Scottishthethethethe www.scottishbanner.com Banner 37 Years StrongScottishScottishScottish - 1976-2013 Banner A’BannerBanner Bhratach Albannach 44 Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 Years Strong - 1976-2020 www.scottishbanner.com A’ Bhratach Albannach Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 VolumeVolumeVolume 43 36 36 Number Number Number 7 11 The 11 The Theworld’s world’s world’s largest largest largest international international international Scottish Scottish Scottish newspapernewspaper newspaper May January May 2013 2013 2020 Celebrating US Barcodes Burns Night » Pg 8

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7 25286 844598 1 1 2020-A Year in Piping 7 25286The 84459 Year8 1 2 of » Pg 27 in crowned 2020 the UK’s top cultural » Pg 16 and creative city USAustralia Barcodes $4.50; N.Z. $4.95 » Pg 10

In the Shadow of Icons ...... » Pg 14 Celebrating 350 years of the Royal Plan your wedding Botanic Garden Edinburgh .... » Pg 28 New attractions and only in Scotland in Scotland experiences for 2020...... » Pg 30 7 25286 844598 0 1 » Pg 11

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Volume 43 - Number 7 Scottishthe Banner The Banner Says…

Volume 36 Number 11 The world’s largest international Scottish newspaper May 2013 Publisher Offices of publication Valerie Cairney Australasian Office: PO Box 6202 Editor Marrickville South, Sean Cairney NSW, 2204 Tel:(02) 9559-6348 EDITORIAL STAFF Jim Stoddart [email protected] The National Piping Centre North American Office: The heaven taught ploughman David McVey Lady Fiona MacGregor [email protected] Eric Bryan David C. Weinczok Robert Burns has become an January heralds in a new year and Judy Vickers international icon – the Ayrshire decade and we have you covered Nick Drainey ploughman who rose from on some great things to do this year. humble beginnings to become Scotland will be celebrating a new one of the world’s best-known themed year, the Year of Coasts and poets. In 2009 Burns was voted Waters 2020. The year is full of events and Follow us on social media “The Greatest Scot” ever, polling places to visit which will celebrate the ahead of Scottish cultural giants remarkable coasts and waters of Scotland. Sir William Wallace and Robert the In Australia the sound of Scotland Bruce. After Queen and will be very much be heard across by Sean Cairney Christopher Columbus, Robert the country as the Year of Scotland Distributed monthly in Australia, Canada, Burns has more statues dedicated Australia will see a diverse range of and the USA. ISSN 2209-8364 to him around the world than Scottish talent heading Downunder Australia Post Print Approved PP:100004806 s the sun rises on a new any other non-religious figure. for an unprecedented program which Published monthly by Scottish Banner Publications decade, I hope the year (and I have seen them in Scotland, goes across all regions. No country in PO Box 6220, Marrickville South, NSW, 2204, Australia decade) ahead will be good Canada, New Zealand, Australia, the world has had this opportunity to you and filled with health, England and the USA. A replica before and I urge all our readers to find The publisher reserves the right to reject, discontinue or omit any advertisement or to Ahappiness and hopefully include of Burns’ birthplace in Alloway out what is taking place and support cancel any advertising contract for reasons satisfactory to the publisher, without notice, and without penalty to either party. All advertising and reading matter is subject to celebrating your Scottish identity. can be found in Atlanta, Georgia and enjoy the amazing year Publisher’s approval. Right reserved to revise or reject advertising and reading material One way to celebrate your Scottish which was constructed by the of entertainment coming. in accordance with standards acceptable to the Scottish Banner, without notice. The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors identity this month is honouring Burns Club of Atlanta. Across the globe the bagpipes will in advertising beyond the amount of space paid for, whether such errors are due to Scotland’s Bard, Robert Burns. Robert also is the first person continue to sound, we have a roundup negligence, copy right or otherwise. The publisher does not endorse the historical Robert Burns is Scotland’s most whose face has ever appeared on of some of the contests taking place in accuracy of the editorial stance of materials submitted for publication. The publisher reserves the right edit all submitted material prior to publication. celebrated poet. Also known as Rabbie a bottle of drinks giant Coca-Cola. Scotland and internationally. Of course,

The opinions expressed in this publication are those of the author(s)and Burns, or The Bard, he was born in You may have also seen Robert’s there is always a Highland Games or do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. 1759, the son of a farmer. During his face on stamps, shortbread tins, Scottish festivals taking place throughout Trouble getting the Scottish Banner each month? Use the subscription form below to lifetime, he penned hundreds of songs money, post cards, mugs and an 2020 to hear the sound of Scotland. subscribe, or you may contact our distributors for your nearest sales outlet. and poems, and the anniversary of his edition of his works has even been Whilst Robert Burns may be a AUSTRALIA: Integrated Publication Solutions 1 800 606 407 th NEW ZEALAND: Gordon & Gotch 09 979 3018 birth is celebrated on 25 January. blasted into space, so if there is life Scottish icon, Scotland also has many Everyone knows Burns as Scotland’s beyond this Earth I hope they too iconic landmarks. Firmly established The Scottish Banner most famous and respected poet. enjoy Scotland’s most famous son. on the tourist trail are heavy weights Uniting Scots Around the World for 43 Years! Even people with no connection to Whilst Burns wrote in both Loch Ness, The Calanais Standing Scotland or possibly not aware of his English and Scots his works have Stones, Arthur’s Seat and Dunnottar THE SCOTTISH BANNER name are likely to know some of his been translated in numerous Castle. David C Weinczok gives us works. You don’t need to be a poetry or languages around the world some alternatives to try on your next Subscribe to the worlds largest international literary buff to be exposed to Robert including most European Scottish visit, allowing you to try Scottish culture newspaper online or use below: Burns, either his works or his likeness. languages, Russian and Japanese. something new, with less people. Australia: Print: 1 Year / $50.00 AUD Digital: 1 Year / $25.00 AUD An international icon In this issue The legacy of Robert Burns Canada: Digital: $19.95 CDN How many ’s worldwide We certainly give a nod to Burns The legacy of Robert Burns is an have started with the words of Robert in this issue with some great incredible one. In his 37 short years New Zealand: Print: 1 Year / $65.00 AUD Digital: 1 Year / $25.00 AUD Burns? Auld Lang Syne is recognised content, and recipes. he left the world with works that by the Guinness Book of World Records Also make sure you have a look at touched upon universal emotions U.S.A.: Digital: 1 Year / $19.95 USD as one of the top three most popular our events page and hopefully you that is still relevant hundreds of years Overseas: Print: 1 Year Air Mail: AU $ 110.00 songs in the entire English language, can find a Burns Supper taking later. Robert never forgot his roots Australia/New Zealand: T (+61) 02 9559-6348 the others being Happy Birthday place near you, or perhaps this and craved greater social equality. www.scottishbanner.com/subscribe and For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow. issue will inspire you to host one He was called a ‘heaven taught Auld Lang Syne has also been adapted of your own. You certainly do not ploughman’ by an Edinburgh critic Subscription are non-refundable. by the Chinese and represents a song need to pipe in a haggis to raise a in the late 1700’s and has inspired Cheques, money orders, Visa and MasterCard accepted. of friendship which is often played at glass, and awareness of the night, people from every walk of life for Scottish Banner Australia/New Zealand: graduations and gatherings. to your friends at your own home. many years. As we begin the 2020’s, PO Box 6202, Marrickville South, NSW, 2204 as Burn’s penned in Auld Lang Syne, Digital subscriptions must be requested via our website only. all of us that contribute to the Scottish Banner hope you will ‘tak a cup o’ kindness’ and go forward into the Name:...... new year with a sense of belonging and hope for the future. Address:...... Wishing all our readers, advertisers and friends the very best ...... for the year ahead and of course a ...... Post Code:...... very Happy Burns Night! Do you have a Robert Burns related Tel/Email:...... story? How are you celebrating Burns Night? Share your story with 1 Year New Subscription Renewal us by email, post, social media or at www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us Gift Subsc. From...... Visa/MC...... Gracing our front cover: Celebrating Burns Night...... Expiry...... Photo: VisitScotland.

Page 2 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

What to drink Memory’, the ‘Address to the Lassies’ and Malt Whisky is the usual choice at Burns’ of course ‘The Reply from the Lassies’, Suppers. Contrary to popular belief, which are normally created especially for adding a little water to your malt should the evening. improve rather than dilute the flavour, although some whisky drinkers may not Selkirk Grace take kindly to watering down their drams! Some hae meat and canna eat, It is traditional to pour a dram over And some wad eat that want it, Robert Burns the haggis but some may prefer not to as But we hae meat and we can eat, it drowns out the taste of the meat and Sae let the Lord be Thanket! The heaven taught ploughman makes it soggy and cold! It’s perhaps best to enjoy each independently of the other. Tartan If you don’t like whisky, then robust red If you’re hosting this event at home then Scotland.org wines make a good accompaniment. literally anything goes, but it is definitely White wines don’t complement the dish recommended that you wear at least a quite so well, but it’s whatever takes your little bit of tartan! Whether it be a tartan fancy. Ales, lager, punch, Scottish fruit hat, a tartan tie, or the full kilt get up, it’s wines or soft drinks (perhaps Irn Bru, entirely up to you.

Text and photo: and photo: Text being Scotland’s ‘other national drink’) If you want to look the part then kilt up. are all alternatives. Burns’ Supper Guide Burns Supper Music The haggis is traditionally piped in, which could prove difficult if neither you or any round the world tributes to Robert Traditional accompaniments to the of your guests can play the bagpipes! Burns are held through the of haggis are neeps and tatties or as they There is no shortage of CDs or the Burns’ Supper. Originally started are more commonly known - turnip and downloads of Robert Burns’ songs which a few years after his death by a group potatoes. These are normally served mashed. you can use to dance to later on in the Aof his friends and acquaintances, to honour The haggis is already cooked and evening’s celebrations. his memory, the suppers are now celebrated just needs some careful re-heating A rousing chorus of Auld Lang annually on the date of his birth, 25th until it is piping hot. You can do this Syne at the end of the night is a must. January. Here are the perfect ingredients in the oven or the pan and for the less Don’t forget, Burns’ Suppers can be needed to hold your very own Burns’ Supper. domesticated out there you can even contemporary too, so feel free to play do it in the microwave! more modern Scottish music. Burns’ Night Menu A tasty alternative for non-meat eaters The centrepiece of any good Burns’ Supper is the vegetarian haggis. Poems and Toasts menu is the iconic haggis, or as the bard For a starter, you might consider a home- Traditional recitals on the evening include himself described it, the ‘great chieftain o’ made Scots broth or cock-a-leekie soup. the Selkirk Grace and the Address to a Haggis. the puddin’-race’. You can buy this from Finally, to round off your Burns’ Supper Other recitals on the evening include a your local butcher, deli, supermarket or menu, desert might consist of a traditional speech commemorating Burns and a toast nearest Scottish store if you live overseas. Clootie Dumpling or a classic cranachan. to the great man, known as the ‘Immortal

The Glenturret Burns Night Supper At Opera House

Superb whisky, a 4 hour, uniquely Australian- Scottish feast and the powerful sounds of two nations united for a Burns Night Supper featuring award-winning Scottish 5 piece, Breabach, and Ngiyampaa, Yuin, Bandjalang and Gumbangirr artist, Eric Avery.

Saturday 25th January 2020 Tickets: sydneyoperahouse.com

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 3 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Send us your inquiries on life’s little question marks. Ever wanted to know what happened to your old pal from home, how to make SCOT POURRI your favourite Scottish meal, or wondered about a certain bit of Scottish history? When I was a wee girl, many years ago, house -with a few wee wines. On the the family often went “doon the watter” way back to Balloch it was raining so we Some of your th at the Glasgow fair—which we always adjourned downstairs and were having readers might 79 Cameron enjoyed, and I remember peaking at the a good old ‘chinwag’ when a loud voice be interested in adults downstairs (in the bar) singing yelled down the stairs “Are yous getting aff these pictures away. Visiting my niece Alison in 2015 or whit?” Apparently, we had been docked Highlanders of the New York from Helensburgh she took us on the in Balloch for some time. Oops!! Great day. 79th Cameron trip. It was great. I remember docking In 2003 on our trip round New Highlanders field at Millport and the welcome we got Zealand’s South Island, Peter and I uniform, dress there from a few pipers and a drummer spent a few days in Queenstown –lovely. uniform, trews, standing-drenched- in the pouring Of course, we went on the SS Earnshaw battle flag of the rain. Stoic!! Later on, we retreated to the across Lake Wakatipu and that was a great regiment, replica lounge and enjoyed the music of ‘Bob the experience too—so good. of flag, civil war Box’ —a great accordion player. The other It is such a terrible pity that the era American flag, they can be found passengers thinned out somewhat, even Waverley and the Maid are in such dire on Facebook, Two soldiers of the Peter my husband was on the other side straits and like Vince, I sincerely hope they regiment, another soldier, the New York off the room like he was disowning us. can be restored—such treasures. 79th Highlanders wore both during I don’t know why, unless it was because Anne Koomen the early part of the civil war, Colonel Alison and I were singing our wee hearts James Cameron killed early in the war, Ed note: Thank you Anne for your note and out loudly—ah well can’t please them all. my great- great uncle General Sherman memories. An appeal to Save the Waverley I had never been on Maid of the Loch commanding general of the regiment, has been running to raise the £2.3 million until 1982 when my friend Maura (Irish) I’m wearing a replica of the uniform, required to return Waverley to service in 2020. and I went over to Scotland to visit my another Cameron American Civil This appeal has now raised £2.2 million, rellies. We sailed up the loch from Balloch anyone who wants to help get over the finish War regiment and for your Canadian and stopped further up and disembarked. line please see: www.waverleyexcursions. readers 79th Cameron Highlanders of We had a lovely meal there in a grand co.uk/supporting_waverley/donate Canada. Jon Evans USA FROM OUR SOCIAL MEDIA Scottishness today Last name Dow Send us your photos or letters via social media I refer to Malcolm Leslie’s comments Is the last name Dow a from Scottish or relating to problems maintaining Irish descent, or both? Balmoral Classic Floors Castle Scottish heritage and culture (Scot Thank you, Pourri, November 2019) together with Doug Dow the Editor’s invitation to hear how USA people are responding to keeping E-mail: [email protected] Scottish interests alive. Dunce For the past 3 years a research My son, who now lives in has program has been looking at the just responded to my last email in which evolution and nature of ‘Scottishness’ I told him that I had been putting pen in . Amongst the many to paper and writing about what school findings is that acknowledgement of was like for me in the late 40’s and early Scottish ancestry remains significant, 50’s. I was doing this in the hope that my but most people do not connect to Grandchildren in years to come might be Scottish organisations. This in a State interested in what school was like in their Floors Castle looking great under a that probably still has the highest pro old Gramp’s days. moody sky. I’ve never been inside the rata percentage of Scots descendants He told me about your publication castle or the grounds...yet. in the country. Many reasons were and when I looked it up noticed that you A View From My Camera identified with a major component had described where the word ‘dunce’ Pipe Major Ian Duncan, a native of Scotland resting with these bodies themselves. originated from (Scottish Banner, The Perthshire, teaches his workshop on South Australia has well over 100 Banner Says, November 2019 Vol’43 piobaireached at Pittsburgh’s Balmoral Tigh Mor Trossachs Scottish organisations but most of these Number 05). I found this so coincidental, Classic this past Sunday! are small and struggling. The State no as I for the first time since I can remember, Balmoral School longer holds a Highland Games and I used this word in my reminiscing. Pittsburgh, PA within the region (population Stuart McKay USA 1.3m) there is only one functioning Scotland Caledonian Society. Considerable Queensferry Crossing undermining of activities (mainly Paddle Steamer Waverley unintentional) was also evident and this includes Clan groups competing with the more traditional bodies. The whole situation appears quite complex but ways around the problems are clear. Organisations need to strive to understand them and competently work on their resolution, including with strong visions as to a desired future. In view of the recent past and where things are going in our communities, this is not going to be easy, but things It’s been a while since my last Tigh Mor Trossachs at Loch Achray need to get on better ground sooner communication but I’m still enjoying my The Queensferry Crossing sticking beautiful autumn colours. rather than later. Scottish Banner every month, of course. above the early morning mist. GN Photography Ron Layton However, today’s contribution is a about Robert Gibb Scotland Crafers a letter in October’s edition re SS Waverley Scotland South Australia from Vince Flynn in New Zealand.

Pose your questions on Scottish related topics to our knowledgeable readership who just may be able to help. Please keep letters under 300 words and we reserve the right to edit content and length. Letters can be emailed to [email protected] or online at www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us, alternatively you may post your letters to us (items posted to the Scottish Banner cannot be returned). Please ensure you include your full contact details should you require a reply. This page belongs to our readers so please feel free to take part!

Page 4 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Australian Jim Stoddart was born in a Glasgow Tenement and raised in a Glasgow Housing Scheme 1943-1965. Jim will be KINGS CASTLES AND taking readers on a trip down memory lane, of a time and place that will never be the same again, and hopes even if only a “DURTY” WEE RASCALS few people in the Scot’s Diaspora have a dormant folk memory awakened, then he shall be more than delighted.

hogback tombstones, the earliest of which Robertson was an entrepreneur and advised and argued for its purchase by the The Port of Glasgow dates from the mid-10thcentury. among many involvements was a partner Trades House for he was able to point out Hail, Glasgow! Famed for ilka thing The rest of the group includes free-standing in the Smithfield Company and Cashier the commercial advantages from such a That heart can wash, or siller bring! crosses, cross-slabs and early gravestones. of the Glasgow Arms Bank. He established sensible purchase. His advice was totally May peace, wi’ healing on her wing, Thirty of the stones are still housed inside a slitting and rolling mill at the mouth of ignored by his business colleagues and he Aye nestle here; the church and one is in the graveyard. the River Kelvin on the other side of the decided, in the end, to purchase it himself. And plenty gar thy children sing, The presence of the long-standing and Clyde. He owned a cluster of houses at He later sold a very small portion of the mysterious Doomster Hill and fairly recent Pointhouse, and from there established the land, then used for market gardening, to The lee-lang year! excavations by Glasgow University and first regular ferry service from Pointhouse the G. & S.W. Railway Company for twice Glasgow by John Mayne television programme Time Team confirm to Govan. He also owned a warehouse the purchase price of the whole estate and the archaeological potential of the area. at the Broomielaw, where present day he also sold a strip along the river to the Robertson Street, running through his Clyde Trustees. William MacLean’s wise John Robertson former property, was named after him. investment proved something of a gold This significant archaeological site mine to his successors. These once green lies only a short distance to the west The Plantation Estate fields and market gardens were to become of Plantation. In 1783 John Robertson, In 1793 the Plantation Estate was the wharves and quays of the docks an enterprising Glasgow merchant, sold to John Mair, a rich Paisley mason that were to serve Glasgow’s flourishing purchased Craigiehall, the largest of three and businessman. The story goes that industries, some of which were located at estates making up the lands later referred Mair had survived a dangerous fall when the end of our family’s Street, Blackburn to as Plantation. The northern boundary working on a high building and had made Street, in Plantation. of his estate was the River Clyde and the a miraculous escape. He fell and was saved Construction of the 35 acre Cessnock southern boundary, the Paisley Canal, later by grabbing hold of a stone that jutted Dock was begun in 1893. At its formal the G. & S. W. Railway line and part of what out of the building. In gratitude to the opening, performed by the Duke and would now be regarded as Kinning Park. stone, he had it preserved and taken to his Duchess of York on the 10th September Robertson was the proprietor of several estate in Plantation where it occupied an 1897 during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Children in Plantation. sugar and cotton plantations in the West honoured and prominent position in his Jubilee Year, it was renamed the Prince’s Indies and for that reason he may have garden. Dock. The 34-acre Queen’s Dock was built ovan from the 9th to the 11th chosen to name his Glasgow acquisition In 1829 the estate was purchased and on the North side of the river. Like the centuries was a power centre for ‘Plantation’, a name which it was to passed on to William MacLean, another Prince’s Dock it was also built upon the Strathclyde Britons whose retain from then on. Nevertheless, this is Glasgow merchant. William Maclean was the site of market gardens and a farm. capital lay at Dumbarton. only one version of that history because a successful businessman and, as it turns Eventually, the remaining lands of the GOver the past 150 years 31 carved stones according to Andrew McMahon in his very out, was a man of some foresight as well Plantation estate were built over and used have been recovered from the graveyard of comprehensive History of Kinning Park as integrity. In 1828 he was the Deacon- to build tenements to house the dockers the Old Govan Parish Church. The collection there is some evidence from an early map Convenor of the Trades House and a city and the shipyard workers of industrial includes a unique and highly decorated that it may have been called Plantation magistrate. When the Plantation Estate Govan, the same tenements that were to sarcophagus carved from solid stone. prior to Robertson’s acquisition. It remains came on to the market for the sum of house my grandparents and my parents There are also five distinctive Viking unclear. fifteen thousand pounds, he strongly and into which I was born in 1943. Did you know?

Sydney Highland Gathering

Returning to The in 2020 ...

Join the Pipe Bands competing on the main oval at Scots for Sydney The Burning Highland Gathering 2020. Who will be crowned best on the day? Where: The Scots College, 53 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill 2023 When: Sunday 15 March 2020 of the Clavie Time: Gates open 11:00am Photo: VisitScotland. Photo: Watch Highland Dancers compete for glory, or see the Heavy Lifters • The traditional Burning of the Clavie • The event involves lighting a 100kg toss the caber. takes place in Burghead, Moray. barrel of tar which is then carried • The festival dates back to 400AD, around the town. Tradition dictates that Try a square sausage or give a haggis burger a go! Run the William when the village was the capital of the members of the ‘Clavie Crew’ must be ancient Pictish kingdom natives of the town. Wallace Dash! • The event takes place annually, as the • The Clavie is then taken up Dorie Hill townspeople of Burghead celebrate before being allowed to burn out and Grab your tartan or kilt and enjoy a day out with the family. New Year twice - on January 1 and tumble down the hill. then again 10 days later. • Locals then gather around the smoking For more information or enquiries • The Burning of the Clavie is a remains as it is supposed to bring good e: [email protected] celebration of the ancient Scots luck for the year ahead. t: Rosemary Hayman, 0404 305 757 Hogmanay, which fell on January 11 • The Burning of the Clavie is held on @thescotsadvantage | thescotscollege_official before the Gregorian calendar was 11 January each year, except when the introduced in Britain in the 18th 11th is a Sunday, in which case it takes century. place on the 10th.

