported by Innes & Mackay. Following the walk, participants will enjoy a party in the Bernera Community Hall. Laura Cormack, director of property law and conveyancing at Innes & Mackay, said: “When Amy came to us and told us about the incredible connection between our firm and the Bernera Riot, both celebrating their 150th anniversaries this year, we were amazed. It seemed like such a coincidence that someone so involved in the community on the island would end up working at the same firm that represented her fellow islanders all those years ago. At Innes & Mackay, we have always held the community in the highest regard – so this story about one of our founding partners standing up for those facing injustice leaves us feeling incredibly proud of our heritage as we look to the future.”
Norma Macleod, chairperson of Bernera Community Association, added: “The Bernera Riot is an important event not just in our community, but in Scottish history. It was the first chance crofters really had to stand up to the establishment following the Highland clearances, proving that there is strength in standing together against injustice. We are looking forward to marking this historic event in September with a walk along the route taken by the crofters to Lewis, and are grateful to Innes & Mackay for their support in organising the event and helping to shine a light on this key moment in Scottish history.”
Glenfinnan is a wee community with a big history, made extra famous after featuring in the Harry Potter films, where the ‘Hogwarts Express’ is seen crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct, and the loch view doubles as a dramatic setting for the famous wizarding school. However, there’s more to Glenfinnan than Harry Potter, so here’s our guide to eight things you mustn’t miss when you visit.
Arrive or leave by train
Make the same journey Harry did over the imposing 21-arch railway viaduct – a marvel of Victorian engineering and ambition, framed by high hills and a deep glen. The local Scotrail service between Fort William and Mallaig gives you the chance to enjoy the incredible views for an affordable, car-free day out, all year-round.
Watch ‘The Jacobite’ steam train puff across Glenfinnan Viaduct
This is a popular spectacle to see from a variety of viewpoints around the village, several times a day, spring to autumn.
Discover the story of the ‘Raising of the Standard’
Glenfinnan’s most celebrated moment came back in 1745, when Charles Edward Stuart (or ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’) gathered the Jacobite clans here to raise the Royal Standard, beginning his daring attempt to regain the throne for the Stuarts. What started with great optimism in Glenfinnan ended in defeat less than a year later at the Battle of Culloden. This story is shared in a fascinating Jacobite exhibition in the free Visitor Centre, as well as remembered at the Glenfinnan Highland Gathering – a traditional sporting and cultural event that takes place every August around the anniversary of Charles’s visit.
Climb the steps to the top of Glenfinnan Monument
Cared for by the National Trust for Scotland since the 1930s, this 60ft tower was built in memory of the clansmen who lost their lives in the ’45 Rising. You’ll emerge high above the shoreline for a 360° panorama of Glenfinnan, one of the most exhilarating experiences the Highlands has to offer and a must-do for any adventurous traveller.
Soak up the sights on a wander around the village
Discover the historic Glenfinnan Railway Station, now an award-winning wee museum dedicated to the West Highland Line, and the Gothic masterpiece of the Church of St Mary and St Finnan. This church was designed by Edward Pugin, the son of the architect who built London’s Houses of Parliament.
Photo: Loch Shiel Cruises.
Immerse yourself in nature
Paddle your toes or go swimming in the loch, climb mountains up the glen, or take a boat trip with Loch Shiel Cruises for a chance to spot nesting eagles and other wildlife.
7. Refuel with tasty treats
There is a choice of cafés, restaurants or hotels, including the Viaduct View Café or the historic Glenfinnan Dining Car. Take home a local souvenir, like the evocative scents of Glenfinnan Candles, from the gift shop.
Glenfinnan village church.
Stay longer
Make the most of the opportunity to have Glenfinnan to yourselves after the crowds leave and witness the sunset between the mountains at the far end of Loch Shiel. From loch-side pods and sustainable bothies with wood-fired hot tubs, to a railway sleeping car and luxury historic hotels, there is something for every overnight budget.
Text and images are courtesy of the National Trust for Scotland. For more information on the Trust or to help them protect Scotland’s heritage see: www.nts.org.uk.
Main photo: Glenfinnan Viaduct poster. Photo: Scotrail.
