page 28 Issue No 48, December 2014 a huge thank you to our sponsors delivered free to every address in Kilmallie

A huge thank you to the businesses below who have sponsored the newsleer this year. Thank you to Lorna and Finlay Finlayson of Crannog Restaurant, Fort William for their ongoing support with photocopying facilies (though due to Mandy’s absence this me thanks too to Printsmith for prinng this parcular issue). The paper for this issue has again been generously donated by BSW Timber, Kilmallie. Once again we have had a cash donaon from an anonymous donor, for which we are very grateful. Our other newsleer costs have been met by donaons from the other businesses below, from KCC’s limited funds and in kind from all our volunteers. in this issue

KCC from the chair – p2

KCC on cuts - p3

KCC meetings – p3

Bus timetable changes – p4

planning applications - p4

FOCAL - p5

Rural Parliament - p6

councillors’ corner - p7 we welcome your comments and ideas Playgroup – p8-9 -

High Notes - p10

Banavie Primary - p11

Canal News - p12

Christmas lights - p13

Corpach Co-op - p13

Christmas Lights – p14-15

Community Centre - p16 photo by Alex Gillespie Music for All – p16 On a cold and crisp Friday night outside Kilmallie impressively large tree. Everyone then gladly moved Community Centre more than 100 hardy souls indoors to be treated to a hot cup of tea and home shinty club - p17 gathered to see the switch‐on of the Corpach baking provided by Star for Harris. BOYD BROTHERS CLYDEBoyd more Rural Parliament – p17 Christmas Tree.

Rugby Club - p18 Face painng, lucky dip and tombola kept everyone (HAULAGE) LTD Fort William Ltd In freezing condions, Paul Brian chairman of the in the party spirit as their fingers and toes thawed. Remembering Kilmallie- p19 Kilmallie Christmas Lights Fund introduced Kieran This was another highly enjoyable night which

wild about Kilmallie - p20 MacEaghan and Ellie Dennison from Banavie and seemed to bring the community together both Lochyside schools. They had been selected to switch young and old. I know that everyone on the green fingers - p21 on the tree lights by their respecve teachers in organising commiee felt that their hard work was Community policing - p21 recognion of their achievements throughout the worthwhile when they saw how many people were year. prepared to brave the cold weather to support the update from Africa - p22-23 Christmas decoraons. Let’s see how much beer Lochaber Beekeepers - p23 Clapping and stamping of feet served not only to we can make them next year! heighten the ancipaon but also to fend off the history snippets - p24 impending frostbite. Merry Christmas Focus on Folk - p25 The switch‐on went without hitch. The colour‐ Andy Wilmington would you like to become a sponsor too? Fergus wins at the Mod - p26 changing tree lights looked very fesve on the Kilmallie Christmas Lights Fund (KCLF) We rely on the contribuons from our business community focus on business- p26 for the cost of distribung this free newsleer to every address in our area. We welcome sponsorship from all businesses located in Kilmallie, or with principal key personnel resident in Kilmallie. If you puzzles – p27 would you like to see your name or logo in print supporng your community newsleer, please join with our current sponsors. sponsors - p28 a very merry Kilmallie All donaons, big or small, are hugely appreciated. Please contact us at [email protected] for details. remember the KCC suggestion boxes to one and all  launch of Club50, a significantly improved version of The document was also full of spurious jusficaons for why the page 2 Club55 kilmallie cuts may not be as bad as they seem. For example, replacing page 3  a £1m commitment to deeper community engagement qualified Social Workers, Health Visitors and Psychologists with kilmallie  major upgrades to Scotland’s scenic trains to enhance the unqualified people who can then be paid less money was community council described as a ‘posive step’ because it enables people to tourist experience incl more luggage, cycle and ski Happy with your cuts? storage ‘develop their skills’. However this ignores the need for suitably A change for the beer or just a helpful change? experienced, qualified and trained people to do the job that  addional service to Oban in peak season community In the last few months it feels like the community council has needs to be done. The need for appropriate experience and  a programme for beer rail integraon with ferries, been bombarded with electronic quesonnaires as part of training to do a job doesn’t disappear just because budgets need buses and airports consultaon exercises. It is now very easy for any organisaon to to be cut. Qualificaon standards for parcular jobs have evolved  based on the Dutch experience, delivery of the UK’s most create an online quesonnaire and claim to be consulng the naonally to meet the needs of these jobs. It is not realisc for council extensive cycle/rail network with £1.6m investment in community. The ease with which these can be generated is Highland Council to claim that the need for a broad set of skills more cycle parking spaces perhaps one of the reasons why many do not seem to have been represented by a qualificaon can be bypassed and that services  improvements for access and assistance for people with well thought out. A good consultaon quesonnaire clearly sets can be adequately provided by people without these skills. Cuts The polical landscape has changed in so many ways since disabilies out the objecves of the consultaon, asks appropriate quesons to teaching jobs were jusfied on the basis of introducing new

the last issue of Kilmallie Community News way back in mid  a 37% reducon in tracon CO2 and a 15% reducon in and explains how the responses will be taken into account when equipment for distance learning including for music lessons. A September. The high turnout in the referendum clearly non‐tracon CO2 emissions making decisions. Poor quesonnaires oen involve mulple proposed 10% cut to the amount of educaon me for Primary demonstrated there is no polical apathy in Scotland when  a commitment to the living wage for all staff and choice answers where none of the opons really fit, lack clear School pupils was jusfied on the basis of overly simplisc people feel their vote can make a difference. (Conversely, subcontractors. objecves or explanaon of how the responses will be taken into comparisons with other countries. Such arguments ignore low turnouts probably indicate more a sense of account. differences in educaon systems between countries of which the One of the more difficult quesonnaires we received recently powerlessness to make a difference than any fundamental I hope the West Highland Line doesn’t get missed out when length of me spent in school is only one factor. came from Highland Council. This was regarding proposed cuts to We think this is the wrong approach. We believe Highland apathy to polics.) these improvements are handed out. The line is a fantasc services. Clearly this is a very important issue that requires a Council should be totally up front with the community that in asset for us in Kilmallie: in the hands of an operator with proper and effecve consultaon. However aer much order to provide the services we have come to expect there is a The referendum debate frequently caused me to ponder the vision and social commitment, it has great uncapitalised discussion we agreed that we were not able to complete the need for more funding, rather than pretending that they are is now on Facebook is now on nature of power, and where it lies. Local communies all potenal for local journeys as well as linking us to the rest of quesonnaire. Most of the quesons basically asked whether we happy with the cuts, and that the community should be too. If too oen feel powerless to influence what happens in their Scotland, UK, Europe and beyond. (It is possible to travel by as a community council would welcome cuts in services or not. the Council were honest about the situaon, the community area. The bale against polical, instuonal and corporate train from Locheilside all the way to Vladivostok, though The simple answer is that for all these quesons we know of a would be clear about why the cuts are happening and either vested interest is overwhelming, even if the issue at stake is sadly not on a Club 55 cket!). secon of the community who will be negavely impacted by the accept them or help lobby the appropriate decision makers to just a local bus metable or a safe place to cross a road. In cuts and so we would always ck the most pessimisc box that make more funding available. It is not for Highland Council to be constuonal terms Community Councils are essenally If the Dutch can prove how well a publicly‐owned company was ‘Could cause some difficulty’. In many cases the impact of making arbitrary changes to the educaon system or social care powerless (more of this perhaps in later issues). But they can run a railway, then perhaps there is hope for Scosh these cuts will be much greater than ‘some difficulty’ but there qualificaon requirements without these being supported by can sll provide an effecve framework for collecve public ownership when this latest 10 year contract comes up was no opon for this. Instead the other opons were ‘A change raonal arguments, proper research and consultaon. for the beer’ or ‘May be a helpful change’. We have never seen empowerment if we use them to good effect. again for renewal. Russell Leaper, Secretary proposed cuts to teaching jobs, qualified staff and frontline [email protected]

services described in these terms before. This is polical spin at If like me you were one of the approx 1250 people in * Rumours that staff will have to wear clogs have not yet its most extreme. Kilmallie who showed that we care about what happens been substanated.

naonally by vong in the referendum, then the chances are you also care about what happens locally. And if so, let’s As well as our normal meengs and correspondence over empower ourselves to develop, improve and protect the last three months, KCC have: Kilmallie to be the place and the community we collecvely  aended the Scosh Parliament when it sat in Lochaber KILMALLIE COMMUNITY are posted up on website and on noticeboards want it to be. If we don’t use Community Councils, we’ll lose  aended the Scosh Rural Parliament in Oban kilmallie them, and that would be even worse for communies and  campaigned against unconsulted changes to our bus COUNCIL local democracy. services Members of the public are most welcome at all our meengs.  submied comments on Highland Council’s budget community Meengs are currently held at 7:15pm mostly in Kilmallie Delighted to see that management of Scotland’s railways is consultaon Community Centre, but somemes at Lochaber High School, to be handed over to a government‐owned company in  commented on proposals on the canal, and hosted a on the 3rd Weds of every month excluding July and Dec, but April. Although it’s disappoinng that it’s not the Scosh presentaon from Andrew Thin, Chair of Scosh Canals please check the website or Facebook in case of changes. news government who own the company. The 10 year franchise  connued to campaign for Tesco or Millers to pay the We hope you enjoy this issue. We are extremely grateful to Next ordinary meeng dates are: was won by Abellio, a private company solely owned by the £400k developer contribuon for the Blar Maggie Mackenzie for doing the desktop publishing for us this 21 Jan Kilmallie Community Centre Dutch government*. And they do things rather differently.  been the applicant in the planning applicaon for the me in Mandy’s absence. It involves a huge amount of work, 18 Feb Kilmallie Community Centre Abellio say the delivery of safe, reliable and comfortable new all‐weather sports pitch on LSA’s behalf so huge thanks Maggie for giving up so much of your me. A 18 Mar Kilmallie Community Centre services is only the starng point for them: “Our services  and welcomed the new speed limits between the High huge thank you too to everyone who contributed and please 15 Apr Kilmallie Community Centre must play an integrated role in the socio‐economic School and Banavie which have now been approved. keep on wring! And as ever we are also grateful to all the 20 May Kilmallie Community Centre development of the sociees we serve.” volunteers who brave the winter weather to deliver the 17 Jun Kilmallie Community Centre Apologies and thanks to all KCC colleagues who’ve had to newsleer through all the Kilmallie leerboxes. Please The next AGM is 17 June 2015. connue to give us feedback and to send us arcles, photos, Their ambious commitment to transform Scotland’s rail take on extra work while I’ve needed to concentrate on Chairman Mandy Ketchin ideas, opinions and informaon about things going on in network includes: family. And huge thanks to Maggie Mackenzie who’s [email protected] Kilmallie. The deadline for material for the next newsleer is  a fully refurbished fleet of high speed trains by December stepped nobly into the desktop publishing breach for us: 20th February, for publicaon in middle of March. Secretary Russell Leaper 2018 to connect the seven cies without her this issue simply wouldn’t have been possible. Your newsleer team: Canal House, Banavie, PH33 7LY

 a major investment programme for flagship staons, with Chrisne Hutchison 772252 [email protected] minutes of KCC meetings Highlands & Islands against Fracking Fracking against & Islands Highlands Jan MacLugash 772383 retail improvement schemes at Inverness, Perth and Best fesve wishes to everyone and have a good New Year Treasurer Jan MacLugash Kshama Wilmington 772499 Srling when it comes. Salen, Banavie PH33 7LY Mandy Ketchin  a standard class fare between any two Scosh cies [email protected] starng at £5 Mandy Ketchin, Chair email us at newsle[email protected] Other members Chrisne Hutchison Views expressed in this newsleer are not necessarily the [email protected] Kshama Wilmington views of the newsleer team or of Kilmallie Community Council. Associate member Chris Pellow page 26 Fergus wins at The Royal page 27 National Mod, 2014

Fergus Munro of Corpach won the C156 Compeon – the Solo Singing Open Boys 16 – 18 – Gold Badge!