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 5 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Scotspeak is a selection of quotes which made headlines in SCOTSPEAK Scotland last month on a variety of current Scottish affairs. course will raise the profile of Gaelic and staggering fifth time. Last year over 2 Glenfinnan resident Fiona Gibson said as increase the number of people learning. million people visited Edinburgh Castle, a fundraiser for a new footbridge at the Duolingo is a fantastic way to start a making it Scotland’s number one paid-for popular tourist attraction, the Glenfinnan new language and lets people learn in a visitor attraction. Viaduct, in the Highlands made famous fun, engaging game based way. We hope by Harry Potter has been launched. “It recognises both the beauty of the many of those that start learning go on to The historic railway bridge first opened in engage with other learning resources like town’s historic centre, and the efforts 1901 but came to the attention of the wider LearnGaelic.scot, or take part in real life of local individuals, public bodies and world over 100 years later after appearing language classes and events.” voluntary organisations to make the in four Harry Potter films and now attracts town a wonderful place to live, work and 300,000 visitors a year. Plans are now Gaelic course creator Martin Baillie said “I’m delighted that V&A is socialise. Most importantly, it was the underway to improve the safety of the area as free Gaelic courses have been offered in the running for such a prestigious support of our community that won this for both tourists and residents. via online app Duolingo. The course was international prize. Our stunning award, and to know that the people of released eight months ahead of schedule “Wildcats are on the brink of extinction museum is now very firmly part of the Kirkwall love and are proud of their town and put together by volunteers working ten in Scotland but it’s not too late. cultural fabric of the city, with its design is the best reward of all.” hours a week over seven months to get it galleries and exhibition programme With funding in place, it is tremendously ready. Nearly 61,000 users signed up from Duncan McLean, chair of the Kirkwall attracting locals and visitors alike in their exciting to begin the UK’s first wildcat around the world in just two days during hundreds of thousands. In a little over Business Improvement District, said release project and bring together all the launch at St Andrews Day. a year, it has massively raised Dundee’s as Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands has the necessary resources and expertise to make it happen. Using wildcats from the international profile and played a key Scotland’s most beautiful high street, existing captive population, as well as part in record-breaking tourism figures – according to a public poll. Other cats from Europe to boost the gene pool, helping to create jobs and new economic candidates were , Innerleithen, the reintroduction centre will provide a opportunities.” Linlithgow, Lanark, and Rothesay. sustainable source of wildcats for years to Councillor John Alexander, leader of come. The Cairngorms have historically Dundee City Council, said as V&A Dundee been a key part of the wildcat range and has been nominated for the European we are working closely with the partners Museum of the Year Award 2020, one of the to understand which is our preferred world’s most prestigious cultural prizes. first release site. Further wildcat releases Scotland’s first design museum opened in “We are incredibly proud to win this may also take place in other strategically September 2018 and in its first 12 months prestigious award for the fifth time and important locations across Scotland, with welcomed over 830,000 visitors, far in very grateful to all our visitors who voted. the potential to support well-planned excess of the 500,000 visitors that had been Their support is a huge vote of confidence future efforts in the rest of the UK.” estimated. V&A Dundee is one of only three to our hardworking and professional staff Helen Senn, head of conservation UK nominees, alongside National Museum at Edinburgh Castle. This recognition “It’s almost impossible to describe it because and science programmes at the Royal of Scotland in Edinburgh and St Fagans comes after another year of record- it’s also very emotional. When you’re trying Zoological Society of Scotland, said the National Museum of History in Wales. breaking visitor numbers who all come to to do your daily business you find you Cairngorms has been named as potential the castle to enjoy it’s fascinating history “ is such a rich and can’t because you have to plan one or location for releasing wildcats in 2022 in a and its unbeatable views of the city.” fascinating language with an incredible two hours ahead, if you can get out your bid to save the species from extinction. history. The songs, poetry and meaning Edinburgh Castle Executive Manager, door, if you can get your car through the It comes after a report in 2019 that given to Scottish place names really open Nick Finnigan, said as Edinburgh Castle junction, if you can get into town for indicated the extinction of wildcats in your eyes to a deeper understanding of has won ‘Best Heritage Attraction’ at the your appointment. And it’s every day it’s Scotland would be highly likely without Scotland and its culture.” I’m sure this prestigious British Travel Awards for a Monday through to Sunday.” any releases. SCOTWORD

1 2 3 4 5 6 Here is a fun crossword for you to try with a few of the answers to be found in Scotland! If you are in doubt, you may 7 8 need a wee peek at a Scots dictionary or a map. Or, if you are 9 really stuck, the answers can be found on page 24! 10 11 CLUES ACROSS: CLUES DOWN:

12 13 14 7) It’s prettier in Scotland (7). 1) Old schoolmaster (7). 8) Small mound (7). 2) Played in curling (4). 10) Island west of Girvan 5, 5). 3) A Presbyterian official (6). 15 16 11) Captures open fabrics (4). 4) Vests (8). 17 18 12) One corner to another (8). 5) Top Scots stay-over (10). 19 20 21 14) Glossy coating (6). 6) Old mowers (7). 15) Stronghold near Rothesay (5, 6). 9) House near Mauchline (11). 19) Rush into occupation (6). 13) Bagpipe embellishments (5, 5). 22 23 24 20) Gives a service (8). 16) Dignities of noblemen (8). 22) A threesome (4). 17) Top chambers (7). 25 26 23) Town south-west of Dumfries (10). 18) Deer meat! (7). 25) Bums! (7). 21) They’re kinfolk (6). 26) System of servitude (7). 24) A swell (4).

Page 6 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Six of the best free things to do in Edinburgh this winter lanning to visit the Scottish capital the natural world and art and design hidden microscopic world that the views of Edinburgh. Aside from the this winter? Why not spend more that will keep you busy all day. Gain a naked eye cannot see. This world is remarkable vistas over the city, this is time in Edinburgh exploring its wonderful insight into Scotland from revealed through the breath-taking also where you’ll find some of Scotland’s fantastic array of free attractions prehistory to the present day in its images produced by a scanning legendary monuments, including Nelson’s Pthis winter? Plus, what is already a must-visit Scottish Galleries. electron microscope. This exhibition Monument and the National Monument. beautiful city is even more alluring when Why go this winter? Fascinated by clocks? reveals the structures of plants in It’s also home to the Royal Observatory, bathed in winter sunshine, dusted with Explore the history of early British clock images created at the Royal Botanic which has a visitor centre to explore and frost and buzzing with festive spirit. makingat The Luxury of Time: Clocks from Garden Edinburgh by microscopy which also hosts public events such as 1550-1750. Featuring beautiful objects from the technician Frieda Christie astronomy evenings. National Galleries of Scotland golden age of British clock making in the 17th Why go this winter? Catch the sunrise Not one, not two, not even three but century, these exquisitely decorated pieces were Stand Up Comedy Club from its summit too – the beauty of a four buildings across Edinburgh house at the cutting edge of technology and many Edinburgh is a world leader on the winter sunrise is it is a little later, which an astounding collection of art and are were the ultimate status symbol of their day. comedy stage, thanks to its brilliant means not such an early start to the day! all well worth a visit. And, aside from Fringe Festival that takes place every certain paid-for exhibitions, they’re all Royal Botanic Gardens August, which hosts plenty of comedy Window shopping free admission. Princes Street in the city shows that won’t break the bank. But you centre is where you head to see iconic can still get laughs aplenty – and find works from the Masters of 14th–18th free events – throughout the year at the century European art at the National; excellent Stand Up Comedy Club. then stroll over to the National Portrait Why go this winter? Head to the club on a Gallery nearby, before ending the day Sunday to enjoy its long-running, improvised at the Modern gallery, which is set comedy show – and it won’t cost you a penny! across two buildings in a magnificent Resident comedians Stu and Garry take on the sculpture park. audiences’ suggestions and create comedy, so Why go this winter? Obviously for Proving that gardens are not just the show is very much for everyone. Even if you don’t want to splurge the cash, the art…but there’s also free live music for summer, visitors can appreciate Edinburgh’s lovely shops and markets are ranging from Gaelic to opera on certain the gorgeous winter landscape of Calton Hill worth exploring just for a spot of window dates at the National; drop-in easel these gardens, which are split across shopping. From Princes Street to the Farmers’ sketching workshops at the Portrait; or three themes and stretch across an Market, the pretty boutiques and uniquely lectures and talks on subjects such as impressive 70 acres. Discover seasonal Scottish stores, there’s plenty to explore to surrealism at the Modern. flora and fauna as well as modern gather inspiration for your wish list. sculptures and installations dotted Why go this winter? Into January The National Museum of Scotland throughout. There is a fee for the come the East Princes Street Gardens Seven levels of spectacular exhibitions Victorian glass houses but if you don’t will be alive with festive stalls, twinkling await you at this fascinating free want to spend any money, you can still lights and delicious food as the annual attraction in Edinburgh’s picturesque admire the exterior of this stunning Christmas Market takes place. With stalls Old Town. The museum is packed piece of architecture. Pack your camera because a walk up selling everything from local and bespoke with intriguing displays and insights Why go this winter? Check out the Calton Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage products and gifts to tasty treats, visiting into science and technology, fashion, Hidden World of Plants. There is a Site, will result in some of the best the market is a must this year.

READER GIVEAWAY In December 2018, after 50-years of belly-laughs, energy, outrage and enjoyment, Billy Connolly announced Tall Tales and his retirement from stand-up comedy. It had been an extraordinary career. Wee Stories: When he first started out in the late Sixties, Billy played the banjo in the folk clubs of Glasgow. Between songs, he The Best of would improvise a bit, telling anecdotes from the Clyde shipyard where he worked. In the process, he made all kinds Billy Connolly of discoveries about what audiences found funny, from his own exaggerated body movements to the power of speaking explicitly about sex. He began to understand the craft of great storytelling too. Soon the songs became shorter and the monologues longer, and Billy quickly became recognised as one of the most exciting comedians of his generation. Tall Tales and Wee Stories: The Best of Billy Connolly brings together the very best of Billy’s storytelling and it is an inspirational, energetic and riotously funny read, and a fitting celebration of our greatest ever comedian. The Scottish Banner is pleased to be offering 3 copies of Tall Tales and Wee Stories: The Best of Billy Connolly, courtesy of Hachette Australia. To enter 113 Wilderness Rd, Lovedale NSW simply tell us what Scottish city Billy hails from by email: competitions@ scottishbanner.com, via our website at www.scottishbanner.com/contact-us Great wine at great prices. or post (sorry no telephone entries) our Sydney office, our full contacts can saltireestate.com.au be found on page 2. Please ensure you include your full name and address. Winners will be notified directly, Hosts of the Hunter Valley Highland Games. good luck!

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 7 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

It should be noted that it’s very unlikely that Burns himself would have worn a By: Nick kilt. He was a Lowlander and the kilt is Drainey traditionally Highland dress. It was also illegal to wear a kilt between 1747–82, in The chef will then recover the haggis the aftermath of the Jacobite Risings. and leave the room to plate this part At a more traditional Burns Night, of the meal. Sometimes the haggis is ladies might wear a black or white dress passed around the table for guests to help with a hint of tartan, perhaps a tartan sash themselves, adding tatties and neeps from pinned to the right shoulder (only a Clan large bowls placed on the table. Chief’s wife should wear her sash pinned to the left). Speeches and entertainment Many suppers are ‘come as you are’. After the meal, the speeches and If you’re the organiser, just let your entertainment begin in earnest, starting guests know how formal you intend the with a toast to the monarch, known as evening to be. The Loyal Toast. This is followed by the main toast of the night, to The Immortal What to eat Memory of Robert Burns. The Immortal The first course is traditionally soup, either Memoryshould be a heartfelt toast to the Scotch broth, cock-a-leekie or Cullen skink genius, life and works of our National Bard. – all good Scottish recipes using Scottish At more formal dinners this speech focuses ingredients. Haggis is then served either on a theme of Burns’ works, ending with a as the main course or an intermediate formal toast where all guests are invited to Celebrating course. The haggis is accompanied by raise their glass. champit tatties (mashed potato) and neeps The next speech will be The Toast (mashed turnip). Sometimes carrot is to the Lassies, a reflection of Burns’ mixed with the neeps, although this is not ‘appreciation’ of women. Traditionally, this traditional. Many suppers now include a takes the form of a witty reflection on the Burns Night whisky sauce to accompany the haggis. relationships between men and women, If haggis is the intermediate course, it’s ending with the men rising to toast ‘the

All images courtesy of the National Trust for Scotland. Trust images courtesy of the National All often followed by a main of Scottish Lassies’. salmon, Scottish beef, a steak pie or game This is followed by the Reply to the On 25 January every year, Scots and Scots-at-heart come together such as grouse or pheasant. This would Toast to the Lassies. This should also be to celebrate Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. From its be accompanied by potatoes and witty and seek to correct the previous history to how a Burns Night generally takes place, Nick Drainey seasonal vegetables. speaker’s assumptions about women. gives us a background on this uniquely Scottish celebration that The pudding is an essential part of the The speech often ends with rousing meal. It might be a traditional Scottish applause from the women present, who takes place across the world. trifle or cranachan, a dish of oatmeal, then rise and raise their glasses to the cream and raspberries with a hint of men, toasting ‘the Laddies’. his Burns Night the cottage where as reciting some of his works. Guests at this whisky. Finally, a cheeseboard is passed At larger or more formal Burns Suppers, the bard was born will throw open first supper were served sheep’s head; this around, usually with a selection of Scottish there may be further speeches that reflect its doors after a major conservation rarely features on modern menus. cheeses such as Caboc, Arran cheddar, on the guests and absent friends, Scotland operation. Vital conservation works at Dunlop cheese from Ayrshire (similar to and a formal vote of thanks. The speeches Tthe Alloway landmark began in November What happens cheddar) or a Lanark Blue, served with are followed by entertainment – often and won’t be fully completed until April. Traditionally, Burns Suppers are held on Scottish chutneys and oatcakes. This can including recitations and music. The night They include the replacement of the or around Burns’ birthday – 25 January. be accompanied by port or whisky and should end with a rousing rendition of cottage’s traditional thatched roof, repairs They’ve become popular around the followed by coffee and tea, before the Auld Lang Syne and three cheers, marking to chimneys, internal plaster work, world. While it used to be the case that speeches begin. the end of a successful Burns Night. external harling and limewashing. a Burns Supper was a male-only affair, But during the big celebration of all things this is definitely not still true. Large Burns Addressing the Haggis Robert Burns it will host a gala day with Suppers may have a top table for the This has become a key part of all Burns games, live music and a ceilidh. Chairman, speakers and their partners, Suppers and involves the Addresser, the Caroline Smith, Operations Manager any special guests and the organising chef, a piper and 3 drams of whisky. at Robert Burns Birthplace Museum said: committee (if there is one), but you can It’s likely that all guests will be given a dram “Thanks to the generous support of our also run a smaller and less formal affair. at this point, if they don’t already have one. many donors, work is now underway to The menu or Bill o’ Fare will detail what the The piper leads the procession of the repair the cottage. We’ve worked very party will be eating and usually includes haggis, carried on a platter by the chef. hard behind the scenes carrying out a list of the speeches, speakers and As they circle the room, guests clap in time essential surveys and tests, and have entertainers. You may also find the words to the music. The haggis is presented in a comprehensive programme of work to Auld Lang Syne,which will be sung at the front of the Addresser who is flanked by planned to protect the cottage for the end of the evening before guests depart. the piper and the chef. future.” But the highlight of January 25 is a Most suppers start with a grace, most The Addresser will then recite the Burns Supper, which have held for over 200 commonly The Selkirk Grace attributed to Burns. Address to the Haggis. years. A supper is held to celebrate good Once the Address is complete, the fellowship and the genius of Scotland’s What to wear Addresser gives a glass of whisky to the national poet but what is it really all about? As a celebration night, dress can be quite chef and the piper, and invites the whole Copy of a portrait of Burns formal. The National Trust for Scotland company to ‘toast the haggis’. by Alexander Nasmyth. The origins says there’s no rule obliging a kilt to be The first Burns Supper was held in 1801 in worn but this has become common evening Burns Cottage, Alloway, according to the dress for many Scots. A dinner suit or trews National Trust for Scotland, which looks (tartan dress trousers) are equally acceptable. after the property. This first supper was organised by the Reverend Hamilton Paul for a gathering of nine ‘honest men of Ayr’. For some years there was a question over whether a woman had been in attendance, as one of those noted had the Christian name Primrose, an uncommon name for a man. It introduced all the key ingredients of the Burns Suppers we see today, namely good food, plenty of drink and friends who toasted Brig o’ Doon, Alloway. Burns Cottage, Alloway. the Immortal Memory of Robert Burns as well

Page 8 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

AD: Me being Irish I am very connected to Each year the production changes with Celtic music, I grew up with it. I think with a new and exciting choreography, what production like ours it needs rich and haunting can audiences expect to see with the Celtic music. The show is not about the 2020 performance? glamourous side of things with the costumes, it really is about the beats you make with your AD: You can expect a great night, we have shoes. That simplicity of it and creating a a two-hour production so it is full on. sound with our feet. We all come together as We will have a fiddle player and singer with a tribe almost and that is very powerful. us as well. There is a story we tell throughout the show, including a tribal battle and Spirit of the Dance infuses Irish dance with a love story as well. I am really looking a variety of dance styles such as Scottish, forward to coming back to Australia, a flamenco, salsa, ballet, street dance and place I have always wanted to live. tango. How much do you enjoy bringing Spirit of the Dance is touring Australia other dance genres into the mix of the show? in April and May, 2020. For tickets and details see: www.mellenevents.com.au AD: I love it, it is great change. Doing Irish you don’t use your arms so with other styles you can use other parts of your body. You can also bring a bit more of your personality out with other genres. With Irish dance there can be a nearly robotic element as you all have to be moving together at the same time, with other styles it gives you more freedom to show what else you can bring to the table.

With more than 20 years of performances, Spirit of the Dance is one of the most Spirit of the Dance successful shows to come out of Ireland. The Scottish Banner speaks to Aideen Donoghue

International dance sensation Spirit of the Dance has conquered the world and is coming to Australia in April/May 2020 with their new spine tingling 21st anniversary show. Dancer and cast member Aideen Donoghue spoke to the Scottish Banner on what it is like to be a part of this amazing Celtic production and what Australian audiences can expect to see in 2020.

Thank you Aideen for taking the time to so enthusiastic and theatrical themselves. speak to the Scottish Banner. Can you tell The response was so overwhelming and us how you got into dance and just what something that is very close to my heart. you love most about it? I never get bored of this show and met some amazing friends through this show. AD: I started dancing when I was three, beginning with Irish dancing back in Spirit of the Dance has been seen by over Ireland. Something would change me 20 million people. How does it make you whenever I was dancing. I took it a bit more feel to be part of production that has had seriously when I was a bit older and started such a global impact? Weddings at competing more. Then I auditioned for a college in London in the hopes of doing AD: It is incredible. When you do a show The National Piping Centre dance professionally. I got a scholarship like Spirit no one knows just how much Celebrate your "aye-do" in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland at the age of sixteen. For me there was hard work goes into it. The rehearsal no other choice, I knew from the age of time and pain that you go through, both fourteen this was what I wanted to do. physical and mental, it can take a toll. But when you get the chance to perform Your very first job was with Spirit of the the show, everything disappears and it is Dance. How amazing was it for you to simply an amazing feeling. I always want have such an incredible opportunity as to express that gratitude to the audience so your first professional job? they enjoy each show we do.

AD: Yes, it was my first job ever and when Celtic song and dance is so powerful and I got it we toured America for two months tells such an incredible story. What is it and I never looked back. I was eighteen about Celtic music you feel connects the back then and it was incredible. We were audience with the production of Spirit performing in front of thousands of of the Dance, regardless of their cultural people and obviously the Americans are background?

www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/weddings

The National Piping Centre, 30-34 McPhater Street, Glasgow, G4 0HW Registered in Scotland no. 139271, Charity no. 020391

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 9 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Glasgow crowned the UK’s top cultural and creative city our openness, tolerance and trust has been or a gig at the SSE Hydro which in 2018 rated as the best in Europe, confirming what was named the world’s best performing we already know, that our people make music venue by size, or to enjoy shows Glasgow the best city in the world.” by trailblazing companies such as The Glasgow is home to more than 100 Citizen’s Theatre. Glasgow is also home to cultural organisations and five of Scotland’s a year-round calendar of major cultural six internationally renowned national events from the UK’s biggest Mela to the performing arts companies, namely the Merchant City Festival and the World Pipe Royal Scottish National Orchestra; National Band Championships. Every January, Theatre of Scotland; BBC Scottish Symphony the city’s festival Orchestra; Scottish Opera and Scottish welcomes more than 2,000 artists from Ballet. It is also home to music venues across the globe to take part in some including the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, 300 events on 35 city stages as part of City Halls and Old Fruitmarket. an incredible celebration of traditional More people visit Glasgow’s museums and folk music. The city is also home each year than in any other UK city to the Glasgow Jazz Festival, Glasgow outside of London, with both Kelvingrove International Comedy Festival and the lasgow has been named the an industrial city, it has now gained Art Gallery and the Riverside Museum Glasgow Film Festival. UK’s top cultural and creative city recognition as a creative and cultural attracting more than 1.3 million visits each Dr McConnell added: “We’re proud as part of a landmark report by centre of European importance.” in the last year. The city is also investing £66 to have a huge and diverse cultural offer the European Commission. million in a full refurbishment and redisplay that’s open to everyone, whether that’s GThe report puts Glasgow ahead of London, The UK’s leading cultural and of The Burrell Collection, which is set to re- enjoying a community pantomime in Bristol, Brighton and Manchester which creative city open to the public in 2021. Glasgow’s nine venues across the city or being inspired make up the rest of the top five in the Dr Bridget McConnell CBE, the Chair of city museums are home to Europe’s largest in our world-class museums. We also UK. Edinburgh is ranked 6th in the list. Glasgow Life, said: “We always knew Glasgow civic arts collection, with masterpieces by recognise that we need to invest in our As befits the city’s ‘People Make Glasgow’ was a global cultural leader and we’re Dali, Van Gogh, Degas, Renoir, Whistler cultural legacy, and we are doing just slogan, the report also ranked Glasgow as delighted that the European Commission has and Monet as well as stunning works by the that with a £66 million refurbishment of Europe’s leader for ‘openness, tolerance confirmed our position of the UK’s leading Glasgow Boys and the Scottish Colourists – The Burrell Collection. I have no doubt and trust’. The Cultural and Creative cultural and creative city. Glasgow is a city all on show for free in the city’s museums. that when we once again reveal Sir Cities Monitor 2019 report looked at 190 bursting with energy, passion and creativity In terms of contemporary art, Glasgow has William’s incredible gift in its new home, cities from across 30 European countries and filled with artists, designers, creators and no fewer than eight Turner Prize winners and Glasgow’s cultural credentials will be and ranks 29 different aspects of a city’s innovators. We have world-class museums 12 nominees who have hailed from, trained lifted to even greater heights.” cultural health, including its cultural and galleries, incredible architecture and in, or worked out of the city in recent years. Work is progressing on a new Culture vibrancy, creative economy and ability history and as a UNESCO City of Music, Plan for Glasgow which will set out to attract creative talent and stimulate there’s nowhere better to enjoy a gig. A focus Huge and diverse cultural offer ambitious new targets to build the cultural engagement. The report states: for the performing arts and a hub for the The city is also the place to come to city’s reputation as globally recognised “Glasgow was one of the first European creative industries, it’s no wonder that we’ve admire the genius of architect and creative and cultural world city, with Capitals of Culture, in 1990. Known as come out top of the ranking. What’s more, designer, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, citizens at its heart. 2020 Geelong Highland Gathering returns to Osborne Park, North Geelong Championships, Highland Dancing, 42nd Highland Regiment historic re-enactment groups, Clan and heritage associations, Glen Lachlan College of Arms swordplay demonstrations, whisky tasting, vintage cars display, haggis and other Scottish foods and a Scottish dogs. There will also be a Scottish faire market with food, souvenir, clothing and other stalls, children’s activities etc. One of the highlights of the day will be the massed pipe bands at the end of the day including the Geelong RSL Pipes The Geelong RSL Pipes & Drums. Highland dance displays. & Drums and prospective learner and or existing pipers and drummers can find he 2020 Geelong Highland Gathering, Accordingly, the Committee approached Society (1856 - 1946) that ran the event more information about the band on will again be held at Osborne Park, the North Geelong Cricket Club and the on New Year’s Day up until 1927 when it www.thegeelongpipesanddrums.com or Swinburne Street, North Geelong on City of Greater Geelong to determine if lapsed. The Gathering recommenced in telephone 0407 512 672. Sunday, 15 March 2020. The Chieftain/ the Geelong Highland Gathering could be 1958 as part of the 100 years celebration The Geelong Highland Gathering takes TPresident of the Geelong Highland Gathering staged again at this venue again in 2020. of the then former City of Newtown on place on March,15, 2020. For more details: Association, Doctor Maurice Marshall, said, An attraction of this venue is its close their creation as a borough on 9 March www.geelonghighlandgathering.org.au “The use of this venue for the 2019 event proximity to the North Geelong Railway 1858. Since 1995 the Gathering has been or telephone 0407 512 672. attracted very favourable comments and the Station which suited many of our patrons organized by the Geelong Highland best crowd since the 2014 event. residing in the metropolitan Gathering Association a voluntary, area in 2019.” incorporated, not for profit, cultural organization. It is important to remember A meeting of friends this is a Gathering, a meeting of friends to Doctor Maurice Marshall also stated: “This enjoy and participate in all things Scottish.” year’s Geelong Highland Gathering will be the 63rd in the modern era and the iconic Great events event dates back to New Year’s Day in 1857 The 2020 Gathering will see all the usual when the first Geelong Highland Gathering events including the 2020 Western 42nd Highland Regiment historic was held on the plains of South Geelong Victorian Pipe Band Championships, re-enactment group. Massed bands. organized by the then Comunn na Feinne the South Pacific Heavy Scottish Games

