Help Make the Biggest Ever Scottish Community Land Buy-Out Happen

page 32 Issue No 54, September 2016 a huge thank you to our sponsors delivered free to every address in Kilmallie We welcome Archie Paterson and Nevis Bakery as our latest new sponsor, with grateful thanks. A huge thank you to all the businesses below who are sponsoring the newsletter this year. Our newsletter costs have been met by their sponsorship donations, from KCC’s limited funds, from donations from the community and in kind from all our many volunteers.

help make the biggest ever in this issue

KCC from the chair – p2 Scottish community land buy-out wrong turnings- p2 KCC meetings – p3 happen... right here slower safer stalemate - p4 slower safer smilier - p5 community policing – p6 on our doorstep Corpach Marina - p6 planning applications - p6 nearly 120,000 acres owned by Rio Tinto ELLCT - p7 could be transferred Councillors’ Corner - p8 to community ownership missives from MSPs – p9 High Notes - p10 Kilmallie Playgroup - p11 Lochaber School Bank - p11 Banavie School News - p12 Community Centre- p12 Locheilnet- p13 it just needs 1 minute of your time Banavie Park - p13 and £0 none of your money Canal News - p14

Banavie Floral - p15 1000 local people have already supported the idea and feedback... and and pictures...andarticles...and stories Corpach on Colour - p15 Produce Show - p16-17 simply by becoming members BOYD BROTHERS CLYDEBoyd focus on business - p18 of East Lochaber and Laggan Community Trust, congratulations - p18 but another 1000 members would be really great (HAULAGE) LTD Fort William Ltd HM Coastguard - p18 to help make a really strong case to the Scottish Land Fund home made hydro - p19 for the funding to make it a reality. beekeepers - p20 FORT Corpach Woods - p20 Loch Treig, on the eastern boundary of the Rio Tinto estate. see page 7 for more info Wildings gig - p21 WILLIAM Picture by Richard Webb and PLEASE JOIN NOW! see application forms enclosed Music For All - p22 TYRE Shinty Club - p22 Rugby Club - p23 SERVICES Art Lochaber - p23 Keystone award for Kilmallie Community Centre FOCAL- p24 see page 12 wild about Kilmallie - p25 Rwanda - p26 step it up - p27 Focus on Folk – p28 friends together - p28 charabanc - p29 Green fingers - p29 bygone scholars - p30 ten years ago - p30 would you like to become a sponsor too? W Highland Colosseum - p30 We rely on the contributions from our business community for the cost of producing and distributing this free newsletter to every address in our Puzzles from Pithean - p31 area. We welcome sponsorship from all businesses located in Kilmallie, or with principal key personnel resident in Kilmallie. If you would like to see your name or logo in print supporting your community newsletter, please join with our current sponsors. All donations,bi g or small, are Sponsors - p32 hugely appreciated. Please contact us at [email protected] for details. please sendletters...please us YOUR issues while her husband Ian was terminally ill. I am very page 2 grateful to you Mandy and I know that you will give me page 31 kilmallie helpful advice when I ask for it.

The other members of KCC are helping me to get my head community round the topics and causes we are given to consider. Thank you to you all. The range of skills in KCC is very comforting to “some straight, some cryptic, some easy, some not so easy” me. You know that KCC had 5 members – we could have 1 2 3 4 5 6 Across had 8 if residents had come forward last November, but we council 1 Old scouts did this for a week (3,1,3) were where we were. But we are now up to 6, as we have

Comfortable to uncomfortable co-opted Jim Ramsay on to our membership, who will give 4 The cat got it (5) extra energy to KCC. Welcome Jim and thank you! 7 Accommodation from the cab inside (5) 7 8 9 Well, how did I get into this position? 9 Status Quo did this all over the world (7) 10 Let go or let again (7) Our newsletter continues to be full of interesting articles and When I first volunteered to become a member of KCC, I was if you have topics close to your heart, memories of Kilmallie 11 A mind is short for management (5) happy that I wasn’t an office bearer. I have always been or photographs you want to share, then please let us know – 12 Force upon (6) 10 11 comfortable being ‘an Indian’ rather than ‘a Chief’! get in touch or send them in to us. The more contributors 14 Miss and Ed were off target (6) This ‘comfortable’ situation has lasted for 5 years and now 18 Scruffy coats at racecourse (5) we have the more diverse and stimulating the articles will circumstances have changed and I find myself as Chair of be! 20 It’s same Ian, forget it (7) KCC! 22 Umpire (7) 12 13 14 15 16 23 Uncontrolled anger to some extent (5) I thank you for your support of KCC and I look forward to 24 Recess (5) Comfortable to uncomfortable – but I promise to try to welcoming you when you come along to our meetings and I 17 25 Plays at chess to deliver small parcels (7) become more comfortable as time goes on! will try to become more ‘comfortable’ in the chair. 18 19 20 21 Down A huge thank you to Mandy Ketchin for continuing as Chair Christine Hutchison, Chair as long as she did while she was coping with severe family 1 Raid cab mixed with type of white rum (7) 2 This fish translated in the Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy (5) 22 23 3 You might be over this (6) 4 Hot drink for the pops that get an A (5) wrong 5 A gas mine confuses or puzzles (7) 6 Nag me confused her (5) 24 25 8 Comes close when ear bookended by 2 points (5) turnings 13 Ocean (7) 15 Endless dinners inside (5) Thank you to Tony Whitelocke From cold calls to junk mail it is often hard 16 US nappies from despair (7) to get away from being bombarded by for another great crossword. 17 Unsavoury character with mixed set for these Above: poor priorities... the future for our trainees (6) advertising for products that we have no roundabouts if Highland Council obtain planning interest in. So far we have been largely permission...? Answers to last issue’s crossword: 18 Isle in car rank (5) spared the road-side hoardings that Across: 19 Confused there after two (5) continually compete for our attention by Left: great priorities by contrast... trees and 1 NO DOUBT, 4 MOUSE, 7 THREE, 9 ANGELIC, 10 AMMONIA, 21 One of the five (5) wildflowers giving genuine added value to 11 NIECE, 12 LADDER, 14 DENTED, 18 AISLE, 20 NARRATE, trying to be bigger, brighter and more roundabouts in other local authority areas conspicuous than the one next to them. In 22 GOULASH, 23 REPEL, 24 EBBED, 25 MERMAID this regard, the planning system has Down: served us well. Council officials also used Is the income that may be generated for 1 NETBALL, 2 DURUM, 3 TEABAG, 4 MEGAN, 5 UGLIEST, 6 EMCEE Answers to these puzzles are on the website to take action against unauthorised signs Highland Council worth the higher risk of 8 ERNIE, 13 DISTURB, 15 ERROR, 16 DWELLED, 17 ANTHEM, www.kilmallie.org.uk and even carried wire cutters in order to accidents and impact on the landscape? 18 ANGLE, 19 ELAND, 21 ALPHA. (follow the link on the RHS of the homepage) remove them. These signs are a bit like We think not, which is why Kilmallie and will also be published in the next issue of the

a Kilmallie alphabet... alphabet... a Kilmallie litter in that once some appear then Community Council has objected to the Answer to last issue’s Picture Quiz No 10: Fassfern lochans newsletter for people without access to the internet. others soon follow. proposed signs. Not only will the amount of revenue generated be minimal but will Unfortunately Highland Council now wish also probably come from local businesses to change this and have themselves who currently advertise in positive ways picture applied for planning permission to place such as sponsorship of community advertising signs on trunk road activities and events. Highland Council roundabouts from the Blar to may argue that the proposed signs are quiz Ballachulish. The only purpose of such small but they set a dangerous precedent. signs is to attract the attention of no 11 motorists and any distraction puts safety If you are also concerned then please at risk. With the recent spate of tragic make your views known by commenting where in Kilmallie? accidents on our trunk roads and on the planning applications. Comments particularly the A82, we would hope that can be made on the ePlanning website and can anyone tell us the story Transport Scotland and Highland Council http://wam.highland.gov.uk/wam/ (old or new) behind it? falling of a Z is think forZ asleep trying tozzzzzzz would be doing all they can to improve application number 16/03894/ADV for

safety rather than doing things that they the Blar roundabout. know will make things worse. and who is Russell Leaper, Secretary the mysterious Mr E?