In the 1970s I was spoiled for choice in the buses I could use to get home to Kirkintilloch from Glasgow. Their ultimate destinations included Kilsyth, Falkirk, Dunfermline and, mysteriously, Leven in Fife. I can’t imagine how long the full journey to Leven must have taken. I wish I’d tried it before it was axed. Many years on, Leven has become a little more accessible again. The town’s railway line re-opened in June 2024. It is hoped that it will help regenerate the area by giving local people more travel opportunities while also bringing in visitors. Leven was once a popular seaside resort, while its neighbours Buckhaven and Methil were industrial towns; since the 1980s, all three have fallen on hard times.
Leven Station
Leven-Methil-Buckhaven (often, thankfully, shortened to ‘Levenmouth’) was Scotland’s most populous urban area without a passenger railway. Not anymore. Soon after the re-opening I made the trip to Leven to see what doors the new railway opens up. The new station has the River Leven on one side and Leven’s town centre on the other. First, however, I took a diversion to Methil. East Fife FC’s New Bayview Stadium used to be one of Scotland’s furthest football venues from the rail network but is now one of the closest, only a few minutes’ walk from Leven Station.
The Station neighbours the town’s swimming pool and leisure centre and is also just two minutes’ walk from Leven Bus Station. From there you can continue by bus to the fabled seaside towns of the East Neuk of Fife; Largo, Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail. Until 1960s trains continued from Leven through these towns and villages, and on to St Andrews.
The thing you really notice about Leven is its beach. Long and straight and stretching way beyond the town itself. It had only a few dog-walkers on my visit, but it was a chilly June day (yes, June is the height of summer, but this is Scotland) with a nasty breeze and a hint of rain. It’s still impressive though and there are views south across the Firth of Forth towards Edinburgh and Arthur’s Seat, and to North Berwick Law and the Bass Rock. Largo Law, on the same northern shore as Leven, draws the eye, an impressive low hill that towers over the twin villages of Upper and Lower Largo. Largo is famed as the home town of Alexander Selkirk, the model for Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe.
Gardens
The memorial in Leven located in the Festival Gardens.
The beach area has all the usual attractions in terms of cafes and playparks. Right next to the Beachcomber Amusements arcade is Leven Festival Gardens, a small and attractive public park. The gardens themselves are fine, though the more exotic plants seemed to be shivering a bit during my visit. However, the park also features two memorials to the Polish troops that were stationed nearby during the Second World War. In this area they prepared for the unsuccessful assault on Arnhem in 1944. The tall, narrow stone near the entrance has an inscription that reads: To commemorate the Scottish-Polish friendship begun in 1940-1944 when the First Polish Independent Parachute Brigade was formed and trained in Leven and District. This monument was unveiled on the 20th anniversary of the Battle of Arnhem September 1964.
No doubt many who attended the unveiling ceremony arrived in Leven by train. On the 60th anniversary of that unveiling, they’ll be able to do so again. The chunkier monument at the far end of the park names General Stanislaw Sosabowski, who commanded the Polish unit. He was a veteran of the First World War and actually carried out his first parachute jumps while commanding the unit – at the age of 49! There’s another curiosity in the gardens; a largely circular design of inscribed stones flush with the lawn in which they’re set. A display board explains that this is an ‘analemmatic sundial’ and gives instructions on how to position yourself so that you take the place of the usual pointer. On a gloomy day like the one on which I visited it was impossible to use it and, anyway, it’s quicker just to glance at your phone or watch.
The Fife Coastal Path
Further outside the town is Silverburn Park, a former estate that came into council ownership in the 1970s and is now being restored for the local community and as a visitor attraction. It’s already a welcoming green space with a café, campsite and woodland walks and it will be worthwhile to keep an eye on developments as the former flax mill on-site is restored and transformed into a community resource.