Page 10 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Plan your wedding in Scotland – things to consider for a destination wedding

take place between 3 months and 29 days wedding registry, opting to let their guests in advance of the wedding – so make sure know that their presence is gift enough, or you remember to do this in the time frame! opt only for smaller, travel-friendly items, gift vouchers or a contribution to an experience Be clear about costs at the destination itself. It’s customary for guests to cover their own accommodation and transport costs Choose Scotland when attending a destination wedding From being able to pick your dream – though it’s essential that you make this location to including some fantastic Scottish clear in your communications to avoid traditions like ceilidh dancing, a piper, hand- any confusion or later awkwardness. fasting and drinking from a Quaich, Scotland One way to do this is to supply advice on is the perfect location for a wedding. If you getting the best rates on travel costs and aren’t sure where to start, take a look at The accommodation recommendations – this National Piping Centre in Glasgow. They is one of the more subtle options, but still can create a Highland House party in the makes it clear that the onus is on the guest middle of the city, with our tartan theme to pay. If there are costs you are covering and museum of piping with come and try for your guests, such as transfers between giving your guests a fun ice breaker during the airport and their hotel, it’s good to the drinks reception. Take a peek at their include this information too. Just make wedding blog, too, as its crammed full of sure that you provide a range of price hints and tips for your big day! points, so that guests can plan according Images courtesy of Fiona Watson Photography. Watson courtesy of Fiona Images Find out more at: to their needs and not feel priced out of www.thepipingcentre.co.uk/weddings cotland is a popular location for If you are travelling from outside the celebrating your big day. destination weddings - and it’s no European Economic Area you’ll need entry wonder! With beautiful scenery, clearance through a Marriage Visa to get in What about gifts? romantic venues, and marriage laws to Scotland, so make sure you have this! If you’re holding a destination wedding, bear Sthat are much more liberal than in other Whilst you are in early planning in mind that your guests will often spend a countries, Scotland is the ideal place to host stages for coming to Scotland, The lot in order to be with you on your big day. your dream wedding day. Let the wedding National Records of Scotland have a There are also logistical issues involved with experts from The National Piping Centre, handy guide to the legalities of and getting your gifts home if presented with Glasgow, guide you through why you administration involved in getting them at your destination! Many couples should choose Scotland and what you need! married here. Its well worth a read to holding destination weddings often forgo the ensure you have everything! Is Scotland for you? Now, we may be biased but if you’re looking for Send your invitations early a beautiful backdrop for your own wedding, While it’s usually considered best to we think that Scotland is the perfect choice. follow up your save-the-dates with McPhee’s Not only is there beautiful scenery and invites around 6-8 weeks before the In Wellington since 1946 romantic venues like The National Piping wedding, this simply isn’t enough time Centre, the marriage laws here are much when planning a destination wedding. Order online at www.mcphees.co.nz more liberal than in other countries, It’s crucial that you allow your guests giving you the freedom to celebrate in a enough time to confirm holidays from [email protected] way that suits you as a couple! work, save money for the trip and apply for any necessary documentation. Do your research We’d recommend sending your save- Planning a destination wedding can the-dates as soon as you’ve set your be quite different to planning a more location, and posting your official traditional ceremony, so it’s very invitations with a minimum of three important that couples to do their months to go. research. You may have dreamed of a In choosing your ideal Scottish sunlight drenched beach ceremony, but location, the good news is that you can this is Scotland – make sure you have get married almost anywhere legally. Specialising in: alternative options from your venue. From castles to churches to lochs and You should also research any political beaches you are free to create your dream Scottish Country Dancing Shoes & Accessories issues, from economic worries to health wedding in the perfect location. and safety, such as whether any religious or LGBT guests might feel uncomfortable Getting there in your chosen destination. It can be challenging enough to arrange a wedding suitable for all of your guests to attend at home, so going away can seem like a logistical nightmare. Your priorities will include coordinating travel arrangements and securing appropriate accommodation at a price that’s suitable for all. One way to manage to this effectively is to pick a travel agent, who can help make group arrangements and help your guests with reminders. If the agent is paid by the resort or airline, there’s no additional cost for you, and it can reduce the stress you’re under significantly. PO Box 17395, Karori, Wellington Remember you must notify the registrar McPhee’s Celtic New Zealand Phone +64 4 476 0139 in the district where your marriage is to

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 11 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

IN SCOTLAND TODAY

the remains of a structure revealed at John Muir, born in Dunbar in 1838, the proposed Finstown substation site, played a key role in the development of after digging through sixty centimetres of America’s national parks. He emigrated midden deposits. from Scotland in 1849 and is famous Some of the objects look remarkably for petitioning the U.S. Congress for like stylised representations of the human the National Park bill, establishing form, whilst others look more like stones Yosemite National Park. The bear is set upright into the floor of a Bronze Age symbolic of John Muir’s travels through building excavated by EASE Archaeology at the far-off wilderness of America’s west, the Links of Noltland, Westray. These may in the Rockies and his advocacy for have been used to tie mooring ropes onto, National Parks. to help hold the roof on. The sculpture is made of welded steel The archaeologists working on site and is fabricated from steel plates of uncovered the carved stones scattered various thicknesses, heavy at the bottom around a hearth within the remains of an and lighter towards the top, giving the Nicola Sturgeon launching the SNP’s 2019 manifesto in Glasgow. Photo: SNP. enigmatic structure that contained three structure an inherent strength. Visitors can cists, two hearths and a partial ring of access it via a walkway. holes packed with broken off upstanding Andy Scott, a graduate of Glasgow stones. Three of the roughly carved School of Art, has completed over 70 figures were also important enough to projects across the UK and internationally. the people who used the building to be His distinctive hand-crafted figurative Scotland votes incorporated within the structure of one sculptures combine traditional skill with The results of UK General Election in Moray is home to one of the oldest of the hearths and in the foundations of contemporary fabrication techniques. saw Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s documents in the NTS collections – a one of the standing stones. The purpose Commenting on the erection of the Conservative Party win with 365 seats, an letter from King Robert the Bruce. Written of the building and how it was used by the sculpture he said: “It is fantastic to see this 80 seat majority. In Scotland however the in 1312 to Malcolm, Thane of Brodie, inhabitants of this site four thousand years sculpture finally being erected as part of Scottish Nationalist Party (SNP), won 48 regarding the maintenance of his property, ago is still an enigma. the Hallhill development, especially in of Scotland’s 59 constituencies, winning it pre-dates the oldest parts of the castle Professor Colin Richards from the memory of such an influential character 13 more seats than in the last election by about 200 years. This document has University of the Highlands and Islands as John Muir, which is particularly apt in 2017, making them Scotland’s largest considerable importance due to its Archaeology Institute said, “This is a given today’s focus on the environment. political party. antiquity and provenance. Relatively few significant discovery in Orkney and This bear sculpture will provide an Scotland’s First Minister Nicola documents from this time survive intact probably within North West Europe. It is opportunity to enlighten people about Sturgeon said Scotland has chosen a and are still legible, so we’re extremely very rare to find representations of people the man and his work. It is a symbol of different future than the rest of the UK. lucky to be in possession of this, especially in prehistoric Orkney and when found, the wilderness John Muir was such a At a press conference after the poll results as it was written by such a key figure in they are usually individual or in very small passionate advocate of and is testament came in Sturgeon said, “This is not Scotland’s history. In 1645, Brodie Castle groups. If they are figurines, to find nine to his incredible desire to protect the about asking Boris Johnson or any other was ransacked by Lord Lewis Gordon and figures within one structure is very exciting natural environment.” Westminster politician for permission. It many of the family papers were burnt, so and together with the archaeology found is an assertion of the democratic right of it’s even more fortunate that this letter at this site has the potential to add to our Ullapool gets into the the people of Scotland to determine their survived. The letter is now almost 700 understanding of Orcadian society in festive spirit own future.” She addressed Mr Johnson years old, and donations enabled NTS to prehistory.” directly in saying, “Let me be clear. This complete essential conservation work on The survival of these marks together is not simply a demand that I or the SNP it over the summer. Now the NTS would with the remnants of the Early Neolithic are making. It is the right of the people like to purchase a ‘ColliderCase’ to display and Bronze Age settlement structures gives of Scotland - and you as the leader of a this special document. This exciting new an insight into the prehistoric use of this defeated party in Scotland have no right way to present artefacts offers increased site over some two thousand years with to stand in the way.” learning and engagement opportunities, people living, farming and burying their A Downing Street spokesperson said, as well as state-of-the-art protection for dead across this windswept hillside. “On Brexit, the prime minister said that delicate materials. he is now in a position to get this done To help see: www.nts.org.uk/ Large bear sculpture to celebrate in a way that allows the whole of the campaigns/greetings-from-robert famous Scot erected in East Lothian UK to move forward together, providing certainty for Scottish businesses and Nine possible Bronze Age improving the lives of people right across figurines unearthed in Orkney Scotland. The prime minister made clear how he remained opposed to a second independence referendum, standing with the majority of people in Scotland who do not want to return to division and uncertainty. He added how the result of the 2014 referendum was decisive and should Ullapool on the shores of the west be respected.” Highlands celebrated Christmas with a 9m (29.5ft) “tree” made from fishing gear. Appeal to protect Robert Scotland’s most unique Christmas tree the Bruce letter is made from creels used for catching shellfish, and has become a tradition in Ullapool since it was first constructed The legacy of one of East Lothian’s in 2016. One of the Creel Tree organisers most famous sons, John Muir, has been Robert Hicks said: “It brings so many immortalised through a five-metre high people to the area and so much so now steel bear sculpted by renowned Scottish that December is almost as busy as some artist, Andy Scott, the man behind the of the summer months and it is great to A team from ORCA Archaeology has Kelpies and other well-loved sculptures. see. Anything that generates more income discovered an amazing series of half-metre This remarkable sculpture, fixed to and trade in the village is a good thing and tall stone-carved objects while completing a base erected on a mound planted we are very much hoping many people exploratory archaeological excavations with wild flowers, was unveiled on the will come west this weekend and join us.” The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has connected with the development of an 19thNovember. It will be illuminated by Volunteers begin to assemble the tree each launched an appeal to help it raise funds to electrical substation on behalf of SSEN lighting using renewable energy. The bear November and the installation on the he protect one of Scotland’s most important Transmission in Orkney. In total, nine is located off the A1 in close proximity to village’s shorefront has boosted the towns historical documents. Brodie Castle carved stones have been unearthed in the Spott Roundabout at Dunbar. tourism numbers.

Page 12 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Review of Scotland’s In the words of the Bard historic lighthouses Robert Burns quotes Scotland.org Scotland’s national poet Robert Burns Tam O’Shanter is celebrated throughout the world. Lighthouses up and down the country will be reviewed But pleasures are like poppies spread The universal and timeless appeal of his You seize the flow’r, its bloom is shed courtesy of: Text for listing as part of the Year of Coasts and Waters 2020. words has spoken to people across the globe down through the years. Here are a Or like the snow falls in the river few well-known quotations by the Bard. A moment white then melts for ever From Burns’ epic poem Tam O’Shanter, My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose written in 1791. As well as containing humour, horror and social commentary, Oh, my luve’s like a red, red rose, the poem also includes beautiful lines That’s newly sprung in June; like the above. Oh, my luve’s like the melodie That’s sweetly played in tune. The Cotter’s Saturday Night From Burns’ most famous love From scenes like these old Scotia’s song My Love is Like a Red, Red Rose, grandeur springs, penned in 1794. It is written to That makes her loved at home, someone from whom he is parted and revered abroad: hopes to meet again one day, however Princes and lords are but the great the separation. breath of kings, An honest man’s the noblest work of God. To A Louse From The Cotter’s Saturday Night, this Oh wad some power the giftie gie us poem was written for inclusion in the To see oursel’s as others see us! Kilmarnock Volume, Burns’ first book of Photo: Ian Cowe. It wad frae monie a blunder free us, poems. It is one of the best known and And foolish notion. most admired of his works. istoric Environment Scotland range of lighthouses which have never The poet notices an upper A Man’s A Man For A’ That (HES) has announced it will been assessed for listing, including some class lady, Jenny, in church with a For a’ that, an’ a’ that, undertake a review of listed dating from the 1970s and 1980s, so we’re louse roaming around unnoticed It’s coming yet for a’ that, and unlisted lighthouses really excited to look at these structures for in her bonnet. The theme is Howned by the Northern Lighthouse the first time and explore their potential. That Man to Man, the world o’er, contained in the final lines Board (NLB). As part of the year-long By reviewing and updating the records (above) and is that we would all Shall brothers be for a’ that. project, in partnership with NLB, HES of these fascinating buildings, we will be be disabused of our pretensions if These lines are from Burns’ song of will update existing listed building able to offer more information about what we were to see ourselves through equality and universal brotherhood Is records for lighthouses and explore makes them special to help their future each others’ eyes. there for Honest Poverty (also known as unlisted lighthouses to determine if care and maintenance.” A Man’s A Man for a’ That). they meet the criteria to become listed. Iconic features of our coasts and seas To A Mouse The best laid schemes o’ mice and men Auld Lang Syne Jane Ryder, Chair of HES Board, said: Since the building of Scotland’s Gang aft a-gley; Should auld acquaintance be forgot, “Scotland’s lighthouses are iconic And never brought to mind? first lighthouse in the 17th features of our coasts and seas with rich And leave us naught but grief and pain Should auld acquaintance be forgot, century, lighthouses have played associations with those who have designed For promised joy. them, who have lived and worked in These lines, which are amongst the And auld lang syne! a crucial role in ensuring safe them and those who have and continue most famous in world literature, Amongst the top most sung lines in passage for ships. to rely on them. With the Year of Coasts are from Burns’ poem ‘To a Mouse’. the English language, these words are, and Waters encouraging people to explore The lines inspired the title of John of course, from Auld Lang Syne, Scotland’s coasts we hope that our project Steinbeck’s 1937 classic novel which has become an anthem sung Research will be undertaken using with NLB will highlight the importance ‘Of Mice and Men’. the world over at New Year. information and photographs from that our nation’s unique lighthouses have NLB’s collection held in the National as part of our community heritage as well Record of the Historic Environment. as our wider maritime history.” The project will be a major project Mike Bullock, Chief Executive of throughout Scotland’s Year of Coasts the Northern Lighthouse Board, said: and Waters 2020. “We place a great deal of importance on the preservation and sharing of our Wonderful landmarks remarkable history and we are delighted to Buildings listed as having ‘special be working on this project with HES during architectural or historic interest’ form part Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Waters. of the nation’s rich heritage and help to tell Many of our lighthouses are now over the story of Scotland’s past. Listing celebrates 200 years old but they continue to serve these buildings and ensures their special the same purpose as when they were interest is considered in the planning built – to guide all mariners safely through process. HES as the lead public body Scottish and Isle of Man waters. It will for Scotland’s historic environment, are be enormously helpful to determine the responsible for listing buildings, while appropriate listed status for our lights built NLB is responsible for the provision of in the 1970s and 1980s. Architecturally, they Marine Aids to Navigation in the waters might be very different structures to the surrounding Scotland and the Isle of Man, Stevenson lighthouses but they are very and currently operates and maintains over much a part of our lighthouse heritage.” 200 lighthouses. Since the building of Scotland’s first Philip Robertson, Deputy Head lighthouse in the 17th century, lighthouses of Designations at HES, said: “There have played a crucial role in ensuring safe are around 150 listed lighthouses passage for ships. One of the most famous is throughout the country, and they are the Bell Rock Lighthouse which was built in not only wonderful landmarks but also 1808-11 by Robert Stevenson (Robert Louis a testament to Scotland’s exceptional Stevenson’s grandfather) and its construction engineering achievements. There are a was an epic feat. It is listed at category A.

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 13 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: David C In the shadow of icons Weinczok Four Scottish historic sites for those who think they’ve seen it all

Certain iconic locations have become almost synonymous with Scotland itself in the minds of people around the world. For evidence, just survey the shortbread tins sold on Edinburgh’s Royal Mile and you’ll likely be able to count on one hand the number of places gracing the lids. That’s not to imply they don’t deserve to - the likes of Eilean Donan Castle and Glencoe are truly special places that deserve the accolades. But Scotland is a big wee place, and for every international superstar there are many locations that are just as atmospheric and awe-inspiring but which haven’t quite managed to take centre stage. In that spirit, here are four perfect destinations for all those who revel in taking the road less travelled.

The icon: Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven The Starlet: Findlater Castle, Portsoy But Scotland is a big Perched atop a clifftop promontory thrust defiantly into the cold embrace of the wee place, and for every North Sea, Dunnottar Castle is a contender for Scotland’s most fantastically situated international superstar castle - quite the feat, seeing as there there are many locations are over 2,000 competitors. It has been fortified since before Scotland existed, that are just as atmospheric and has played a pivotal role in many of the most decisive moments in the nation’s and awe-inspiring but which history. It seems impossible to rival, and yet if you travel along the northeast coast haven’t quite managed to to the shores of the Moray Firth there’s a take centre stage. place that comes close. At first glance Findlater Castle, also built into a promontory, almost seamlessly blends into the stones it is rooted in, such that Beneath your feet are a complex of a casual observer scanning the coastline chambers, halls and corridors, half-filled may not see a castle at all. An admittedly in sand like the set of an Indiana Jones precarious path leads out to it, and as you film. You can clamber down into the belly approach details slowly begin to emerge of the beast, but take great care - both until, almost by surprise you find yourself of yourself and of the structure - if you Machrie Moor. standing atop the ruins of a hidden leviathan. dare to do this. The best perspective of the site is gained from the stony shore and comprises six stone circles as well immediately to the west, where a deep as scattered chambered cairns, hut cave once used by pirates can be explored circles, and other historic remnants. when the tide is out. It’s nearly impossible The most sensational, pragmatically to give Dunnottar a run for its money, but called Circle No.2, has three stones with hidden caverns, a pirate cave, and standing high as giants. Aptly, legends of the luxury of usually having it to yourself - the giant Fingal abound in the area, with which would never happen at Dunnottar one of the Moor’s stone circles dubbed - Findlater comes admirably close. Fingal’s Cauldron Seat. Robert the Bruce is alleged to have had his encounter with The icon: Loch Ness, Highlands a determined spider in the nearby King’s The Starlet: Loch Doon, East Ayrshire The Calanais Stones. Cave, so there is plenty in the area to keep history hunters happy, too. Dunnottar Castle, Stonehaven. In the Scottish Banner’s 2019 August edition, I drew attention to the issue The icon: The Calanais Stones, of ‘overtourism’ in Scotland and, in Isle of Lewis particular, the tendency of visitors to The starlet: Machrie Moor plan itineraries around the same small Stone Circles, Isle of Arran set of usual suspects. Invariably Loch Standing stones have been drawing crowds Ness appears on the list, and while it does since long before Outlander hit the silver feature the fantastic Urquhart Castle and screen. Archaeologists, neo-Pagans, tales of a certain beastie, when it comes romantics and artists all draw their own to overall scenery it is - and I say this distinct types of inspiration from these with great affection for the area - entirely megaliths. The Calanais Stones are rightly average. Don’t by any means let that stop revered as amongst the finest examples of you from ticking it off your bucket list, standing stones in the world, yet reaching Findlater Castle cave. but if you’re the sort to venture off the them from the mainland can be quite the beaten path then follow the road signs multi-day quest. south instead of north until you reach the Machrie Moor, on the other hand, Galloway Forest Park in Ayrshire can be done in a day from anywhere in With Loch Doon at its heart, the central Scotland while losing none of Galloway Forest Park is one of Scotland’s the drama. Arran, popularly known as best kept secrets. The loch sports Scotland in miniature, has scenery to a uniquely formed and incredibly rival anywhere in the Highlands and Isles. picturesque stone castle along its banks, I recommend, if you can, experiencing it the forested hills that flank it are rife with by bicycle, both to savour the surrounds hiking and biking trails, and some of and to make the journey green. Machrie Findlater Castle. the best wildlife spotting and stargazing Moor lies on the island’s western coast anywhere in the country can be found here.

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all kinds of legends have swirled around Some even say that the wizard Merlin it including how it was formed from the held court here in the mists of the Dark body of a lazy dragon and that King Arthur Ages. Despite all that and it being the himself rests beneath it. Yet, it is not the oldest continually fortified site in all of only stony spire swirling with myth to Britain, however, Dumbarton now flies loom above a Scottish capital. inconspicuously under most peoples’ Dumbarton Rock, the ancient capital radar - it’s time to bring the Rock of the of the Kingdom of Strathclyde, rises as an Britons back to its former glory! indomitable sentinel from the waters of the Clyde just a few miles west of Glasgow. Just like Arthur’s Seat, Dumbarton Rock was once a mighty volcano whose eruptions forged the land around it. From the top you can see as far as the peaks of the northern Trossachs deep behind the Highland Line, and from here the Rock’s residents watched in terror as a vast fleet of Viking ships made their way to bring fire to Arthur’s Seat. Dumbarton once again in 870 CE. Loch Doon, East Ayrshire.

are some of the quietest in the country, allowing plenty of opportunities to stop and take it all in. Loch Doon may not have anywhere near the name recognition of Loch Ness or a mysterious monster stalking its shores, but it makes up for it by providing serenity in spades.

The icon: Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh The Starlet: Dumbarton Rock, Dumbarton Arthur’s Seat, a vast volcanic plug towering over the heart of Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town, is so striking precisely Loch Ness, Highlands. because of its abruptness. In contrast to the tame fields and rolling hills of the Best of all, while the road along Loch Ness Lothians, Arthur’s Seat and the rest of overflows with souvenir shops and heavy Holyrood Park are a towering, elemental vehicles in a hurry, the small routes along exclamation point on the land. Looking Dumbarton Rock. Loch Doon and through the Forest Park from certain angles like a lion in repose,

Tartan of the Month Burns 1930 Tartan

The Scottish Banner is pleased to be offering the Tartan of the Month series highlighting a variety of different, unique and colourful from around the world which are registered with the Scottish Register of Tartans in Edinburgh. The Scottish Register of Tartans was established by an act of the Scottish Parliament in November 2008 and promotes and preserves information about historic and contemporary tartans

Text and image use is courtesy of the Scottish Register of Tartans (SRT). of Tartans and image use is courtesy of the Scottish Register Text from Scotland and throughout the world.

s the world celebrates Burns Night this month, we feature the Burns 1930 Tartan. Modern family Asett discovered by MacKinlay at Messrs Forsyth. Probably dates between 1930-50. There is also a Robert Burns check. James Mackinlay, a tartan collector, put this collection together between 1930s -1950s. It is found in the Scottish Tartans Society archive. This tartan (SRT ref: 1539) was recorded prior to the launch of The Scottish Register of Tartans. Wishing you a Happy Burns Night!