page 30 Y is for Your community Frazer,Peter Cameron, and Ferguson.a Cameron,Annie Band. 2nd picture: Donald Alex, Moy, a MacIntyre, Charlie MacIntyre,Jean Margaret Ferguson, Isobel Russell,Jean Russell,Mary fewnames... top picture:Ailsa Somerville, Jessie Flanigan, Minnie Livingstone, theon same day, butwhat year wasit? And who are they all? Neil’s given us a Thanks to NeilMacBride for thesephotos. They looklike theywere alltaken bygone banavie scholars ten years ago

we canwe share them with thecommunity. expandSheila’s then pleaseget in touch so that anyoneIf hasmemories of Kilmalliethat would based. MealMill land waswhere the YachtClub was Pointwhere thewartime village had been. The LinnheCaravan Park wasthen setup at Annat WaterMill land, where BSW Timber now is. The Laterthe andPulp PaperMill werebuilt on the were. - parkin1963. They gotland from Grandma Sutton Warehouseand branch out and create a caravan Sheilatells us that theydecided tosell The to The Royal Bank Building. next toWillie Colquhoun which eventuallymoved MacIntyreand The Post Office moved to a shed When theSuttons sold The Warehouse, Mrs Duncan, Butcher. WillieColquhoun, Greengrocer followedby Alex Otherbusinesses Sheila recalls fromthis time are this at time. The OfficePost partwas of Caledonian Warehouse and thelower walls darkgreen! upstairsas “horrendous”... 9 doors painted black thatday. She remembers thedécor ofthe house seenthe property beforeshe arrived with Mick on January1951 during a snowstorm! Sheila hadn't from EricMacSwan in1950 and moved inon 2 Sheilaand Mick bought Caledonian Warehouse Mick’spart in thehistory of this building. beenintouch to tell us ofher and her husband Colosseuminour June issue,Sheila Sutton has Followingthe photo ofThe West Highland Colosseum Highland the West land where theAnnat Meal Mill and Water Mill

Council. ofviews the newsletter team or of Kilmallie Community Viewsexpressed inthis newsletter are not necessarily the [email protected] Emailusat Mandy Ketchin ChadneySue JanMacLugash 772383 Christine Hutchison 772252 newsletterYour team: new for topics, new contributors and new volunteers. articles, and ideas for articles. Weare always the lookouton asAndever please letushave your stories,poems, pictures, know,you notis receiving their regularnewsletter. Kilmallieaddresses. Please letusknow if you,orsomeone comingand going, it hardisto anmaintain up newWith houses getting built all thetime, and businesses volunteers,itis hard to meet the costs. bottom(see right). Even with theinput from all our donations, and grant a from Lochaber Housing Association sponsorship money,KCC’s own verylimited funds, alldoneit is on a voluntary basis. The costsarefunded by for,pay and the cost just of a fewcopies that get postedout, couldn’t dowithout it you.Apart thefrom printing which we thewaysto production and delivery of the newsletter. We Thanksasalways to everyonewho contributes so in many Members Treasurer Secretary Chair checkwiththe Secretary incase of changes. every monthexcluding July and December. Please KilmallieCommunity Centre on the 4th Monday of meetings. Meetingsare currently held at 7:15pm in Membersthe of publicare welcomemost at allour COUNCIL COMMUNITY KILMALLIE

community community

kilmallie

Jim Jim Ramsay AnneCarol Campbell Mandy Ketchin [email protected] Salen,Banavie PH33 7LY JanMacLugash [email protected] House,Canal Banavie,PH33 7LY RussellLeaper [email protected] Christine Hutchison news

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date listdateof

to LochaberHousing Association which will helpto us continue to for theirgenerous grant £200 of thank you thank you to Kilmallie Community Council producenewsletter the allwith communicationwithin the (but in check Secretary with any of case last your andissues localaboutideas concerns within 14 days. Evenwithin 14ifdays. 20people thanless all welcome welcome all always try always to accommodate if urgent one discussed. discussed. If at least 20 (resident people meeting,we are obligedconvene oneto Remember you have to a don’t wait for 7:15pm at Kilmallie Centre Community and eligible toa special vote) request regularif something there meeting is its benefitsof regular request a special meeting,wewould urgent that you be needs think to minute changes or cancellations) meetings at KCC at KCC a big a big Monday 26th September Monday 28th November Monday 24th October community the place share to and practicable next meetings: next

page 3 A is for Annat page 4 B is for Badabrie Paul Peebles for photos. for Paul Peebles to John Thanks bridge. the canal at traffic heavy fast the facing Hobson Annette Tina and page: Jan, Co the to cross trying to after Donnelly Nicky and Meehan Chrissie with Tina, daughter her and MacLugash Jan KCC’s This page: and BEAR: Scotland to Transport difficulties our Demonstrating

of spectacles of which mimic my poor askingby them to tryon special a pair representatives how poormy visionis blindand Idemonstrated to the two hearted. pavement...not forthe faint getting your wheelchair ontoup the road,this inspeeding traffic, and contendto with...you try gettingacross wheelchairshave the problem of kerbs totrying cross. encounteredby the disabled when demonstratedthe difficulties touristsstruggle to cross. shownthe places where localsand organisations named above were representatives from the two highly are dangerous. maincrossing points on this roadand CorpachCo atvisits Banavie swingbridge and the Thismeeting involved us doingall site and myself,disableda local resident. LDAP(Lochaber Disability Access Panel) Scotlandand membersof KCC,the Transportfrom Scotland and BEAR wasarranged between representatives It tocame pass recently that a meeting the speedwith volumeand of traffic. nerve outwithtime,that theroad is still a theduring tourist season but even time of year with theincrease in traffic challengeto usall. disabilitya ornot, this roadais nimblein mind!)and whetherhaveyou sonimblenot on yourfeet (butstill school,oran oldand wise Highlander Whetheryou area weebairn at the for everyoneinthe community. alongthe A830 to makedaily life safer battling to havecrossings putin place editions of the newsletter, are we Asmanyof you will know from previous

- racking obstacleracking to getacross

In myown case,am I nearly - op.

Those ofus in

Both sitesthese are

Especially at this

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organisationscan do. safely thenthere nothingis the two Corpacharestruggling to cross this road localthe elderly folk in Banavieand ifweand provecan't to themthat all Scotlandhaveset a of rules workto to words,inplain English, Transport crossinghasto be ascertained. out,essentiallyand the demandfor a traffic and vehiculartraffic are worked donebe and percentages of pedestrian trafficlights and on.so Surveys have to when lookingat putting incrossings and criteriaand methodologyto work to wastheythat have strict guidelines, firstthe thing Transport Scotland said allthe problems we have with this road, sitethe visit had clearlydemonstrated overus. havinga bucketof cold waterthrown summarisedthe situation. Transportthe Scotland gentleman the of community hall inCorpach where meetingThe adjourned to the warmth non two equallythought carriedout witha wheelchair was eyesight. crossto this busy road withsolittle suitablyimpressed by the ideaof having cross. totrying judge whensafeitis to standingtheat side ofthe road and vision.Ithen asked them to imagine whichelicited the result, among other Co the Theytold usa survey wascarried out at

I'm pleased to saythat they were - op inopCorpach last 2015,May

- Whilst we werepleased that

disabledpeople. Likewise,the demonstration - provokingforthese

Itwas like Inother alltimes of the year andit's never easy. betweenthe lorries, cars, busesetc at livesbattling to get across thisroad in crossand we have to spend ourdaily eventhat so, the localsstill have to fewerhave tourists pointedbut I out carriedout inthe winter wemonths will survey.Unfortunately ifthis survey is moneyinthe budget to conducta looka and see ifthere wasenough TransportScotland would need to have surveyedyet and we were told that for localsand tourists, this hasnot been Banaviewhich is a majorcrossing point With regard theto swingbridge at dangerous. againwill because justit sois fact I haveonlyonce done so and never attempt thecrossing heremyself: in horrendous. outside layby the shop was vehicles of pulling inand out of the bothroad in directions and the number volumethe oftraffic goingalong the required!!!And yet, duringthe site visit, Co instead. friendsto getto where they want to go trywilland geta lift family from or scaredattemptto tocross the road and disabledresidents around here aretoo gentlementwo that elderlymost and crossingnecessary. isfigure toolow for them to deem a crossingwere elderly. things,that only8% of the people Contdoverpage - op concludedop that a crossing notis