The Fife Coastal Path runs through Buckhaven, Methil and Leven, and no doubt the stretch eastwards from here will become more popular with the ease of access the railway brings. However, it isn’t walking that Fife brings to mind for many people. Leven is within reach of several golf courses and the worldwide home of golf is just a short drive or bus ride away. If you travel on the new railway in the months to come, you are likely to see several of your fellow-passengers lugging their clubs off on arrival at Leven. It’s not a passion I share or understand but it’s one that will play a big part in regenerating Levenmouth and its surrounding area. The new railway will also have a significant role. Currently, trains run hourly to Leven from Edinburgh Waverley but the frequency is scheduled to double from December. I had quite a while to wait for my return train but there’s a small coffee shop, Colliers Coffee Roasters, not far away, so I had a takeaway flat white to keep me warm (in June, remember!) while I waited. Give Leven’s new railway a try yourself – but choose a warmer day, if you can…
Scottish Week Sydney, always held closest to the first of July and International Tartan Day, was in 2024, from 28th June to 2nd of July. Chief, John MacNeacail of MacNeacail and Scorrybreac, along with his wife Jenni, were the honoured guest for the Week, joining Scottish Australian Heritage Council (SAHC) Patrons, the Earl of Loudoun and Earl of Dunmore. Proceedings all kicked off with a Burns Supper at the Castlereagh Hotel, with an Address to the Haggis, Highland Dancing by the talented NSW Highland Dancing Team, the Burns song A Red, Red Rose performance, an address by Earl of Dunmore and special SAHC Life Membership Awards. Concluded by the ever-popular Auld Lang Syne. Saturday saw a visit to the National Maritime Museum and a Lunch nearby, a talk in the evening by The Chief, on Clan MacNicol History.
Sunday was the Kirkin’ of the Tartan at Hunter Baillie Church with a delicious morning tea, a zoom presentation in the evening saw a talk on cartoons from the 1800’s of a Scottish nature. Monday was a wonderful tour of the historic St James Church in the city, followed by the elegant NSW Parliamentary Lunch. Monday evening was a book launch of Scottish letters home from new arrivals in early Australia. The week concluded with a parade and the Inspection of the Scottish/Australian Cairn at Mosman, assembled from rocks sent over by schoolchildren from every Parish in Scotland, a gift for the 1988 Bicentenary. A very busy but enjoyable weekend and beyond of activities.
Sculptor Andy Scott was born and raised in Glasgow and is a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art. His works can be seen across Scotland, as well and other parts of the UK and internationally including in Australia and the USA. His most iconic work are The Kelpies, the world’s largest equine sculptures, which are celebrating their 10-year anniversary this year. Andy took the time to speak to the Scottish Banner on the challenges of implementing such a project, creating a landmark for Scotland and how his home of Glasgow forever stays with him.
Andy Scott at The Kelpies. Photo: Sculptor Andy Scott.
2024 marks the 10th anniversary of The Kelpies. Can you tell us briefly how the concept two landmark 30 metre steel horses in Falkirk came to be?
I was approached by Scottish Canals who wanted to create a large piece on a new development to compliment the already popular Falkirk Wheel. They had wanted something mythological, but I decided to try something to do with horses and the heritage they have played in central Scotland’s industrial past. It took an incredible amount of effort, as you can imagine, and was an expensive project. This all started about 18 or 19 years ago, so it took a long time to come to fruition.
How many logistical challenges did you face drawing up your plans for The Kelpies from your Glasgow work studio to actually implementing the largest equine sculptures in the world?
The easy part was the design stuff and working out how they would look and be created. We engaged an excellent structural engineering company from Yorkshire, and they took over the reigns on many things. We did have the challenges with logistics, infrastructure and bureaucracy. This also was not just the sculptures themselves, but a major parks redevelopment with the creation of The Helix and the whole project was a very complicated undertaking. The creation of the sculptures themselves was not as difficult as some other challenges we had, but we got there in the end, and it was a major triumph, and it was all worth the effort.
Andy Scott at The Kelpies 10th anniversary celebrations. Photo: Martin Shield Photography.
For those who are not aware each statue has a name, can you tell us how the names Duke and Baron came to be?
The names came from when I did the first small scale models of The Kelpies. When I was fine tuning those early models, I was fortunate to have two Clydesdale horses called Baron and Duke come and visit me at my studio in Maryhill in Glasgow. As Baron and Duke were my models for the project their names were inherited, and it is a lovely they have now been immortalised in this way.
The Kelpies have been seen by millions of people and are now one of Scotland’s iconic attractions. How does that make you feel to know your work has had such a positive impact on Scottish tourism and culture?
It really makes me feel really proud. Of course it was not just me that was behind this project, there were hundreds of people, and I am simply the figurehead. I feel like I just scored the winning goal as there was a whole team behind me. There is almost a day that does not go by where we do not get to see pictures of The Kelpies, it is so popular with photographers in Scotland and that makes me so proud to have been part of this unique project. I am immensely proud how The Kelpies have been received by the people of Scotland and beyond. I am also particularly proud of how the people of Scotland and in particular the Falkirk and Grangemouth area have embraced The Kelpies and really taken them to their hearts.