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 15 THE SCOTTISH BANNER The Year of Scotland in Australia 2020 The Scottish Banner speaks to Alan Morrison

stopped playing as much and when I left, I became a journalist and started writing about music. About 11 years ago I got the job as the Arts Editor at the Sunday Herald newspaper and that is when I started commissioning myself to write more about music. My interest in music is across every genre from opera to hip hop, from jazz to the oldest, most melancholic Gaelic songs you can think of, I love it all. In regards to the Top 50 Scottish Albums of the Year, it was at end of each year when I saw the music magazines and newspapers pick their top 50 albums, there was always very few Scottish albums in there. I realised that it was typically albums or bands that were signed to labels in London that were getting the showing. All the great smaller labels or self-releases in Scotland were not getting a look in and the whole range of music across genres was not getting a chance. I put together a Top 50 Scottish Albums for four years in a row in the Sunday Herald and just championed the Scottish scene. When I got the job at Creative Scotland you could Alan Morrison. say what I had been doing up to then was the longest application for the job that I currently have you can possibly do. The Year of Scotland in Australia 2020 (YOSA) is the largest showcase of traditional Scottish Scottish music is known as quite music and heritage in Australia, ever. The programme includes 150 performances by emotive and often tells a story, Scotland’s finest traditional, Gaelic and Celtic musicians at over 70 Australian festivals and regardless of genre. You have said that you see music as a central pillar of venues, in more than 60 towns and cities, nationwide. Alan Morrison is the Head of Music at Scottish identity. Can you tell us more? Creative Scotland and took the time to speak to the Scottish Banner on his love of music and AM: When you look at Scottish music just what an exciting year of Scottish music will take place in 2020 across Australia. with external eyes what you think of is the fiddles, bagpipes and accordion and that Alan you are Head of Music at Creative arts that is raised through the national crafts and jewellery. Within the music team, what fits into Scottish history and that has Scotland. Can you tell us more about your lottery. We are effectively like an arts which I head, we have three music officers gone out across the world. We have had role and broadly what Creative Scotland does? council, a funding body primarily, but also who specialise in separate genres (jazz & the through to to an extent an advocacy and development classical, folk & trad, rock & pop/indie). different kinds of migration in the 20th, AM: Creative Scotland is not directly the body of the arts. We cover everything We fund bands to make albums or go on where Scots have moved across the world Scottish Government, but it is an arm’s from theatre, dance, literature, visual arts, tour, we fund different festivals, arts venues to predominantly Australia, New Zealand length organisation from the government a very big screen team doing television to be able to put on programs and quite a bit and North America and have taken that which is able to distribute the government’s and cinema development, and creative of what we do is international showcasing. more traditional music with them, the culture budget and also the money for the industries such as digital games and even The export element of getting Scottish Celtic music, Gaelic music, Scots music. music out around the world. We may I think one of the things that appeals about represent Scotland at different trade fairs or that is that Scottish music has always been helping put on some music showcases at a music for sharing with other people. some of the bigger international events such Whether it’s ceilidhs or fireside sessions, as South by Southwest, Great Escape, Jazz musicians who have never met before Ahead and across all genres. can sit down and play together and share that musical language. In Scotland it is You have a lifelong passion for music, not just music that is at the heart of our what it is about Scottish music that national identity, it is our rich culture, our excites you and can you tell us how you poetry, visual arts and theatre. An oral championed the creation of the Top 50 culture where it is about sharing within the Scottish Albums of the Year? community and passing down stories to the next generation. AM: As a kid I was trained on the violin and fiddle simultaneously. I was having You have collaborated with major classical lessons from the age of nine and Scottish cultural events such as Celtic playing with local youth orchestras. I was Connections, Wickerman Festival, T also learning Scottish trad tunes, had in the Park, Edinburgh International piano lessons, sang in school musicals Festival & Film Festival, Aye Write and and when I was about 16 taught myself many more. What do you feel Scotland how to play the guitar and formed a post does so well in terms of its events? punk band with my mates doing covers of The Cure, U2, Stranglers and things like AM: Our major festivals are great for Piper Brìghde Chaimbeul. that. Music has been part of my life from people who live in Scotland, we get a very early on. When I went to university I chance to let our hair down and see the

Page 16 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

doing a more acoustic tour of some grand YOSA is a national program of houses which are part of the National Trust performances and events which will properties, this will be a more intimate showcase the vibrancy of Scotland’s living way to enjoy their music. Capercaillie are tradition. What do you hope audiences so important to Scottish music, having take home with them and how can they brought the Gaelic language into the pop get involved with this great year of events? charts. I have always had an eye and ear out for emerging talent and really love when AM: First and foremost, I hope people we can help a band who may be visiting have a brilliant time listening to some of here for the first time and start to form a the best music they have ever heard. I hope relationship with a new fan base and that they continue to listen to those bands and becomes the foundation of the next tour help the musicians by buying the albums. they do. This is not just going to be a one- I hope Scottish music becomes a little bit off year with a big splash and we go away more foregrounded in their cultural lives. again. It is something we want to also build There is something deeper and that is for the future and a legacy can grow out of bringing our county’s together. Scotland this where a whole load of new bands can wants to be able to share and collaborate start getting roots down in Australia and and share with countries across the world. building audiences here, that in itself brings I hope one of the outcomes is more two- out two countries closer together. way traffic between Scotland and Australia. I hope people with a Scottish background The YOSA program is quite diverse and are able to find something tangible from includes Burns Suppers, historic homes, our heritage and enjoy the music and live performance, whisky and taking perhaps visiting our county later on. Vocalist Siobhan Miller. place across both regional and capital This year of music isn’t just for people city locations. How challenging has that have a Mac in their name or a family it been for the team to create such an tartan, it is for everyone speaking the best of our own acts and up and coming after their visit it was thought Australian array on offer over such a vast distance international language of music. I hope acts. It is however also one of the great festivals could book more acts than they (especially compared to Scotland!)? we can use music to make the world closer attractions for people to come from normally do. And boy has that escalated, and it creates something that links us abroad and experience the music scene it has gone from a few festivals to 30 and AM: In some ways we in Scotland have the together regardless of our distances apart. of Scotland. People are choosing when counting. The figures are impressive, the talent on tap. We have formed ourselves a The Year of Scotland in Australia will coming to Scotland culture as one of if quantity of events is unprecedented. It is ‘Team Scotland’ with ourselves at Creative bring a breadth of Scottish culture and not the reason for visiting Scotland. also the quality, the depth of talent we are Scotland, The Scottish Government, heritage to Australian audiences, the We have great obviously great mountains bringing over is something we have never VisitScotland, Showcase Scotland program already features The Glenturret and fantastic castles, but the culture is done anywhere in the world. We have our Expo coming together to provide both Burns Night Supper, the world-renowned something that is a real draw. Those big big-name tradition bearers, but also the administrative and financial backbone to Capercaillie, alongside Elephant Sessions pillar festivals we have through the year best of our emerging talent playing in a help the costs of the musicians to get here. and multi-award winning Breabach, from Celtic Connections to HebCelt or concentrated period over a year. It is going Such a hearty thanks to as well as Moishe’s Bagel, Rura, The Langanband, The Jellymans Daughter, folk festivals in Orkney or Shetland, people to be so exciting on so many levels and for programmers Woodfordia who are helping and rising stars such as Brìghde know if they come and visit Scotland there me the fact that the Year of Scotland will put together the whole year long event. Chaimbeul, Fara, and Siobhan Miller. will always be some great provision of take place at the Sydney Opera House, one The scope of what we are able to do is very To keep up to date with the fast expanding music on offer at the time of their visit. of the most iconic buildings in the world much down to the networking year long programme, more detailed to grassroots community level events. and creating this opportunity. Australia information and ticket links, visit: There are so many people in Australia, itself has made this happen, with Scotland www.yearofscotlandaustralia2020.com The figures are particularly with Scottish ancestry, who being able to lend a helping hand. and follow @YOSA2020 #YOSA2020 have been keeping the Scottish flag flying impressive, the quantity of for Scottish culture at the community level in Australia. This year is in a way is events is unprecedented. It is an acknowledgement and thanks from also the quality, the depth of Scotland for all the years of effort the Scottish community here has put in. talent we are bringing over is The YOSA performances are estimated something we have never done to play to a total audience of half a million Australians, over 300 individual anywhere in the world. performances. How important do you feel this opportunity is for the Scottish bands hitting Australian shores? You are here for the Year of Scotland in Australia which is a year-long program AM: We have several bands that are that includes over 30 festivals and events known in Australia that are coming and it Emily Kelly and of Graham Coe of Scottish duo Jellyman’s Daughter. around Australia, featuring over 150 will be exciting to see them in a different Scottish artists. This is an unprecedented context. We have Capercaillie coming and program for not only Scottish Australians but the wider community to enjoy. Can you tell us how this all came together and what people can expect to see?

AM: It came together from an event we fund called Showcase Scotland Expo, who help with the exporting of Scottish music. One of the domestic events is called The Visit where we pick a different territory every year and bring over a mix agents and festival bookers and media, who come to Scotland for 4 or 5 days and watch 21 acts play a half hour showcase. We present bands who are export ready, at a stage of their careers where we know if they get booked abroad, they are professional and artistically ready to take that on. Capercaillie. In 2018 we hosted Australia and soon

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 17 THE SCOTTISH BANNER THIS MONTH IN SCOTTISH HISTORY Names & Places In The News From Today And The Past

1 - King James V married 9 - Author and Scottish Banner columnist Nigel 18 -Raasay House on Raasay off Skye was badly 25 - First Minister Alex Salmond launches Magdalene of France. 1537 Tranter died. Tranter published more than 130 damaged in a fire. The building was undergoing a consultation on the SNP Government’s proposals for a referendum on Scottish 1 - Charles II crowned at Scone, the last novels and biographies during his 60-year- a £4m restoration project. The former stately independence. The referendum on Scottish coronation on Scottish soil. 1651 long career, most covering famous Scots and home had been run as an activity centre since their place in the country’s history. 2000 1984 and was being restored for that purpose independence was held on 18 September 2014 1 - James Stewart the “Old Pretender” died. 1766 saw Scotland vote to remain part of the United 10 - Pop star Rod Stewart born. 1945 again. The sprawling 258-year-old mansion 1 - First celebration of New Year in Scotland once belonged to the Clan MacLeod. 2009 Kingdom, with 55% voting against the proposal on this date (was March 25th till then). 1600 11 - John A MacDonald, first Prime Minister for Scotland to become an independent of the Dominion of Canada in 1867, born at 19 - A Scottish army under the Earl of Leven country and 45% voting in favour. 2012 1 - The Beatles opened a 5-day tour of Scotland 20 Brunswick Street in Glasgow. 1815 crossed the river Tweed into England. It to promote their first singleLove Me Do. 1963 remained in England for three years playing 26 - One o’clock gun fired for the first 11 - The Scottish National Blood Transfusion time from Edinburgh Castle. The gun was an important part in the Civil War. 1644 1- The constitution is drafted for the Association was created. This independently created to complement a time ball on Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, making funded service was responsible for Scotland’s Nelson’s Monument which was not reliable it the oldest in Britain. 1783 blood and blood products. The National Blood during Edinburgh foggy days. 1861 Transfusion Service in England and Wales was 26 - The 1st Glasgow Scout troop was not set up until the 26 September 1946. 1940 registered, the first to be formed.1908 12 - John Buchan, author (39 Steps etc) 26 - Kirkpatrick McMillan, inventor of the bicycle, and diplomat (Governor General of died. The thought of patenting his invention or Canada, 1935/1940) died. 1940 trying to make any money out of it never crossed 13 - Death of St Mungo, patron saint of MacMillan’s mind, but others saw its potential, Glasgow (and also known as St Kentigern) and soon copies began to appear. However, and is buried at his church in Clas-gu Macmillan was quite unconcerned with the fuss which later becomes Glasgow. 603 his invention had prompted, preferring to enjoy the quiet country life he was used to. 1878 13 - Mary Slessor, missionary in West Africa and known to many as “Ma”, died in Calabar. 1915 26 - First public demonstration of TV by Scottish inventor John Logie Baird, from an attic room in central London. In 1927, - The first Looney Dook event took place. 1 19 - Birth of James Watt, mathematical his television was demonstrated over 438 The Loony Dook, is an annual event held instrument maker, developed the steam engine, miles of telephone line between London on New Years’ Day in which people dive and Glasgow, and he formed the Baird invented the condenser and copying machine. into the freezing waters of the Firth of Forth Television Development Company. Watt is regarded as one of the founding 1926 at South Queensferry (north of Edinburgh, fathers of the Industrial Revolution. Scotland), often in fancy dress. 1986 1736 2 - Ibrox Park disaster, 66 supporters killed on 20 - Benny Lynch crowned world flyweight stairway 13. The disaster led to the rebuilding champion. Recognised as probably the greatest of Ibrox Park as an all seater stadium. 1971 boxer Scotland has produced, Lynch enjoyed a meteroic rise to the top of the sport. 1937 27 - Glasgow Herald newspaper first 3 - O H Mavor (James Bridie) physician and published. It is the longest continuously prolific playwright, born in Glasgow.1888 20 - The chemist Thomas Graham, was published daily newspaper in Britain. Today born. Graham is famous for discovering the paper is simply called The Herald. 1783 3 - Poet and critic Edwin Muir died. 1959 14 - Skye Terrier Greyfriars Bobby died after the diffusion rate of gasses, which is known 28 - William Burke, murderer and body 4 -The death of George Cathcart. Cathcart was staying by his master’s grave for 14 years. The as “Graham’s Law”. He is also called the snatcher of “Burke and Hare” fame, executed. a doctor from Edinburgh who instigated the terrier belonged to Edinburgh policeman John “father of colloid chemistry”, and was the The duo were accused of killing 16 people over annual series of concerts now known as the Gray who died of tuberculosis in 1858. His grave author of, Elements of Chemistry. 1805 the course of 12 months, in order to sell their Proms, short for promenade concert. 1951 stone reads: “Let his loyalty and devotion be a 21 - Sweetheart Abbey, near Dumfries, founded cadavers as “subjects” for dissection. 1829 lesson to us all”. A statue of Bobby is now one 5 - 89,000-tonne Liberian-registered Braer oil by Devorguilla, mother of John Balliol. 1290 - Earl Haig, Commander in Chief tanker, carrying 84,500 tonnes of crude oil, hit of the most popular in Edinburgh. 1872 29 22 - Poet George Gordon Byron of British forces 1915-18, founder of rocks on Shetland Isles in heavy seas. 1993 14 - Alexander Graham Bell demonstrated (later Lord Byron) born. He moved to the British Legion, died. 1928 his telephone to Queen Victoria. She made 6 - A.J. Cronin, author of Keys of the Kingdom Aberdeen at the age of four and attended the first call in the British Isles from her and creator of the British television series Aberdeen Grammar School. The title residence on the Isle of Wight. 1878 Dr Finlay’s Casebook died. 1981 was inherited from an uncle. 1788 14 - The birth of Scotland’s first test-tube baby, - James Stewart, the Regent Moray on the a healthy baby boy named Alastair. 1979 23 abdication of Mary Queen of Scots, murdered 15 - Neil M Gunn, author of The Silver Darlings in Linlithgow, triggering civil war. 1570 and many other books and short stories, died. 1973 23 - William Hamilton, the Scottish Labour 15 - Strathclyde Regional Council applies for politician, died. He was MP for Fife West, 250,000 summary warrants against residents 1950-74, and Fife Central, 1974-87. He became refusing to pay the highly controversial “Poll a controversial public figure due to his Tax”, introduced in Scotland in 1989. 1990 outspoken advocacy of Scottish independence 16 - Retreating Jacobite army defeated and his dislike of the Royal Family. 2000 Hanoverian forces at Battle of Falkirk. 1746 24 - Birth of Publius Aelius Hadrianus, 16 - Treaty of Union of Scottish and who built Hadrian’s Wall to cut off Westminster Parliaments ratified.1707 Scotland from the rest of Britain. 76 7 - Glasgow University founded at the request 17 - Duddingston Curling Society became of James II and Bishop Turnbull. 1451 formally organised, one of the earliest in the history of curling - though Kilsyth lays claim to a - The first newspaper in Scotland was 8 date of 1716. Curling dates back to the sixteenth published. Mercurius Caledonius woffered 29 -The first adoption of GMT by century in Scotland, with Scots taking the sport coverage of “the Affairs now in Agitation Scotland. The subject has been the source across the world where it still flourishes.1795 in Scotland, with a Survey of Foreign of controversy ever since. 1848 Intelligence.” It ceased publication on 28 17 - Author Compton Mackenzie (Whisky 30 - King Charles I executed. His execution March after only nine issues. 1661 Galore etc) born. Whisky Galoreis based on a caused a change of sides by most of the real life true story. In the middle of war time 8 - King Alexander I crowned. 1107 Scots who had previously supported the rationing, the SS Politician ran aground with a Parliamentarians in the English Civil - Earl of Stair, held responsible for the 8 cargo of 264,000 bottles of malt whisky. 1883 War as, for all his faults, Charles was massacre of Glencoe, died. 1707 18 - Death of Sir John Pringle, President still a Scottish Stuart king. 1649 - Rationing of sugar, bacon and 8 of the Royal Society from 1772-1778 and 31 - , “Father of butter introduced. 1940 physician to King George III. Sometimes called 24 - First train over Forth Rail Bridge. The Australia” born Ulva. Lachlan Macquarie the “father of modern military medicine”, 9 - The Diocese of Glasgow was elevated to bridge is considered as a symbol of Scotland, was the governor of the colony of New the Scottish-born physician focused on the an Archdiocese by Pope Innocent VII. 1492 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This South Wales from 1810 to 1821. 1761 need to adopt a clean medical environment 9 - Income tax introduced for for the treatment of wounded soldiers. He magnificent railway bridge was built between 31 - Charles Edward Stewart, “Bonnie the first time.1799 also coined the term “influenza”.1782 1883 and 1890 by over 4,500 men. 1890 Prince Charlie” died in Rome. 1788 9 - The first women’s golf tournament took 18 - The launch of the Scottish Labour Party. 25 - Scottish poet and lyricist Robert Burns 31 - Princess Victoria, Stranraer-Larne place in Scotland, at Musselburgh. 1811 The inaugural meeting of the breakaway was born Alloway. He is widely regarded as the ferry, sank in a storm with the loss of 9 - Liner Queen Elizabeth I, launched at John party was held in Glasgow. It was formed national poet of Scotland and is celebrated 133 lives; 44 were rescued. 1953 Brown’s shipyard, Clydebank, in 1938, caught as a result of the dissatisfaction several worldwide. Burns Night is celebrated 31- 270 Royal Navy servicemen were killed fire and sank in Hong Kong where it was to Labour MPs felt with their party over its around the world on this night. Burns died whilst on practice missions with other Royal serve as a floating marine university.1972 stance on devolution for Scotland. 1976 on July 21, 1796 in Dumfries. 1759 Navy vessels in the Firth of Forth. 1918

Page 18 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: Lady Fiona Lady MacGregor’s Scotland MacGregor Lady MacGregor of MacGregor – otherwise known as British writer and broadcaster Fiona Armstrong - works for ITV news and current affairs. Fiona’s husband is the Chief of Clan Gregor, Sir Malcolm MacGregor of MacGregor. She is an active member of Clan Armstrong, so their lives are interwoven with all things tartan. The couple live in the Scottish Borderlands, although filming and writing takes Fiona all over Scotland.

Lady MacGregor and Sir Malcolm His Garden of Cosmic Speculation in The smell was divine. Creamy cookies When I ask him about it, he smiles and MacGregor of MacGregor. Dumfriesshire has been called one of sliding off the production line. Batches of talks of the importance of thoughtfulness the most important gardens of the 20th bourbons being expertly bagged. Slivers of and consideration. He puts a particular reetings from a contrary Scotland. century. Just further north he set out to shortbread being carefully sorted. emphasis on kindness. And warns of the One day wet and windy. The next create the universe in a corner of Scotland. danger of materialism. The west, he says, is clear skies and a glimmer of The Crawick Multiverse is set on the site Samye Ling Monastery allowing possessions to drag us down. sunshine. As I write, there are of a former open-cast coal mine and with More than a decade on and this birthday He tells me the simple life is the best. Gmasses of berries on trees and bushes. its galaxies and swirling green rises, its is also a good one. The day spent at a And here, in the south of Scotland, they Which suggests we are in for a hard winter. amphitheatre and dramatic stone circles, Buddhist centre. Making a TV programme flock in their thousands to either find it, We must wait and see what 2020 brings… it has transformed an eyesore into a about the Samye Ling Monastery. or briefly watch it. Samye Ling is one of Winter is not an especially good season masterpiece. I am sure I have told you about this iconic Scotland’s top tourist attractions. to view gardens. Yet, here in Scotland there When his wife died of cancer in 1995, place. It sits in the Dumfriesshire hills and is are landscaped pieces of ground that make Charles Jencks continued her dream of where, more than fifty years ago, a group of Happy birthday you marvel - whatever the time of year. setting up a series of therapeutic centres. Tibetan refugees arrived to find sanctuary. I return home resolving to want less and These magical mystery places have been The ‘Maggies Centres’ were pioneering Their little community began life buy less. The problem is, it is my birthday created by an American. places. They offered Scottish cancer in a run-down farmhouse near the and the MacGregor has bought me a gift. patients support, relaxation - and, of village of Eskdalemuir. Now it is an Or rather, he has purchased two. Sitting Charles Jencks course, an inspirational setting. international visitor centre; a sprawling by the front door is a pair of giant flower- Charles Jencks was born in Baltimore, Charles Jencks died recently. But I was complex boasts a spectacular gilded pots. They are magnificent and I cannot Maryland. He came over to London to lucky enough to meet him; making films temple – said to be the biggest in wait to fill them with something green study architecture in the 1960’s. And it was about his extraordinary work; seeing western Europe - whilst gold and white and growing. here that he met a Scottish woman. for myself what a brilliant man he was. statues sit in pools of water in the From the MacNaughties, meanwhile, Maggie Keswick came from a wealthy landed Always creating, always chasing new ideas landscaped grounds. comes a box of chocolates. Those doggies family and the pair set up home in Scotland. and possibilities. He might have been Orange-clad monks and nuns weave must have taken such care in choosing! Charles Jencks would go on to be internationally renowned, but he always their way past fluttering prayer flags My daughter presents me with some known as the father of post-modern saw Scotland as his home. and trees adorned with ribbons. It is an make-up. My brother has sent flowers architecture. A writer of some thirty books, On a more mundane note, meanwhile, unlikely sight in Scotland. But those who and a bottle of champagne. I am a lucky his work reflects an escape from the another birthday comes and goes. live nearby are well-used to it - and so we girl. But I ask you, what can you do? harshness of concrete and squares. These anniversaries, as you know, can arrive to start filming. As the year comes to an end, I make a Hence his vast curved grass mounds be hit and miss things. And some are Llama Yeshe is the main man here. resolution. In 2020 to work on being less that fall away to pools of water. They are infinitely more interesting than others. He is the abbot. A serene person who acquisitive… in the meantime I leave you lawns with a difference: a mix of dramatic, One of the most memorable was my fiftieth. radiates calm and contentment. If anyone with the Chief and I – up in MacGregor scientific and romantic. The day spent making a film in a biscuit factory. knows the secret of happiness, he will. clan lands on a piece of green!

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The Scottish Banner AD .indd 2 15/11/2019 12:46 The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 19 Welcome to our “Clansified”listing of ScottishTHE Clans, SCOTTISH Societies and Clubs. BANNER If you would like to add your Clan please contact our office for full details. Our address and phone Calling the Clans numbers are located on page 2. If you are contacting your Clan be sure to tell them you saw them in the Scottish Banner and please support these great community organisations.