He also won The Highland Society of London Trophy for picture the highest marks in Compeon 155 and 156. quiz no 5 He was presented with The Turriff Trophy for the high‐

est marks in Gaelic in those compeons also, (he Picture of Banavie in 1896 shared this trophy with Emma MacLeod, Sir E Sco sent in by Andy Goodwin School in Tarbert, Harris). in Sweden

Fergus is a pupil at Lochaber High School and has had Is this old house still many successes at previous Local and Naonal Mods! standing? Can anyone figure out Many congratulaons, Fergus, from all in Kilmallie! exactly where this picture Fergus Munro’s photo was supplied to us by Iain Ferguson, Write Image was taken?

This time we have an update from Answer to Picture Quiz No 4: the row of poplars at the foot Clydeboyd. Why not join with Clydeboyd of Farrow Drive, Corpach and others and become a sponsor of focus on Kilmallie Community News: you could be included in our next Focus on Business! Answers to these puzzles are on the website www.kilmallie.org.uk Across business (follow the link on the RHS of the homepage) and will also be published in the next issue of the newsletter for people 1 Remark (7) Boyd Brothers, and in recent years ClydeBoyd, The most recent development within ClydeBoyd is without access to the internet 4 Noisy tower (5)

at the High School ever get fixed? School ever get at the High have been operang from Corpach since 1993. the progression into the handling of sawn mber. 7 Opposite of day (5) 9 Sounds like a noisy bat (7) In the past year around 120 lorry loads have been “some straight, some cryptic, some easy, some not so easy” The pier development commenced in 1996, 10 Wardens or Glasgow fooe team (7) shipped from Corpach to South East England thus 1 2 3 4 5 6 gradually increasing in size to where we are 11 Mixed up nun, so naming words (5) removing addional lorries from the roads. 12 Red comes back to the lad. Use this to climb (6)

today. 14 Thrash around the fish (6)

The increase in business has created not only 18 Go away! (5) Over the past few years the expansion of the new 7 8 9 environmental benefits but also addional 20 A servant who likes feet? (7) BSW sawmill has had a very posive impact on 22 I see pod all around the chapter (7) employment in our local community; there is no business. This has allowed larger volume of 23 Add them up to get this (5) doubt the outlook is opmisc for ClydeBoyd and mber products to be handled within the port 24 John Baird’s middle name (5) Corpach. 10 11 25 All tosh about this lile onion (7) both import and export. Primarily using ships to

transport products to our markets has meant that Chrisne MacColl Down thousands of lorries have been removed from the 12 13 14 15 16 1 Manage col around torn torn (7) local roads of Lochaber and the A82. 2 She is a man eang short example (5)

In the last year thousands of lorry loads of 17 3 Garden bird (6) 20mph flashing signs flashing signs 20mph 4 Lile company in ban for a rasher (5) woodchip have been removed from the roads and 18 19 20 21 5 Bunch (7) exported to the European markets by ships from 6 Is it a car or is it a blossom? (5) our pier at Corpach. Mainly shipping to ports in 8 Them go east for this topic (5)

will the Norway, Sweden, Belgium, and Germany with 13 Alistair dear (7) occasional trips south to France. 22 23 15 Approximately a fight (5) 16 Curl of hair (7) 17 Special ones can save you money (6)

As well as exporng to Europe, shipping of round please send us more of your quiz pictures 18 Nick the confused stale (5) mber logs from in and around the West Coast 24 25 19 Similar to an elk (5) using smaller vessels has also increased the 21 You can stay the night here (5) tonnage handled at Corpach. Most of the logs brought to Corpach come from areas which are Thank you to Tony Whitelocke for another great crossword. difficult to reach by road or islands such as Mull. Answers to last issue’s puzzle: This year around 1200 lorry loads of logs have Across: 1 SPARROW, 4 TOTEM, 7 INAPT, 9 LEMMING, 10 OAK TREE, 11 YEARN, 12 SACHET, 14 BARRED, 18 CHESS, 20 MINIMUM, been brought inwards to the sawmill. 22 POSTAGE, 23 ERNIE, 24 SISAL, 25 EXPIRES Down: 1 SAILORS, 2 ABACK, 3 WELTER, 4 TOMMY, 5 THIN AIR, 6 MEGAN, 8 THREE, 13 CHEESES, 15 ANNIE, 16 DAMSELS,

Image © Clydeport 17 IMPEDE, 18 COPES, 19 SMALL, 21 MINOR page 4 Will the proposed new bus timetable affect you? Let us know what you think about it... Stagecoach, services, much Highland for services) William come main buses to William around 46). Anyone Oban, William between have a Saturdays half Mondays Bus timetablechanges

plans afoot 2/9/14 6/10/14 6/10/14 8/9/14 26/09/14 6/11/14 13/11/14

Corpach. er

reduced

hour. Currently

17:19 a

cuts

into with earlier run Inverness

long

an for and to arriving

have only Council around

in

Appar hourly but force hour Annat

–

(the

Annat

walk

Sunday services Corpach who operate services

Fridays

requires buses this issued 14/03362/FUL 14/03794/S42 14/03795/FUL 14/03470/ADV 14/03682/FUL 14/04028/FUL 14/04237/FUL

later

last e on on

or

home 0900 on (who at ntly

the leaving will

Glasgow

27 January Citylink

0944 service

bus Sunday

run

which

are (Bus with

a

the

last incl

be and a

subsidise new or

to

every half between

but

reduced

contract at our

bus numbers a a

school

1800 Caol) is

buses

will

dra long bus up 1614. on

hourly

planned

wil

local

from

15 minutes 2015.

un now a

from

l Mondays the will

wait

Sunday fi of Removal Altera Change Store, Erec Construc New Installa from

Fort to Currently with metable services nish

bus

l

45 and Fort

service

The start 22:17.

bus now Here on to

every

Fort for to

indoor

on

week

the at

ons

the

of

on are to of

Co

Weekly

on use

fascia to ‐ of ending condi

sports the Op,

important through

service travelling Corpach for people either extended Middle through bicycle taken dropped However of bus Corpach service The late of

shopfront, Ai from

users

Allt r local these

Corpach

We

service

orig train.

sign Source Lists

on

training – 28/11/14.

24 or .

an

2no

using had within Street, have

about

inal

about

Caol. Caol. applica

across and 2 from

following

at

cuts we

direct travelling Inbhir

since for

holiday

is proposals

buses

Co He 30 minutes installa

know been Ca

the

essen

everyone The These is

the the facility, ‐ depending the at op,

ol.

the

the

07/00121/FULLO. to Some the hydro

ons bus Pump,

same

travelling

resources

downside

All told loss

Fort concerns Corpach

that

lets Blar

last

limited proposals

al. on

that me. service

buses

Lochaber

for

electric

of that

may to William

To for newsle of to from rather as 15 Caledonian

Journey

the we’ve the on

2no

goods make

get it

some

number

the

direct

will

already from av for

to takes

the

Annat link new

the dwellings, were scheme, ailable than

Corpach.

is jus High now those

no er,

their route hoist

people

between

the

a

Land from best by reduced

mes are

number

up

going fi to of ced

go School, Camaghael

ca

it needs

and

Road,

Land 70M

is

the on Mclean

have about edi

condenser

North

150M Corpach on Middle Steve known. buses Stagecoach you? for further there less half then of make roughly and town

been

metables metables Weekly

House day of

Monday Suggestion Boxes atCorpachshops Suggestion Boxes Ple

other hourly

Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] West

East

Stagecoach Kilmallie Would

me

would is further Walker, determined.

go Let KCC know what youthink. Let KCCknow when a

with

Street

consulta Which se anything hourly

through to

& Planning of

of have

and do between

Campbell Fassfern

mes North

travel & Banavie car park & Banaviecarpark to

be

you the Inverskilavulin,

change

mber at

not managing Community

services Friday.

un let preferred?

a

when

Corpach

23:54. use will

notable on

look Caol.

show Scotland to For us Lists, l

enclosure

last

and 0600 s the

town? take Hous know House,

a Saturday if at

are We further

all

needed. bus see direct

director bus commented

‐ the

that Caol a

e and

News.

the essen

only

, what has

view

Are

the

to A

Glenloy Fassfern more proposed Glenloy

to

comes

aves

1830 service link stops;

informa

welcomed

services there Sept

had

nnat

rear on Note you for al

if is

it then

for space

it

needed

2014 back think. of all

le that

and to these took mes

the are

on

if

recently, A worth Andrew the developments developments around camping interest s community website a and these

protect local Sco Andrew Sugges se KCC the boang ques the Banavie, Vision money toilet guest power ideas stressed on Banavie events making Laggan You for publicl funding Gairlochy been mulate

For number good ng

19

sh Sco

most

Board local preserving ca gave

oned

communi

more (en

considerable th email: and block

at

concerns. the

n a y for

ons sh of

since of

for November. turnout Locks.

how

the the Jan groups, from availa

look in Canals was www.kilmallie.org.uk Thin see and

Kilmallie rely the

pods.

camping Sco

concerns

of

water,

a

the ideas for Kilmallie the sugges

of

for the the

info,

presenta

in business M canal. whether

Canals

can FOCAL

the

this included [email protected]

Sco

need Gairlochy, proposed 2011. encouraged

!!

(recently

Community

disabled

central

canal. Sco a Canal ble

a list,

independent

es canal sh canal. by by

These cLugash,

the including

and

from par collaborate

ca

sh an or presenta more ons

sh Canals’

Community for Sco Sco

pods

nal

please for

and

have to co These to is Community exhibi The unique

poten with on

and

cularly

they plans

Canals all

a government. FOCAL sh

sh It ncer

are be supplement

be

as ideas

Canals).

made access

boat

appointed

developments subgroup

it was and and discussion

proposed 01397

been

a

the

of added

has car a sta on by

not contact on focussed Council) er

ns

really ally

Canals Canals working

and summary character

the

to trips

from agreed facili scenic

a to

and

ff

the liaison members

over at strong parking

also

popular

to .

large

focussed Council expressed on

and create

enhance

He However

772383, cos

consulta Community Company allay

to

will boa level

es the

between

of

the Kilmallie such could

been proposed Chairman

was

reduced

our centred loca it’s

There

waterway on

prominent that with

support ngs

t make

some at s.

charges of

and KCC

income of

with by meeng

well maki

mailing as to the on

More

on

the

on and

local

local he about

(Friends

have the meet

the

of

ng

at

of for

at

of

Caledonian

The see One their owners! to alldogsand Last Call Don If 1822 into

FOCAL But

Entries plaque if yo Can youhelp finda for We

great MacLean we address (see Winner u

gear

stay dog the and

know know

£20 prize plaque for Don? could

newsle

Canal have

commemorates full

to

entry

best

has could safe, and

NOT

mason where

[email protected]

and and lots is story help All photos

Don’s Closing

donated Lochaber)

researching picture get somewhere

FOCAL in and

between

wearing become

all of age him

already in

working in your

ancestor, you

entries

please Lochaber

June (if fi date [email protected]

of nd

will a

Don’t

under dog dogs the will

newsleer.

further a famous

a

a

Corpach

his 2014 –

on

in

end award “fetching

dog

plaque funds. keep

will comple

so

into go Hugh

the

family

the enjoy this be

18)

dog

February on be

issue beside, Lochaber

shy! ca dogs £20 this

plaque as

a MacLean, which

and on published

and our

nal,

owners, tree walks £20

well

tweed

compe to of

away

of name your website.