The original 1:10 scale Kelpies Maquettes. Photo: Sculptor Andy Scott.
You are most known and celebrated for The Kelpies, however that project was by far you’re most challenging. Knowing what you know now of what you went through to complete The Kelpies, and also how well they have now been received across the world, would you do it all again?
I think the answer to that would be never say never. It really did have challenges, but then again, any big project does. We had many hurdles to get through, but we also had an amazing team helping to push the project as we went. I think if the right elements were in in place I could, and you never know what the future holds. I look back at how the project went and for my career it was quite the achievement.
Aberdeen’s Poised sculpture. Photo: Virginia Beckett.
Outside of The Kelpies you have created many amazing pieces which include animals, what is it about recreating animals that inspires you so much?
I do like to work with animals, and I think most people can relate to animals at some level. There is a stronger connection for many with an animal, or a human form, than an inanimate object. I try not and over analyse it too much, but I have done many animal works and horses have clearly been a theme of my work. I feel an animal or human encourages more interaction with the audience. Using animals can have more meaning than you may think, in Aberdeen I did a leopard sculpture which some may know that the leopard is a heraldic symbol of Aberdeen, and it has been a part of the city’s history for centuries and some may just think it is a sculpture of a cat. But that is art. My head is bursting with all kinds of ideas, and some will never come to light, but I think many artists can relate to that.
You clearly thrive working with steel. What is about steel that you find so compelling to create with?
I am not sure it may be just the way I am made. Coming from Glasgow with all that industrial shipbuilding heritage it may just be in my DNA. Over the years I have worked with steel and really enjoyed it. I find it nearly a more gentle and easier thing to work with and it really does provide great results.
Glasgow’s Charles Rennie Mackintosh statue. Photo: Sculptor Andy Scott.
You are a proud son of Glasgow, what is it about your home city you love and now miss as you live in the USA? Also, as a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art how did it make you feel to make the world’s first public statue of the school’s creator and Glasgow icon Charles Rennie Mackintosh?
I now live in California but get back to Glasgow from time to time and I always know it is where I am from. I still have family there and great friends and I am very proud of the city. The architectural heritage of the city is incredible, the Victorian and Edwardian, and never leaves me. There is also a great art scene, music and there is great pubs and food there. Glasgow will always be with me, I sometimes think if they cut me open some the River Clyde will simply run out of me, plus I have a Glasgow accent so there is not getting rid of that!
It really was amazing project to do the Charles Rennie Mackintosh statue. Being a graduate of the Glasgow School of Art, this project created an extra layer of excitement for me. I had a hard time getting that one off the ground as Glasgow City Council nor the Glasgow School of Art were interested in it. The artwork was in fact commissioned by the Sanctuary Group, a social housing provider, to mark the regeneration of Anderston in Glasgow. This statue is long overdue, and I was really pushing to do him and his wife. Sadly, my client’s budget could only go so far but I hope we can also do Margaret Macdonald one day as she also did so much for Glasgow and art.
Main photo: The Kelpies at night. Photo: VisitScotland/Kenny Lam.
A fund to help strengthen Scotland’s international diaspora has opened for applications. The £50,000 Scottish Connections Fund is open to bids from any individual or organisation with a Scottish connection, whether that link is through heritage, education, business, culture, or a broader affinity.
Grants ranging from £2,000 to £5,000 will be awarded to support at least 10 new innovative projects that will help bring together Scotland’s diaspora and promote Scottish connections worldwide. This year’s funding follows a successful pilot last year, which supported four projects, including work by the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society to help descendants of enslaved Americans document their Scottish connections.
Family and friends of Scotland globally
External Affairs Secretary Angus Robertson said: “This is a fund that I’m extremely passionate about. We’ve long believed that better engaging our diaspora – family and friends of Scotland globally – can benefit Scotland economically and enrich our culture. It can also improve Scotland’s connections and reputation and we want our efforts to benefit our diaspora too. The Scottish Connections Framework, which was launched in 2023, laid out our commitments to support and expand this global community. These connections raise Scotland’s profile and reputation and encourage individuals and companies to visit, study, live, work and do business here.”
Projects must be completed by the end of March 2025 and the closing date for applications is 5pm on 4 September 2024.
On January 8, 1924, just over one century ago, an advertisement in the Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners Advocate read,
“PIPERS AND DRUMMERS wanted for Newcastle Pipe Band.