CLAN DONNACHAIDH SOCIETY Clan Davidson Clan Baird Society Worldwide Membership invited to all who share the Sept names: Clan Fraser Society Membership is open to those descended Duncan, Robertson, Reid, etc. Society in from Baird, Barde, Bard, Beard, Beaird, Brd, UK: London & Southern Counties * Rannoch & Highlands of Australia Bayard, Bardt, Barth and Biard or varied Australia Inc. Canada: Ontario * Western Canada spellings of the name of Scottish origin. Australia: * Victoria * * Invites all Frasers CHEIF: Grant Davidson of Davidston cordially invites to New Zealand: New Zealand and Fraser septs In addition to the Society newsletter and the opportunity membership all who bear one of the Clan Names, and all who can Europe: Spain to join our clan society. to associate with fellow clansman members may trace their descent from an ancestor bearing one of these Names: Africa: South Africa query the Society geneologist. For information write: Davidson; Davison; Dawson; Davis; Davie; Davey; Davy; Day; USA: Arizona * Carolinas * Florida * Gulf Coast * Mid-Atlantic * New All members receive a copy of our quarterly Dye;Dyson; Dawson; Dea; Dean; Deane; Deas; Deason; Dees; Mexico * Mid-West * Northeast * Northern California * Pacific Northwest * newsletter “Strawberry Leaves” Dr. Debra J. Baird, President Rocky Mountains * South * Southern California * Texas * Upper Mid-West 3491 County Road 3459, Haleyville, AL 35565 Dee; Dey; Daw; Dow; Dhai; Kay; Keay; Key; Keys; MacDade; Membership enquiries to Don Chitts Email: [email protected] MacDaid; MacDavid; MacDavett; MacDagnie; MacDagny; Visit our website to learn more about Clan Donnachaidh, our Ph: (03) 9754 5120 [email protected] MacDhai; McKeddie. In addition we welcome into membership all History & Traditions, the Clan Museum in Scotland, the DNA Regional Directors for Australia who have a family association with the Clan Davidson. Project, the new Struan Kirk Appeal, & locate a Branch near you. Website: http://clanfraseraustralia.org David and Patricia Benfell Applications may be made online: www.clandavidson.org.au http://www.donnachaidh.com/ Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/ Email: [email protected] Facebook: The Clan Donnachaidh Society website: www.clanbairdsociety.com or contact the Hon. Secretary Mr Dennis Hill, J.P, P.O. Box 519 Email: [email protected] Pages/Clan-Fraser-Society-of-Australia/ Baulkham Hills NSW 1755 [email protected] 0431 527 662 482236358590288

Clan Bell Clan Donald Clan Dunbar of Clan Galbraith Australia The House of North America “under the patronage of the High Association Cordially invites membership inquiries from persons Council of the Chiefs of Clan Donald” Gospatric the Earl Named Bell (all spellings), their descendants and High Commissioner Mr Lachlan Macdonald Eligible blood or marriage, all descendants of Includes name variations such as friends. Computerized Genealogical data base available State Commissioners The Gospatric: Dunbar, Clugston, Corbett, Dundas, Galbreath, Catbreath, Gilbraith etc. to help members in their research. Quarterly Edgar, Grey, Heryng, Home, Knox, Nisbett, Peddie, newsletter published. Tents hosted at major Scottish NSW Mr Lachlan Macdonald games from coast to coast. Qld Mr A. Neil Macdonald Strickland, Washington, Wedderburn and all DNA testing project, members only SA Ms Therese McCutcheon spelling variations of each name. Also all other Your Bell ancestry is important! Vic Mr Norman A Macdonald families who were associated with The Gospatric. databases, Biennial gatherings, Visit our web site: www.clanbell.org WA Ms Pamela McDonald blog, Quarterly journal. Contact our Membership Chairperson: Pauline Bell Chieftain David C. Dunbar 1513 Anterra Drive, Wake Forest, NC 27587 [email protected] 16419 Carlton Vale Ct. Email: [email protected] www.clangalbraith.org CLAN DONALD QUEENSLANDThere is no joy without Clan Donald Tomball, TX 77377-8488

Commissioner: Neil Macdonald Ph: 0412 090990 Email: [email protected] FamilyWeb: of www.clandonaldqld.orgBruce Clan Donald Edmonstone ELIGIBILITY: Those with the name of International,MacDonald Macdonald McDonald Inc. McDonell, Donald, OR of one of the Septs of Clan Family of Bruce International,Donald, Inc., ORthe with only a connection such organization through family lineage. Queensland Clan Society recognized by the heredity chief of the Name of Bruce, The Rt. Hon. Earl of Elgin and Kincardine, is a non-profitThere is no joy without Clan Donald Commissioner: Neil Macdonald Invites membership to anyone of the surname organization established to create kinship amongst its family Ph: 0412 090990 or variations:- Edmiston/e, Edmondston, members and promote interest in the Family of Bruce and Email: [email protected] Edmanson, Edmeston, Edmonson, its history. Membership is open to persons who qualify Edmundson, etc. Chieftain Sir Archibald Web: www.clandonaldqld.org by surname, by decent, or by recognized septs: Carlisle, Edmonstone Bt of Duntreath Carruthers, Crosby, Randolph and Stenhouse. ELIGIBILITY: Those with the name of MacDonald Contact: Mal Edmiston www.clangregor.com Membership inquiries should be directed to: Macdonald McDonald McDonell, Donald, 3 Laguna Ave For membership contact Keith MacGregor Donald E. Bruce Polly A. (Bruce) Tilford, Secretary OR of one of the Septs of Clan Donald, P.O Box 56, Redding Ridge, CT 06876 President 5561 Earl Young Road Kirwan, Qld, 4817 [email protected]. 1051 Eagle Ridge Trail Bloomington, IN 47408 OR with a connection through family lineage. 61 (0)7 4755 4370 Peter Lawrie, Secretary Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 www.familyofbruceinternational.org There is no joy without Clan Donald [email protected] Clan6 The Esplanade,Gregor Broughty Society Ferry, Dundee Australasia DD5 2EL Scotland All MacGregors and Septs of our Clan are Clan Donald, U.S.A., Inc. invited to join one of the oldest Clan Societies Membership is open only to persons of in Scotland Est 1822. If you live in Australia or the blood of Macdonald, however spelled New Zealand, please contact our clan or of the blood of a recognized associate representativeClan in GregorAustralia; family or is related by marriage or legal Clanadoption to either ofDonald these write for more Frank McGregor info and a complete Sept list. Diane Carey-Schmitz ClanSociety Gregor Society U.S.A.1685 Casitas AvenueInc. PO Box 14 Pasadena, CA 91103, NORTH TAS 7002 Membership is open [email protected] to persons oft the blood Elliot Clan Society, U.S.A. Email:Australasia [email protected] All MacGregors andWeb. Septs www.clangregor.com of our Clan are invited to join Clan Cameron NSW Inc. of Macdonald, however spelled or of the blood Judith M. Elliott-Clan President one of the oldest Clan Societies in Scotland Est 1822. If President: Alistair Cameron of a recognized associate family or is related welcomes membership of all who are you live in Australia“Royal or New is Zealand,my Race please” contact our clan representative in Australia; [email protected] by marriage or legal adoption to either of these connected with this great border family. write for more info and a complete Sept list. Frank McGregor - Clan Gregor Society Secretary: Terry Cameron Direct inquires to: Membership-Treasurer PO Box 14 [email protected] William H. McDaniel Patricia Tennyson Bell North Hobart TAS 7002 Email: [email protected] High Commissioner, CDUSA 2288 Casa Grande South Web. www.clangregor.com www.clan-cameron.org.au [email protected] Pasadena, CA 91104 “Royal is my Race”

CLAN DONALD Clan Farquharson American Clan The Clan in VICTORIA Campbell Society Proudly affiliated with Clan Donald Australia, Victorian Scottish Union and Association Australia Gregor Society Scots of Victoria Coordinating Group. Represented at all major Highland gatherings in Victoria. Clan Chief: Captain A.A.C. Farquharson, Of Australia Membership inquiries CLAN DONALD VICTORIA MC of Invercauld Est 1909 welcomed from MacGregors The Society exists for the benefit of all its President: Mr Norman A. Macdonald Membership inquiries are invited from descendants of all spellings and Septs Contact: [email protected] members. All Campbells or descendants of of Farquharson and descendants of Sept family Gregor Grier MacAdams MacNish Magruder Campbells and members of Clan Septs are Formed in 1934, with membership from many MacDonald, McDonald and names. Please contact the association by mail to: Macdonald families living in Victoria. Membership available, with dance classes McGehee Gregory King Peter Fletcher Gregg Lecky Black and many others most welcome to join the Society. for Scottish Country Dance most Friday evenings in Gardenvale. The Secretary: Clan Farquharson For information on State Branches contact the CLAN MACDONALD YARRAVILLE Association Australia Contacting our registrar, Jeanne P. Lehr 11 Ballas Crt. National Secretary, Margaret Vallance Hon Chief: Mrs Christina Milne Wilson PO Box 585 Springwood, NSW 2777 St. Louis, MO 63131-3038 Email: [email protected] Contact: [email protected] or by Email to: [email protected] www.clan-campbell.org.au A hereditary clan society formed by the children of Norman Hume Macdonald Phone: 314-432-2842, [email protected] and Johan McKenzie Macdonald (nee Munro) who departed Scotland in 1854. website: www.acgsus.org

Clan Donnachaidh Clan Cumming Society Clan Donnachaidh Society of New South Wales Inc., Clan Hamilton of the Society of New South Australia United States WalesDunc anInc., Rob erAustraliatson Reid Society DuncanPeople who Robertson bear any of the aboveReid names or names of any of the Hamiltons and those of Hamilton descent www.clancumming.us PeopleSepts of whothe Clan bear (see advertiany ofsement the fromabove CA namesUSA) are invite d are cordially invited to join the society. [email protected] to join with us in our activities to promote Clan Donnachaidh, or“The other Children Sept of Duncan”names by of participating Clan Donnachaidh in the various activitie s Inquiries to be sent to: “Theconducted Children by Scottish of Duncan”Societies. are invited to For information & membership application, contact Sheri Lambert, Treasurer joinGordon in our Robertso activitiesn by participating in the c/o G. Allen Cummings Scottish58/157 MarconiGatherings Rd. Bonnellsheld in NSW. Bay NSW 2264 P.O. Box 5399 Vernon Hills, IL 60061 PO Box 6888 For information and membership application, Ocean Isle Beach, NC 28469-6888 contact Gordon Robertson visit our website: 58/157 Marconi Rd. Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 www.clanhamilton.org

Page 20 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Clan Hay Clan MacLellan John B. McClellan, Jr. April Rich The OFFICIAL Clan MacFarlane Society 28 Oxbow Drive Founded 1911 - Glasgow & London Treasurer Willimantic, CT 06226 Re-established- 1973 Grandfather Mountain, NC 6409 Knollwood Drive [email protected] Loch Sloy! We welcome all descendants of McKinney, TX Clan MacNicol Clan MacFarlane from around the world! The American Branch of the First Family of Scotland welcomes Chief: John MacNeacail Michael R. MacFarlane. FSA Scot - President 75070-6032 inquires from descendants of: Hay(s); Haye(s); Hayne(s); Hey(s); Brian J.W. MacFarlane - Vice President Email: [email protected] of MacNeacail and Scorrybreac Alderston; Armll;Ayer(s); Constable; Con(n); De La Haye; Delgatie; Richard G. Kilby, FSA Scot - Treasurer Delgatie; D’ Ay(e); Dellah’aY; Errol(l); Garrad; Garrow; Gifford; John K. Manchester - Secretary Invites all MacLellans and their descendants regardless Contact Ross Nicolson Hawson; Haygood; Hayter; Hayward; Haywood; Haynie; Hayden; lnternatlonal Clan MacFarlane Society, lnc. of surname spelling to join in preserving our heritage. PO Box 398 Glenora, CA 91740 USA 10/377 North Rocks Rd., Hayfield; Hayne( s); Leask( e); Leith; Lester; MacGaradh; Peebles; [email protected] Various family names are MacLellan(d), McClellan(d), Peeples; Peoples; Turriff; Tweeddale; Yester McLellan(d) and Gilliland. Carlingford NSW 2118 Visit our website: www.clanmaclellan.net www.clanmacnicol.org www.clanhay.com MACFARLANE.ORG The MacEanruigs, the proud sons of Henry, invite you to join the Clan MacInnes Clan Macpherson Clan Henderson Society ClanInternational MacInnes Association of Clan Clan MacLeod MacInnes (Aonghais) Societies of Australia Purposes Culture: foster Scottish culture and activities International Association of Membership is open to MacLeods Association and Games: promote Scottish festivals and games All spelling variants of MacInnes are welcome Clan Macpherson welcomes enquiries from Macphersons and members of our Associated families. Goals Genealogy: assist in genealogical research worldwide: (Mc)Angus, (Mc)Kinnis, (Mc)Innis, and Septs (of any variant spelling), and For information about local activities visit our web site www.clan-macpherson.org/branches, of the Fellowship: foster fellowship and friendship among kith and kin Clan MacInnes (Aonghais) or see our ‘Official Clan Macpherson Association’ Facebook page. Society History: maintain and promote the history of the clan and Scotland (Mc)Ginnis, (Mc)Ninch, (Mc)Neish, (Mc)Canse, their descendants. Recognised Septs: Awards: promote charitable and educational activities via a scholarship fund (Mc)Masters, (Mc)Innes, (Mac)Masters Africa. Derek Macpherson Australia. John L Macpherson Gather the Clan: as directed by our Chief, Alistair of Fordell All spelling variants of MacInnes are welcome Askey MacAndie MacCorkill [email protected] [email protected] www.clanmacinnes.org phone +265 999 512 620 phone +61 409 122 141 Some other surnames of the proud sons of Henry: Beaton MacAskill MacCrimmon worldwide:Eric Perry, Di (Mc)Angus,rector-Membe (Mc)Kinnis,r Services 14 (Mc)Innis, Jakes Lane, Canada. Ed Smith England & Wales. William Macpherson D'Handresson, Eanrig, Eanruig, Enderson, Endherson, Endirsone, Bethune MacAulay MacGillechallum [email protected] [email protected] Henders, Hendersone, Hendersonne, Hendersoun, Hendersoune, Dexter, ME 04930; [email protected] Hendery, Hendirsone, Hendirsoune, Hendrie, Hendrisoune, Hendry, (Mc)Ginnis, (Mc)Ninch, (Mc)Neish, (Mc)Canse, Caskie MacCabe MacRaild Norie phone +1 519 802 8821 phone +44 7877 363 507 Henersoun, Hennersoune, Hennryson, Henresoun, Henreysoun, Harold MacCaig MacWilliam Tolmie Europe. Will Tulling New Zealand. Tony McPherson Henriesoun, Henrison, Henrisone, Henrisoun, Henrisoune, Henry, (Mc)Masters, (Mc)Innes, (Mac)Masters [email protected] [email protected] Henryesson, Henryson, Henrysoun, Kendrick, Kenrick, MacCanrig, Lewis MacClure Norman Williamson phone +31 655 774 425 phone +64 274 587 813 MacCanrik, MacEanruig, MacEnrick, MacHendric, MacHendrie, MacHendry, MacHenrie, MacHenrik, MacHenry, MacKanrig, MacKendric, NSW, ACT & Qld - Peter Macleod 02 4397 3161 Scotland & Northern Ireland. Rory Macpherson USA. Xerxes Herrington MacKendrich, MacKendrick, MacKendrie, MacKendrig, MacKendry, www.clanmacinnes.org [email protected] [email protected] MacKenrick, Makanry, Makhenry, McHenry, McKendree, McKendrick, Victoria & Tas - David Dickie 03 9337 4384 phone +44 7525 763 765 phone +1 703 341 9588 McKendry Eric Perry, Director-Member Services 14 Jakes Lane, South Australia - Nicole Walters 0415 654 836 The Clan Macpherson Museum is located in Newtonmore, Shire PH20 1DE, www.clanhendersonsociety.org Dexter, ME 04930; [email protected] Western Australia - Ruth MacLeod 08 9364 6334 at the junction of the A86 and B9150, and is open from 1st April to 31st October. Email: [email protected] Ph + 44 1540 673 332. See http://www.clan-macpherson.org/museum/ for more details.

Clan Hope of Craighall Society For all of the name and lineage of Hope Clan Mackenzie Society The Clan MacRae INTERNATIONAL & USA President: THE Richard Rex Hope in Australia Inc. Society of Australia [email protected] Membership Chair: Membership enquiries and New Zealand

Janet Hope Higton MACLEODS

[email protected] welcomed from Mackenzies If your surname is MacRae, www.clanhope.org of all spellings and Septs RICH IN HIGHLAND AUSTRALIA or you are descended from a person having the Commissioner: TRADITIONS Stephen Hope Contact: N Dennis, 61 Alma Street, surname MacRae (any spelling) or that of a Sept of [email protected] FOR INFORMATION: www.clanhopeaustralia.org East Malvern 3145 Ph 03 9569 5716 the Clan then you are eligible to join our Society. WWW.CLANMACLEODUSA.ORG CANADA Visit our website Australian Contact: Commissioner: A.L. MacLeod Scott Hale Check out your Tartan and Sept Roslyn MacRae 0412 291 054 email: [email protected] [email protected] 3923 Rockwood Way #B www.clanhope.ca www.clanmackenzie.org.au West Valley City, UT NZ Contact: Sue Tregoweth email: [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/groups/ClanHopeofCraighall 84120-6880       

  Clan Macnachtan Clan MacRae Society       Association Worldwide of North America   Sir Malcolm F. Macnaghten of   ůĂŶDĂĐ<ĞŶnjŝĞ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJŽĨĂŶĂĚĂ Macnaghten, Bart - Chief of Clan Granted Arms in 2008  Chairman - Peter McNaughton - 360-686-8451 tĞŝŶǀŝƚĞLJŽƵ–ǁŚĞƚŚĞƌLJŽƵĂƌĞĂĐůĂŶƐƉĞƌƐŽŶ We invite MacRaes of all Clan Irwin Association We welcome membership from all Scots named MacNaughton ĂŵĞŵďĞƌŽĨŽŶĞŽĨŽƵƌƐĞƉƚƐ͕ĂŚŝŐŚůĂŶĚĞƌ͕ spelling variations and their Chief and Patron or any of the Septs on our Website: Contact the Membership Ă^ĐŽƚ͕ŽƌũƵƐƚĂŶŚŝƐƚŽƌLJĞŶƚŚƵƐŝĂƐƚ–ƚŽũŽŝŶ descendants to join our Clan David Irvine, Baron of Drum, Chief of the name.  Secretary, Vice-Chairman or Regional Commissioners in: ƚŚĞ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJĂŶĚƉĂƌƚŝĐŝƉĂƚĞŝŶŵĂŶLJĂĐƚŝǀŝƚŝĞƐ MacRae Society. Learn your Contact: Barbara Edelman, Chairman Australia - Regional Commissioner - Bruce McNaught +61 7 3266 2047 [email protected] Scottish MacRae history and family lineage! 65 Colonial Drive W. Canada - Regional Commissioner - Miles MacNaughton Telford, PA 18969 250-999-9636 [email protected] www.macrae.org tĞďƐŝƚĞ͗ǁǁǁ͘ĐůĂŶŵĂĐŬĞŶnjŝĞĐĂŶĂĚĂ͘ĐĂ 215-721-3955 [email protected] New Zealand - Regional Commissioner - John Macnaughtan Need more info? Contact: IRWIN • RVIN • IRVINE • IRVING • ERWIN • ERVIN +64 9 441 4984 [email protected] President Over 270 ways the name has been spelled since 325 A.D. USA - Membership Secretary - Mary Nivison Burton Bruce McRae, 541-401-2613 [email protected] 303-670-9611 www.clanirwin.org WWW.CLANMACNAUGHTON.NET [email protected] Clan MacNeil Association OF AUSTRALIA For all enquiries about the clan and Clan Mackenzie membership contact. Clan Maitland John McNeil Society in the 21 Laurel Avenue, Linden Park, Society SA 5065 United States Email [email protected] Chief: Ian Maitland, The Earl of Lauderdale! Clan MacNeil Association We are all related! Contact your local society Clan MacAlpine All Mackenzies and septs, their North America: Rosemary Maitland Thorn descendants and friends are invited to join of Australia [email protected] www.clanmaitlandna.org this charitable membership association. Australia: Carole Maitland [email protected] Society For all enquiries about the clan and 4230 Colac- Lavers Hill RoadWeeaproinah. VIC. 3237 102 Rainbow Drive #48 Barbara MacKenzie, Treasurer membership contact: John McNeil New Zealand: Judette Maitland [email protected] Livingston, TX 77399-10020 USA PO Box 20454 Cheyenne, WY 82003-7011 21 Laurel Avenue, 33 Disley Street, High bury, Wellington 6012. NZ Earl Dale McAlpine - President Phone: 307-214-4817 Email: [email protected] Linden Park, SA 5065 We welcome all with Maitland, Lauderdale, Maitlen and similar Website: www.clanmackenzie.com name spelling. See the entire list and your family history at: Email: [email protected] Email [email protected] www.clanmaitland.org.uk

Clan MacDougall Society of

ClanNorth MacDougall America, Society Inc. of North America, Inc. Valerie McDougall Valerie McDougall Clan Munro VP Membership MacDougall VP Membership MacDowall MacDougall 505-470 Scenic Drive, London, ON MacDowall N5Z 3B2 N5Z 3B2 Association, U.S.A Email: [email protected] Home page: www.macdougall.org Email: [email protected]: www.facebook.com/clanmacdougall Home page: www.macdougall.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/clanmacdougall Clan MacLaren Clan MacNeil We are the only national organization of Names Associated with Clan MacDougall of Argyll and Clan MacDowall of Galloway Names Associated with Clan MacDougall of Argyll MacLaren MacLaurin Lawrence Lawson Low[e] Munro in the U.S .A. affiliated with the Coul MacCoul Macoual Association of America Conacherand ClanMacConacher MacDowall of Galloway Coyle MacCoyle Low[e]ry Law[e] Patterson MacPatrick MacRory Invites all MacNeils, regardless of Clan Munro (Association) of Scotland. CoulDole MacCoulMacDole MacoualMacDill Doual MacDoual McDougal surname spelling, some of which are listed: DougalConacher MacDougalMacConacherl MacDougald Mark A. McLaren, President CoyleDougle MacCoyleMcdougle McDougald COME JOIN US! Dugal MacDugal MacDugle McNeill MacNeil MacNeal MacNiel, McNeely, Neal, Dole MacDole MacDill Dowall MacDowal MacDowall 611 Indian Home Rd. Web site: www.Clanmunrousa.org DoualMacDowell MacDoualMacdowell McDougalMcDowell Neilson and O’neill to join us in preserving our heritage. DougalLullich MacDougalMcLullich l MacDougaldMacCullich MacCulloch McCulloch MacCullagh Danville, CA 94526 Write: Heather Munro Daniel MacClintockDougle MacLintockMcdougle McLintockMcDougald Contact: Rhonwyn Darby DugalMacHale MacDugalMcHoul MacDugleMactheul (925) 838-8175 4600 Lloydrownn Road MacHowell MacCowan McCown McNeill VP, Membership, PO. Box 230093, Montgomery MacKichanDowall M’GowallMacDowal MacNamellMacDowall MacDowellMacLucas MacdowellMacLugash McDowellMacLuke [email protected] AL 36123-0693. (334) 834-0612 Email [email protected] Mebane, NC 27302 LullichSpelling VariationsMcLullich May Vary or OmitMacCullich the Mac, Mc MacCulloch McCulloch MacCullagh MacClintock MacLintock McLintock MacHale McHoul Mactheul MacHowell MacCowan McCown MacKichan M’Gowall MacNamell MacLucas MacLugash MacLuke The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 21 Spelling Variations May Vary or Omit the Mac, Mc THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Clan Shaw Society Invites membership or inquires from all: Murray Clan Society Shaw, Ayson, Adamson, Esson, MacAy, MacHay, Shiach, Sheach, Sheath, Seith, The Robert Burns Club Seth, Skaith, Scaith and Shay. of North America Mike Shaw Secretary of Melbourne Inc. Applications for membership are invited from Murray’s 2403 West Cranford Denison, TX 75020 > Promotes interest in the works, life and and the following allied families: Balneaves, Dinsmore, Clan Shaw Society Dunsmore, Fleming, Moray, Murrie, Neaves, Piper, Pyper, Clan Wardlaw Association milieu of the Scottish Poet Robert Burns Smail, Smale, Small, Smeal, and Spalding. Invites membership or inquires from all: Founded 2004 > Celebrates Scottish Culture Shaw, Ayson, Adamson, Esson, MacAy, In Canada contact: William J.M. Murray Worldwide organization for all Wardlaws or related > Conducts Annual Burn Supper, Poetry 1001 Cordero Crescent MacHay, Shiach, Sheach, Sheath, Seith, families. We invite you to join us. Afternoon & Pleasant Sunday Afternoon Seth, Skaith, Scaith and Shay. Campbell River, BC V9H OC3 Email: [email protected] For Membership Information contact: In the U.S. contact: Robert W. Murray Secretary: Mike Shaw ‘Wardlaw ivermair!’ Secretary: Noel Wright (03) 8333 0973 2000 Cambridge Ave #329 2403 West Cranford www.clanwardlaw.com Email: [email protected] Wyomissing, PA 19610-2738 Denison, TX 75020 Wardlaw Tartan and Ancestry Books Australian Scottish Communtiy (Qld) Inc. Scottish Associations and SocietiesPromoter of International , Clan Pollock Brisbane, Queensland Among the most ancient families of Scotland. If you are a descendant of Pollock, Pollok, Pook, PO Box 3188, South Brisbane 410Scottish1 Heritage Polk, Polke, Paulk, Poalke, Poulk, Poolke, Pogue Bi-Monthly Newsletter, All things - you are cordially invited to contact: Scottish A. D. Pollock, Jr. USA, Inc. PO Box 404 All persons of Scottish Descent Greenville, KY 42345 welcome. www.aussie-scots.org.au,Email: P.O. Box 457 e-mail: [email protected] [email protected], Scottish Ph 07 3359 8195 Clan Sinclair Australia Pinehurst, NC 28370 Clan Pollock Communtiy (Qld) Inc. Welcomes membership of anyone interested Among the most ancient families of Scotland. If you are a Membership and inquiries from all Sinclairs, Promoter of International Tartan Day, descendant of Pollock, Pollok, Pook, Polk, Polke, Paulk, Poalke, Sinclair Septs and Sinclair descendants. in the exchange of people and ideas between Poulk, Poolke, Pogue - you are cordially invited to contact: Brisbane, Queensland Scotland and the United States. For further info contact PO Box 3188, South Brisbane 4101 A. D. Pollock, Jr. President: WayneSinclair 0417 146 174 Write or phone for our free brochure. Bi-Monthly Newsletter, All things Scottish www.scottishheritageusa.org PO Box 404 Secretary : Liane Sinclair 0410 045 263 All persons of Scottish Descent welcome. email: [email protected] Greenville, KY 42345 E: [email protected] www.aussie-scots.org.au Ph 07 3359 8195 (910) 295-4448 e-mail: [email protected] www.clansinclairaustralia.com Email: [email protected],