Moy,

and on, prize local he is the

as 2015. the

area.

along please with

has

who

£20

approached or coat”

get dog’s from

newsleer). on

on Caledonian

in Sco

in been

your

it.

the your the richer! was

contact the

the name. too! sh

next told

canal! a

name,

canal

cameras

locks!

master Canal

Your KCC

Canal is us

sited

at

to

in

page 5 1844 ... 170 years since the canal was closed for 3 years for major repairs

page 24 Corpach was a base for the US Navy and the Royal Navy Coastal forces during the World Wars Corpach Over The The Down Some had but Corpach the had Construc a opened the 1904 and and and Cameron Science contractors’ in many show given up said out Corpach history snippets- house. before Withthanksaseverdied. he toHugh’sfamily for

Remembering HughMuir inthis,the again last ofhisfour 1822.There

of

articles about the historyof articles aboutthe

sta site because of

building fi been to could was e that

the

as rst ff

the

a on

of say the

solid on be ec

Pump

di

of Museum,

in

a

the sod demolished in on a

vely a main

ff

Canal as

used the UF

installed.

sta have 1901. Corpach

long

erent sword 1897

were

rock

a smiths huts

of

of of Church. House

started

original coal

are on

road

became as water the the lease been basin

(wages Behind by sta rail

served

made road a London.

many permission to publish it. it. topublish permission merchant.

Photograph

Canal Mallaig

Smithy. bobbin It over Lady on we

sidings

in

in

here to In was stood seepage building

on

1968.

1803 have the

here 1931 the

2/ the stories

building the by

Margaret had

an the

for ‐

Over

Extension factory

The church

a per at local used

sta

last the

amazing and killed

Cooper’s it The a

hundreds

le bu the a

on

courtesy linked massive of

cu is Smithy the

Corpach which he sentus Corpach whichhe

large

200 Scout

from rned Scout for the

pump bic the

south

Cameron. , hall. a

site a years a

Chief

years

years

fi

yard

railway

bunkhouse

salmon

pump feat. Canal with down

what

rst

shop. Hall.

ran

Group.

of

In there impact of

was side

ship Sco

the

the

of re

years. by are Kilmallie The un

It we but

and

(when?). moval

moved Old Du

The

of use

was

curer’s l Hughie were pum

was 1980s

through known. sh

Basin on see

nsta the

the the

pump

photos Names Canals building line cut

p built Corpach.

of 2

to

sea opening ff

Church 1940s to ho

it

and

large

was

at nage day. rock) Behind

was It the house

was ‐

in lock

of is

as

cut on

.

person Hugh The Another About Just Near While Lochiel Co entrance of village. Free 1700s man, but name Gardens fi miss then people the invitaon worthies. demolished 1917 1960s delivery the Yokohama, from There the in by Farrow nished

1902

the a

last shore, main they age

original to

Banavie

Church. the

on the a when Alan Muir

of is some fi there run

1900

the

small

had worshipped gave Drive.

rst

150 aged

and the

a up service.

house the

heat. where

did entrance road. ‐ to It

house only

by Cameron, summer East WRI

owning

Lady

Japan. lived

had

Albyn

there

soon shore. years village hall names

are cro

build

high them

quarry man A 95. Jock

event

The on grou of

a

er

to

no

called Hermione

in . place lazy

a

for or were

a McFarlane

Manse Drive.

Ground the On grou to the

be

For

known China and hall of and

in Church which ps

er. so

le

a

the

his

bed demolished rerement schoolteachers

the

main

Disrup

part in

Kuling nd

was he Stone was all s winter. running ended the ll

It

brother fi

now Scotland.

for

Old

can eld in went schools can included school

was

Cameron

of which the 12 road

used

area 1849.

many on

who

for on (a

Cemetery this Hillview

s be

thatched by

opened ll Eventually

GSC

to a former

‐

the

is

its in by he

as

of seen buildings

Lochiel boatbuilders

was

in ran be

have

as This

‐ called years The

the

me

law,

Hall construc 1843 a

th

built 1965

main was seen. a

are

ship’s a

e used Drive

on

summer

in they ground fi Kilmallie

been local ‐ manse)

WRI houses

situated a rst

and

and in known

this Yokohama.

un the 1913

the due C an road.

in Un

r

the un

meeng carpenter l

was had anston.

on d

which produce

Kuling in

Corpach. "breakaway" other house.

hillside

l

l

to

reluctantly evicted

yard

was

at

chair. Banavie. was in retreat

It

Community the

a

since Claymore 1974 widening at was

an was the tent

was

a the

in was Kilmallie

This early

was

He A

morass above

taken

‐

and early

and

built

Over

on local to

one and

died

the

in

of

surprisingly by expression but ships are opinions. There them consisted tried child by list Diana to You Ruth In There While be Camusnagaul welcoming fes memories pantomimes very to a be when found Mill and windows. the works of some Home”. organised cats brilliant with was they the sta ward li great school had gate. and everyone. enlarged teacher verse

this

course move tell le

a Cadbury ff to

of

now Corpach Mallaig no

er val

David any respect may and to

and man!

important at Cadbury’s

had things

in to is

learning when

drive

is

from

four

she

Snelgrov was is living us

out of

instalment than mes

meals

win fi

a

the

Ruth or

with Ruth’s

that ce show

at poet,

no regrets

its buses

over a re see Ruth

about

a she

In

the

of

She is

two. a at The Wilkie of lady

that Achaphubuil

mus student

library.

winning “place

round community, same

only doubt Club

in

Road

they si called

so

sing

on the out. th

despite red rst eleven

seven Coop

the at Ruth on folk

school.

became department

Post

here them Ferry. a has life!

to tried eir

Miller. class

children, because

e

round. i

who the it She representa ng to

c her Christmas diligent prize

latest ‐ about ‐ for

link

Primary where me

were

She song

Raigmore navigate

and came was

in

teacher

of

the been

that of the “Swimming briskly

or with

O Perhaps

when focus

of

teachers

other side

passions, to is

the

a boys Corpach did

is ffi At Now to

achieving Focus the

adores

working in

the concerts, prize

the an

o

long the .

community a To of ce

make s all feeling

re

Ruth

She

Fort

via

the she a it right

living a gardener, School the many

Ruth college

en, ll corpses”.

extremely ernoon

her School

and just she

Ruth pain infants. Na marching of

takes boys

Head

sinc provided ring and and

passionate

the way; on

in

Hospital is

one cat

danced

ves W friendly

course

loves in sunnier

the her

for

books

way to

re her a very

one country

in onal

e

in

of

Folk illiam

of

brings sail

here. they so the li line and

ng; purring but few

singing

its she

Teacher to of

her

folk Head

nearly her three

cat Loch rather among red.

them

life

le much, School

girl

music

in

a hardy the their

present name

Pa children She

I to

for

when

the called yards it talented to

well a gave

used

helicopter

celebrate

a house hor

was Troy Corpach garden go. At have

over an

and in friends had

Ruth super

is their but

about dancing

Eil, Teacher. the choppy

“Rs” the

er now thought and

on 30 years one fi

easier dull, area

biggest

One

and

she the into wi ng

and

rst the

from

life

culturist,

them to

and

the her

als Ruth from that

in

been fast

“A

bus

her

Dixon th called pr

the

delight

dancing, Compe fun were

girl lunch

paint

she

parents

at

Corpach, o

pa

teaching. appreciates

was entertaining li

poet,

whose Each together”.

year singing

her aises Magical

only Co‐ school fall an

enjoys

to the

cars than lap, the sea

at stop, didn’t

her from prizes! She

couldn’t

happy Kshama visited Kshama visited her

le

and one taking she achievements was

ents and

assistant

op,

air Ruth Miller Prize, eigh the

at obviously like

Traquair

and hears

about her their

This time

her for

uses life dark of a the they composing using “Highland on and

garden

it

home.

would of of

main her maybe

s is Glasgow lover life. life.

was the the as

has

nothing

music life stop in

“li used Mixture”

and class

The part. What a

course

a

ll es,

beaten

a

they there

her won

help

”.

short love Pulp sole verse run never the s le

‐ and

the

of

and

Sh on

like She

to

ck in

is

e

“A and Achaphubuil. birthday, were moved couple She Ruth Ruth Kshama cats! in she demen friends keep are loneliness her while rhymes and gained Second away very assistant by Ruth autumn school she exempted “L be canteen worked It

iving Somerset

is United Magi lonely.

quite pupils talks does

felt

always biscuits obvious

giving.

has was has

her never in he

and started her

and

to dropping

World

are cal

in very 1974. a and

Wilmington and

worked

about teacher, lived a company not

a with

born

su

warmer Roses, Press. to she canteens from

di

BA

few

her Mi more lovi a

blessed

Thank

fferers and

and

winter.

fferent played honoured that

care feel true One

xture”

She

and experienced the War. on life

in

ng” father

about the call

for Proceeds many

in,

for

oriental

Leith poems

alone Ruth

her

for.

organised joy

poem help climes

you fell together

quali

in were

‐ at

needlessness

wi She and plenty giving me table up

poem

There the has

spring

own to was Moss Christmas in

th

for

other things, in is

as when of

fi in

a

children ARP. diploma read

love in

donated to

realized ed

always 1923 on

poppies

tennis other old

her Corpach

sharing an

from

since in are

ended

of her

when write. The

in Park.

as and

a the

each with

Episcopal Diana books and

mother

Polish surprise

Montrose your

phone a and latest

the

her helping West summer, and in teacher

the of

she As

of to

James you c and your of

Peter

the and

brought

words of

service

friends who fi

li to

husband including their

well a

soldiers its 48 anthologies

rst sum book

was calls,

had sale cancer Coast are

yello er,

party for

read, Rectory.

memories anyway minister. importance.

of those way Gillespie’s

had but at

as

own

devasta cuddly of widowed and a

ill

of

is her emails, in w

and Moray wonderful

her up ‐

of

happy memories £280

eventually health wisdom.

about

back visited been

her Peter charity. gold Marseilles. of

but in own Scotland. during

has parents three

her

course…..

She need; cats latest

over

a for da House, Ruth

her lots

ng Secondary

passed the no

but books

90 the printed She

ff er

was

local in books, Your the fl

me odils th

lady.

of tea

she

oods book

she

she had from

there

says They

The

is

to

page 25 any thoughts on the new Community Empowerment Bill?

page 6 our Highland councillors’ corner page 7

What questions would YOU like to This time we asked our three councillors: put to any or all of our three “How can recycling in Kilmallie and the Highlands be made more Highland Councillors? Please let us effective,and efficient?” know.

How can recycling in Kilmallie and the kilo, we are dumping approximately strategy on wrappings. Supermarkets Highlands be made more effecve, and 35,000,000 meals per year, in the need to use natural products, such as efficient ? Highlands alone. That is a staggering recycled paper, for wrapping. The 5p per “Well, that was different from a day on the hill!” We were made very welcome by the good folk of This is a great queson, as the stasc. plasc bag is a start.