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we plantedwe Germidour. Don't mention tomatoes! tried We some keptwe the seed from lastyear. The garlichas donewell: as usual thinkthat has helped. Broadbeans are best ever,really pleased as place. Wemanaged to get a loadofhorse manure in thespring so I a of clothes airer so will spread them on thatand put them indrya bulbs from thesoil and after afew days, lift them. We gota present ripen to them. Wait until thetops die down andthen loosen the Kelsaesthat he grew from seed.Just hopewe getsome more sun Onionsare great and Neil isvery happywith theMammoth and weatherrelated soIwill just lift what we can andfreeze them. Theleeks have grown well butare now going to seed: I think itis thisyear so back to thedrawing board. normal spring botheragain as there was no difference betweenthem and the thisapparently gives far better plants! I don'tthink so and won't brought I onsome sweet peas inOctober and over thisyear: somethings havedone really well and others notat all. Herewe are at the endofAugust. The garden isreala mixed bag chitty chitty chitty charabancchitty - plantedones. Actually they haven'tbeen good at all Does anyoneDoes recognise any of thepeople? Or know whether wasthis public transportaor private outing? Cananyone pinpoint the location? Or give us anyinformation about the vehicle? Or figureout thedate? fingers green Thanksagain to Andy Goodwin another for gemfrom his photo archive.

- winteredthem:

MoragMackell flowers. of hopefor an Indian summerand a late show springbulbs and hyacinths forChristmas, but, inthe meantime, In thenext weekor twoIwill be poring through thecatalogues for buyingChristmas cards inJanuary. forget tolabel them and putthem somewhere safe.A bit like Troubleiswith this, Igather seeds, putthem inpaper bagsthen collectseed andkeep it fornext year: it savesmoney I believe. Thegardening programmes tell us thatthis is thetime of year to bothhave done brilliantly! tacklingground elderand bindweed: can'tsay itwas successful as spent I quitea lotoftime in the earlysummer with weedkiller reallywell whilst others have beenwrecked with the wind and rain. see'. I haveadded totheclematis family andsome have done Soall. far havebeen unable to find answeran so it's a 'wait and bin to them and buy some more, but thatwon't be any hardship at spotsand theflowers are badly damaged: mayit meanI will have Weusually have lovelypots of liliesbut this year theyall haverust themselves. Strawberries notgreat due rain, to slugs, and dogs helping gotthem first. Blackcurrants were good as were redcurrants. to geta cropthis year. Ibelieve we had gooseberries but thesawfly Thecarrots havebeen hiding under Enviromeshso we are hoping lotsofchilli plants, but onlyone lonely little chilli, poor weesoul. though. Ibelieve therea is good recipe for pickling them. We have thenthe sun forgot to shine! Wedo have quitea fewcucumbers different varieties: they grew well, got pottedonin good time and

page 29 X is for Xcellent place to live in primary schools – which was a lot warmer and drier! - as part Contd from previous page page 28 of our education programme. Sadly funding for education work page 5 From a personal perspective I was sat at this focus on is getting thin on the ground so we can’t do as much- a shame as I enjoy working with children and raising awareness of local meeting feeling like one of those volcanoes that This time our focus is on conservation issues. start rumbling and smoking before they actually Lucy Smith, who lives at erupt... mercifully I managed NOT to erupt but it folk Muirshearlich. I am definitely an outdoor person and enjoy lots of outdoor was pretty close. Is it just me, am I alone in this world in pursuits. I had never skied before moving up to Lochaber so I thinking that human lives and safety are far more important took ski lessons up at Nevis Range and now ski locally and I was born in Leicestershire but from the age of 7 I was brought then codes of practice, guidelines and methodology? I felt abroad. When I was young I had access to boats as my dad ran up in Abergavenny – a market town in South Wales where my we had demonstrated very vividly to Transport Scotland and narrow boat hire on the Monmouth canals, and we had several parents ran a canal boat business. At the age of 13 I set my BEAR that there is a real danger with this road, and to be fair family holidays canoeing through canals and rivers. I've learned heart on becoming a marine biologist and followed this through the two representatives did say they understood and to sail at the local sailing club and am now a keen sailor. I'm to university. I studied at Liverpool. This was an interesting and trying to accrue plenty of hours in boats with the aim of appreciated the situation and would put crossings in vibrant city well before it was named European City of Culture eventually being able to volunteer as a dinghy sailing instructor tomorrow if they could, but they are bound by the in 2008. for the club. I do admit that sometimes, after a wet and tiring guidelines...

Having had 2 years enjoying city life, I spent my final year in the day wading in a river, I can be a bit loath to get cold and damp They did ask us if we could provide evidence that folk were relative tranquillity of the Isle of Man where Liverpool Uni has a again sailing a dinghy on chilly Loch Linnhe! I certainly enjoyed having difficulties in crossing the road, and they were really is a case now of not if, but when, I get hit by a moving a sailing holiday I had in Greece once: it was a lot warmer on the research station for marine biology. Much of this final year was especially keen to know how many people were vehicle. When this happens, because there has been a water as well as loving the local Greek food! My lifestyle theme spent doing fieldwork on beaches and boats so I always think I affected. We pointed out to them that KCC had conducted a fatality, then the organisations responsible for road safety chose my degree subject well! I then went on to start a PhD on is definitely water: I love open water swimming especially going questionnaire, which you may remember was in the last will HAVE to put crossings in place. It's just a pity someone the Common Scoter duck, which is a threatened species. The out to Arisaig and Smirisary with my snorkel. I feel that you can will have to die first. As a community, full of caring and good see just as much of our fascinating underwater flora and fauna newsletter, and that thanks to a good response we had location I was looking at (Carmarthen Bay) became the first folk, we need to pull together and make a concerted effort with a snorkel as with full diving gear – and with much less proven that a large number of locals had had problems or marine Special Protected Area (SPA) in the UK in 2003. to lobby these organisations and prove to them once and for hassle and expense. My dog - a 6 year old Munsterlander-collie- concerns about this road. Sadly, this doesn't seem to be My university studies set me up for my first conservation job – cross, Tia, also ensures that I get plenty of outdoor activity! She enough for Transport Scotland. Short of every resident of all that the NEED for crossings is there, the DEMAND for with the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust. Many readers will have usually comes with me to work and I've even introduced her to pensionable age getting in touch with us and stating they crossings is there and the LIVES of people here are daily heard of them – they work nationally and internationally to going on a boat. have had trouble crossing this road, I can't see what else we being put at risk. safeguard and improve wetlands for wildlife and plants. I was can do to persuade these bureaucracy-bound organisations I do have inside interests as well; I enjoy reading and doing yoga Come on - let's do it! based in Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. My job involved flying at to do something about this road before someone dies. very low levels - 250 feet - over the coastline of England and and I love baking. Just about the only programme I watch is If you’ve not already done so, please help by Wales surveying and mapping bird populations and logging ‘Bake Off’ and my current favourite cake is lemon meringue Most days of the week I have to cross this road either to get Annette filling in KCC’s survey online at seasonal variations. I hasten to add that I was not actually cake. I help with the catering at the yacht club, so can indulge to the shops/post office in Caol or to walk my dogs or to get Hobson https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/DHKQ9F3 piloting the plane! my interest without having to eat it all myself. to and from bus stops. With my rapidly failing eyesight it