Youths wishing to learn the Bagpipe are guaranteed expert tuition.
Band Practice every Wednesday night in Broadmeadow Mechanics’ Institute.”
Band photo from 1925.
Officially formed in 1924 (under the name Newcastle Pipe Band Association), a couple of articles in local newspapers revealed that the formation was actually unfolding from July 1923 where a very small mention in The Newcastle Sun wrote of the band requesting to borrow a base drum from The Northern Caledonian Society. By November 1923 it was reported that the band now had 19 pipers and 4 drummers and had only been in existence for four months.
Home away from home
A 1957 band photo.
It was probably inconceivable at that time that this band would flourish and grow, surpassing so many other community bands along the way. It has remained continuous and is still creating music and memories to this very day. Built on the enthusiasm, determination and perseverance of numerous Scotsmen and descendants of Scots, a second family or ‘home away from home’ bore creation however not everyone who plays in the band is of Scottish descent, some just love the music
Throughout the years there has seen so many stories, street parades, fundraising fairs, sporting festivals, surf life saving march past events, weddings, funerals, church fetes and even a protest against the increased price of bread in December 1938. From playing for the Duke of York (pre taking the throne) in 1930, greeting famous radio characters “Dad and Dave from Snake Gulley” at Newcastle train station, to performing on stage with Andre Rieu. The band has proudly represented the Newcastle region for the past one hundred years, from parading down Hunter Street to events across the state, with trips from Perth to New Zealand and Tasmania to Japan.
When quizzed on the relevance of a Scottish pipe band today in 21st century Australia, ANZAC Day would be the first topic that comes to mind. How void it would be without the pageantry of the pipe band leading the parade down King Street? How desolate would the wreath laying be without the piper playing the Lament? Anzac Day is the most important day of every bands’ calendar and this band has been partaking in services throughout Newcastle for the past one hundred years.
Centennial celebrations
The band in 2024.
This year, a successful fundraising ceilidh was held in March, the first function celebrating the centennial year, with an almost full house in attendance. Funds raised are being put towards the Centennial celebrations.
The major event however, is the Centennial Ball, being held at Newcastle City Hall on October 19 with ticket sales available at: www.trybooking.com/CSWHE.
A limited-edition of 2025 wall calendar has also been produced to help fundraise toward the celebrations priced at $25, these will be on sale throughout 2024. Contact through the bands email address [email protected] for a postal purchase.
So, in 2024, we, the City of Newcastle RSL Pipe Band, hope that all members of the Australian and Scottish community will help us celebrate and acknowledge what a colourful, meaningful and memorable thread we have woven through the country’s history books. We hope that many friends, family and former members will come along and be part of the celebrations. We are the ‘City of Newcastle RSL Pipe Band’ and 2024 is our Centennial Year.
Runrig’s Malcolm Jones recently joined Celtic music icons Skipinnish on stage last month to debut a performance of his new tune written to mark the band’s 25th anniversary. The Silver Voyage was performed live by the guitarist along with Skipinnish at the band’s two headline concerts in Inverness and Edinburgh in July that started a year of celebrations for Skipinnish. Malcolm Jones’s involvement is also symbolic as he has been by Skipinnish’s side through their quarter century career. The new tune captures the significance of the band’s anniversary and the journey Skipinnish has been on since 1999. It is also symbolic of the thread that runs through the band’s music reflecting the impact the sea, island life, fishing and the Gaelic language has had on their songwriting and their sound.
Photo: Andrew King.
With hits such as Walking on the Waves, The Island, Alive and more recently Fuadaichean (Clearances), Skipinnish have put their Highlands and Islands and Gaelic roots front and centre in their repertoire. The Silver Voyage is a celebration of their work and that 25-year voyage to the very top of the Celtic music scene. Skipinnish was formed in 1999 from a friendship between accordionist and songwriter Angus MacPhail of the Isle of Tiree and piper Andrew Stevenson from Lochaber, during their years studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. The early days saw them perform in village halls across their familiar turf of the west Highlands and Islands.
The top tier of Scottish bands
Runrig’s Malcolm Jones (L) alongside Skipinnish’s Andrew Stevenson (centre) and Angus MacPhail performing in the early days of the band. Photo: Skipinnish.