I was driving back to Lochaber from Oban and Oban and Lorne and I was even invited to press the Highland Council wrestles with massive Clearly the collecon methods have to The blue bin should not be so reflecng on Scotland’s inaugural Rural Parliament, buon for the town’s fireworks display on 5th budget cuts. Firstly we need to dump our be overhauled. We need to reduce landfill selecve. No longer should we have to th th belief that we are only small in world which is all that goes into the green bin as forensically search for a 1 or 2 on pieces held over 6 – 8 November. Folk might well wonder November. Fortunately, the display lasted around 8 terms, therefore we cannot do anything waste and costs the council £80 per tonne of plasc. Everything that can be recycled, what the Rural Parliament actually is and what it will minutes, being around 7 minutes longer than the to help. That done, we need to be very in tax + upli costs and transport. If we except glass, should go in the blue bin. do (and don’t we have enough public bodies event a few years ago when Oban basked in clear about what is happening, to all our had strategic waste to energy plants most I am also an advocate of composng‐‐‐the already?). internaonal publicity thanks to the unplanned 50 recycled products. Where it goes, what of this material could be turned into heat lile grey bin is invaluable—taking all My voluntary role is to chair Scosh Rural Acon second display! returns and benefits can the council get and power, just as some of the more peelings, coffee, tea, egg shells and (SRA), the management body for the Rural Parliament I have aended rural parliaments in Estonia and that can be passed back to the general forward thinking countries do. These cartons, before decanng to the compost public. The more benefits, the more should stretch from Fort William to Skye bin. Even if you live in a flat, and, once PM Angus MacColl from Benderloch had Sweden, and learned how effecve they are felt to be householders will comply and use the and Inverness to Wick on greenfield sites save it, and give it to a friend played our newly‐commissioned “Rural Parliament by the communies there. I hope that we will achieve system. Frankly the council and the with affordable housing enjoying the who has a garden. March”, composed by Donald Shaw from Taynuilt, it the same for Scotland. As the Naonal Mòd moves private sector are only scraping the affordable energy, added later. Waste is fell to me to open proceedings in Scots, Gaelic and around Scotland each year, I hope that a similar surface. It was recently pointed out with then a resource. Cllr Allan Henderson English. My theme was; ‘Let us be ambious for our bidding process might start for the Rural Parliament. an average meal weighing 1.1 lbs or ½ There also needs to be a naonal urging 20mph limit in built-up areas limit in built-up 20mph urging Rural Parliament”. Not unl the event has been to Dumfries & Galloway, Those who read my last piece for Kilmallie Aberdeenshire, Orkney and the Western Isles, say, will Landfill tax means that household rubbish www.mpsonline.org.uk and the Royal Recycling significantly more of the going to landfill costs us taxpayers an Mail to stop unaddressed mail. Highland's waste will be very difficult,

Community News in June will remember that the it become properly established. d supermarkets, they’d soon use less! Rural Parliament is not a public body; we have a But the Rural Parliament will be more of a process extraordinary amount. What is worse is One of the bulkiest items in our green bin even if it's necessary. One of the best that the tax rate is set to escalate rapidly, is usually plasc packaging that's not services I think the council provides are voluntary board with two paid staff. The aim is to than an event as the recommendaons for change further reducing the council’s strained recyclable. We already try to buy items the recycling centres. In the forthcoming bring community folk together with those from public arising from Oban will go to public bodies and the budget. with as lile packaging as possible: budget debates I'll be arguing that we bodies, NGOs and the like who make decisions on Scosh Government, with a Cabinet‐level stocktaking My family easily fill our green bin concentrates, bulk buys or refills, or stuff ought to be making recycling facilies their behalf. By metaphorically pung them in the meeng in mid‐2015, ongoing monitoring, then fortnightly. With the council’s budget that simply keeps longer. We'll have to do more accessible to the public, not less. same room together we aim to gain beer policies for eventually the next Rural Parliament in 2016 and so proposal to reduce the frequency of green more of that and avoid the bulkier non‐ Invesng in beer facilies is really the

rural areas and, by harnessing the energy and on, following the European model. bin collecons, we will definitely need to recyclables like tetra‐pak cartons. only way to increase recycling enterprise of community folk, develop beer ways of Less than a fih of Scotland’s populaon lives in recycle a lot more. We’ve taken a few Food waste takes up a lot of our green significantly, and each year the steps already to try and reduce the bin. We have a compost bin but will have landfill tax escalates, the more doing things and providing services in rural Scotland. rural Scotland with over 90% of the natural resources amount of our waste going to landfill but to be more consistent in using it. Giving sense it makes. While 1,000 people gather for the Swedish Rural and yet, when UK‐wide targets are given, such as there are addional things we can do. scraps to the dogs or birds also cuts down Parliament every two years, our inaugural Rural achieving specific broadband speeds for 95% of the The simplest step to reducing waste is to on the amount going in the bin. Cllr Ben Thompson Parliament totalled 400, with 300 from the populaon by 2016, virtually all of rural Scotland is not create as much. Stopping junk mail is Apparently the average Scosh family community sector and 100 being policy people and excluded. We’re fed up always having to catch up and an easy win ‐ you can register with throws away £39 of food every month! decision makers from NGOs and public bodies. aim to ensure that the Rural Parliament will Promong a Rural Parliament for Scotland has been strengthen the rural voice. Councils have a statutory obligaon to Since the project started, the informaon use of landfill disposal (this will the vision of Cabinet Secretary Richard Lochhead and Our message to the Scosh Government and other provide recycling facilies for household collected shows there has been a include training for staff in this all the empty packaging to the shops an Royal College of Paediatrics & Child Health of Paediatrics Royal College he, along with two other Ministers, aended parts of agencies was that we want them to support rural waste. Commercial waste is not included reducon in waste to landfill and an sensive maer). the event. The Rural Parliament will of course be communies and the new Rural Parliament to be able in this obligaon. To date, I have not increase in the recycling rate compared The Scosh Government’s Zero Waste received concerns from any Kilmallie to the previous year at Alness Recycling Plan sets a target of 70% of all waste to community‐led with an elected board. to decide and deliver more of what we aspire to, residents regarding recycling. An update Centre. be recycled by 2025. The themes for the workshops arose from a survey including tailored support arrangements for on a pilot programme at Alness Recycling Arising therefrom, the Community The Council recycling rate has with 1,500 responses and ranged across rural community‐led acons. Centre (approved on 6th February 2014) Services Commiee agreed to approve reached 45% pushing it up to number 11 businesses; transport; land reform, land use and There was also wholehearted agreement that it is to improve waste controls and diversion the following measures:‐ in the rankings of the 32 Scosh Local planning; broadband and digital connecvity; how to me for a naonal conversaon on local democrac at Recycling Centres was submied to a  Roll‐out the programme to all Authories according to new figures support communies to lead with confidence. renewal as a first step towards a radical reform of meeng of the Community Services recycling centres in Highland released by SEPA for 2013. Commiee on 6th November 2014. The including, of course, Fort William. Highland Council has agreed to The gathering was bursng with ideas, discussion, local government that will bring power much closer to proposal is to examine a range of ways in  Ban the deposit of household waste increase the range of materials collected exhibions and all of the workshops produced local communies. which we can idenfy and then eliminate by commercial/profit type operators. in the blue recycling bins commencing recommendaons for change which will be presented It’s early days for the Rural Parliament but we the deposits of commercial waste.  The introducon of control measures early next year. This will help to push to the appropriate levels of government. Folk from certainly have the ear of Government at present and Customers accessing the Alness site with and specifically a regime of prior our re‐cycling rate higher sll with a

different parts of the country met for the first me are in a potenally powerful posion. a van, liveried vehicle, pick up and/or noficaon to users with vans and/or possible saving of £70K. if we returned and learned valuable lessons from each other’s trailer are required to complete a trailers. projects and ideas. We had several colleagues from John C Hutchison Household Waste Declaraon form prior  The introducon of a challenge and Cllr Bill Clark to arrival confirming their waste is of inspecon regime to ensure that established and embryonic rural parliaments in Badabrie

Slower safer smilier- safer smilier- Slower household origin. users maximise the use of the mainland Europe and we learned of their operaon. Chair, Scosh Rural Acon recycling facilies and minimise the Peter is as busy as ever on the Operaons side and is equally page 22 delighted with his counterpart’s progress. He connues to focus on page 23 update from sub-saharan africa! the fundraising strategy and, as with many charies, Ndi Moyo largely flies by the seat of its pants trying to make enough funds So fellow Kilmallians… another newsleer and another chance for a not had the experience here. Seeing our counterparts whom we each year with a dwindling reserve, to keep going. We will do catch‐up chat from the sunny shores of Lake Malawi where, in mid have been most involved in grow in confidence is a source of whatever we can on return to contribute but the sustainability of November, we are struggling with the heat and where the delight unequalled pleasure. Paents connue to be a source of great these NGO projects is always a fine‐run thing. of racing home aer work to have enough me and light for a dip pleasure and frustraon too but that is the thing I think I love about We have just returned from a ‘Gathering’ week with our supporng in the refreshing lake waters is unimaginably lovely! A world away them most. They have endless paence and resilience. For those of

agency, Voluntary Mission Movement (VMM) in Tanzania. from what we will be returning to at the end of January… you who access the FB group rambles, I may have recounted this Alongside the decision to come to work in Malawi, joining VMM has tale before but it just highlights, for me, the acceptance of the Plans have had a bit of an unexpected turn. We will complete our been one of the best choices we could have made. We have Malawian people… project two months ahead of schedule, as a new opportunity and enjoyed being part of a caring ‘family’ and having me out with our challenge has thrown itself in front of us (me) and we are heading Having managed to procure the services of the new Oncologist in fellow volunteers has been re‐energising on all fronts. We home. Not for us the gentle return to the Highland spring, no no… Central Malawi, we were delighted with the outcomes of his parcipated in a Monitoring & Evaluaon Course and felt we gained let’s fly back late January I agreed when offered a new job… this is monthly review clinics at Ndi Moyo. For the first me paents were from that (even though it was largely old hat to Peter). We also going to be a shock to the system in every sense of the word! So… being seen by an oncologist and being offered treatment for the ‘snuck’ in a few extra days on this trip to spend in Zanzibar, which let’s get the main news done for those who have not already heard. cancers (where previously only palliaon of symptoms could be was magnificent… although on return to the lakeside we wondered the fesvies by the me this goes to print. There is no sign of the Under pressure, or friendly encouragement it was called, I applied given) and having biopsies, blood tests and geng chemotherapy. what was so different as here we are (aer work) enjoying listening pending season here of course, but we will celebrate in our own for a post at Highland Hospice and much to my surprise was invited The down side was that the treang hospital was over 100kms to the breaking waves on our own beach front… the water is not way by the lake and raise a toast to you. We wish you all a very for interview! A last minute decision to fly back seemed sensible away and as very few can afford to pay for the transport to see quite so deep azure coloured, the temperature of the water is tepid happy Christmas and a happy and healthy start to the New Year. given our varied wi‐fi access and recepon. Anyway, long story these intervenons through, Ndi Moyo has now had to fund this ‐warm as opposed to bathwater warm… but hey it’s not a chore to th See soon! Xxxxx short… I was offered the post and I am, or will become 26 January too! The up‐side of course is that oen paents make excellent cope with! It really has been a magical experience in every sense. 2015, the new Head of Clinical Services at Highland Hospice… gulp! progress on treatments and when we next see them they are If anyone would like to follow our work more closely, there is a So it seems this is my last contribuon to Kilmallie Community Two very good things related to the new post – one is that it is pan‐ feeling much improved, back looking aer their children group seng on Facebook, which I try to add to on a fortnightly News. I can’t begin to say how much I have enjoyed ‘chang’ to Highland so I will sll have a toe in the Lochaber waters (and will be (somemes marrying again…and having more children!) and being basis. Type Ndi Moyo into the FB search bar and you should get a you all. It has really helped us feel connected despite being so far hot‐desking it there as able), and two, that Highland Hospice is well enough to dig the fields in readiness for planng. However to ‘closed group’ opon. Otherwise my email address is away. My thanks to the editorial team for their connued support twinned with Ndi Moyo which will also allow me to maintain my access treatment, geng there is not the only challenge. Waing to [email protected] and I do so enjoy hearing tales from and encouragement to maintain contact, and to all you readers links with the clinical team here in terms of educaon and support, see the right person has proved even more challenging! One Corpach and surrounds! Our fundraising webpage remains open for who have read the arcles and sent messages of love, support and and potenal exchange visits, so that has pleased me enormously. paent recently having been referred for a suspected breast cancer anyone who would like to contribute: ww.everyclick.com/ interest. If ever I have felt down (and it’s not been all a picnic) it is The other very good thing of course is the challenge of the new aended the central hospital for biopsy. The first stab proved peterandkathryn, with all donaons going straight to NdiMoyo those messages that have made the real difference. I am beginning post. I already have a HH email and calendar being ‘populated’ by unsasfactory so she was told a wide local excision biopsy was Palliave Care. to look forward to our return and to being able to bore you witless meengs in February 2015…changed days ahead, but excing mes planned. So she waited, and waited… aer a week she was asked to with the unedited tales… there may be no escape! Be warned… Kathryn Hamling too. We are hoping that Peter will find some work to return to also move from her hospital bed as it was needed… so she took up but for now we are not overly anxious. As with taking the step to residence on the floor of the hospital corridor and waited some However before I close, I realise you will all be busy preparing for come to Malawi when everything fell into place to allow that to more. FOUR weeks later she had run out of funds (hospital stays happen, I have every faith that they will do so again on our return. here mean you have to cook and clean for yourself) bar her fare back to Salima so she gave up and returned home. Around the I will be very sorry to leave here and I will miss the team very much