In 2006 a Wildlife and Wetlands Trust project saw me coming Lucy Smith up to survey bird breeding in Scotland. This was my first visit to Scotland and I thought "Wow!" and just knew that I wanted to live here, especially on the west coast. So I started looking out for jobs and since 2007 I've been working for Lochaber Fisheries slower, safer, smilier Trust. The Trust was set up in 1996 following concern about declining numbers of salmon and sea trout and is a charity dedicated to improving and raising awareness of the fish populations and freshwater habitats in Lochaber. My job is an incredibly varied one so it's extremely interesting. We monitor some hops in right direction fish numbers and health in the rivers and along the coastline, In July, I attended a meeting organised by Transport As well as this, Transport Scotland and BEAR will now also - survey the habitats and work on the eradication of invasive Scotland in response to the Banavie Parent Council  provide an indicative programme species (such as Japanese knotweed and non-native crayfish) to correspondence with them this year regarding the road  review controlled crossing criteria and fit with the C is for Corpach protect our native species. It's quite a physical job- such as safety issues on the A830 at the school road end. The junction (it is unlikely that a controlled crossing will when I need to carry heavy monitoring and sampling equipment meeting was also attended by Mrs Dunham (Banavie be installed at the school road end as the school is up the hill to a river, and it often involves getting cold and wet Primary’s head teacher), representatives from Fort William the only activity which generates crossing wading into the rivers and along the shoreline. My work police, Highland Council roads department, BEAR Scotland, movements, unlike the High School and Inverlochy uniform is waders and waterproofs! I used to spend more time Kilmallie Community Council and by Cllr Ben Thompson. crossings)  review surface colour on the carriageway Five residents of Corpach and Banavie are half. Previous speakers have included The main reason for the meeting was for BEAR and  review signage on the approach to the junction. W is for West Highland Railway W is for Highland West part of a local group called Friends make-up sessions, local history talks, Transport Scotland to present a draft plan for improvements friends Together. hairdressing, slide shows and much more. to the A830 at the school road end and for them to ensure When the detailed plans are received, the intention is to They also organise monthly outings that they had covered all issues with the current road hold a meeting at the school for any feedback from parents Friends Together was started in January which include ten pin bowling, shows, layout. The intention is to bring the bell mouth of the school and carers. together 2003 for women who are on their own dinners and day trips. There have been road further into the A830 which will in turn widen the through bereavement or separation. The holidays and weekends away. In the footpath at each road end corner and decrease the width of Banavie Parent Council is very pleased aim of the group is to provide support summer they hold a buffet evening and the crossing point from 11.1m to 8.5m. The works are with the positive approach being taken and friendship and to provide an quiz, and a Christmas buffet evening in expected to be “on road” by March. by Transport Scotland and BEAR opportunity to meet up with others who December. towards our continued concerns for are in a similar situation. The draft plan appears to achieve the desired result of the safety of the school children They have approximately 20 members The group meets on the first Wednesday and new members are always welcome, slowing the traffic by reducing the width of the carriageway, crossing the A830 at the top of of each month in The Braxi Hall, as are speakers for the group. You can and the police representative expects it to achieve positive the Banavie School road end. Inverlochy at 7pm. They usually have a contact Carolyn MacLeod on 01397 results. We have asked Transport Scotland to look at further speaker for the first part and have teas 700995. reducing the width of the carriageway, which is an option Louise Pescod and a get-together during the second for them. Banavie Parent Council alleviate any traffic and road related As per previous newsletter articles, I through his witty and informative But there is more work to be done and page 6 issues and our trunk road policing group would welcome any feedback or cartoon sketches. I would recommend many more isolated people to reach, as page 27 community along with regular operational police comments on local Policing in the anyone to take 10 minutes to watch ’23 well as people who just need a little

officers are doing their utmost to ensure Kilmallie or Lochaber area. and 1/2 Hours: What is the single best support to make the first steps. I would

road safety continues to be a priority. Andrew Bilton, Police Sergeant thing we can do for our health?’ like to encourage anyone who thinks a policing Liaison Officer for Kilmallie Community led walking group may appeal to them, In other news, I would like to remind the Council The long wait for the Lochaber summer His key messages in terms of exercise as to get in touch with either myself or local residents of Kilmallie and those [email protected] seems set to continue but that didn’t medicine are: with the volunteers directly. throughout Lochaber and beyond of the mean there was any delay in the schools  ANYTHING is better than NOTHING! starting back for the autumn term. Over new legislation that comes into force on Police Service of Scotland January 1st 2017 in respect of air Fort William Police Station  and just 30 minutes a day will have Likewise if anyone would like to put the coming weeks we will look to renew weapons. BLAR MOR, Fort William significant health benefits. themselves forward as a volunteer walk our links with local schools, community leader then please also get in touch. councils and other partner agencies. PH33 7GA  Step It Up Highland offers weekly led We can provide free training, expenses Legislation under the Air Weapon and Local, led and health walks by dedicated and trained and ongoing support for anyone I’m sure you’ll all agree that this summer Licensing (Scotland) Act 2015 makes it an Tel. 101 has been particularly busy with traffic as offence for a person to use, possess, for non-emergency inclusive health walks volunteer walk leaders. We are proud interested. In the coming months we more overseas tourists take advantage of purchase or acquire an air weapon on your doorstep to say that we are the biggest health will be advertising and holding a one a strong euro/dollar, whilst we also enjoy without holding an air weapon certificate. walk organization in the UK in terms of day Walk Leader Training course in Caol

the usual influx of domestic tourists who For any further information please go to: walking groups and this is no mean feat Community Centre. This is a nationally Being active is essential for our health, flock to experience all that the beautiful www.scotland.police.uk/whats- given that we cover an area the size of recognized award, developed by ‘Paths Highlands has to offer. Police Scotland happening/airweapons we all know that. It is drummed in to Belgium! There are 34 groups spread for All’ and is a great foundation to remain committed to doing all we can to us. But it's one thing saying it and across the Highlands, 8 of which are in anyone’s journey as they develop the another putting it into action. Lochaber. Caol, Fort William, skills for being a walk leader. We also Experience has shown time and again Ballachulish and Kilchoan are well offer first aid training and refresher Caol Regeneration Company that walking is one of the best ways to established walking groups that have courses and walk leader regional become active and to remain active. been serving their communities for over meetings to share ideas and There is no cost involved in walking, it a decade. This year we developed 3 experiences. Consultation, Thurs 6th Oct can be at any level of exertion, it is new Lochaber groups: in the Mallaig

The project to develop a public slipway and together with their consulting engineers, Arch social and it can benefit our physical, area, the Spean Bridge area and The most local Step It Up Highland marina adjacent to Corpach Sea Lock, to be called Henderson, will be on hand to answer any mental and social health all at the same Invergarry. Health walk is in Caol, meeting every the Thomas Telford Corpach Marina, comes a step questions you might have. time. Monday in the Lochy Bar at 2pm before nearer next month with a public consultation Thanks to our fantastic volunteers, embarking on a canal side walk. Walk event in the Kilmallie Community Centre. The consultation will be held between 3.30pm At Step It Up Highland we have begun and 6.30pm on Thursday 6th October in the some of whom are very new to walk- leaders can cater the walk according to As part of the process for securing a Marine Kilmallie Community Centre, and all are to view walking as a type of medicine. leading, these communities have been your ability and walks can range from Scotland licence to construct the marina, welcome. We have first hand experience of really brought together through the 10 minutes to around an hour. Bill drawings of the proposed development will be on walkers who not only manage medical shared experience of regular walking. Gibbons is the local contact on 01397 Chris Strong, Caol Regeneration Company display, and representatives of the marina group conditions, but have even cured 772405.

conditions such as diabetes through As the Lochaber co-ordinator for this I Here are the local applications that we’ve noticed on the Weekly Lists in the last three months, up to week regular walking. Walking is even being have been very moved by the personal I can be contacted through ending 02/09/16. Some may already have been determined. For further information about Weekly Planning ‘prescribed’ by GP's who see on a daily stories of the new confidence this has [email protected] or 07769 294157 plans Lists, see the Sept 2014 edition of Kilmallie Community News. If you would like to receive weekly lists by email, basis the impact that low fitness can brought to people, new friendships or visit our website www.pfw.org.uk. please contact KCC Secretary. have on our health. In fact low fitness made, old ones renewed, stories of PIP = Permission in Principle, FUL = Full Application, LBC = Listed Building Consent. is one of the biggest killers, beyond individuals who have been unable to If you or your organization would like to PNO = Prior Notification, MSC = Matters Specified in Conditions (ie typically follow-up details to a permission heart disease, diabetes, cancer and leave the house suddenly exploring find out more we look forward to afoot already granted), OHL = Overhead Electricity Line, ADV = Advertisement obesity. There is research to suggest their local area and people who just hearing from you and to continuing to that even the dangers of obesity are Roundabout advertisement signage. generally feel better. Others have found build on the momentum for getting 29/08/16 16/03894/ADV significantly offset if fitness levels are D Druim Fada is for Land 95M NE Of 1 Blar Mhor Industrial Estate Lochyside Fort William that their exercise has snowballed as more active! raised, with or without weight loss. they have found a desire to be more Section 42 application for the removal of Condition 2 of planning permission 06/00342/FULLO to allow 12/08/16 16/03616/S42 active throughout the week. There is no Vicky Dodman permanent residential use, Shepherd's Rest Torcastle Banavie A fascinating YouTube clip by Dr Mike doubt that the benefits can be far Erection of Steel frame, PVC Fabric Clad Boat Shed, new slipway (800 ton capacity with 4 rail system) Smith explains this message brilliantly 05/08/16 16/03377/FUL reaching and limitless. and improvements of existing slipway, The Slipway Annat Pier Corpach