Now a seven-piece, multi-instrument band they have taken their music international, performing at festivals and venues across Europe, whilst remaining true to their Highlands and Gaelic roots in all that they create. Malcolm said: “I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Angus and Andrew since their inception as Skipinnish twenty-five years ago, watching their steady progress as musicians, songwriters and band leaders, to their current position in the top tier of Scottish bands. To celebrate this milestone, I thought it would be appropriate to compose a new tune for the occasion – The Silver Voyage. I’m looking forward to celebrating the anniversary and playing this tune with Skipinnish.”
Angus MacPhail said: “This is a highlight of our 25 years and is a great honour. To have one of Scotland’s foremost musicians, and someone we personally hold in such high regard, compose a tune to mark our silver anniversary is something very special. Malcolm is a big part of our 25-year story. He’s been a mentor, advisor and friend from our early days and still influences our music. Without his guidance and advice over the years, we would not have had the very fortunate voyage we’ve had. This new tune captures the Skipinnish story perfectly – the ups and downs of the long journey from the pubs and village halls of the west Highlands and Islands to the unbelievable feeling of headlining in Inverness and Edinburgh Castle, playing to over 13,000 people within six days. That is something that was beyond our wildest dreams in 1999.”
Hear the pipes, see the strength and watch the dance.
The Hunter Valley Highland Games 2024 takes place on the third weekend of August on the 24th August 2024 from 9:30AM to 4PM at Saltire Estate. Saltire Estate is a Scottish family-owned cellar door only 45 minutes from Newcastle, just minutes from the Lovedale exit on the Hunter Expressway.
The Highland Games are a traditional Scottish event that has been held for centuries in Scotland. It is a blend of athletic competition, pipe bands, traditional Highland and country dance and a lot of different activities happening throughout the day. At the heart of the event are the traditional athletic events which include the following: the iconic Caber Toss, Stone Put, Husafell Stone Carry, Keg Toss, Saltire Natural Stones of Strength and new for this year: Tug-a-War where guests will be able to take part (subject to availability).
Pipe bands and more
Several Pipe Bands will play all day long including a Quintet Competition where five members of each pipe band will compete. The Mass Band Marching & Official Opening where all the pipe bands are playing together and is not to be missed. The event also hosts traditional Scottish dancers. Some Highland Dancing and country dancing. They will both do two shows on the day and the country dancers will do a demo to involve the guests as well so they can participate. A wide range of market stalls will be on site going from Scottish craft to local crafts. The Games will also have some food trucks including some Scottish Food Trucks selling the famous haggis, a Scottish specialty.
There will be a dedicated children’s area with free face painting and jumping castle. Kids will also have the possibility to see a real Highland Cow and to create their own Scottish shield. A special attraction will be a historical reenactment group. The ‘The Highland Rose: Jacobite Living History Group’ will provide an immersive experience, showcasing a setup and presenting a show at the end of the day.
The Hunter Valley Highland games take place on Saturday August 24th and Saltire Estate in Lovedale, NSW. For more information see: www.hvhg.com.au. Also follow them on social media handles: Facebook: Hunter Valley Highland Games and Instagram: hvhighlandgames.
Scotland is known throughout the world for its stunning landscapes and rich scenery as well as its produce, from whisky to Scottish beef and lamb, from this natural environment. With increasing global awareness in food provenance and sustainability, agritourism – tourism or leisure on a working farm or croft producing food or fibre – provides unique and memorable countryside experiences.
Vicki Miller, Director of Marketing and Digital at VisitScotland, Scotland’s national tourism board says : “In recent years, particularly during the pandemic, agritourism has become a growing travel trend, with visitors seeking out authentic rural experiences that connect them to the countryside and Scotland’s natural larder.” Here’s just a flavour of agritourism experiences that can be enjoyed in Scotland.
Walking the Kinclune Estate. Photo: VisitScotland.
Long Island Retreats, South Uist, Outer Hebrides
Visiting a beautiful Scottish island is always a special experience, but at Long Island Retreats on the island of South Uist, owners Donald and Lindsay offer activities to make your stay particularly memorable. On a walking tour of the croft, you’ll meet wild red deer and farm livestock, hear how the island’s crofting heritage and culture has shaped the place and its people, and even learn some Gaelic, all against the backdrop of stunning Hebridean scenery. Take a tour of the unique eco-system of the largest Machair area in Europe, explore the croft in the company of a herd of delightful Shetland ponies, enjoy a sheep-shearing demonstration, or explore the island more widely on a 4×4 vehicle tour. www.longislandretreats.co.uk
Kitchen Coos & Ewes, Dumfries and Galloway
Photo: Kitchen Coos & Ewes.