same me a young man whom we had treated with first line for KCC News? adventures your why not write about (and the days of endless sunshine…) but I look with pride on how Lochaber Beekeepers Association chemotherapy at Ndi Moyo but who had relapsed, was told to much everyone has moved on and taking a much more acve part

report to the Central Hospital for more intensive chemo. He in the day to day management of Ndi Moyo, and I know the future What are our honeybees doing Next talk aended on the given date and waited, and waited and… a week of the centre is becoming increasingly safe and secure. We have over the winter? Saturday 7 February 2015 at 2pm ‐ we are very pleased to later came back untreated as he could no longer afford to be another two months to complete our individual objecves, but Unlike wasps and bumble bees who all die in announce that Clare Holohan, BSc (Hons) MNIMH, Medical hanging around all day and not working. When they reported back more and more we are seeing ourselves surplus to requirements in the autumn and it is just the queen that hibernates over the Herbalist, Massage & Aromatherapist will be giving a talk/demo what had happened I wrote to the oncologist to ask what could be some areas, which is as it should be. My big regret is that the new winter, honeybees survive over the winter and therefore have a on 'Making health products with beeswax' at Kilmallie done to move these poor folk through the system. His reply???... I clinic build, which has taken up so much of our me in planning, head start on building up the colony in the spring. Community Centre, Staon Road, Corpach, Fort William, PH33 quote… “Ndi Moyo paents are SO impaent”. I could hardly speak fundraising, and watching grow. will not be ready for moving in to In the autumn they gather as much nectar as they can and 7JH. The cost will be £3 to non‐members to help towards the but no one here thought this comment was odd or wrong! Some before we finish. As with all building projects it is taking twice as convert it into honey which they have stored in the hive ready for cost of the event. We hope you can join us! things just cannot be pushed along fast… or somemes even at all. long and cosng almost twice as much! Although there is steady eang over the winter. We have taken off some of the honey for If you would like us to bring the bees along and give a talk to progress, it has been so labour‐intensive and slow moving, and with our own use but must ensure there is sufficient for the bees to your group or if you would like more informaon about what we the usual challenges in geng the job done properly… despite survive over the winter. We have also fed them about 5 litres of do then please do call me on 07768 805040 or e‐mail me. about Kinlocheil in Wikipedia... would anyone like to expand? would anyone in Wikipedia... about Kinlocheil being caught several mes taking short cuts it never fails to amaze sugar syrup (2 parts sugar to 1 part water) to help increase their (and irritate Mr H) how they never learn that each me it happens stores. Sarah Kennedy (Secretary) it has to be knocked back and redone! We are now at roof level and The bees are now clustering in a ball shape around the queen [email protected] with the rains likely in the next few weeks, the race is on to get that to keep her at around 34 degrees cengrade regardless of how part completed sooner rather than later. Work will not stop with cold it is outside the hive. They create warmth by disengaging the rains but it will doubtlessly be slowed, so now the esmated their wings and moving the wing muscles (a kind of shivering). date of compleon is March 2015… and then some! The queen has stopped laying eggs and generally doesn’t start Work is going well and clinics connue to be very busy. We now again unl the weather gets warmer in February/March me. have five new outlying clinics in operaon, and all doing fairly During the winter we feed the bees a kind of sugar fondant which well… it is difficult to oversee at mes as many are so far away and helps feed them if their stores get low. We will only check that a monthly three hour visit barely scratches the surface. We have they have sufficient food on a monthly basis and leave them mostly mobile phone connecon but geng beyond that with undisturbed unl the spring! modern technology is sll a dream here in the making! Even text

only two lines only two messages can take two days to arrive! Sll, as they say here… Pomona Pomona… slowly slowly… very very slowly! Some things have changed – new paent records, new electronic data system, new clinic rotaon and roune, new research completed and presented and other projects taking shape. It has been a busy but great two years. I feel I have gained enormously and it has shown

me how paent outcomes can be improved by empowering others planning any expeditions overseas?- even more than trying to do it all yourself. I can say without doubt I would not have even considered applying for the new post had I

August saw a outdoors, Liz and I have had the and kept falling off but no one At the beginning of term indoors child receiving a goodie bag before fundraising activities will be held page 8 page 9 number of honour of ‘sampling’ many culinary gave up! Onwards we trudged the children enjoyed climbing, returning back to playgroup to throughout the year so look out for changes for delights from soup to chicken with through the bushes where all of a balancing, rolling and stepping on partake in some fun and games. information on the community Kilmallie noodles and chocolate birthday sudden the group ground to a halt. the climbing frame, rolling and Presently we are all learning noticeboards and on our Facebook Playgroup; the cake! It is however, with a tinge of “It’s a dinosaur“ shrieked a little cutting with playdough, threading about construction, building and page. biggest being the closure of our day sadness that the favourite water boy and sure enough there in all its beads, and pasta to make very lining roads initiated from Without the support of parents

care facility. Unfortunately butt has sprouted a leak: the splendour stood a rather fierce delicate necklaces which hung conversations between the children and the community the function of numbers fell considerably, owing to children at the moment are looking dinosaur, “what shall we resplendently on parents’ necks. regarding the roadworks in the Playgroup would be greatly moving up to school, impacting on collecting water in buckets, feed him”, “don’t go too near“, Art and crafts proved to be a Corpach. The role play corner has diminished, the experiences of the the feasibility of providing the measuring it and using it in the and “it’s only pretend” were some favourite choice among the served many purposes from a children would be compromised, service. As there were only a small ‘kitchen’. Hopefully we will have of the words of wisdom. Following majority and the walls of the bustling kitchen-cum-cafe to a therefore please accept our thanks number of parents enquiring about collected enough Morrison’s ‘Let it on from the excitement the playroom are very bright and very industrious building site with and gratitude for all that you do. the facility from August onwards Grow’ vouchers to replace the children all split into groups and welcoming. The children lots of materials and building Playgroup has a few vacancies, we were left with no option but to water butt. Our adventures have engaged with their leaders making experimented with a variety of bricks of all shapes and sizes in enquiries can be made on 01397 close. However Playgroup continues taken us up round Farrow Drive paintbrushes from twigs, lichen, colours and mediums to create abundance. 772 016 or via e-mail to flourish with children and their and Pobs Drive where we have pine needles and grass using them warming fire pictures learning all Children have actively being [email protected]. families enjoying a fun-filled day. listened intently to the beautiful to create wonderful Autumn about the safety aspects, what we ‘drawing’ plans for house and Enrolment for the 2015-2016 We would like to take this melodies of the birds, collected pictures which proudly provide the use to make fires and the different church buildings and ‘writing’ lists session is usually organised for opportunity to thank all the twigs and leaves and counted backdrop for our Halloween frieze. sources that we use to heat our of materials required for erection February/March time. Please look children and parents who used and streams from the aeroplanes in the Others created models using play houses. For Halloween everyone of the buildings. All the children at local newspapers and supported the day care facility in blue skies. Prior to the October dough enhanced by the natural participated in scooping our enthusiastically engaged in building noticeboards for information. the past. I think everyone will holidays we had a very exciting materials that were abundant pumpkins, making bright orange throughout the day and have been agree we had lots of fun times in day where we met up with our within the area while the third pictures using an assortment of learning words to some songs to Carole barrow to her wedding at the Moorings? and out of the centre. friends from Upper Achintore group carefully gauged where to brushes and thin and thick straws. help them develop their counting Kilmallie Playgroup and Daycare Initially our numbers were low Playgroup; this adventure saw us stand round the fire. The area of This was a firm favourite with lots and literacy skills relating to resulting in us losing a valued meeting up in Glen Nevis. The safety had carefully been marked of huffing and puffing prior to the construction and digging up roads. member of staff. As the term has excitement was evident as the peal off with cones and the children taking of the paint print: the Not only have the children been gone on our numbers have grown of children’s laughter and chatter were eagerly awaiting their turn to excitement on the children’s faces busy but so have the Mums, Dads

and we now have the pleasure of echoed all around. Activities for the toast marshmallows and sample was immense. A small number of and the board of trustees, initially working with 14 children and day included a nature walk the delights of baked chocolate children extended their threading with the organising and their families. collecting natural materials and bananas yum. A fun day was had skills and produced spiders’ webs deliverance of the Autumn Fair The weather has been varied placing them on a sticky board. by all. using needles and wool, this was fundraising night held in Kilmallie but this has not deterred our This proved a bit tricky as all the really tricky showing excellent Community Hall, which catered for budding adventurers from getting things lying around were very wet contd on next page manipulative skills and everyone; stalls for adults and out and about. One of the initial concentration. children, delicious baking (all kindly projects on return was changing The day of our Halloween party donated), bouncy castle, and a was exceptionally busy as we had great raffle. The impressiveness of can you find the skull of a sabre tooth tiger and a fossilized ichthyo- and a fossilized tooth tiger the skull of a sabre can you find the layout of the outdoor garden area: how grateful we were to have been asked by Neil the Manager of parents and staff working together such a squad of willing helpers! the newly refurbished Co-op if we to tidy up ensured that the Barrows, buckets and spades at would like to assist in the opening dancers could access the hall at the Banavie bride being pushed in a wheel the ready and the work began ceremony. This we did with every their allocated time. Further scooping, lifting and carrying muddy soil from one side of the garden to the other. A very helpful Dad had donated us a huge tyre which was to be transformed into our soil pit. Oh how lucky we were to have an endless supply of wellies