03/08/16 16/03459/FUL Erection of house and detached garage, Old Railway Embankment South Of Daylesford Banavie

Removal of restriction to holiday use to allow permanent residential use 19/07/16 16/03174/FUL Oak Cottage Torcastle Banavie Proposed Erection of single storey 3 bed dwelling and associated garage 30/06/16 16/02831/FUL House Plot 3 South Of Coilleras Wilson Way Banavie

Alteration of garage extension to form self catering unit, erection of extension and formation of 24/06/16 16/02841/FUL parking area. Mirador Badabrie Corpach

Use of property as dwellinghouse (Deletion of condition 3 of planning permission -LO 1990-182), 20/06/16 16/02673/FUL 1 Laragain Cottages, Banavie V is for very informative, very enjoyable newsletters very V enjoyable informative, is for very 08/06/16 16/00689/FUL Erection of deck area, 6 Pobs Drive Corpach

Demolition of garage and erection of replacement garage/bedroom extension, 07/06/16 16/02299/FUL 13 Hillview Drive, Corpach Hi. My name is Donald MacRae. I have not long returned page 26 from a trip to Kigali, Rwanda. I went with a group of football East Lochaber and Laggan Community Trust page 7 Rwanda coaches, an SFA chaplain from Kilsyth and my dad Kiki, who is the chaplain for Fort William football club. Hallo. Is mise Domhnall MacRrath. Chan eil fad o thill mi bho cuairt gu Kigali, Rwanda. Fhuair mo cothrom a dhol ann We went to share our skills with the coaches and children comhla ri buidhuin de coidsean ball coise bho Dhun-Eideinn , over there. What struck me the most was the joy and seaplain ball-coise bho Kilsyth agus m’athair, Kiki a tha na gratitude of those people despite their poverty. They can fair sheaplain aig club ball-coise An Gearasdan. You have probably been hearing about the These ordinary members elect the Board. In the normal way, these initial directors will pass and control a ball too! Maybe we should get a few of Trust that was set up to try to buy the Rio The Trust has no shareholders, each stand down by rotation at annual general their players over here! Chaidh sinn ann airson leasachadh sgilean ball coise gu clann Tinto Aluminium Estate for the surrounding member has one vote and members’ liability meetings and the future directors will be community. To explain the background, the is capped at £1. elected by the members. agus coidsean thall an sin. Se an rud a sheas a mach as The genocide that happened 22 years ago in Rwanda, was Trust has provided KCC with the answers to motha an uair a bha mi ann, cho toilichte agus cho tainegeal too horrific to even try to describe in words. It lingered in my some frequently asked questions. Youngsters aged between 12 - 15 can also What about the smelter? agus a bha na daoine an sin am miosg am bochdainn aca. join as Junior members. The Trust does not intend to bid for the mind every day on the trip. It was very humbling to see that Agus is tha fior fhios aca ciamar a chumas iad smachd air am What is the East Lochaber and industrial operations – the smelter and main the survivors and victims had managed to forgive the Why now? bala nuair a tha iad a cluiche ball-coise! Gur docha gum bu accused murderers and were working together to bring Laggan Community Trust? hydro power stations at Fort William and choir dhuin cuid de na cluichdeadairean aca a thoirt a nall a The Trust was set up in response to Rio Kinlochleven – but instead to own the Estate peace to their country. The Trust is a company limited by guarantee Tinto Aluminium’s announcement in January seo! (SC 533796). Profits must be reinvested in lands and the potential industrial land that they would be undertaking a strategic around the smelter. The Trust will want to Some people would say of football “It’s only a game.” But the local community and directors cannot review. The Trust aims to own the Estate – Bho chion fichead agus a dha bliadhna air ais thachair sgrios be paid. Its governing document, called the work with other companies who would own one special occasion in Rwanda, when I was playing footie around 115,000 acres, believed to be under- the smelter and the two main power cinnidh ann a Rwanda , tha e robh dhulich a chuir ann am articles of association, can be seen on the utilised and potentially profitable- with a with a group of 30 disabled children and seeing the website below. stations. briathran cho uamhasach agus a bha seo. Bha na smaointain view to protecting employment and creating enormous joy it gave them 6,148 miles across the world – substantial opportunities for the agam gach latha air an turras agam air an tachartas seo. Se made me realise there is an awful lot more to it than that! Can I be a member? How can I help? rud isealachadh a tha ann a bhi faicinn daoine a thanig communities and local businesses. A Your membership of the Trust is vital. We Anyone can join. Ordinary members are feasibility assessment is underway at the troimh an sgrios cinnidh a seo. Chunnaic mi neach fulaing a Home again and seeing those aged 16 or over on the electoral roll must demonstrate to Rio Tinto, the Scottish toirt seachad mathanas gu murtair agus iad ag obair comhla time of writing (early September). Government and to funders that there is the wars and conflicts within the Community Council areas of: significant community desire to own the airson sith an duthaich aca. that continue to happen  Kilmallie Who are the directors and how  Caol land around us. Apply to become a member today, which we witness are they elected? today through our website below or using Tha cuid ag radh mu dheidhinn ball-coise “Se direach geam  Fort William on our TVs in the comfort The initial directors are: the enclosed forms. For more forms, phone cluich a tha ann”. Ach, air aon latha gu sonnraichte, ann a  Inverlochy & Torlundy of our homes, made me  John Hutchison, Badabrie (Chair) Christine or John Hutchison on 01397  Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge and Rwanda, nuair a bha mi a cluiche ‘footie’ comhla ri  772252. understand we have a lot Achnacarry Patricia Jordan, Fort William buidheann de trithead clann ciorramach agus a faichinn an  to be thankful for. Many  Nether Lochaber Campbell Slimon, Laggan toileachas mor fhuair iad , 6,148 mile tarsainn an -t saoghal –  Flora McKee, Inverlochy For more information, visit our website: of our moans and groans,  Glencoe & Glen Etive bha fhios agam gur e fad air bharrach na geam a tha ann am  www.eastlochaberlaggan.scot seem relatively small in  Kinlochleven and Ben Thompson, Erracht and ball-cois!  and find us on Facebook and Twitter. comparison with those  Laggan. Andrew Baxter, Kinlochleven. who have suffered and Tha mi a nis air ais agus a faichinn air an telebhisean, bho