Clan Ross The Scottish Australian Ross Clan in Australia Heritage Council The clan is active again in Australia for information contact in Australia Commander Des Ross(By appointment David Ross Bt Chief of Clan Ross and Balnagowan) Chicago Scots for information contact Commander Des Ross The Stewart Society Established in 1845, the Chicago Scots (aka Illinois Saint We would be pleased to hear from anyone with Ross Clan (By appointment David Ross Bt Chief of Clan Ross and Balnagowan) Welcomes Stewarts, however spelt, by name, Andrew Society) is the oldest 501c3 in Illinois, The Chicago heritage and interest. Founded at a meeting held in Sydney 18 June 1981 birth, or descent, from all over the world. Annual Scots organise programs and events to educate, entertain and We wouldcontact Commander Des Ross at be pleased to hear from anyone Welcomes membership from all Australians of Scottish descent. [email protected] with Ross Clan heritage and interest. Gathering in historic, Stewart-related properties in nourish Scottish identity. The Chicago Scots operate Caledonia Scotland. Newsletter. Annual magazine. Senior Living, a unique retirement community located in the Applications for membership can be obtained from: Contact: Commander Des Ross at forest preserve a few miles west of downtown Chicago. The Hon Secretary, SAHC Please inquire: The Secretary Susan Cooke tel: 02 6355 4158 [email protected] M 0403 830 853 53 George Street, Edinburgh EH2 2HT, Tel: 708-447-5092 Email: [email protected] Ken Duthie JP Director of Publicity M 0409 322 374 Tel/Fax 0131 220 4512 www.stewartsociety.org W: www.chicagoscots.org www.scottishaustralianheritagecouncil.com.au

Clan Ross America  ^ĐŽƚƚŝƐŚ'ĂĞůŝĐ Representing the great Highland Clan of Ross since 1976.  >ĂŶŐƵĂŐĞůĂƐƐĞƐ͗ Clan Sutherland Society in Comunn Gàidhlig tĞĚŶĞƐĚĂLJƐϳ͗ϬϬͲϴ͗ϯϬƉŵ Australia Incorporated  ĚƵƌŝŶŐƐĐŚŽŽůƚĞƌŵƐ  Astràilia ϰϮϬͲϰϮϰtŝůůŝĂŵ^ƚƌĞĞƚ͕tĞƐƚDĞůďŽƵƌŶĞ͘ Contact: M Hodgkinson (The Scottish Gaelic Association of Australia) is a  ŽŶƚĂĐƚ͗DĂƵƌŝĐĞ&ŽǁůĞƌϬϰϬϴϮϮϯϮϳϳ Paul D Ross, President 212 MacKenzie Street nonprofit organisation which supports the language ŵĂŝů͗ƐĐŽƚƚŝƐŚŐĂĞůŝĐǀŝĐƚŽƌŝĂΛŐŵĂŝů͘ĐŽŵ Virg Bumann, VP Membership Toowoomba 4350 (07 4632 8559) and culture of Scottish . Ruaraidh MacAonghais, N each Cathrach (Convenor)  1015 Archer St, San Diego, CA, 92109 [email protected] [email protected] Phone: 04 0482 2314 E-mail: [email protected] ^ĐŽƚƚŝƐŚ'ĂĞůŝĐ^ŽĐŝĞƚLJŽĨsŝĐƚŽƌŝĂ [email protected] http://goldenvale.wixsite.com/clansutherlandaus Web: www.ozgaelic.org   &ŽƵŶĚĞĚŝŶϭϵϬϱ www.clanross.org Facebook: Clan Sutherland Society in Australia Mail: PO Box A2259, SYDNEY SOUTH 1235 ŚƚƚƉƐ͗ͬͬǁǁǁ͘ƐĐŽƚƚŝƐŚŐĂĞůŝĐǀŝĐƚŽƌŝĂ͘ĐŽŵ   SHOULDER TO SHOULDER  Clan Ross of Clan Sutherland  Society of North  The United States  America Inc. David Ross of Ross, Baron Balnagowan, Caledonian Society Chief of the Clan invites all Ross’, septs and their The Society cordially invites membership of all Sutherlands  descendants toto join in preserving our heritage. (however the name is spelled) and of the associated families: of WA Inc. The Society of St. Andrew Cheyne, Duffus, Gray, Frederith, Mowat and Oliphant. Promotes Scottish Culture and Traditions of Scotland  www.clan-ross.org in , Western Australia (Queensland) Limited Richard Langford ABN 30 093 578 860 [email protected] For further details contact John: 0427 990 754 Invites membership of all people of  1106 Horshoe Lane Email: [email protected] Contact L. Q. Ross Blacksburg, VA 24060 Scottish descent or association www.caledoniansocietyofwainc.com The Secretary, P.O. Box 3233, South Brisbane, BC, 105 S. Graham Ave, Orlando, Fl 32803 e-mail: [email protected]  www.standrewsociety.com  CLAN YOUNG AUSTRALIA Victorian Scottish Union Inc Established 1905  Umbrella group representing the interest For those affiliated with of Scottish Clans and Societies in Victoria. the Young surname Affiliated Clans & Societies  Ballarat Highland Dancing Geelong Scottish Dance Ian J Young Balmoral Highland Dancing Society Glenbrae Celtic Dancers Hunter Valley Begonia City Highland Dancing Society Kilmore Celtic Festival Clan Scott Australia Group Convenor Brunswick Scottish Society Maryborough Highland Society Clan Chief: The Duke of Buccleuch KT, K.B.E  Clan Donald Victoria Mornington Peninsula Caledonian Society Membership inquiries: Scots Club Inc Clan Grant Scottish Country Dance Victoria Society Commissioner: Heather de Sylva Clan Macdonald Yarraville Inc The Robert Burns Club of Melbourne Clan Young Australia Promotes and supports all forms of Scottish culture Clan Mackenzie of Australia Robert Burns Club of Camperdown in Newcastle, Hunter Valley and surrounding areas. Clan Maclean Australia Warrnambool & District Caledonian Society Membership welcome from Scotts and Septs: 10 Cedric Street  Clan Sinclair Association Warrnambool Caledonian Highland Dancing Society Balwearie, Harden, Laidlaw, Geddes & Langlands. Parkdale VIC 3195 Members and interested people are welcome to Clan Sutherland Australia [email protected] attend activities such as Burns Night, Caledonian Night, Chief: Ms Ceilidh McKinna Robertson Info: Secretary, PO Box 320, Maclean, NSW, 2463 President: Mr Douglas Pearce St Andrew’s Day, and other social functions. Secretary: Mrs Jan Macdonald Find us on Facebook: E: [email protected] Web: hvscots.org Email: [email protected] T: 03 9360 9829 M: 0438 584 930 W: clanscottaustraliagroup.moonfruit.com www.facebook.com/groups/youngsofaustralia/ E: [email protected] P.O. Box 34, Kotara NSW 2289 www.victorianscottishunion.com

Page 22 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

finale, as well as supporting the Tattoo’s highland dancers, New Zealand’s Lochiel dancers, and Shetland Fiddlers. The massed pipes and drums included the Mounties grace Edinburgh RCMP, The Black Watch (Royal Highland Regiment of Canada), Royal Gurkha Rifles, British Army University Officer Training Corps, Royal Dragoon Guards, Royal Artillery, Police, The Pipes and in the Tattoo Drums of Christchurch City, Tattoo Piper’s Trail, and 3 Scots (Black Watch) Royal Regiment of Scotland.

World-famous Scottish Tattoo We were also given a personally guided tour of Edinburgh Castle by its newly appointed Governor, a very hospitable Maj. General Alastair Bruce, whose ancestry links him not only to the historic Scottish King “Robert the Bruce,” but also to two former Governors General of Canada, By Drum Major Lord Durham (1838-1839), and Lord Elgin Brad Hampson, M.O.M. (1847-1854). Canadians will recall these significant names from our early Canadian history lessons. Both were famous rom August 2 to 24, 2019, the the massed bands. With good leadership delivered the intricacy of complex particularly for assisting in bringing

Photos courtesy of the RCMP Pipes & Drums/The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Pipes & Drums/The Royal courtesy of the RCMP Photos Royal Canadian Mounted and planning, success was achieved with choreography and sound in brilliant responsible elected government to Canada Police (RCMP) Pipes & Drums the Tattoo staff’s intensive rehearsal days fashion, and in only two days, which leading up to confederation in 1867. performed in the iconic Royal prior to first show. became the centrepiece of this year’s The Governor was a great host and a big fan FEdinburgh Military Tattoo. An annual After our final rehearsal, the Tattoo’s show. So difficult during rehearsals, many of all things Canadian, including the RCMP. event since 1950, this show is the inspirational visionary leader Brigadier of us Drum Majors from all bands initially Our Pipe Major has since written and pinnacle bucket-list item for any piper, David Allfrey happily announced to felt this plan impossible to deliver on. presented a tune honouring his hospitality, drummer or dancer of the Highland the entire cast of over one thousand entitled General Bruce’s Ramparts. traditions worldwide. performers, that we were ready for our run As one who has performed in multiple Music, dance and precision display of 25 shows. Not lost on all of us was the An annual event Tattoos and shows across the world, with the Massed Pipes and Drums, the intricate choreography and drill required since 1950, this show is the nothing has compared to the experience of Massed Military Bands, cultural troupes, of the finaleKaleidoscope number, which performing in this world-famous Scottish singers and the poignant refrain of the included the entire cast. The precision pinnacle bucket-list item for Tattoo. All my fellow RCMP band members Lone Piper against the stunning backdrop planning and direction of the manoeuvres felt the same. To stand or march in this of Edinburgh Castle. More than 14 million required were said to be the most difficult any piper, drummer or dancer ancient castle venue, amidst fireworks, people have attended the Tattoo, with in Tattoo history. of the Highland traditions grand music, spectacular colours, an annual audience of around 220,000 driving rain, mist, flags and banners people. In addition, around 100 million Massed pipes and drums worldwide. flying in the wind, and amidst throngs of people see the Tattoo each year on Brig. Allfrey’s themed vision for this 8,800 screaming patrons nightly, it was international television. year’s Tattoo, was inspired by the myriad something I will never forget. Last out of Not a single performance of the of colours resplendent in the uniforms All of us had to “eat our hats” as the saying the esplanade each night were the 250 Tattoo has ever been cancelled, and the of the entire cast. Inspired by the 1817 goes, when the final product was put on some pipers and drummers from across Tattoo has been graced over the years optical invention in Scotland of the parade for the first show. “Bravo Zulu” the world, united in the Scottish highland by the presence of the Mountie’s boots, Kaleidoscope reflecting brilliant colours to all for getting this done. The crowds tradition together as we marched down breeches, horses and pipe bands. We in movement of multiple patterns, certainly saw a kaleidoscope of colour, the Royal Mile playing Scotland the Brave represented Canada once again in 2019 the finale was a huge success. Led by movement, and sound, now available and The Black Bear. Through all this the with pride and honour. Coldstream Guards Drum Major Scott across YouTube for all the world to see. crowds stomped, clapped and joined the Fitzgerald, Scots Guards Band Sergeant As one of the show highlights, the drummers hollering throughout as we Kaleidoscope Major Tony Furzey, and Welsh Guards massed pipes and drums were busier than marched back to the “barracks.” And on Led by Pipe Major Graeme Ogilvie, our Principal Director of Music Kevin ever performing in five numbers over the one special night, the entire massed band RCMP band was composed of 24 pipers Roberts, these guardsmen taught and entire show, starring in the opening and was even led by a Mountie Drum Major. and drummers from across Canada. These band members represented bands from Ottawa, Halifax, Moncton, Montreal, Regina and Vancouver. After our pipe band’s previous involvement in 2015, we were excited to return for this year’s show, entitled Kaleidoscope. Throughout the early months of 2019, music scores and videos were shared with all our players by the Tattoo’s Director of the massed pipes and drums, UK Army Maj. Gordon Rowan. This year’s music is said to have been the most challenging ever performed in the 69-year history by

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 23 THE SCOTTISH BANNER SCOTTISH BANNER EVENTS Having a Clan event? Know of a Highland Games? Know where the pipes will be playing? Let Scottish Banner readers know of Scottish events both near and far with the Scottish Banner events page. Send us your community event, concert, meeting or anything with a Scottish twist! Please submit events either online at www.scottishbanner.com/events or email [email protected]. Please ensure you submit your event in the exact format we use below, events not submitted in this way cannot be guaranteed to be printed. Events will run both in print and online and is a free service.

31 – February 02 - , ACT - 25 - Auckland - Burn’s Supper 2020 29 - Christchurch - New Zealand - AUSTRALIA Southern Fling Canberra 2020 Celebrate the life & poetry of Scotland’s national Bard, Canterbury Centre Pipe Band Contest Youth Scottish Country Dance weekend for Robert Burns. With a 3 course set menu for $65 including Street March and piping events in Templeton. JANUARY people aged 18 - 40 years. Social dancing and a drink on arrival & a dram of whisky for the presentation Info: [email protected] of the Haggis. There will be some live music throughout 01 - Maryborough, VIC - The expert tuition. Info: www.rscds-canberra.org 29 - Rotorua - New Zealand - Central the evening from our good friend Gerry O’Neil & of course Maryborough Highland Gathering North Island Piping Contest plenty of bagpipes at Malt Public House, 442 Richmond Australia’s oldest continuous running sporting event with FEBRUARY City of Rotorua is hosting the CNI Contest on the Road, West Lynn. Info: www.maltpublichouse.co.nz pipe bands, Scottish dance, athletics and more at Princes 01 - Argenton, NSW - Hunter Valley Burns Night Village Green, includes a pipe band Street March. Park. Info: 03 5461 1480 or www.highlandsociety.com.au Celebrate the Bard with the Hunter Valley Scots, 25 - Dunedin - Burns Night Dinner Info: Paul Fuller [email protected] 06 - Adelaide, SA - Adelaide Pipers’ Gathering with Scottish food, music and friendship at Club 2020 - Burns + Brexit Piping event. Info: Jack Brennan: Macquarie, 458 Lake Road. Info: www.hvsc.org.au Join Toitu Otago Settlers Museum and the Dunedin Burns Club to consider thoughts on how Burns might [email protected] 01 - Toowoomba, QLD - Burns Supper SCOTLAND have viewed Brexit from British High Commissioner 18 – Devonport, TAS- Scottish Power The Toowoomba Caledonian Society & Pipe Band Inc. JANUARY will hold their Annual Burns Supper in the Drayton Hall. Laura Clarke and Professor Alison Phipps from the From the misty purple highlands of Scotland to the 01 - South Queensferry, West Lothian - The Loony Dook green valleys and deep lochs, the sound of bagpipes has It is a 4-course formal dinner which includes a Haggis University of Glasgow. Enjoy traditional Scottish The Loony Dook continues its New Year’s Day tradition at returned. St Andrews Caledonian Pipe Band is back from entrée. Entertainment by 2 Lassies singing Burns songs, food and drink, kick your heels up at the ceilidh. South Queensferry. In the shadow of the Forth Bridges, the their tour of Scotland to perform at Scottish Power 2020. The Immortal Memory by Mal Leslie (Past Chieftain & Info: [email protected] or 03 477 5052. dippers in fancy dress, scantily clad or even fully clothed Featuring a return of pianist Ben Austin, violinist Catherine Past president of the Society in Toowoomba).Bookings 25 - Napier - Burns Night from the night before will brave the chill to raise money Johnstone, singer Sally-Anne Richter as well as the Scottish are essential for catering purposes, cost of dinner is Come celebrate beautiful Bonnie Scotland’s favourite Power Highland Dance Troupe and the marching girls for charities while shaking off their Hogmanay hangover. $45.00 please contact Treasurer ronimctcs@gmail. event with a traditional Burns Night! From Kilts to from Island Dance Drill at Paranaple Art Centre, 145 Rooke Dookers will march the length of South Queensferry High com or phone 0429 700 217 for more information. Bagpipes and copious amounts of Whisky and a delicious St. Info: www.paranapleartscentre.com.au or 03 6420 2900. Street as part of the Dookers’ Parade before launching 03 - Adelaide, SA - Adelaide Pipers’ Gathering 3-course dinner - this is going to be a night not to miss! 25 - Gosford, NSW - Central Coast Scots Burns Night themselves into the freezing Firth of Forth. Info: www. Piping event. Info: Jack Brennan: Come enjoy all that is amazing about the incredible Celebrate Robert Burns at East Gosford Progress edinburghshogmanay.com/whats-on/loony-dook [email protected] country of Scotland at Taradale Club, 55 Wharerangi Road, Hall. Info: Ian Davidson 0435 578 353. Taradale. Info: 06 844 2088 or www.taradaleclub.co.nz 16 – February 02 - Glasgow - Celtic Connections 04 – Milton, QLD - Brisbane Smallpipe Session 25 - Ipswich, QLD - Ipswich Burns Supper Ceilidh Celtic Connections is the largest winter music Piping event. Info: Malcolm McLaren on (07) 25 - Nationwide - Happy Burns Night festival of its kind and the UK’s premier celebration Enjoy a traditional Burns Supper Ceilidh, and celebrate the 3820-2902 or [email protected] Celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Scottish life of Rabbie Burns. Including a traditional supper while poet Robert Burns. The tradition of the Burns of Celtic music. Info: www.celticconnections.com you are captivated by the Address to the Haggis and all 08 - Tallangatta, VIC - Tallangatta Ceilidh 2020 Enjoy an evening of traditional Scottish dancing, live Night Supper was first held in 1801 by the 19 - 21 - Glasgow - Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring the formalities, followed by live band “Ishka” with a dance poet’s friends, five years after his death. Over 500 companies exhibit thousands of products in caller for your Dashing White Sergeants and Gay Gordons band music and other live entertainment for your enjoyment. The evening will include a traditional Clothing, Textiles, Jewellery, Fashion Accessories, Clan - and of course the Ipswich Pipe Band live in action. Info: 25 - Turakina - Turakina Highland Games Scottish dinner commencing at 6.30 pm with the Products, Beauty & Bath Products, Stationery, Giftware, [email protected] or 0429 362 142. The event is a family friendly day at Turakina Domain, Piping of the Haggis, then a tasting of the haggis including Pipe Bands, solo piping & drumming, Highland Gift Food & Speciality Fine Food at Glasgow’s SEC-trade 25 - Nationwide - Happy Burns Night as an entree. A two-course dinner is included with and National Dancing, traditional field events, children’s only event. Info: www.spring.scotlandstradefairs.co.uk Celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Scottish refreshments available at Tallangatta Memorial Hall, events, Clan & market stalls and an evening ceilidh. Free 21 - Edinburgh - Scots Music Group- poet Robert Burns. The tradition of the Burns Towong St. Info: www.trybooking.com/BGRWO or on site parking and camp sites available @ $5. Entry $10 Celebrating Robert Burns Night Supper was first held in 1801 by the Ross Smith: [email protected], 0418 690 328. per person, children under 15 free. Info: highlandmay@ Join friends from Scots Music Group for an afternoon poet’s friends, five years after his death. 16 - Richmond, TAS - Richmond Highland Gathering gmail.com or www.turakinahighlandgames.co.nz session of traditional songs, music, poems and 25 - Perth, WA - Saint Andrew Society of St Andrew Society of Hobart will again be holding 26 - Ashburton - Ashburton’s stories celebrating Scotland’s national bard. Held Western Australia Burns Supper its annual Highland Gathering on the Village Green, Festival of Pipe Band Music in the relaxed setting of the Storytelling Court. Celebrate the Bard at the Pan Pacific Hotel, with Scottish with Pipe Band displays from across Tasmania, Ashburton’s annual Pipe band music festival All welcome to listen or bring a turn and join in! food, music and fun. Info: www.saintandrew.org.au Scottish dancing and stalls. Info: Di Cornish 0408 beginning with Street March at 12:30pm, Info: www.scottishstorytellingcentre.com 528 658 or [email protected] 25 - Sydney, NSW - The Glenturret Burns followed by Medleys & Sets in the Domain. Info: 23 - Glasgow - Glasgow Burns Night Night Supper at Sydney Opera House 23 - Ballarat, VIC - Ballarat Highland Gathering Peter MacLean: [email protected] This fun, informal and traditional Burns Night will Superb whisky, a 4 hour, uniquely Australian- The Federation University Australia Pipe Band hosts include poetry, bagpipes and plenty of merriment and Scottish feast and the powerful sounds of two the Ballarat Highland Gathering supported by Pipe FEBRUARY the opportunity to meet old friends and new at Royal nations united for a Burns Night Supper featuring Bands Victoria. Come join the free event in the 07 - Auckland - Scottish Celtic Music Group Exchange Square. Info: [email protected]. award-winning Scottish 5 piece, Breabach, and Ballarat sunshine with your loved ones at Victoria Monthly on the first Friday at St Luke’s Church, 23 – February 02 - Dumfries - Big Burns Supper 2020 Ngiyampaa, Yuin, Bandjalang and Gumbangirr artist, Park, Sturt St. Info: www.fedunipipeband.com.au 130 Remuera Rd. All instruments welcome to read Dumfries, one of Scotland’s friendliest towns Eric Avery. Tickets: www.sydneyoperahouse.com through favourite Scottish tunes and dance sets. 29 - Bendigo, VIC - Scots Day Out flings open its doors for 114 events across 11 days Info: John Hawthorn: [email protected] 25 - Townsville, QLD - Burns Night 2020 Townsville A free community event with pipe bands, of top-class music, comedy, dance and cabaret Come join us celebrate Robert Burns at The Metropole Scottish dancers, Scottish dogs, Clans, Scottish 08 - Paeroa - Paeroa Highland Games and Tattoo at the world’s biggest contemporary Burns food & stalls and more in the beautiful setting of Hotel, Townsville. Piping in of the haggis, poetry, The 27th Annual Paeroa Highland Games & Tattoo will be celebration. Info: www.bigburnssupper.com songs, Highland dancers, good cheer, and great Rosalind Park. Info: www.scotsdayout.com held on Saturday 8th February 2020 at the Paeroa Domain. 24 - Edinburgh - A Celebration of Burns company. Three course dinner including wine What started out as a small Pipe Bands Competition has Night Aboard the Royal Yacht Britannia only $65. Ticket purchase online only. Book tickets grown over the years, and today is a fully-fledged Highland You will enjoy a red carpet welcome as you and pre-order menu at burnsnight.floktu.com NEW ZEALAND Games, one of only seven such Scottish gatherings in New are piped aboard Britannia. The unforgettable Zealand, and the only one in New Zealand to hold an 25 - Wongawallan, QLD - Burns Supper JANUARY Scottish evening begins with a drinks and canape Evening Tattoo. Info: www.paeroahighlandgames.co.nz Celebrate Rabbi Burns Supper with Pipes, Selkirk 01 - Waipu - Waipu Highland Games reception before touring the yacht. Info: + 44(0) Grace, Address to the Haggis and poetry. A special The first Highland Games in the world each 14 - Auckland - Scottish Fiddle Club Night 1442 768 110 or [email protected] appearance by members of the Brisbane City Pipe year with pipe bands, Scottish dance, heavy 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM at St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Rd. 25 - Alloway, Ayr - A Blazing Burns Night Spectacular Band. 3 Course dinner with haggis and more at events, Clan tents and more at Caledonian Park, Info: www.freewebs.com/aucklandscottishfiddleclub What better way to celebrate Burns Night than Fox and Hounds Country Inn, 7 Elevation Dr. Info: Main Road. Info: www.waipugames.co.nz 15 - Wellington - Pipes In The Park 2020 with a ceilidh and a spectacular choreographed 07 5665 7582 or www.foxandhounds.net.au 03 - Auckland - Scottish Celtic Music Group Wellington’s very own Highland Games. Pipe Band fire show? An evening of live music, dancing, an 26 – Melbourne, VIC – Robert Burns Club of Monthly on the first Friday at St Luke’s Church, competition, Highland dancing, Scottish Country awe-inspiring fire performance finale and, of Melbourne, Robert Burns Celebration 130 Remuera Rd. All instruments welcome to read Dancing, Irish Dancing, Clans, Castles (of the bouncy course, haggis, neeps and tatties at Robert Burns through favourite Scottish tunes and dance sets. The club conducts a celebration on the poet’s birthday kind) and Craft Markets. Bring your picnic blanket or Birthplace Museum. Info: www.nts.org.uk/visit/ Info: John Hawthorn: [email protected] near the Robert Burns statue in Treasury Gardens Spring deck chair, sit back and enjoy some great entertainment places/robert-burns-birthplace-museum/events Street, Melbourne and also holds a Burns Supper each year 10 - Auckland - Scottish Fiddle Club Night from some of the best Pipe Bands in the country. A 25 - Nationwide - Happy Burns Night including the address to the haggis, dinner and dancing. 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM at St Luke’s Church, 130 Remuera Rd. fun family day out at Waitangi Park, 107 Cable St. Celebrate the anniversary of the birth of Scottish Info: 03 8333 0973 or [email protected] Info: www.freewebs.com/aucklandscottishfiddleclub Info: www.facebook.com/pipesintheparkWGTN poet Robert Burns. The tradition of the Burns Night Supper was first held in 1801 by the poet’s friends, five years after his death. Scotword answers Scottish Genealogical Research 25 - - Glamis Castle Burns Supper DID YOU Your evening will begin with us from 6pm in the from page 6 magnificent 17th Century drawing room with a glass of fizz on arrival, followed by a traditional Across: Down: Let us build KNOW? 3 course Burns Supper served in the stunning 7-Bonnier 1-Dominie Strathmore Dining Room, where you will also be 8-Hillock 2-Ends your Scottish The Scottish Banner is entertained by a full cast of well-known local speakers throughout. Info: [email protected] 10-Ailsa Craig 3-Deacon the #1 source for Scottish 28 - Lerwick - Up Helly Aa 11-Nets 4-Singlets Family Tree! Taking place annually on the last Tuesday of January in the events in Australasia! town of Lerwick, the Shetland’s Viking Fire Festival, or Up 12-Diagonal 5-Glen Eagles With hundreds of Scottish Helly Aa as it’s known locally, is the largest event of its kind 14-Enamel 6-Scythes Ron Dempsey in Europe. Thousands of visitors from across the world events listed from around travel to this northernmost corner of Scotland to join in 15-Kames Castle 9-Ballochmyle General Delivery this Scandinavian Vikings’ style celebrations of the end of 19-Career 13- Grace Notes Udora, Ontario the world and updated winter and the return of the sun. Info: www.uphellyaa.org 20-Minister 16-Earldoms L0C 1L0, Canada weekly. See our most up to FEBRUARY 22-Trio 17-Garrets 03 - 08 - Ayr - Oor Wullie date listings and add your Jings, Crivvens, Help Ma Boab! Scotland’s cheekiest, spiky- 23-Dalbeattie 18-Venison event anytime at: haired scamp is back! Only question is; where’s his bucket?! 25-Streams 21-Nieces For details email: Join Wullie, Fat Boab, Soapy Soutar, Wee Eck, and the rest [email protected] www.scottishbanner.com/events of the Sunday Post gang, in a brand new musical adventure 26-Serfdom 24-Toff celebrating their 80th anniversary as Scotland’s most beloved comic strip. Info: www.thegaiety.co.uk/oor-wullie

