Daylesford resounded to the sound of 13 pipe bands last Saturday (3rd Dec.) with the 71st Daylesford Highland Gathering.
The day started with the traditional massed band street march down Vincent St. Competitive pipe bands from all over Victoria were joined in the street march by Daylesford’s own Pipe Band and the Ambulance Victoria Pipes and Drums. Daylesford Guides also marched carrying the Band identification signs – very necessary for the judges of the Street March competition.
Professor Euan Wallace, the current Secretary of the Victorian Department of Health, was chieftain for the Games held at Victoria Park. The Games were opened by Carol Davis, CEO of the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation.
The thirteen competitive bands all performed extremely well on the oval. Highland dancers also competed on three stages. Weather conditions meant that the traditional areas for the highland dancing were not able to be used but the dancers were very happy to be able to compete in the shade – especially as the weekend was the first hint of summer that Daylesford has had this season.
A great job from the Daylesford Highland Gathering Committee led by president John McColl, backed up by his Committee and supported by Daylesford Football and Netball Club and Hepburn Shire Council. It was a great day and if you would like to help out next year contact members of the committee at www.daylesfordhighland.com