continue to suffer KCC’s sketch map showing the cofhurtachd mo dhachaidh, stri agu cogadh a tha a dol air because of man’s approximate area of land that is adhart an diugh. Tha mi a tuigsuinn nas motha na bha mi inhumanity to man. riamh roimhe cho taingeal s tha corr againn a bhi. Tha na involved (shown dotted). Boundaries are only approximate. gromhan againn beag ri toabh iadsan a tha fulaing air sgath Donald Macrae mi-dhaonnachd fear ri fear. E is for Erracht E Erracht is for U is for Banavie Upper as some females take turn in looking after a crèche of page 8 ducklings, whilst other mothers have a better chance to page 25 our Highland councillors’ corner wild about feed. This time we asked our three Highland Councillors: Drakes play little part in rearing their offspring. Goosander Is it acceptable to you that Highland Council (or its Pension Fund) invest heavily in the arms industry and the tobacco industry? males depart in May for northern Scandinavia where they kilmallie form moulting flocks, returning in late October. The ducks As the Highland Council is mainly a I do believe that Highland Council, or scrutinise every company and their moult locally once their broods have been fledged in July on borrower of funds I do not see the more correctly the pension companies dealings, especially as pension Sawbills the sea lochs. Conversely, the merganser drakes moult much requirement to, or the possibility, to administering the fund, do not go out committees only meet on a 3 monthly Amongst the more handsome of the ducks seen in Kilmallie closer to home in coastal waters around Scotland. Already invest heavily in either industry. and deliberately pick arms or tobacco basis. waters are the goosander and red-breasted merganser. this year we have seen large congregations of over fifty birds However, as a very prudent and ethical companies to invest in. Certainly the These are present in both Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe for most in Loch Linnhe, but far larger concentrations may be found pension provider that is a different councillors who oversee this fund and An interesting Freedom of Information, of the year as well as the River Lochy and its tributaries and on the east coast. During the moult it is even more difficult matter, with real funds of the investment policy would not granted to a Sarah Roberts is on-line Lochs Lochy and Arkaig. Together with the smew, a small, to distinguish males and females. By the time the males approximately 1 and a quarter billion advocate this source for income and gives a full run-down of the striking black and white duck very rarely seen on the west return to the west coast in the autumn they have regained pounds, belonging to local government generation. Highland Council has a clear holdings by Highland Council Pension coast, they are the British representatives of the sawbill their splendid breeding plumages. and other local service providers’ policy, listed on-line, stating its Fund as at October 2015. While it is family. These are so-named because of their long, thin bills employees to invest. I would certainly Investment strategy and principles. easy to criticise pension funds I would with serrated edges, and often a hooked tip, specially Mergansers are often joined by large numbers of mainly advocate that Highland Council Pension Social, environmental and ethical issues like to commend the work of the designed for catching fish. Although both mergansers and Icelandic birds for the winter, but most of our goosanders fund scheme does not invest heavily in must be taken into consideration. The councillors who earnestly do their best goosanders will catch small trout and salmon parr, they eat a will be local and form smaller flocks. Both species pair up arms or the tobacco industry. But then I council has instructed its Investment to get the most for ex-employees of wide range of small fish such as sprats, and particularly in during the winter, and the males have spectacular displays in also ask the question--- Is it right to managers to take into account all these Highland Council and may I suggest that the case of goosander, frogs. On several occasions locally I which they extend their necks and head straight up into the invest in alcohol companies, sugar key principles. However it does they look at funding homes for rent, in have seen both species struggling to swallow rather larger air and call. The sight of a large mixed flock of mergansers in companies, or whatever companies are recognise that not all risks can be conjunction with private providers, to prey such as flatfish. the throes of courtship is one of the sights of the Lochaber bad for people’s health, rather than eliminated or even minimised. What is ease the housing waiting list. winter. The area between Corpach and Lochy Mouth is a pension wealth? Where do you stop important is that they are managed. The goosander is the larger of our two species, with the male good place to look for sawbills and a variety of other ducks investing? That question is best Large conglomerates do from time to Cllr Allan Henderson boasting a striking pinky-white body and a green head. The at this time of year, and can enliven a winter walk. answered by those receiving Highland time merge, or take over other drake merganser has a punky crest, a brownish-red, speckled Council pensions, some of which are conglomerates, who may have tenuous breast and a delicately marked body. The females are much Jon Mercer, Glenloy Wildlife very modest and augmenting hard connections to arms and tobacco more alike, being largely grey-brown with a reddish head, pressed pensioners’ budgets. industries. That makes it very difficult to hence their collective name of redheads (that also applies to similarly marked juveniles). The head markings of the duck Local Councillors have been asked for responsibility for management of the Tobacco falls into the same category as merganser are less tidy than those of the goosander, with a their views on Highland Council and its fund. Employees are not given the above, the balance between ethical scruffier appearance and less defined line between the head Pension Fund investments in the option of how the fund is managed but investments and the balance of risk and and the neck. In flight both male and female mergansers tobacco and arms industries. As an Trade Unions are represented on the return. have notably more white on the wings than goosanders.

individual, I abhor the idea of monies Pensions Board which has oversight of being invested in the arms and tobacco the fund performance and The consequences of pulling out of The merganser winters almost exclusively around the coast, industries. Nevertheless, it is important management. Highland Council has not those investments would have an effect breeding on our sheltered sea lochs and inland freshwater to open up the background to this made any direct investments in the on the Pension Fund. So, if you start lochs, particularly on islands and grassy margins where there question. It is worth noting that the UK manufacture of arms. The Pension Fund reducing the investment opportunities, is some protection from predators. The goosander is more Government, like all western invests with seven different fund we create additional financial pressures often at home on rivers and river estuaries, nesting away governments, is involved in arms managers and the overall value of the on the fund which will have implications from the main rivers along small tributaries such as the Loy. investments. While many people speak Pension Fund as at 31 December 2015 for Highland Council. This, in turn, The goosander prefers to nest in holes in trees, close to F is forF Fassfern water, often using the same site year after year. The

out against investing monies in the arms was 1.4Bn. Of those fund managers, would result in additional costs to local T is for Torcastle industry, they still vote for candidates three have made investments in taxpayers. ducklings are light enough to easily survive the drop from who will cast their vote in support of companies which have some areas the nest to the ground, from where they are quickly escorted renewing Trident and investing monies which may be categorised as “defence”, If the Council opted for more ethical to the water. Both species can have large clutches of 8-12 in the arms industry. As for Local e.g. through these fund managers, investments, we would have to increase light blue eggs. We recently watched a large brood of 12 Government, and in particular Highland monies have been invested in Lockheed employee contributions to compensate. large merganser youngsters escorted by a single female on Council’s involvement, the following is Martin, the contractor for the Trident Loch Arkaig. These may not have been all her own, however, my personal view on the matter. Nuclear Weapons system, meaning that If the electorate were of a mind, they some Scottish Local Authorities like could decide to make it an election issue The facts are these. Highland Council Highland are helping to finance the firm and vote only for those candidates who and the Highland Council Pension Fund behind Trident despite the Scottish will commit to instruct fund managers are two separate entities. The Pension Parliament voting to oppose renewal. to make ethical investments with the Fund has its own governance structures. Like me, until recently, I doubt if many aforementioned consequences Highland Council is the administering Highland Councillors were aware of and to this end, the electorate authority for the fund. The Council has Highland Council’s involvement, albeit have the answer in their own set up the Highland Council Pensions indirectly through their fund managers, hands. Committee which acts as trustee of the in monies being invested in the arms fund to make decisions and take sector and the tobacco industry. Cllr Bill Clark

Another beautiful and interesting boat through the canal in the last At the end of August I welcomed the concerned about the traffic jams at the will also attend a meeting with Banavie few days is the Williams II. Originally named Haabet, she is 24 Scottish Government’s Transport Minister Inverlochy and Lochybridge roundabouts. Primary School’s Parent Council on 5 tonnes and nearly 24m long, and was built in Denmark in 1914 as a Humza Yousaf to Lochaber. There was a September to discuss how the road could be helpful meeting with Mr Yousaf and a range On each trip to Fort William during August I Baltic trader. She is twin skinned with oak on oak frames, and ketch safer for school children. of local representatives at Ferguson’s have been absolutely astonished at the rigged. She has been refitted by the Blyth Tall Ship project in Transport headquarters in Corpach. length of the tailbacks – after a constituency Please don't hesitate to get in touch with preparation for the 200th anniversary recreation of Captain William visit to Spean Bridge I sat in a five-mile me if I can assist you in any way, either by Smith’s voyage that discovered the land of Antarctica in 1819. She After that, the Transport Minister travelled queue for about an hour trying to get into telephone 01349 863 888, by is almost exactly the same hull size and configuration as the original in one of Ferguson’s HGVs to Onich to the town. email [email protected] or Williams brig but with a much more efficient rig. experience some of the difficulties on and around the A82. The 16-mile journey took in person at my Fort William surgery on 16 This is bad enough for commuters, but if we The expedition aims to recreate the historic voyage to the South 40 minutes. It’s no secret that there is a lot September at 1-2pm in the hall at of work to do on the A82, and recent factor in patients attending urgent medical Shetlands and Antarctica as accurately as possible, whilst A local webcam shows that not all visitors to the canal are human Duncansburgh MacIntosh Parish Church. accidents and tailbacks have reminded us appointments and blue-light emergencies symbolically restoring the confidence of the Blyth community. As But not all visitors to the canal appear to be being well served at how critical this work is. In fact, it’s a matter the situation is totally unacceptable. Kate Forbes well as training young people in modern engineering skills through the moment. It is disappointing to hear that all the great work so of life and death. I believe there’s an urgent need for capital the medium of heritage boatbuilding and restoration, the project is far by Friends of Banavie Park, fundraising and planning for a Constituency MSP for Skye Lochaber and Whilst there’s no overnight quick fix, I investment in some sort of access road at inspiring life changing decisions for youngsters, 60 of whom will brilliant makeover of the children’s play area, has been blighted Badenoch believe there are some basic improvements Caol/An Aird to take pressure off the main have the opportunity to sail on the voyage and take part in valuable (we hope not for ever) by Scottish Canals’ ongoing deliberations – such as cutting back overhanging trees artery of the A82, as well as providing an science and heritage research that will inform future generations. about proposals for Neptune’s Staircase car park. John and the Scottish National Party and draining ditches – which would make a alternative route in the event of closure. I local team always do their best for the community interest - what a Member of the following Many boats like the Williams II have a fascinating story to tell as big difference and could be carried out fairly hope to meet with the Transport Minister pity that head office all too often seem Committees: they transit the canal. With the backdrop of Telford’s historic quickly, at low costs. later in the year to further discuss the issue. engineering, their journeys down Neptune’s Staircase provide a to do the opposite - as we have seen  Environment, Climate so often here in Kilmallie. It is also Fort William and its surrounding In closing, I’m fully behind the campaign to Change and Land Reform