Kitchen Coos & Ewes is run by Neale and Janet McQuistin at Airyolland Farm in the rolling countryside of Dumfries and Galloway. The farm is located within the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, recognised internationally as a world class environment for people and nature.
Board the farm tour trailer to tour the surround hills; home to herds of iconic Highland cattle and Beltex sheep, enjoy the skill of a sheepdog demonstration, and even enjoy the unique hands-on experience of grooming a young Highland calf! Join a knowledgeable guide on a walking tour meeting farm animals, visiting the remains of a Bronze Age hut circle, and learning about the creation of drystone dykes. Tours include home baking, and you can even book a delicious cream tea. www.kitchencoosandewes.com
Old Leckie Farm, Stirling
Old Leckie Farm lies close to the historic city of Stirling, and indeed the farm has a unique history of its own. This land once belonged to Robert the Bruce, and you’ll be walking in the footsteps of Bonnie Prince Charlie who visited the 16th Century Grade A listed farmhouse. The farm has been home to the Younger family for over 100 years and today owners Fergus and Alison Younger and their three young daughters enjoy welcoming visitors from all over the world. The family lead bespoke farm tours to meet their herds of Highland castle, sheep, pigs and free range hens. Visitors can learn about sustainable farming in Scotland, and book a farm tasting to sample Old Leckie’s award-winning seasonal range of farm produce: free range eggs, Highland beef, outdoor reared pork and lamb. www.oldleckie.co.uk
Wilson’s Farm and Kitchen, Scottish Borders
Cowbog Farm has been home to the Wilson family since 1938, with three generations managing and protecting the land that is set in the historic and beautiful Scottish Borders. The family provides walking tours of the farm which vary with the season. Hear the history of the farm and the local area, and an overview of what the farm produces. Learn how they have developed biodiversity, meet their award-winning herd of Hereford cows, and spot local wildlife. After the tour, enjoy a delicious, seasonal, home cooked meal featuring produce from the farm and other local providers. www.wilsonsfarmandkitchen.com
Newton Farm Tours, Angus
Louise Nicoll, Owner/Manager, Newton Farm Holidays, Forfar, Angus. Photo: VisitScotland/Graeme MacDonald.
Newton Farm Holidays enjoys an idyllic setting in rural Angus. Graeme and Louise Nicoll, together with their two and four legged family members, provide authentic, guided farm experiences, enabling visitors to explore daily life on a Scottish farm, and produce throughout the seasons. Experiences include walking with alpacas and Highland cow grooming. During lambing season, educational sessions for adults and fun family activities such as lamb bottle feeding and lamb cuddling are also on offer! Guests can also stay on the farm, either in the ensuite family room in the main farmhouse with a delicious Taste of Angus breakfast, or on a self-catering basis in the well equipped three-bedroom farm cottage. www.newtonfarmholidays.co.uk
Aberdeen Highland Beef, Banchory, Aberdeenshire
In the heart of lovely Royal Deeside, Grace Noble farms Highland cattle at Lochton of Leys Farm, Banchory, providing visitors with a unique and authentic farm to fork experience. Tour the farm with Grace as she shares her passion for this iconic breed. Visitors can get up close and personal with the herd, and even enjoy the change to groom Duchess, one of the herd’s award-winning mums. There is also the opportunity to sample some succulent prime Highland beef. At certain times of year, visitors can enjoy the experience of sheering sheep under one-to-one supervision from experienced farm hands, or of cuddling delightful Scottish lambs. www.aberdeenshirehighlandbeef.com
Photo: Kitchen Coos & Ewes.
Go Rural Scotland is a thriving community of Scotland’s farmers and crofters, passionate about producing the highest quality food and drink, and committed to caring for the environment and protecting Scotland’s landscapes for everyone to enjoy responsibly. It’s a close-knit network of quality agritourism businesses, located throughout the Scottish countryside, offering locals and visitors alike high quality and memorable experiences.
For more information on agritourism experiences across Scotland visit the Go Rural Scotland website: www.goruralscotland.com. Be sure to book in advance!
Main photo: Meeting the locals. Photo: Long Island Retreats.