as everyone was knee deep in soil

on a daily basis. This area is now did you spot

where in Kilmallie in Kilmallie where one of the favourites when in the centre of the loch. Dabchicks were been a couple of lesser snow geese. This is the me for geng the seed catalogues out and page 20 also conspicuous, with plenty fishing in These were juvenile “blue‐phase” birds, planning for next year. Also a great me to order bare page 21 the margins. Less expected was a black again in amongst a large flock of Canada green fingers wild rooted roses, clemas, and any fruit trees, bushes etc. At grouse, perched in a tree right by the geese, and one was sll present at the the moment Neil is outside geng the garlic planted into side of the water at Blaich. As we headed beginning of November. There is a Garden in winter tubs. If it gets too wet we will move them into the back to Kinlocheil we were rewarded possibility that these were not true lost As winter approaches there is a lot to do in the garden. greenhouse but they benefit from a frost. We have also got about with a kingfisher at the estuary, sat on a migrants, but might have originated from Leaves to be lied and stored, we are trying this year pung the Begonias and Dahlias in the cellar although no doubt we dead log. These beauful birds are right a small feral colony that breeds on Coll. them in black bin bags with slits in the boom, apparently will lose some to the dreaded vine weevil even though we at the northern edge of their range in Elsewhere, at Ardgour we found a couple they rot down quicker: we shall see. check them thoroughly before pung them away. kilmallie Lochaber, and therefore always a bonus of Greenland White‐fronted geese in bird. I have had a few sighngs along amongst a mixed flock of Canadas and As long as the weather is not too wet, a lot of the Some of the garden tubs which are too big to move can have Loch Eil in the last couple of months, so greylags (with a single pinkfoot). These herbaceous plants can be lied and split into three for re‐ bubblewrap round them, and greenhouses can also be lined Winter Wildlife 2014 presumably they have done well here were almost certainly migrant birds on planng. This is a good way to share plants with other with it. We have several pots with Lilies and find pung this year. their way down to their wintering gardeners as everyone has too much of some things. Every them under cover helps as if they get waterlogged and then The local wildlife has very much seled grounds on the Argyll islands – true frozen they can turn to mush. This is the same with tubs At the end of October I was pleased to few years we do this as things get too big and overcrowded. into winter mode now. The pine martens northern visitors, and testament to what which have spring bulbs planted: we lost a few in the bad see a family of whooper swans fly low We were lucky enough to be given a large quanty of all have thick coats, looking to all intents might turn up locally if we keep looking. over the end of Loch Eil. If we had not Hellebores which are now in their new homes. We were winters. and purposes as if they have been blow‐ been there they might have landed, but Angela and I have been busy over the advised to cut the foliage to ground level in January so the Now, my favourite job of all. Power washing paths! Slabs dried. At Glenloy Lodge they are vising these are mid birds and can be quite last year producing an illustrated book flowers will be more visible. Much ancipaon! can easily get very slippery if not kept clean. This is a great earlier and earlier as the days become shy, parcularly when they first arrive. on Glen Loy (Glen Loy – Where the job for a nice sunny day. Handy shorter, and will be demanding food long We have fish, frogs, newts etc in our outside pond and if the Whoopers, our largest swans, have just Eagles Fly – a natural and social history) to have a bag of salt ready for before 4 o’ clock soon! As one ran off frost is hard we put a cover made from a frame with fleece arrived from Iceland, and are for our own interest and that of our with my fat ball feeder, I am less than tacked to it. If it gets very frosty you might need to break a emergencies too. disnguished by their yellow bills with guests. We will, however, be giving a talk pleased with them at the moment – no small area to keep it free of ice as frogs and fish can die. Last black ps. We subsequently saw quite a on this subject at the Lochaber Natural Happy gardening doubt it will reappear under a bush year was very mild so this wasn’t necessary but worth large herd, of 30‐40 birds, on Loch Sunart History Society on 15th December at the Morag Mackell somewhere before the winter is out. The keeping an eye on it. Same with outside taps. Also keep an later the same week. A few family groups Alexandra Hotel, Fort William. This is our Don’t forget to feed numbers of ts, parcularly coal ts, eye on things like power washers as they can get frozen even winter in Lochaber, favouring shallow Christmas meeng and all are welcome. the wild birds have started to build up on the bird inside a garage or shed. lochans where they can graze on weed. Other forthcoming talks include subjects usly donated to the Newsletter £20 feeders, where there can be upwards of such as Trees for life and Dundreggan, thirty at any one me in the colder This has also been a notable summer/ Peatland ACTION, Amphibians and Despite the proposed change in legislaon our posion on snaps. Tit numbers are at a peak in early autumn period for odd geese in the area. Reples of the Highlands and Benmore consumpon of alcohol before driving remains the same, winter, when there can be up to four Towards the end of the summer there community Botanic Gardens. there are ‘no safe limits’ to drink driving. was a barnacle and two pink‐footed

mes as many as that represented by in Lochaber High School in November? Alongside this and other campaigns we will be looking to breeding pairs. Not all, of course, will geese in the salt marsh at Kinlocheil for Jon Mercer promote safe travelling by encouraging motorists to check survive the winter (or we should be very several weeks, in amongst the resident policing Glenloy WIldlife the weather and road condions prior to travelling and Canada geese. Presumably these birds soon out of bird feed). Resident With Christmas fast approaching and the usual fesve ensuring their vehicles are suitably roadworthy for potenal blackbirds and robins are joined by had spent the summer in Scotland. Thanks to Pascal Aleixandre for this photo season starng to gather momentum, this will be the first bad weather. For those travelling on bikes we are promong connental migrants, which might also Further south at Cuil Bay there has also of a Whooper Swan Christmas in the new Police staon on the Blar and I for one the use of high visibility clothing that is both warm and swell the numbers of chaffinches. Other am thankful for the very efficient heang system that we waterproof and to consider invesng in some good quality winter visitors to the garden include the have! lights. For further advice and informaon on these odd brambling, vising goldcrest, a few Although in a new building and new working campaigns be sure to check out the Police Scotland website. woodcock along the drive, and later in environment, this winter will be no different in our approach As Police Liaison Officer for Kilmallie Community Council, the winter, occasional yellowhammer and redpoll. Siskin numbers tend to peak to local communies’ policing and our focus on ‘Keeping can I conclude by wishing you all the very best over the later in the spring. There should be People Safe’. fesve period, keep safe and I hope that you enjoyed the plenty of food for them in the forests this We will be engaged in a number of campaigns both switching on of the Kilmallie Christmas Lights at Kilmallie year, however, as there has been a naonally and locally in this respect, including the usual one Community Centre. tremendous cone crop. With a bit of luck at this me of the year, namely the drink/drive campaign. this should aract large flocks of crossbill This year’s drink drive campaign will have a different edge to Police Sergeant Andrew Bilton the reader who has again very genero who has again very the reader from Scandinavia. It is always fascinang it however as with effect from 0001hrs on Friday 5 Liaison Officer for Kilmallie Community Council to see how wildlife can find and exploit December 2014 there is proposed legislaon due to come an abundant food source, no maer how into force reducing the drink drive limit in Scotland. From Police Service of Scotland distant. this date the new proposed limits will be as follows: Fort William Police Staon  Breath: BLAR MOR We took the kayak out on Loch Eil at the 22 microgrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath Fort William to the Scottish Parliament session held beginning of November on a mild, clear  Blood: PH33 7GA day, with flat calm water. Amongst the various highlights of our tour around the 50 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood Tel. 101 for non‐emergency western part of the loch was a pair of  Urine: porpoise, which we were able to 67 milligrammes of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine. [email protected] approach close enough to hear blowing on the surface. I was surprised to see them this far up the loch at this me of year, as they tend to move further out to NHS Highland deeper water in the winter, but no is looking to recruit lay members to two board commiees: doubt, they too were in pursuit of a shoal Highland Health and Social Care Commiee and Clinical Governance Commiee did you go of fish. Winter visitors that we did see included various flocks of wigeon and

a big thank you to thank you a big The closing date for submission of interest for either commiee is 31st December 2014. teal around the shores, with goldeneye Contact [email protected] for role descripons and more informaon.

page 10 page 11

Dec 2014

At long last, aer years of planning, demolishing, building and Staff Changes refurbishing, pupils and staff entered the school through our new We have made three new appointments this term: Mr Eric Groat front door on the first day back aer the October break. If you (Maths teacher) has been appointed Principal Teacher of Support This term we have been very busy Woodward took part and did very front crawl. They all really enjoyed it haven’t been in yet, a treat awaits you! The bright, spacious for Learning; Mr Liam Beagent (P.E. teacher) has been appointed with the Christmas Craft Fayre, well. Molly Henderson took part in and had lots of fun. entrance and accessible recepon area leads through to an even Principal Teacher of Guidance (Locheil) and Miss Elizabeth Pla Children in Need and bee visits. the Swimming and came 4th, Gregory brighter and more spacious foyer with access to canteen, library, has been appointed teacher of Physics (she will take up post Nursery have been doing lots of Woodward took part in the running The Christmas Craft Fayre went very aer Christmas). We are currently adversing for a teacher of hall, staffroom, offices, Prefects’ room and toilets. Architects different things like looking at the and came 11th and Fraser Clark took well and everyone who went to it have met the brief to ‘give the school a heart’ extremely well, Maths. bees that Sarah Kennedy had part in cycling and came 5th. really enjoyed it. There was lots of transforming the way the enre campus works. A First for LHS brought in. Mrs Smith helped the We also set up mini businesses for interesting stalls and great things to We’re also in the process of moving in to our new Support When our new canteen opened this term, we became the first nursery make pictures of bees. the Craft Fayre and they all went buy. The P7s really enjoyed doing secondary school in Highland to use biometric data for the department with Support for Learning classrooms and a state‐of‐ P1/2 have been very busy with very well. their stalls. the‐art base for children with severe and complex addional purchase of meals and snacks. Pupils and staff, who already use a Children in Need, the whole school support needs. As well as teaching areas, there is a mul‐sensory ‘cashless’ system, were able to register their fingerprints and can got to dress up as a super hero, P4-7 had a visit from the police and Our St Andrews day went very well room, a physiotherapy room and specialist toilet, shower and now make payments simply by placing a forefinger on the changing areas. fingerprint scanner at the checkout. This system gets around the something spotty or they could come Breedon. We all got taught that the and everyone enjoyed the dancing problem of pupils losing cards, forgeng PINs and ensures that in a onesie. This was a great success drivers in the lorries have a blind and the music. We had a Scots week Work will connue well into next year to complete classroom

nobody is aware of who is receiving free school meals. The and we raised £327.78. spot on their left and that people on leading up to the celebration. It was refurbishments in Art, English, Maths, Music and Science. We’re system has been well received by canteen users – with most their bikes should stay away from great fun. extremely pleased with the facilies we now have which are a pupils choosing to register – and has certainly helped to reduce credit to everybody involved. P2/3 have been looking at Bonfire the blind spot in case they get hurt. the length of queues. The food is good too! Night by drawing pictures about it. By Molly, Alice and Gregory It was fing that the first group of visitors to arrive through our Jim Sutherland, Head Teacher On a different note, they were also P6/7 Poppy Valentine, Owen Pescod (P7 Banavie Primary) new front door were members of the Commando Veterans’ learning Scots words and Scottish and Molly Henderson went to Associaon (CVA) with whom we have a strong link. Our annual ‘Concert of Remembrance’ was held in the newly refurbished hall dances. Inverness with lots more of the with the Wind Band, Big Band and Pipe Band performing to an Lochaber Leisure Centre swim team appreciave audience. This was the first annual concert since the P3/4 had a visit from a lady called to represent Banavie Primary School. death of CVA Chairman, Trooper Stan ‘Scoy’ Sco, a regular and Sarah Kennedy and her bees. These They did very well and Poppy inspiraonal visitor to the school. A joint rendion, by the Wind were the same bees who visited the Valentine came 9th out of 38 in back Band and Pipe Band, of one of Scoy’s favourite tunes, ‘The Nursery. One of the facts they had crawl, Owen Pescod came 6th out of Sands of Kuwait’, was a moving and memorable tribute. learnt was that bees are important 10 in breast stroke and Molly

Each year the CVA presents the ‘Commando Shield’ and Vic Ralph for 30% of food crops. Henderson Came 16th out of 42 in Cerficate of Commendaon to one member of each band who has shown great commitment as well as musical excellence. This P4/5 did Harvest back at the start year, CVA Secretary Joe Murtagh presented the awards to Natalie of Autumn and did an assembly about Brayshaw, S6 for the Wind Band and Iain MacQueen, S5 for the it. The entire school came to see it. Pipe Band. They had songs, poems and spelt out As always, the Pipe Band led the parade in the town centre on words using the letters for Remembrance Sunday where Sixth Years Ruairidh MacInnes and

HARVEST. could land reform have on Kilmallie? Lee Kennedy laid the wreath at the War Memorial. The Pipe Band then led the Parade at the Commando Memorial later in the day P6 have been doing lots of things where the Wind Band played for the hymn singing. such as swimming on a Wednesday Our Remembrance events culminated with Year Group morning. They learn lots of new assemblies on Tuesday 11 November. This year the theme was things there and enjoy it very much. the centenary of the start of World War 1 and the impressive P6 also have been doing Feis. At Feis poppy display at the Tower of London. Third Year pupil Amber they have been singing Gaelic songs, MacDonald piped ‘Flowers of the Forest’, allowing a short period of reflecon. At 11.00 am, along with the rest of the country, the learning to play the tin whistle and school observed a two‐minute silence. Throughout all the events dancing. of Remembrance weekend our pupils represented the school with great dignity and reverence; they are indeed young people P7 have been doing lots of different what impact

follow us on Twitter @KilmallieCC @KilmallieCC us on Twitter follow we can be proud of. things such as the Triathlon: Fraser

Clark, Molly Henderson and Gregory

page 23 page 18 A’ cuimhneachadh Cill Remembering Kilmallie and The page 19 Mhàlaidh agus An Cogadh Mòr Great War

Cha creid mi nach eil fear no tè ann nach eil air mothachadh gu It seems unlikely that anybody hasn’t taken on board that the bheil ceud bliadhna air a dhol seachad on thòiseach cogadh a’ First World War started one hundred years ago, even though Chaisear, ged nach eil duine air àgail a bha a’ sabaid ann. there is nobody le who fought in it.