fantastic visitor experience, with far more intrinsic interest and

relevance even than the kelpiettes. worrying if the proposal for car communities have had an exceptionally make the A830 safer, and have raised this Committee (Member) parking charges has not gone busy tourist year, and that’s great news. But matter with Transport Scotland. It's a  European and External Couldn’t more be done to publicise interesting imminent transits away. We hope KCC will we need a functioning road to cope with all particular challenge for the elderly and Relations Committee(Substitute so that visitors and residents can have the best chance of catching continue to object to of the traffic and I’m becoming increasingly those with disabilities to cross the road. I Member) them on the Staircase? A phone app perhaps? And a notice board this. displaying expected arrivals? Rhoda Grant David Stewart Our regional list Scottish Labour Scottish Labour S Stroneis for

young people aged 14-18 summer break on Saturday 27th August concessions at £3 are available from the 'Jenny Cameron' years. 10am. This is the perfect time for new Charles Kennedy Library in the school or Forthcoming home fixtures telephone 01397 702512. As seats are players to join and we are currently A Musical Play Biometrics recruiting new boys and girls to come along numbered and tickets will sell out Our School Meals Service ‘Jenny Cameron’ links current Highland quickly, you are advised to book soon to Date Kick Off Team Team and join us. If you are in P3 to P7 and like issues to the lessons of the past. This operates a biometrics option for avoid disappointment. purchasing meals and snacks. This 24 Sep 16 15.00 Lochaber RAF Lossiemouth running around playing games outside, we year’s school show is a brand new would like you to come and join in the fun musical, written and composed by New staff means that – as well as being able to 01 Oct 16 15.00 Lochaber Ross Sutherland access their school meals account by with us. George Young, whose previous musicals We have welcomed six new teachers to 15 Oct 16 15.00 Lochaber Moray use of a National Entitlement card (NEC) have premiered at Lochaber High the school who are pictured on their 19 Nov 16 14.00 Lochaber Stornoway card or PIN – our pupils can also use All you need to start with is some old School and moved on to great acclaim first day (left to right): Miss Rigney, nd finger print recognition. We have used 03 Dec 16 14.00 Lochaber Highland 2 at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Set in History; Miss Sutherland, Physics; Miss clothes, football boots or trainers and a this system successfully for over a year 26 Dec 16 14.00 BOXING DAY PRESIDENT’S MATCH modern times and bursting with MacGillivray, Maths; Miss Ewing, PE; warm top. and have found that it allows us to contemporary, upbeat songs, this latest Mr McKee, English and Miss McEwan, deliver a faster, more efficient service. show tells the tale of how Jenny Biology New players of all abilities are welcome – Cameron, a young girl from East The Hike Kilbride, is forced by family if you fancy giving rugby a try, come and see us at Banavie. The sun shone for our annual circumstances to move to Fort William, st fundraising ’Hike’ on 6 September. Over We are 1 left after the Moorings Hotel where she becomes involved in local 600 pupils took part in the seven-mile controversy and explores her www.lochaberrfc.co.uk sponsored walk from the school to the heritage. The story links current issues Rural Complex at Torlundy and back affecting the Highlands to the ghosts of with the event led by Sixth Years in the past. fancy dress. Tired walkers had their Performances are at 7.30 pm on Highland Youth lunch stop at the Rural Complex Tuesday 27, Wednesday 28 and Parliament Elections enlivened by a visit from Nuallan, a visiting four-piece band from Cape Thursday 29 September in the school Elections are taking place this term for Breton, currently touring as part of the hall. Full price tickets at £5 and membership of the Highland Youth Blas festival.

The purpose of the ‘Hike’ is to raise money for extra-curricular activities in the school with 10% going to a

children’s charity to be chosen by the elected Pupil Voice. It is hoped that, when all sponsor money pledged has been collected, the ‘Hike’ will raise over £7,000.

Thanks to all those who took part: it was a great day out and the funds raised will give a welcome boost to our School Fund. As always, Mr MacLean, H is for High School H Highis for Depute Head Teacher, organised Lochy RRiver is for everything well and we’re grateful to Isobel and Linda Campbell of the Rural Complex, the Police and the Forestry Commission for their support.

We are all looking forward to the Anyone wishing to attend new season of art workshops, workshops will be made very starting with Edinburgh-based welcome. Jemma Derbyshire who returns in If you would like to see the October with a colour workshop, programme in more detail please 'Understanding Colour'. visit our website: Following that, Highland artlochaber.co.uk landscape artist Jonathan Shearer or contact secretary Dorothy on from Alness will lead a landscape 01855 82129 or ring Lorna on workshop in November. Both will 01397 772806. be held in Glencoe Visitor Centre. Lorna Finlayson page 22 Q is for Quarry year. Kilmallie1stTeam arehaving a great 6 beating Caberfeidh BalliemoreCup theon 16th July after play. NationalDivision with 4games to 1stTheteam arenow top of the wasa greatday, nightand weekend! Drumnadrochitto support the club everyoneto who travelled up to BalliemoreCup, the officialsgame and bus,ShielBuses, the sponsors of the toyou Ronnie MacAlisterfor drivingthe Lochaber RuralEducation Trust. beautifula buffet wasprovided by theto Kilmallie Community Centre and greathaving a celebration on returnour heldinthe LochNess Hotel and itwas progressingplayto forthe reserves. seeof ourmany young players 4 with games still to play. placeinthe North Division2 league ReserveThe Team aresitting 6th in League. Division will progressto the Premier voiceto for".die described "Quality as Music at its best performances havereceived great praiseand have been Music ScotlandResidency ProjectArtists'. Their Al NOVEMBER 5 Guitar voice and ALISON MCNEIL SARALONI SASHA AND performance. repertoire, of the Arctic Winds brings new tolife every dynamica blend of classical virtuosity and a versatile array ofup five of Scotland’smost sought afterwind players. With ArcticThe Winds anis exciting andvibrant wind group made OCTOBER 1 ARCTIC WINDS talentbroughtto us fromallareas of the UK. peopleof allages to come and enjoy a wide rangeof musical Ourmission tois encourage acrossFort William. Apriland invenues ofmonths October betweenthe concerts five yeara whichholds around series inLochaber local musicclub MusicFor Allis a - nil. isonMcNeill andSasha Savaloni thecurrentare 'Enterprise

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Thankyou to all MARCH 31 MARTIN ROSCOE – PIANO Music London. of in College Royal the at residence in were for and 2014/15 Place, Kings and Hall Albert Royal Hall, the Wigmore as such venues leading including Europe, and the UK throughout regularly perform quartet the Max, and pianists MartinRoscoe is unarguably one of the UK’s bestloved anWith extraordinary career spanning over decades,4 generation. its of quartets British leading as the of one reputation a established quickly has Quartet Ruisi 2015, in the Finalists YCAT and Players String British for Young award Society Philharmonic Royal the of Winners afternoonand tea (TUNNELL FUNDED) world" privilegeplayto have‘local a gig’ in amazingthis part the of Lochaber,one the beautifulmost places know.I What a FEBRUARY 26 RUISI STRING QUARTET melancholy' spectacular'Some fireworks with feel a for sweet Crawfordon double bass'.Jim Gilchristat the Scotsman: accompaniedon guitar/piano by EuanDrysdale and Iain Scotsfiddle music old and new played by Alastair Savage JANUARY 21 Alastair TrioSavage