Page 24 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER Answer the Celtic call as Australia celebrates a year of Scottish culture, music and arts in 2020 of Small Halls, The Planting and our boutique touring programme, as well as to assist with the coordinating of the Year. Australia has a beautifully cooperative festival scene, especially within the folk world, and many of the events who have signed up have been presenting Scottish talents for years – they’re just happy to work further together to try to increase benefits for each other and for the artists. In addition, we’re speaking with organisations and events we’ve not yet worked with before – there’s so much enthusiasm for the idea of Year of Scotland, Woodford Folk Festival bookends the Year of Scotland and everyone has a story about their town or 2020 - Hogmanay 2019 to Hogmanay 2020. Photo: Tim Roberts. grandparent that they can’t wait to tell.” YOSA 2020 is supported by a range of organisations across Scotland including A nationwide calendar of activity celebrating Scottish music, culture, food and drink, Showcase Scotland Expo, The Scottish YOSA2020 starts 31st December 2019 and continues through until 31st December 2020. Government, Visit Scotland, Creative Scotland and the Scottish Music Centre. ay homage to the art, music and Showcase Scotland Expo exists to further We are heading back out again in 2020 and In Australia, YOSA 2020 is produced by culture of the Scottish cities, opportunity for our artists and to facilitate will be one of the first bands to appear as Woodfordia Inc. highlands, lochs, moors and isles co-operation and support around the globe, part of the Year of Scotland Australia 2020, Festivals, community events and groups with 35 festivals across Australia although this is the first time ever that we which is a total honour for us. It’s very who would like to be involved in the Year of Psigning on to participate in the Year of have seen a full calendar year of activities and exciting to be heading back out again so Scotland in Australia 2020 or to learn more Scotland in Australia 2020 (YOSA 2020). we would like to extend a thank you to all soon and we are really looking forward to see: www.yearofscotlandaustralia2020.com YOSA 2020 begins at Woodford Folk of those involved. We really look forward to Australia discovering even more bands Festival on 27 December 2019, going on bringing some of Scotland’s finest musicians from Scotland as part of the year. We are to incorporate events in every Australian to Australia and to work closely with all of the sure that they will be made as welcome as state and territory until 1st January 2021. festivals, venues and organisations who have we have been on our first two trips!” These two traditional Hogmanay come together to make this year possible.” Woodford Folk Festival’s Head of celebrations will bookmark hundreds Creative Scotland’s Head of Music, Alan Programming, Chloe Goodyear, said: “We of activities across the year showcasing Morrison, said: “There’s a special historical are so excited to be acting as a presenting the remarkable quality and diversity of bond between Scotland and Australia that partner with Woodford Folk Festival, Festival Scottish musical culture. will only get stronger through this once- in-a-lifetime opportunity. By bringing Scottish talent across traditional, Scotland’s traditional music to stages all folk and roots music the way across Australia, we’ll be able to YOSA 2020 activities include expansions to feed the hunger of a diaspora eager to the National Celtic Festival’s annual ceilidh know more about their family heritage, trail, Scottish artists touring regional and but also reach Australian audiences from SCOTTISH remote areas via the Festival of Small Halls all backgrounds who just want to hear the Australia, food and drink events as well brilliant, world-class music that energises ACCESSORIES SHOPPE as a renewed focus on world renowned the Scottish scene. As well as presenting Scottish cultural celebrations such as some of our best-known tradition-bearers, KILT HIRE Burns Night, St Andrew’s Day, Highland we can introduce an entire generation of Games and Clan Gatherings. emerging talent to new audiences on the Festivals and events of all sizes – from other side of the planet and raise the global a 125,000-capacity celebration to an recognition of our home-grown culture. intimate 50-person event – will experience Creative Scotland is proud and excited the best of Scottish music and culture in to be part of the team that will make this Australia in 2020. happen on an unprecedented scale.” Organisers say the unprecedented According to the 2016 Australian year-long programme of events came census, 119,416 Australian residents about collaboratively after a group were born in Scotland, while 2,023,474 of festival directors and agents were claimed Scottish ancestry. YOSA 2020 will • Sydney’s Finest Highland Regalia • Australia’s largest supplier of authentic welcomed to Scotland in August 2018 for give those of Scottish heritage a taste of Stockist. Tartan Scarves, Ties, Bow Ties, Caps, The Visit organised by Showcase Scotland home while satisfying renewed interest • Kilts and Tartan skirts made to order. Sashes, Tammies and much more. Expo where they were enchanted by in Scottish culture generated by recent • Stockists of Quality Giftware including • More than 600 different Scottish & Irish Jewellery, Pewter Flasks, Tankards, Tartans on display with over 5,000 the wealth of Scottish talent across film and television productions including Quaiches & Clan Badges. Tartan items in stock. traditional, folk and roots music. Outlander and Mary, Queen of Scots. As 2020 marks the year of Coasts and Come and visit our store at Waters in Scotland – a celebration of the 40 acts will visit Australia 25 The Strand, Croydon NSW 2132 country’s 10,000km coastline and spectacular At least 40 acts will visit Australia for festivals Close to Croydon Railway Station, with plenty of free parking! lochs, seas, streams and rivers – YOSA 2020 and tours during YOSA 2020, including award- will incorporate a program of music, art and winning indie-folk band Elephant Sessions, Tues-Fri 10.00am-6.00pm Sat 9.00am-2.00pm activities referencing the Celtic lifeblood. from the Highlands. “We love touring in Australia, it’s a brilliant country full of class MAIL ORDER TO ANY POSTAL LOCATION A special historical bond between people and places. We’ve had some of our Scotland and Australia best times as a band at Byron Bay Bluesfest Tel: (02) 9747-8270 Executive Producer of the Showcase and the Blue Mountains Folk Festival in Email: [email protected] Scotland Expo, Lisa Whytock said: “We are Katoomba,” said Elephant Sessions. Facebook: www.facebook.com/scottishaccessories delighted to see this year take shape. “We played Bluesfest twice last year and then Website: www.scottishaccessories.com.au There have always been strong connections again this year and each time we have been with Australia and Scotland and this seems met with an amazing audience response that a great way to celebrate those. has made us feel so welcome and at home.

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 25 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

IN THE SCOTTISH KITCHEN

Burns Night Recipes Fair fa’ your honest, sonsie face, Great chieftain o’ the pudding-race! The Burns Supper on January 25th is an institution of Scottish life: a night to celebrate the life and works of the national Bard. Suppers can range from an informal gathering of friends to a huge, formal dinner full of pomp and circumstance, enjoy!

For the whisky sauce: Spoon the breadcrumb mixture over the 500ml/17fl oz. double cream haggis and drizzle with a little more oil. Cranachan Cullen skink 2 tsp. wholegrain mustard Return to the oven for about 15 minutes Ingredients: 1 tbsp. Dijon mustard or until the cheese is slightly melted and For the stock: 2 tsp. whisky the filling is hot and bubbling. 75g/2½oz. butter sea salt and freshly ground white pepper Serve one mushroom as a starter or 2-3 1 tbsp. chopped fresh chives 1 tbsp. vegetable oil with tatties and neeps as a main course. 2 leeks, roughly chopped ½ lemon, juice only 2 onions, peeled, roughly chopped Method: Bannock 2 fennel bulbs, roughly chopped Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. 250ml/9fl oz. white wine Wrap the haggis tightly in aluminium 500g/17½oz. smoked haddock foil and place onto a baking tray. Bake in 750ml/1 pint 7fl oz. water the oven for 45 minutes to one hour, or For the soup: until cooked through. 75g/2½oz. butter Ingredients: Meanwhile, for the clapshot, boil 1 tbsp. vegetable oil 570ml/1 pint double cream 2 leeks, finely chopped the potatoes and swede in separate 85g/3oz. porridge oats 2 shallots, peeled, finely chopped saucepans of salted water for 15-18 7 tbsp. whisky 2 garlic cloves, peeled, crushed minutes, or until tender. Drain well. 3 tbsp. honey 300g/10½oz. potatoes, peeled, chopped Add the drained swede to the drained 450g/1lb. raspberries 500ml/17½fl oz. double cream potatoes and mash thoroughly. Add the fresh mint, to garnish 1 tbsp. finely chopped fresh parsley butter and cream and mash again until Method: pinch freshly grated nutmeg smooth and well combined. Season, to Ingredients: taste, with salt and freshly ground white Toast the oats in a frying pan, being Method: 1 x 7g sachet fast-action yeast pepper. Stir in the tablespoon of chives. careful not to burn them. For the stock, heat the butter and 1 tsp. caster sugar Set aside and keep warm. Lightly whip the cream until it reaches vegetable oil in a large pan and gently 500g/1lb 2oz. strong white flour For the whisky sauce, heat the double the soft peak stage, then fold in the whisky, fry the leeks, onions and fennel for 3-4 125g/4½oz. unsalted butter, melted cream in a pan over a medium heat. minutes, or until softened. Add the white 250g/9oz. dried mixed fruit honey, oatmeal and raspberries. Add the wholegrain mustard, Dijon mustard 50g/2oz. light muscovado sugar wine to the pan and bring to the boil. Serve in dessert glasses garnished and whisky and stir to combine. Increase Add the smoked haddock, pour in the beaten egg, for glazing with a few raspberries and mint. the heat until the mixture is simmering water and bring back to the boil. Reduce and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes. Method: the heat and simmer for 30 minutes, Remove the pan from the heat and Mix together the yeast, caster sugar and Shortbread skimming off any scum that rises to the season, to taste, with salt and freshly 250ml/9fl oz. lukewarm water in a large Ingredients: surface, until the haddock is cooked bowl. Leave to stand for 10 minutes until ground white pepper. Stir in the 125g/4oz butter through. Strain the haddock, reserving the mixture is frothy. tablespoon of chives, then whisk in the 55g/2oz caster sugar, plus extra to finish the cooking stock. Chop the haddock into Add the flour and butter and mix lemon juice. 180g/6oz plain flour bite-sized pieces. For the soup, heat the To serve, divide the clapshot equally thoroughly. Tip onto a lightly floured butter with the vegetable oil and fry the among four serving plates. Place a surface and knead for about five minutes Method: leeks, shallots and garlic for 3-4 minutes, spoonful of steamed haggis alongside to form a smooth elastic dough. Heat the oven to 190C/375F/Gas 5. or until softened. Add the potatoes and the each. Spoon over the warm whisky sauce. Place the dough into a clean, lightly Beat the butter and the sugar together chopped smoked haddock to the pan. oiled bowl and cover with a damp tea until smooth. Stir in the flour to get a Add the reserved cooking stock and bring towel. Leave to prove in a warm place for smooth paste. Turn on to a work surface to the boil, then reduce the heat and Vegetarian haggis about one hour or until doubled in size. and gently roll out until the paste is simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the stuffed mushrooms When the dough has risen, remove 1cm/½in thick. Cut into rounds or fingers potatoes are tender. Stir in the cream and the tea towel and punch the dough and place onto a baking tray. Sprinkle briefly blend the soup with a stick blender. Ingredients: 4 large flat open/Portobello mushrooms down. Tip onto a lightly floured surface Serve the soup with crusty bread and with caster sugar and chill in the fridge 1 tbsp. olive oil and knead in the fruit and muscovado sprinkle with the chopped fresh parsley for 20 minutes. Bake in the oven for 15-20 75g/2½ oz. breadcrumbs sugar until well combined. and a sprinkling of freshly grated nutmeg. minutes, or until pale golden-brown. 2 tbsp. pine nuts, toasted Shape the dough into a round shape Set aside to cool on a wire rack. 2 tbsp. pecorino, grated and place on a lightly greased baking Haggis, clapshot and 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley sheet. Cover again with a damp tea towel whisky sauce 350g/12 oz. vegetarian haggis, sliced and leave to rise in a warm place again for Bobby Burns Cocktail 30 minutes or until it has doubled in size. Ingredients: Method: Ingredients: Preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. 500g/1lb 2oz. haggis Preheat the oven to 200C/400F/Gas 6. 60ml/1.5 oz. Scotch whisky Brush the bannock with a little beaten For the clapshot: Place the mushrooms onto a baking 30ml/3/4oz. red vermouth egg to glaze. Bake for 45-50 minutes until 500g/1lb 2oz. floury potatoes, such as Maris sheet and drizzle with a little oil. 2 dashes Benedictine Cook in the oven for 5-6 minutes or risen and a rich brown colour. If the bread Piper or King Edward, peeled, chopped Method: 500g/1lb 2oz. swede (yellow turnip), until beginning to soften. is getting too dark, cover lightly with In a mixing glass with ice, add the whisky, peeled, chopped Mix together the breadcrumbs, pine parchment paper or foil. When the bread 50g/2oz. butter nuts, pecorino and parsley. is ready it should sound hollow when the vermouth and Benedictine and stir until 75ml/2¾fl oz. double cream Remove the mushrooms from under the underneath is tapped gently. condensation forms along the outside sea salt and freshly ground white pepper grill and top each mushroom with a slice Leave to cool slightly before slicing and of the glass. Strain into a chilled cocktail 1 tbsp. chopped fresh chives of vegetarian haggis. serving warm with plenty of butter. glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

Page 26 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER By: The National Piping 2020-A Year in PipingCentre, Glasgow who come to the city with pipe bands and Meetings at Eden Court Theatre, music groups from many different countries Inverness. The Argyllshire Gathering is to take part. With Pipe Idol, The Piping Live! on Wednesday 26th and Thursday 27th Big Band, The Masters, Evening Concerts, August 2020. the festival club, Street Café and more, Once the winners have been announced Piping Live! has something for everyone. for these, then the 10 competitors for the This all leads up to the World Pipe Band Glenfiddich Piping Championship are Championships on Friday 14th and declared. This solo championship, taking Saturday 15th August. For 2 days the place at the end of October each year piping world gathers on Glasgow Green has been called the de facto world solo (even via the live streaming of the event!) championship, where the 10 best pipers to celebrate a new world champion. of the year compete for the overall trophy. Will Inveraray and District Pipe Band Last year’s top honour went to National repeat their phenomenal success of 2019? Piping Centre teacher Finlay Johnston, We will wait with bated breath and see… his second win in this top solo piping competition, in consecutive years too! The World Pipe Band Championships. Worldwide contests The Glenfiddich is the end of the 2020 This marks the end of the UK pipe band season, only for the 2021 season to start season. Other significant worldwide the very next weekend in London with contests include, and the New Zealand the Scottish Piping Society of London’s Pipe Band Championships, this year annual competition, which has its 82nd in Invercargill on 13th–14th March year in 2020. 2020, the Diamond Jubilee year So, if you are travelling this year, come Australian Pipe Band Championships in and hear piping in Scotland – or look out Maryborough, Victoria on 4th and 5th for it around the world! April 2020 and the North American Pipe Canada’s Glengarry Highland Games. Band Championships at the Glengarry Highland Games in Maxville, Ontario on st st • United Kingdom Championships - June 31 July – 1 August 2020. appy New Year from The National 13th - Lurgan, Northern Ireland Once the Pipe Band season is Piping Centre! Across the world • European Championships - June over, thoughts turn to major solo each year there are lots of 27th - Inverness competitions. The end of August see’s opportunities to hear Scotland’s The Argyllshire Gathering and Northern • Scottish Championships - July 25th- Hnational instrument, but these are some Meetings, the two most prestigious Dumbarton of the key events here in Scotland and th th solo piping competitions in Scotland. th • World Championships - August 14 15 abroad. Celtic Connections, now in its 27 – Glasgow Green, Glasgow Each event takes place over 2 days with year, kicks off the year in style as Glasgow’s competitors taking part in Piobaireachd annual folk, roots and festival, The last of these championships is the and light music events. This year, for the celebrates Celtic music and its connections biggest and the best. It is part of the world’s first time in many years, the Northern to cultures across the globe. From 16th biggest week of piping here in Glasgow, with Meeting will take place in Inverness nd January – 2 February 2020, over 2,100 Piping Live!, taking place from Saturday before the Argyllshire Gathering in Oban. The New Zealand Pipe musicians from around the world will 8th–Sunday 16th August. This festival brings The dates for these events are Thursday Band Championships. descend on Glasgow and bring the city to together musicians from across the globe, 20th and Friday 21st August for Northern life for 18 days of concerts, ceilidhs, talks, art exhibitions, workshops, and free events, including a spectacular pipe band concert from People’s Ford Boghall and Bathgate Pipe Band, featuring TRYST pipers – a collective of 10 of the world’s foremost trad pipers including Ross Ainslie, Ali Hutton, Finlay MacDonald, Lorne MacDougall and Mairearad Green. There is also a plethora of piping through out the festival, including on Sunday 19th January a concert called “A celebration of women in piping” featuring some of the best female pipers playing uillean pipes, highland pipes and more. On 15th February, our National Piping Centre Junior Piping Championship returns, one of a host of fantastic contest for young pipers aged Under 18 across the country every year. It aims to encourage all young players to compete, with chanter PipingLive! competitions through to Piobaireachd events. In April The National Piping Centre’s Seasonal Schools return with our spring editions of our Young Stars for Under 18s and our NPC Adult Spring Gatherings for those aged 18+. These great 4-day workshops are tailored for different age groups and are a great way to meet other pipers and get immersed in learning.

UK contests There are 5 major pipe band championships in the UK, and this year they are: Paisley hosts British Pipe Band Championships. • British Championships - May 23rd - Paisley

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 27 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

By: Judy Celebrating 350 years of the Vickers Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh It’s been an incredible journey for the garden which was founded by two doctors, Robert Sibbald and Andrew Balfour, in 1670 in a small rented plot near Holyrood Palace, as Suzie Huggins, 350th anniversary project co-ordinator, explains. “At that time you couldn’t train to be a doctor in Scotland, you had to go off to London or Europe, and that’s what the two doctors who were our founders did. They came back to Scotland, full of ideas, one of which was to start a small physic garden and to teach students about their medicinal properties.”