Bha iomadh daoine meadhan aosda an seo anns na caogadan Back in the 1950’s and 60’s there were lots of middle aged men agus na seasgadan a ghabh pàirt anns a’ chogadh sgriosal a around who had taken part in that horrific conflict. I am certain bha sin. Tha mi cinnteach gu bheil cuimhne mhath aig mòran that many of my age will well remember Donald Cameron, the LATEST PITCH NEWS Janitor of old Banavie School and an elder of Kilmallie Kirk. A m’aois‐se air Dòmhnall Camshron, dorsair seann sgoil Talk about tesng the new drainage Bhanbhaidh; duine cho laghach agus coibhneil ‘sa ghabhas. stalker on the Lochiel estate in 1914, he went to France with his system! Bha e na geamair air oighreachd Lochiall ann an 1914 agus chief and I guess he took part in the bloody bale of Loos in chaidh e dhan Fhraing còmhla ri an ceann cinnidh aige. Tha mi 1915, a bale in which hordes of Scots and Highlanders fell. Psychologists used to say, at the me of the Vietnam war, that This was our nice new pitch on a’ smaoineachadh gun robh e an sas ann an blàr fuilteach Loos th ann an 1915, blàr ann an do thuit fada cus Albanaich agus some of the returning veterans would talk endlessly about the Sunday 26 October aer the war and drive their folks crazy with their talk. And there were horrendous rainfall. Thankfully it Ghàidheal. B’àbhaist dhan na psych‐eòlaichean ag ràdh, aig àm cogadh Vietnam, gum biodh cuid de nan saighdearean, a’ others that wouldn’t say a word about it and that these were coped with it all… phew! The last ghinn dhachaid, a bhiodh a’ bruidhinn mu dheidhinn a’ the ones to worry about. It seems that Donald Cameron was in thing we needed was another delay in chogaidh gun stad agus gun cuireadh iad mach as do rian thu the first group. He needed to get rid of the bad memories and geng back to our home pitch. leis. Agus gum biodh cuid eile nach biodh deònach facal a ràdh the nightmares by talking about the hell he had seen. There mun dheidhinn idir, agus sin an eadhainn air am bu chòir were othose, wh didn’t understand what the soldiers had The Council carried out a final iomagain a bhi ort. Tha e coltach gun robh Dòmhnall chòir a suffered, who red of him very quickly and began to call him Dòmhnall Saighdear, Donald the Soldier. I learned Donald’s inspecon of the completed pitch at misg a’ chiad buidhean. Bha aige ri cuidteas aighinn air na story from my father and I feel it would be appropriate to recorded on KCC’s website Banavie this week. They are happy droch chuimhnicain agus nam bruadaran le bhith a’ bruidhinn remember him with honour this year. mun ifrinn a bha e air aicinn. Dh’às cuid, nach robh a’ with everything that Souters have tuigsinn fulangas nan saigdhear, sgìth glè aithghearr dheth done and will now sign off the Kilmallie War Memorial reminds us of those who did not return agus thug iad “Dòmhnall Saigdhear” air. Fhuair mi sgeulachd paperwork. Community Services are home alive. If you are of pensionable age you may remember It has been recommended that we WITH THE EXCEPTION OF OUR Dhòmhnaill bho m’athair agus tha mi den bheachd gum biodh organising geng the posts back to Sandy MacCalman, a Banavie croer, whose brother, John, was return to Banavie for ‘light use’ to PRESIDENTS BOXING DAY GAME e iomchaidh a chuimhnicheadh le urram am bliadhna ein. Banavie; hopefully they will be killed a month before the end of the war and is buried in France. start with, so we hope to start WHICH WILL BE OUR letter at www.kilmallie.org.uk letter at I can remember, as a child, my mother conducng a erected within the next week or so. training back again on Thursday FIRST OFFICIAL OPENING GAME Tha Carn Cuimhne nan Cogaidh, Cill Mhàlaidh, a’ toirt iomradh TH conversaon, across the canal with an old lady called Ester nights – which will make life a lot AT BANAVIE ON 26 DECEMBER… dhuinn orra‐san nach do thill dhachaidh slàn. Ma tha sibh aig Donaldson. At that me Ester lived in a ruinous farm house easier for the team. At present we PLEASE COME ALONG AND GIVE US A aois a’ pheinnsein, is dòcha gum bi cuimhne agaibh air Sandy called Mount Alexander. Nothing remains of it today but there will connue to play our league NICE WARM WELCOME BACK TO MacCalman a bha na chroitear ann an Banbhaidh. Fhuair a are those who think that it was the original Banavie farm house, games at the Black Parks unl the OUR HOME TURF… bhràthair , John, bàs mios mus do chriochnaich an cogadh agus before the canal was built. Ester’s brother, Andrew, was badly chaidh a thiodhlachadh ‘san Fhraing. Tha cuimhne agam air mo weather dries up a bit in early spring – KICK OFF 2PM. wounded and was brought home but he died in October 1916. mhathair a dèanamh comhradh le cailleach air an robh Ester His grave stone can be seen in old Kilmallie Cemetery. The men Donaldson air taobh thall a’ chanal. Bha Ester a’ fuireach, aig and women who died overseas were buried where they fell.

in the war memorial are also FORTHCOMING HOME FIXTURES an àm sin, ann an tobhta taigh tuathanais air an robh Mount Ester did her best to keep the farm going on her own but she Date Group Kick Off Fixture Venue Alexander. Chan eil dat air agail dheth an diugh ach tha cuid was growing old and didn’t have much money and gradually a’ cumail a mach gur e seann taigh tuathanas Bhanbhaidh a everything fell apart. Sat 22nd Nov S1‐S2 12.00 Lochaber –v‐ Oban Lorn RFC Black Parks bh’ann. Chaidh bràthair Ester, Andrew, a dhroch ghoirteachadh ‘sa chogadh. Fhuair e dhachaidh ach chaochail e The grave of Major E S Gooch can be seen in St Andrew’s church Sat 29th Nov 1XV 2pm Lochaber –v‐ Aberdeen Wanderers Black Parks ann an Damhair 1916. Tha a’ chlach uaigh aige ri aicinn ann yard in Fort William. Major Gooch took Torcastle House, burned an seann chladh Cill Mhàlaidh eu‐coltach ri na balaich, agus a’ down in the 50’s, on rent aer the Boer War. He doesn’t seem Sat 06th Dec 1XV 2pm Lochaber –v‐ Aberdeen University Black Parks chlann nighean, a uair bàs thall tharis agus a chaidh an to have been short of cash and spent many happy days fishing odhlachadh an sin. Rinn Ester a dìcheall an tuathanas a the river. He started the Boy Scouts in Kilmallie while his wife through old copies of the news old copies of through Sat 13th Dec 1XV 2pm Lochaber –v‐ RAF Lossiemouth Black Parks chumail air dòigh na h‐aonar ach bha i a fàs sean agus cha robh got the Guides going. My mother knew them from her days as a cus airgid aice agus thuit a h‐uile rud as a chèile. child on holiday with her grandparents who lived nearby and Fri 26th Dec 1XV 2pm President XV – Captains XV BANAVIE!! remembered the Major as a kind and pleasant man. He was Chi sibh uaigh Major E S Gooch ann an cladh eaglais Naomh badly wounded fighng Anndra, ‘sa Gearasdan. Fhuair Major Gooch taigh mòr the Turks at Suvla Bay in than normal tournament in October look more structured and are looking Torcastle air mhàl as deidh cogadh nam Boer. Tha e coltach Gallipoli and although MINI RUGBY at the King George V Park. They very promising for the future. nach robh e gann de airgid! Chuir e seachad iomadh là ag brought home did not travel to Oban on 30th November for Finally… we would like to wish iasgach. Thòiseach e na Boy Scouts an seo agus chuir a bhean survive. Training has been taking place at the the final tournament before we break everyone in the Kilmallie Parish a Girl Guides air bhuinn. Bha mo mhàthair eòlach orra nuair a Perhaps others knew of or King George V Park – this will up. Overall we have performed really very Merry Christmas and a Happy & bha i a fuireach còmhla ri a seanamhair air làithean saora faisg have informaon about connue unl the Christmas School well, but we are short in numbers of Healthy New Year. We would also air laimh agus thuirt i gur e or dhuine choimhneil a bh’anns a’ people from Kilmallie who fought in that war or reminisce holidays – we then have our winter Mhajor. Chaidh a dhroch leòn a’ sabaidh an aghaidh na P4‐P5 pupils…..are there any out like to thank Kilmallie Community whose names are on the break – we will return to training at there who want to come along and Council for always including us in Turcaich aig Bàgh Suvla ann an Galipoli. Thàinig e dhadhaidh th beò ach cha do mhair fada e. war memorial. Wouldn’t it Banavie again on Saturday 7 give rugby a try ?? their fabulous Newsleer, be good to record these February. which is always available memories, in some form ‘S mathaid gu bheil eòlas agaibhse air duine eile le ainm air this is probably the last issue before the referendum Our S1‐S2’s have played one away for our members to read Carn Cuimhne nan Cogadh. Nam bhiodh e math na or other, while we sll

Our teams have taken part in Mini names of all the serviceman fixture in Oban with the return game in our Clubhouse  cuimhnichean sin a clàradh ann an dòigh no coirigin, fads a can? Rugby Fesvals in Mull, Taynuilt nd planned on 22 November. coimeas againne? and we managed to host a smaller This age group are really starng to Pauline Donaldson Ronald Cameron Kilmallie War Memorial at Banavie Nigel Rix’s rerement page 12 One of our colleques Nigel Rix rered in October. Nigel will be page 13 well known to a lot of people in the Lochaber area having KILMALLIE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FUND canal news started with Brish Waterways as we were known then as Sea‐ As the days get shorter and the nights get longer we find we are lock‐keeper at Corpach in January 1976. He and his wife Bey Members of the commiee have met on sources ‐ far too many to trying to cram so much work into a very short space of me. lived in the coage “Bowmore” at Corpach Basin and their several occasions throughout the past name individually. However Our Length Inspectors are constantly monitoring the Canal for family Jon, Peter & Kim aended Banavie Primary School and year. Our main concern has, once again, we would like to thank, in defects and they will raise Noficaons against the Team then went on to Lochaber High School. Nigel aer a number of been fundraising but we have also been parcular, Duncan Carmichael for an idenfied to carry out the Work. Fortunately we have a small years became District foreman and then later became the Asset making praccal arrangements for the extremely successful fund raising event, but dedicated team that constantly strive to deliver these jobs. Engineer for the Caledonian and Crinan Canals. It was around installaon of street lights and for the Kevin Byrne for carrying out the complex Since November we have carried out Ditching work; Culvert the millennium that Nigel and his family re‐located to Inverness decoraon of our two Christmas trees in electrical work and of course, West work; Gate & fence repairs; Canoe pontoon maintenance; we with his job but their hearts are always in the Lochaber area me for the fesve season. Highland Woodlands and Scosh have a Winter Works programme which we work through. where Bey’s roots are. (Her mother was lollipop lady at Woodlands for donang our two Lochaber High School in the 70’s & 80’s). On a personal note I Last year Highland Council's lighng magnificent trees. Flooding certainly miss Nigel: his knowledge of the Canal was second to department installed all of the street lights The end of October proved to be a very wet week; we had so none and he always made himself available to me and my team and Christmas tree decoraons. Our role Members of the group are well aware that much rain during this period that Loch Lochy rose outside the should we need advice. We had a nice do in the Glen Mhor was simply to raise funds in order to pay some of our lights are beginning to look a lock gates from 25’3” to 29’6” over the space of three to four Hotel, Inverness at the end of October where Nigel was the Council for the service. This year has lile red and lack lustre. Now that we days. This is the highest water level in Loch Lochy for over 40 presented with a number of gis from his work colleagues past been the first occasion on which we have have gained (a li le!) experience we hope years. Staff were on constant watch over a two day period. & present. undertaken all of the installaon work to upgrade the decoraons in the near Operaons ceased for 24 hours because the lower gate at the ourselves. It would be no exaggeraon to future. top lock at Gairlochy was nearly level with the loch level. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from say that the project has proved to be far

John and the all the team at Corpach & Banavie & Gairlochy. more complex than we had ever imagined! In the meanme we would like to thank all Winter Closure Our winter closure for Boat Traffic will be from Friday 9th In fact, the task would have proved quite those who have helped us this year and to John Stafford, Canal Superintendent January 2015 ll 23rd March 2015 when we become operaonal impossible had it not been for the extend our best wishes to everyone for a seven days a week. The main reason for the closure is essenal generosity and offers of support that we happy Christmas and a prosperous New have received from organisaons and Year.

on KCC’s website bridge maintenance throughout the Canal system. This work will be carried out by contractors on behalf of Bear Scotland. individuals throughout the Kilmallie

community. Support has come from many Paul Brian, Chairman environmental haulier of the year

Oil Polluon As we come under Port Authority regulaons at Corpach we Rosemary Green and Helen Brian pung final touches to the Banavie tree. recently carried out a Desk Top exercise in conjuncon with Clyde Boyd. This proved to be a very interesng, informave exercise and contribuon from various agencies was immense. We had a broad spectrum of agencies in aendance (Police, Highland Council, SEPA, MCA, Underwater Centre, Crannog Concept, Fire Brigade, Ambulance, Great Glen Shipping as well Corpach’s new Co-op

as Boyd’s and Scosh Canals. Interesng contribuons were The store underwent a huge refit at the end of October made by Stephan Henning (MCA. Counter Polluon Officer which costed around £395,000. Everything in the store was Scotland & Northern Ireland) and Ken Clark, Clydeport, Peel removed, from chills to shelving to floors. The refit team put Above: Nigel and Bey at Nigel’s rerement do Ports Greenock. Both had experience of spillage previously and Below: Flooding at Gairlochy the store back together in 6 days and then the store staff were able to talk from experience. planned out the shelves and filled the store in 3 days so that we opened the doors on the 31st of October.

The new store is absolutely fantasc with a greatly improved fresh range and a more open feel with windows at the front of the store that you can see inside. The whole shop feels a lot more spacious and lighter. The new fresh range offers more ideas for meal soluons with our increased ranges in ready meals, produce, meat and poultry, cooked meat, connental range and salads and dips. The new look sliding door chills look fantasc and present the aracveness of the products very well: they can be a bit tricky for customers to use and for the store staff to fill staff love their new store and it is a much easier place to Ferguson Transport & Shipping - Scotland's

but they save a substanal amount of energy. work. The improved bakery range is also fantasc and the stand that it is displayed on presents the department excellently. We do sll have some snagging problems that will be

We have now introduced a community pioneer to the store addressed soon such as a new costa coffee machine which

local winter gritting maps maps winter gritting local which is Kari Dennison. She goes out into the community will be installed before Christmas and a new newspaper quad for the newspapers to be displayed in. and looks for ways that we can help whether it be a lier pick, a fundraising day for a local group, to help with a coffee Some customers sll can't find products in the store so morning by introducing fair trade products to them or by please ask a member of staff who will be only too happy to

see the doing anything else that helps the Co‐operave become point you in the right direcon.

involved in our community. We are helping raise funds for When you come into store and you have any quesons or Kilmallie Playgroup for the next few months by helping them queries or have any suggesons for ways that we can help with their Halloween night where they raised £660 if I the community or even just to say hello, please come and remember correctly by selling their autumn quiz find me and I will do all that I can to help. sheets. They also helped us by cung the ribbon on the day that we opened.

Neil Macleod congratulations The store has seen overwhelming posive feedback from Store Manager, Corpach customers about the new layout and the new range. The

page 16 Kilmallie Community Centre Kilmallie Shinty Club page 17 It’s been busy at your local Community Centre since our last Our thanks go to our regular customers for supporng the report. Centre: Mums & Toddlers, Kick Boxing, Scosh Country Dancing, Ballet .The shinty season is now finished for 2014. Kilmallie 1st Our loery is a great fundraiser for the Club and ckets are The Buons and Bows Show on Saturday 20/09/14 went very & Contemporary Dancing, Olde Tyme Dancing, The team finished 3rd in the Naonal Division and the reserve available from members, Tradewinds, Corpach Hotel and well with a good aendance. Our thanks go in parcular to Mustardseed Fellowship, NHS and Music for All. team finished 4th in their league. Both the Under 14s and New Image in Caol. Bobby and Jesse and the rest of the Commiee for all their hard Under 17s have had a great season winning trophies in work in making everything run so smoothly. The funds raised Our AGM was held on the 20/11/14, thank you to the folks who Our Annual Dinner Dance and Award Ceremony will be held various compeons. brought a net figure of £372.62 which will go towards the aended. Please do come along next year and support your in Caol Community Centre in November so our next funcon

refurbishment of our gents and ladies toilets so well done to local Community Centre to ensure we provide the things you Duncan Kelly has confirmed that he will not be coaching the will be the Christmas Draw which is being held in Tradewinds everyone for making it such a great event! want us to provide! First team next season so a new Coach will be put in place at on Saturday 27th December.

We are very pleased to announce that the Highland Council Future events: our AGM in December. We would like to wish all our sponsors, supporters, players have confirmed their funding of £9,500.00 towards the Xmas Fayre on 13/12/14 – 11am‐3pm. Tables are £8 each and We are needing a volunteer to do First Aid at our games ‐ if and their families a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New refurbishment of our toilets! This will be match funded by the home baking and refreshments will also be available. To book a you could help the club with this we would be delighted to Year ‐ hope to see you all at Canal Parks in 2015! funds we have raised over the past year and the Comfort table please contact our Centre Manager on 712663. All hear from you (training will be given). Scheme payments that we receive for providing public toilets. proceeds will be used for the connued upgrading of Kilmallie

Linda Campbell, Secretary, 01397 700800 We are currently in negoaons with the plumber to find a Community Centre. clear space in our bookings to allow for this work to be done. New Year – we hope to be able to announce an excing event Customers who have used the Centre over the past few weeks at Kilmallie Community Centre for Hogmanay – we will give you are: details as soon as they are finalised! The Scottish Rural Parliament – Highland Council (Elecons), 100m charity race, kids’ party, Bear Scotland, Scosh Referendum debate, road traffic talk, Our thanks go to our Centre Manager (Jimmy Milne) for his excellent work in taking the bookings and providing a super Buons & Bows concert, Lord of the Lochs, No Fuss events, Lochaber Beekeepers Associaon, Paul Biggins ‐ Corpach Wood, service to the users of Kilmallie Community Centre. Keep it up, a delegate’s observation Zumba class and a Playgroup Fund Raiser. Jimmy! I was fortunate to be allocated a Riddoch – a lively discussion followed very humorous speech with a We look forward to a connued busy and successful year at place at the first meeng of The and gave us lots to think about! My movaonal message to finish, “keep Kilmallie Community Centre for the rest of 2014! Scosh Rural Parliament, second workshop was Strengthening the momentum going!” A ceilidh with Xmas Fayre Sarah Kennedy represenng Kilmallie Community Communies – again another chance Skipinnish followed and took us into Saturday 13/12/14 e national Brake campaign for slower speeds for slower Brake campaign e national Council. for lively discussion and debate. the early hours! Kilmallie Community Centre 11am-3pm. Staon Road, Corpach, Fort William PH33 7JH There was such a buzz at Corran Halls There is certainly a strong feeling for Saturday began with a presentaon

.Home baking and Scosh Charity SC000604 as I arrived, with delegates milling rural communies to work together, about ‘Strengthening Local CHAIRMAN post vacant at present around having returned from visits to inspire neighbours and work with the Democracy’ and then the opons for refreshments on the Lochan Mor this winter? SECRETARY Mrs Norma MacLellan, local projects, having lunch or vising authories to improve situaons in the future of The Scosh Rural will be available 12 Hillview Drive, Corpach, Fort William 01397 772597 the exhibion where there were rural areas. We all want that. Parliament. This was followed by a TREASURER Mrs Sarah Kennedy 0776 880 5040 displays from a variety of The aernoon was an Open Space presentaon about moving the rural organisaons, both local and where those aending put forward agenda forward and empowering naonal. Vising stands and speaking ideas they were willing to debate and communies. Much to take in but Music For All began their incredible sound and well worth to many inspiring people took all very smulang! delegates chose which of 20 topics season with a lovely concert coming to listen to. aernoon. they wanted to be involved in. You The Rural Parliament, Community from the Welsh mezzo soprano Our second concert in January on The Atlans Leisure Centre held the could stay with one topic or go Empowerment Bill and the Land Singer Caryl Hughes the very last day of the month Opening Ceremony, dinner, between topics of your choice. I Reform Bill 2015 have the potenal accompanied by the wonderful the 31st is the fantasc string presentaons and entertainment. went to one on Local Democracy, to create a revoluon in rural areas: Italian pianist Emma Abate. The quartet the Maxwell quartet What a day! trying to follow on from the morning excing mes, so let’s all pull

concert was a real mix of music which features local cellist Friday started at 08:30 with Richard workshop and one on Recruitment together, put up our hands, ranging from Faure to Rodrigo, Duncan Strachan. This concert Lochhead MSP, Carol Craig, CEO pf and Retenon of GPs and other volunteer and empower each other! Haydn to Copland. They were for sure a charming will be in Kilmallie Free Church and will be brilliant the Centre for Confidence and medical professionals in rural areas – An Oban Times leer the following a topic close to my heart. We then duo. ‐ there really is no need to say anymore; except Wellbeing, and Anneli Kana, CEO of week summed up the occasion well –

Caroline MacIntyre in The Herald, backing th in The Herald, backing Caroline MacIntyre assembled for a summary on the “Over three days of debate, The next concert on the 28th November is come along and enjoy some fantasc concerts the Estonian Rural Parliament. These were inspiring talks and set the aernoon’s discussions, also conversaon and celebraon, currently on tour round Scotland and it is with from professional musicians from all over the smulang. atmosphere for the day ahead. parcipants made it clear that they

great ancipaon that we welcome them to Fort country. will we be skating The rest of the morning comprised Friday evening dinner was a great want a much stronger voice for rural William. Another female duo this me on violin Many of the musicians who come regularly play in workshops which we had chosen a me to mix with people from all over Scotland – and they expect to be and cello they are going to present a programme the major concert halls in London and beyond. We few weeks earlier – such a choice and Scotland. Mark Stephen, presenter of listened to.” based around flowers and fauna with photographs are privileged to have these musicians come and difficult to decide which to go to. I Radio Scotland’s Out of Doors to accompany their music. It promises to be a play for us in Fort William and it would be aended one on Local Democracy led programme (broadcast from the Chrisne Hutchison most interesng night of entertainment. wonderful to see a fuller concert hall. We have a by Andy Wightman and Lesley Rural Parliament) was the speaker – a Kilmallie Community Council In January we actually have 2 concerts. On the moo at Music For All which is "bring a friend" so

Great to see Great 16th January a wonderful saxophone quartet will why not come and join us and "bring a friend" too. play in Kilmallie Hall. If you have never heard 4 Hope to see you there! saxophones before I can assure you it is an Clare Reynolds Christmas comes to Kilmallie All thanks to Alex Gillespie, Andy Wilmington, Maggie Mackenzie and Jan LacLugash for the photos ‐ it’s not easy taking pictures in the cold and dark. You can see them all in full‐size colour at www.kilmallie.org.uk