Aligned with medicine Artist’s impression of the view towards the new glasshouse from the front lawn, part of the biomes project. The pair’s work to emulate the medical faculties they had seen on the continent didn’t stop there – they also founded the Throughout 2020, the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh will College of Physicians in Edinburgh in celebrate the scientific and horticultural achievements of the past 1681. The garden was a huge success, 350 years, tracing their progress from 17th century physic garden rapidly growing until it housed 800 Mcnab’s plant moving creation.tif to world-leading botanic garden. A history going back to 1670 plants. Within five years, it moved to a larger site, then Trinity Hospital on the will be celebrated with a year-long programme of talks, events banks of the Nor’ Loch, where Waverley “In 1689, Edinburgh Castle was being and exhibitions as Judy Vickers explains. Station now stands. held for King James [against William of The garden’s 90 years in its new Orange, the new king] by the Duke of t began as a physic garden – a Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh covers 11 home saw many successes – it received Gordon, who refused to surrender and a collection of plants grown for their hectares, welcomes more than one million a Royal Warrant in 1699 and in 1713, siege began. The besiegers decided to try medicinal properties - on a patch of visitors annually to admire its 13,500 the first glasshouse was built. But the to find the bottom of the well which was ground no bigger than a tennis court. species and its scientists discover around site, albeit bigger, proved to have its supplying the castle with fresh water so INow, as it marks its 350th anniversary, the 35 new plants every year. own challenges. they tried to drain Nor’ Loch. Being Scottish is Bags of Fun! Most bag styles also include a Ditch plastic-go Scottish! handy inside key/coin zip pouch.

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Page 28 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

That didn’t succeed but in the process they damaged the dam at the east end of the loch. The ensuring flood saw water run straight through the grounds of Trinity Hospital garden. The whole site was inundated and when the water drained away, they were left with a layer of mud, rubbish and effluent. Almost all the plants 1771 Jacob More watercolour of Leith Walk Garden. were obliterated,” says Suzie. Despite such episodes, the garden clung on at the Nor’ Loch until 1763. “But it wasn’t a good space for a garden growing plants for medicine. It was polluted, over-crowded and dirty,” says Suzie. So in 1763, the garden made its second move, to Leith Walk, at this time outside the boundaries of the city in open countryside and there its purpose also began to expand. “The garden was very much aligned with medicine; the reason for having it was firstly to grow plants which had medicinal properties and secondly to teach apprentices about those plants. There were strong links between the garden’s head, the Regius Keeper, and Edinburgh University – initially the Keeper was also the McNabs tree transporter. Cottage on a frosty morning. university’s professor of medicine, then later the professor of botany. Students studying medicine at the university The move took three years and McNab’s expedition to Papua New Guinea, almost affection for the Botanics. We wouldn’t would come to the garden to learn about accounts of the time reveal how much certain to uncover new species. There will survive without the love and support of medicinal plants and that link continued meticulous planning was involved. “There be conferences in April and in June, the the people of Edinburgh,” says Suzie. into the 20th century,” says Suzie. is a line in the accounts for September latter arranged by the Friends of RGBE and As to the future beyond 2020, plans 1820 showing a payment of £1 17s 11½d with delegates from equivalent groups in are afoot for the most significant for women and children who were clearing Australia, the US and Scandinavia. A series project in the garden’s history. the weeds from the new site,” says Suzie of lectures in the autumn will include a The £70m Edinburgh Biomes scheme It began as a physic As the garden grew, gaining the grounds debate by global experts on plant extinction. will result in new research and garden – a collection of of Inverleith House for the arboretum and There will also be a big birthday party education facilities, a state-of-the-art the former territory of the Caledonian in June as well as a project to record plant health suite, refurbishment of plants grown for their Horticultural Society for the Rock Garden, people’s memories of the Botanics. the existing public glasshouses and a so did the wealth of plants collected by a “We know there is a huge amount of new visitor experience. medicinal properties - on a host of great Scottish plant hunters in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Perhaps the patch of ground no bigger most famous – certainly the most colourful than a tennis court. – was plant hunter George Forrest who Bundanoon is introduced more than 10,000 specimens. Falkirk-born Forrest travelled to China in 1904 for the garden, narrowly escaping a BRIGADOON “But the move to Leith Walk is when we massacre in the 1905 Tibetan Rebellion see the garden start to move away from a and helping to inoculate local people purely medicinal garden and develop into against smallpox as well as collecting many something similar to what we have today. species of rhododendron. We see trees, conservatories, a pond and At Inverleith, the garden also saw the exotic plants being introduced, such as building of the glasshouses, including coffee, bananas and tea.” the iconic Victorian Palm Houses. Education was still a key task - The oldest is the tropical palm house, built Benjamin Rush, signatory of the American in 1834, and then the tallest in the UK, Declaration of Independence, was one followed by the 50ft tall temperate palm of the many who attended lectures at the house in 1858. Joining them in 1967 were Leith Walk garden. But life was not all Allan Pendreigh’s glasshouses, filled with Saturday enlightened debate at the garden – one of topsoil that had been removed from the the darkest episodes in its history was the construction site of the Forth Road Bridge, 4 April 2020 murder of head gardener John Williamson. which was opened in 1964. Williamson was also a part-time customs It wasn’t until 1889 that the garden was Massed Pipes & Drums, Scottish Highland & Country Dancing, officer, most likely because he was handily open and free to the public seven days a The Tartan Warriors, 120 Specialty Crafts, Souvenirs & Food Stalls, situated on a main route between the week as it is now, although tickets could be port of Leith and the city of Edinburgh. purchased by the public to visit the Trinity 30 Clan Information Tents to trace your heritage and so much more! th On September 23, 1780, he left the garden Hospital site in the 1700s and in the 19 Admission: EARLY BIRD TICKETING - BUY ONLINE AND SAVE: www.ticketebo.com.au/brigadoon in pursuit of some smugglers – he caught century, it opened for special occasion such · Adults: $18 · Family: $45 · Children: $8.50 · Concession: $16.50 up with them at Princes Street, but they as Queen Victoria’s birthday. When the garden · Groups and coaches: $16pp · Groups/Bus and Coaches groups can also purchase by phoning 1300657559 turned on him and beat him to death. began to open six days a week, barring Sunday, Group pricing for Groups attending the event-Minimum 20 Tickets, Maximum 50 Tickets per order however, it proved contentious. “The working We are very pleased to be offering the ability to buy your tickets online. We have partnered with the secure online ticketing services of Ticketebo for the provision of our tickets. Inverleith men of Edinburgh petitioned for it to be In 1820 the garden made the move to its open on Sundays so that they could visit and current site at Inverleith. The Leith Walk site enjoy the garden, and the Church petitioned P: 02 4883 7471 [email protected] was now a substantial garden and such a move against Sabbath opening,” says Suzie. Official “Brigadoon” Ceilidh (Scottish Knees-up) was not an easy task. However, curator Bookings: 02 4883 6033 [email protected] William McNab devised ingenious The Botanics machines to transport the trees and plants With deforestation and climate change hot the two-mile journey to their new home. topics of concern, the 350th celebrations Australia with a “wee” bit of “Scottish Flavour” “He moved the entire collection of trees will also focus on the future in which the and plants and nothing died. I’m not sure garden’s scientists play a leading role. www.brigadoon.org.au we could do the same today,” says Suzie. In August there will be a plant-finding

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 29 THE SCOTTISH BANNER New attractions and only in Scotland experiences for 2020 The Orkney Distillery was recently The Declaration of Arbroath will be awarded a Five Star Quality Assurance displayed at the National Museum of award from VisitScotland after being Scotland from 27 March to 26 April, 2020. opened to visitors just over a year ago. The document has not been on display Two of the gins – Aurora Gin and for 15 years. Kirkjuvagr Gin – were awarded Great Taste badges for 2019. The distillery also offers In the he(art) of Aberdeen a unique gin-making experience where visitors can craft their own gin recipe using over 30 different botanicals. 2020 marks 200 years of Johnnie Walker and 700 Years of the Declaration of Arbroath

The Aberdeen Art Gallery officially reopened to the public on Saturday, 2 November after at £34.6 million investment. The gallery which first isitScotland wants to start the new The Edinburgh International Film opened in 1885 closed in 2015 for decade off by sharing the new Festival is celebrating its 74thedition refurbishments with the improved attractions and one-of-a-kind in 2020 and is excited to announce Arbroath 2020. gallery including nationally and experiences travellers can enjoy Scotland Shores, an exciting programme internationally-acclaimed artists such Vin Scotland. Scotland will be celebrating showcasing Scotland’s coasts and The Johnnie Walker brand celebrates as Rachel McLean, Bill Gibb, Vincent a new themed year: Year of Coasts and waterways through unique events, classic its 200th anniversary in 2020. Situated van Gogh and Claude Money. Waters 2020. A year-long programme of film screenings and a special outdoor within the former House of Fraser The investment went into the fabric of events and activities that shine light on coastal experience from 19 – 30 June, 2020. department store on Prince’s Street the buildings, new exhibition and display Scotland’s lochs, rivers, canals, seafood, Film-lovers can dip their toes into in Edinburgh, the Johnnie Walker galleries, improved visitor facilities and inland and coastal landscapes and history. the Fest on the Forth, a unique outdoor Experience will be a three-storey an enhanced activity programme. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves cinema experience. Audiences will be immersive space exploring whisky in Scotland’s maritime heritage through able to watch classic films that feature making and the blended Scotch brand’s Having a wheel nice time on the attractions, events and food and drink. Scotland’s beautiful coasts and landmarks 200-year history. The Johnnie Walker Heart 200 and the Coig After ringing in the new decade at one of while on the sandy shores of the Forth. Experience, which should launch at Scotland’s annual and famous Hogmanay the end of 2020, forms a central part events, check out an abundance of recent Let the year be-gin of Diageo’s £150 million investment in and different activities…. Scotch whisky tourism, which includes the upgrade of the company’s 12 Festivals that make a splash distillery visitor centres across Scotland. A further £35 million is being invested in reopening the silent distilleries of Port Ellen on Islay, and Brora in Sutherland. While whisky from Diageo’s distilleries all over Scotland contribute to the Johnnie Walker blend, four distilleries, Glenkinchie, Cardhu, Caol Ila and The Coig. Clynelish, will be put at the heart of the Johnnie Walker experience in Edinburgh, The Heart 200 launched July 2019 as a representing the “four corners of new touring route of approximately 200 Scotland” and the regional flavour miles around Perth, Stirling, The Trossachs DolphinFest. Orkney Distillery. variations of Lowland (Glenkinchie), and Highland Perthshire – the very Heart Speyside (Cardhu), Island (Caol Ila) and of Scotland. What’s more, this stunning Dive into Scotland’s Year of Coasts and Most visitors know Scotland makes a good Highland (Clynelish). The anniversary journey uniquely links Scotland’s two Waters 2020 with DolphinFest 2020 and bottle of whisky. However, some may not of Johnnie Walker will be celebrated national parks, Loch Lomond & The Edinburgh International Film Festival know that Scottish gin accounts for 70% of throughout 2020. Trossachs and the Cairngorms. presents Scotland’s Shores. One of the the UK’s overall gin production and three On 5 April, 2020 a horse-led The Coig is an exciting new set of best places in Europe to watch bottlenose of the world’s best- selling gins (Hendrick’s, procession of over 500 people will tourist routes covering Ayrshire, the Firth dolphins is on the harbour shores of Gordon’s and Tanqueray). march from Arbroath Abbey to Arbroath of Clyde and Clyde Islands. There are five Aberdeen. The DolphinFest 2020 will Peebles Hydro, a stunning hotel set Harbour to re-enact the Declaration of routes to explore – the Shire, the Shiel, take place throughout the month of April in the heart of Tweed Valley, has recently Arbroath sailing to France in 1320 in the Arran, the Bute and the Cumbrae. in Aberdeen, celebrating the region’s launched their very own gin. Not only one celebration of the 700th anniversary. Gaelic for ‘five’, the Coig covers Ayrshire, dolphins through interactive games, bottle, but four different gins (London Dry, The Declaration of Arbroath emphasised Arran, Bute, Cumbrae, Renfrewshire and pop-up activities, conservation talks and Pavilion Pink, Navy Strength and Subtly Scotland’s right as a nation and was sent Inverclyde. The routes aim to showcase citizen science projects. The festival’s Smoked), four different tonics and a gin from Arbroath Abbey to Pope John in the area’s unique coast and countryside, mission is to promote sustainability and school! The launch of their 1881 gin is Avignon on 6 April 1320. Events include as well as the outstanding natural further inspire guests to reduce, recycle named after the year the hotel was opened a giant outdoor lunch on Beacon Green beauty, history and heritage, food and and refuse, attend beach cleans and and uses waters from the rolling Border and hundreds of voices singing within drink and outdoor family activities reduce their carbon footprint. hills located behind their hotel. the walls of Arbroath Abbey. across the regions.

Page 30 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020 THE SCOTTISH BANNER

Whale you come to Scotland? Scotland has chainmail Dancing into 2020 In April 2020 a truly one-of- a-kind tour will be launching in Stirlingshire close to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park at a working sheep farm. A trip to Scotland isn’t complete without sampling our national dish, haggis and The Haggis Experience takes the tasting to a whole new level. Visitors Bottlenose dolphin in Tobermory Bay, will be able to choose from three Isle of Mull © HWDT/Karen Denoon. different tour options and learn the origins, myths, ingredients and how Launched in June 2019, the Hebridean to make the wonderful dish. Guests Whale Trail showcases Scotland’s west will get to try traditional haggis and/ Hill House. coast as a world-class destination for or vegetarian haggis and will receive spotting whales, dolphins and porpoises a complimentary recipe pack and a In June 2019, the National Trust for 2020 is an exciting year for the Shetland from land, and champions conservation of souvenir Haggis Experience Certificate. Scotland revealed its largest conservation Folk Festival as it celebrates its 40th year! the Hebrides’ globally important marine project with the Hill House Box. Head up to the festival from 30 April to wildlife and environment. It’s the first of Loch, its Nessie! The structure is wrapped with world’s 3 May in Shetland and ceilidh the night its kind in the UK connecting more than largest chainmail, with walkways away at the most northerly Folk Festival in 30 top places offering opportunities for zigzagging through the chimney pots. the UK. Listen to local Shetland and folk land-based sightings. In addition to the Owned by the Trust since 1982, the artists from Britain and beyond for one of Hebrides’, Banffshire and The Moray Coast, Hill House Box in Helensburgh is the most entertaining festivals of the year. also known as ‘The Dolphin Coast’ is a hot- considered to be the finest example of spot for those wanting to see bottlenose domestic architecture by Charles Rennie Flaming hot events in 2020 dolphins in their natural environment. Mackintosh. However, the building has For those wanting to spot charming been soaking up water like a sponge grey seals or puffins, visit Orkney and join for over 115 years which is why the one of the Wild Orkney Walks. There’s a National Trust for Scotland came up with wildlife walk for every season! Or how an innovative solution to project the about swimming with Britain’s largest building from any further water damage fish – the basking shark? Sighting hot- is truly remarkable. Onsite there is a spots include the Firth of Clyde, off the Loch Ness, the largest lake by new café and visitor centre so guests can coast of Oban and around the Isles of volume in the UK. learn more about Charles and Margaret Coll, Tiree and Canna. Book a tour with Mackintosh and the Blackie family who Basking Shark Tour from April to October The Loch Ness 360° Trail is an epic new the house was originally built for. The Hill Up Helly Aa. Photo: VisitScotland. – beginners are welcome! walking, cycling, running and outdoor House stands out amongst other Arts & Back on dryland, enjoy a one-of-a-kind activity trail in the Scottish Highlands. Craft and Art Nouveau houses in the UK experience and enjoy a new guided tour of The trail loops the entire circumference because it has survived intact for so long. Events in Scotland are hot, really hot. farm animals in their natural environment of Loch Ness. The trail starts and finishes Throughout 2020 visitors can enjoy a with Kitchen Coos & Ewes in Dumfries in the Highland Capital of Inverness Tree reasons to go to plethora of different fire festivals including and Galloway which launched in but can be joined at any point. This trail Scotland in 2020 the Samhuinn Fire Festival in Edinburgh September 2019. Guests will get the chance connects the Great Glen Way and the to celebrate the Celtic New Year which to meet Scotland’s beloved Highland Coo. South Loch Ness Trail into one circuit happens to be what is more commonly Or join an Arran Forest Safari on the Isle around the loch covering 80 miles. recognised as Hallowe’en. The Beltane of Arran with Mogabout Tours to catch red Fire Festival to celebrate the return of the th squirrels, deer and birds of prey. All the way from 10 summer in April. Fend off evil spirits at century Galloway the Comrie Flambeaux in Perthshire or Eat reasons to go to Scotland Stonehaven Fireballs in Aberdeenshire to welcome in the New Year. Up Helly Aa in Shetland celebrates their Viking heritage on the last Tuesday of January for 24 hours. And the Burning of the Clavie in Moray Speyside which dates back to the 1750s and celebrates the New Year on the 11th of January when the Julian calendar was The Hermitage in Perthshire. reformed in Britain.

The beautiful Craufurdland Estate in Lagg Distillery Fenwick has introduced a new tree- top coursed called Tree Top Trial. It’s a tremendous addition to the already vast amount of activities the estate has In September 2014 a metal detectorist including forest fitness, mountain bike came across an incredible discovery of trails, crate climbing, mud runs, archery The delicious foodie town of Dundee has the Galloway Hoard: Viking Age Treasure and more. They also recently opened a launched their #DundeeEats guide in which laid undisturbed for a thousand new restaurant Laird’s Table that has been November. Dundee is extremely important years. Buried in the 10thcentury in awarded a Taste of our Best accreditation. to the food industry in Scotland as 70% of Dumfries and Galloway, this rich Viking Explore by foot, forest bathing a Scotland’s fresh produce is grown within Age hoard contains more than 100 Japanese form of nature therapy. a 30-mile radius of Dundee due to its objects of silver jewellery, rare gold The Hermitage in Perthshire is a beautiful proximity to the field, farm and coastline. ingot and a range of precious metals, walk that was created in the 18th century Lagg Distillery on the Isle of Arran opened Visitors are encouraged to visit the city’s brooches, amulets and more. by the 3rd Duke of Atholl and covers in June 2019 and is the first new distillery West End’s cosmopolitan food and drink This is the richest collection of rare and 33 acres. The forest features both conifer on the island since the opening of Isle of scene, the family-run cafes in the city unique Viking-age objects ever found and deciduous trees, including one Arran Distillery’s in Lochranza 25 years centre and ice cream at ‘The Ferry’. in Britain or Ireland. These objects will of Britain’s tallest Douglas fir trees. ago. The distillery has a few more years Try some local Dundee creations like help understand hidden history and Rumour has it the duke used a canon until their own Lagg Single Malt Whisky ‘pehs’, marmalade and Dundee cake and the stories from people of the past. to scatter the tree seeds! launches, however, guests can enjoy the visitors should eat their way through the The exhibition is planned for 29 May – 18 Or hop on a quad trek with Cairngorm south-end distillery’s two delicious dining Food Bucket list! The region has a clear October 2020 and will tour Edinburgh, Quad Treks in Aviemore where visitors options including The Sheiling Bar & Bistro mission on reducing its food waste by Kirkcudbright Galleries, The McManus: will be guided through beautiful views of and the Kilmory Café. Guests can enjoy working with Zero Waste Scotland through Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum and rolling moorland and the woodlands of a dram from their sister distillery Isle of cutting their own waste and educating. Aberdeen Art Gallery. Cairngorms National Park. Arran while there’s continue to distil.

The Scottish Banner • January 2020 • Page 31 THE SCOTTISH BANNER The 2020 Diamond Jubilee Australian Pipe Band Championships

Band Championships at Maryborough. won national and state championships in each grade will be $500 and $250. The banners for the newly introduced and performed in the Royal Edinburgh The Grade 4A award will be known as grades of Grade 4B, Novice Juvenile A and Military Tattoo and other international the AWR McDonald Memorial Prize and Novice Juvenile B will be named in honour events. During his 23 years, Ray built the include a trophy for the champion band. of three stalwarts of the Australian pipe Scots program to be one of the largest With trophies valued at more than band movement in the 20thcentury – Ron school-based pipes and drums programs $3000 also on offer for the Diamond Gallacher OAM, Danny McPherson MBE in Australia. Jubilee year championships, the total prize and Ray Lee OAM. This will be the first Australian pool in 2020, inflation adjusted, out does Ron Gallacher was a long-time championships conducted since the the reward for successful bands at the first pipe major of Hawthorn Pipe Band introduction of the additional grades. championships in 1961, also hosted by the The Championships .... winning a number of Australian Grade 1 Champion band banners were Maryborough Highland Society. championships, an active tutor to many introduced by Pipe Bands Australia in The High Commissioner of Clan Donald back to where it all began. bands and particularly in regional areas 2016. Banners honouring RJK Semple OAM in Australia, Neil Macdonald, said the ipe Bands Australia diamond and served as Principal Piping of the BEM, Michael Stubbings, Tony Sell OAM, Trust was delighted to cement a firm and jubilee year Australian Pipe Band Australian Pipe Band College for 20 years. Ewan Masson OAM and Greg Gordon ongoing partnership with Pipe Bands Championships, expected to attract He was an inaugural inductee into the Pipe OAM will continue to be awarded in the Australia to support and rewards bands in bands from across the country Bands Australia Hall of Fame in 2018. respective grades. the nation’s premier championship. Pand overseas, will be held in Maryborough, Danny McPherson served in the Boer “We look forward to a long relationship Victoria on 4 and 5 April 2020. Pipe Bands War and world War One and then became Prizemoney increase for the in our shared promotion of the great Victoria has named Maryborough Highland Ballarat Caledonian Society Pipe Band Championships cultures of Scotland,” he said. Pipe Society as promoter for the championships Assistant Pipe Major before the founding Prizemoney for the Pipe Bands Australia Bands Australia president Chris Earl said following consideration of two extremely pipe major of the Mildura and District Diamond Jubilee year Australian Pipe the Diamond Jubilee year was a fitting strong proposals received during the Pipe Band in 1922. Millicent in 1926 and Band Championships in Maryborough, time to establish firm links with kindred expression of interest stage. The decision later moving to Melbourne with the Royal Victoria now totals more than $14,000 with organisations in their support of the has been endorsed by Pipe Bands Australia. Caledonian Society Pipe Band. After World an agreement with the Clan Donald Lands pipe band movement. “The generosity Maryborough Highland Society has been War Two he established the first Scotch Trust to be an ongoing sponsor of Grade 4A of the Clan Donald Land Trust and central in the advancement of pipe bands College band and then established the beginning in 2020. The agreement between the commitment of the Maryborough in Australia since holding its first Highland pipes program at Haileybury College. the Trust and Pipe Bands Australia together Highland Society to making our Gathering on New Year’s Day 1857. He was an inaugural recipient of the Pipe with the re-allocation of prizemoney to championships a great celebration will Bands Australian education and training other grade by championship host the enable bands to compete for prizemoney New champion band banners award in 2018. Maryborough Highland Society will see and trophies of more than $17,000 in 2020.” Three new champion band banners Ray Lee was for 23 years the Band the champion band in each of Grades 1 Entries for the 2020 Australian Pipe Band will be awarded for the first time at the Master of The Scots College Pipes and through to 4B collect a prize cheque for Championships on 4 and 5 April, close on 4 January. Diamond Jubilee year Australian Pipe Drums Sydney during which time the band $1000. Second and third place prizemoney For detail see: www.highlandsociety.com.au

The must-have reference volume for anyone interested in the .

Incorporates updated research by leading academics in Scottish history.

Completely revised, updated, and expanded, to reflect the many changes that have occurred over the twenty years since the publication of the last edition.

Histories and badges for 346 clans and families with nearly 200 additional Crest designs and hundreds of new images.

Australia stockist stkildaretail.com.au To buy visit www.stkildapublications.com

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The Scottish Banner AD .indd 1 15/11/2019 09:39 Page 32 • The Scottish Banner • January 2020