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Donating Donating toLochaber SchoolBank easy:is How to help peopleknow of ourservice, please don't hesitate. youIf help can inany way whether it’sby donating lettingor themknow of ourservice. all with the local schools and Citizens AdviceBureau tolet haveWe tried to expand this yearand have been intouch everythinginbetween. kitted outfor school, from pencils to polo tops and Women’sLochaber Aid have and helped18 children be fully theOver past yearwe have mainlytaken referrals from Scotland. campaignto haveschool banks inevery community n months. Itwasset up afterreading about national a SchoolLochaber Bank has been running for the past12 How we have helped school. for themto families arewho struggling kitto their childrenout nearlynew school clothes and supplies inorder distributeto LochaberAt School Bankwe collect donations of new and What we do    June 2016.June PlaygroupSCIO closed theat end of withIt is greatsadness that Kilmallie it will it be sent directly to us. for look ourwish liston Amazon, purchase an item and pointup neededlist, purchase an anditem drop off it at the pick followourFacebook page and check out what onis our ShoppingCaol Centre themoff at our pick up pack your donation of nearly newgoods and drop

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Carol AnneCarol Campbell All referralsare completely confidential.   getting help is easy: difficulty purchasing anyschool findyouIf yourself thein situation where you are having canthat be a struggle for manyfamilies. bargainsand using hand aroundbe £130. Evenwithsearching around forthe best ofcostThe fully fitting outa child schoolfor is estimated to How to get help sentourdetails and canrefer families to usforhelp. thespeakto school: allschools the areain have been theyand can refer toyou us the visit Citizens AdviceBureau and explain the situation throughout the school term email: [email protected] www.facebook.com/lochaberb2s

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Playgroup. wasleft with option no but toclose the SCIO Board Trusteesof Kilmallieof Playgroup verybest forthe future. wishWe the children and families the community fortheir continued support. the manyparents, children theand professionalismand over theyears,and Kilmallie Playgroupfortheir dedication wouldWe tolike thank the staff of withinthe area. BanavieNursery and othernurseries yearolds willbe availablethrough earlyThe years provision forthe 3 Caol,PH337DR GlenloyStreet - me

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Each class is settling into their new classes and along with shapes like: a hexagon, pentagon and an getting to know their new teachers. octagon.

The P7s have been buddies to the new P1s this term Yesterday we had a visitor from the SSPCA who and we have been looking out for our buddies at spoke to each class about animals. Every class enjoyed break and lunchtime. P1 are getting more confident the talk and visit. outside in the playground. We have been playing The whole school has been very busy doing work for games like duck duck goose, tag and sometimes the upcoming shows at The Rural Education Centre, racing. We have also been helping them wash their Lochaber Show and Corpach in Colour. Some pupils hands before lunch. have been doing work at home for the competitions. In P7 we have a list of responsibilities and are We hope that everyone does well. We wish good luck organised into groups of people to work for each one. to all the P1s and hope they enjoy the rest of this The list of the responsibilities include: pupil council, term. house points, credit union, monitors and eco council. By Archie MacIntyre, Erin Clark and Rachael Rhoden. This week the P6/7 class were doing outdoor number P7 at Banavie Primary. work, using canes and chalk to make a 12 hour clock Kilmallie Community Centre

Well, what a busy time we’ve been having over the past few the Car Park to ourselves so we can then get funding to have it months! resurfaced. Thank you to everyone who has supported us but nevertheless, the more signatures we have the better so if you It was great to see so many of you come and share us being haven’t yet signed the petition then please do come down and add presented with a Keystone Award on Friday 29/07/16. We were your name - your support would be much appreciated.

absolutely delighted with the award which is managed by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) in recognition Customers who have used the Centre over the past few weeks are: of Kilmallie Community Centre as a very well-run organisation. It is Music for All Fun Day, Kilmallie Singers, Highland Council for the EU so nice to get this recognition after all our hard work that we put Referendum and elections, Marie Curie Coffee Morning, Children’s into making the Centre the success that it is! Party, Glenalmond College Group – Duke of Edinburgh Award, I hope you’ve all looked at our new website – all feedback (positive Coastal Rolling, Kilmallie Shinty Cup Final Party, Weddings, George and negative) is welcome! It’s certainly proved to be very useful to Rodger Band, Charity Dances, East Lochaber Laggan Community give folk the directions of how to get to the Centre. Trust, Transport Scotland – Road Safety and Birchwood Highland. You may be aware that sadly we had a break in recently. It was a Our thanks go to our regular customers for supporting the Centre: shock to our Centre Manager (Jimmy Milne) to arrive on Sunday NHS Highland, Lochaber Beekeepers Association, The Mustardseed morning to get the small hall ready for the Mustardseed Fellowship Fellowship, Mums & Toddlers, Scottish Country Dancing, Zumba only to come across a broken door, glass all over the floor and a classes, Lochaber Music For All, Olde Tyme Dancing, Kilmallie broken window! He soon managed to get everything tidied up and Community Council. they were able to carry out their morning’s worship in the large Please remember that the contact details for making bookings is hall. The police came down to investigate and took away items for our Centre Manager (Jimmy Milne) on E-mail: finger printing. The annoying thing is that the person only got [email protected], Mobile: (07787) 866813, Tel (01397) away with a few pounds from the donations for the books in the 712663. foyer! This is such a setback for us – the funds we work so hard to

J is for joining ELLCT (see page is for7)J ELLCT joining raise have now had to be put towards fixing this mess instead of We look forward to continuing to serve the community over the going towards the continued upgrade of the Centre. It is really next few months. frustrating for us as volunteers to see someone desecrate our Centre and have such little regard for the huge efforts we put into Sarah Kennedy FMAAT FCCA (Treasurer) keeping it going for the whole community. If anyone has any information about the break-in then please do get in touch with Fort William Police by ringing 101 or alternatively ring Kilmallie Community Centre Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111. Station Road, Corpach, Fort William PH33 7JH Scottish Charity SC000604 Our congratulations to the Kilmallie Shinty Club who won the Ballimore Cup and held their celebratory party at the Kilmallie CHAIRMAN post vacant at present Community Centre afterwards. SECRETARY Mrs Norma MacLellan, We have had an excellent response to the petition that is in the 12 Hillview Drive, Corpach, Fort William 01397 772597 foyer of the Centre requesting that the Highland Council transfer TREASURER Mrs Sarah Kennedy 0776 880 5040 creatures and we were able to tell them all neighbours extending the service further. Of course, things page 20 Lochaber about the lifecycle of bees, how we try and go wrong – lightning strikes and power failures are our main page 13 help them survive in the challenging bugbear – but we try and re-route customers and fix faults Beekeepers environment we have in Lochaber and also as soon as we can. how important they are with regard to pollination. Locheilnet employs one full time member of staff – Chris, Association our manager - and a part-time technical genius who works Well, the bees had a great start to the summer in the glorious Next Events out all the hard stuff. If you’re a customer, you may have weather we had in May and then it’s all gone downhill over The Training Apiary inspections are still continuing at 2pm Going the Extra Mile! met Alan, Stuart or John who handle installations. We are June and July. This has meant that when the bees should be on the inspection dates as scheduled on the Training Apiary also very lucky to have the services of a number of local going out and gathering lots of pollen and nectar they have page of our website - weather depending. Do contact our been forced to stay in their hives and eat the honey they have Secretary if you would like to attend one of the sessions. I first became involved with Locheilnet as a customer. After people who are interested in what we do and who are years of poor broadband service from BT and no sign of it willing, voluntarily, to climb hills to maintain and extend our stored to keep alive. This has meant that any honey we thought We attended the Strontian Agricultural Show on Saturday as beekeepers we were going to steal off them hasn’t getting any better, I signed up and within days I had my new system. We are also indebted to a few local companies who 13/08/16 and chatted to lots of folk – the honey cakes were connection. To say it was transformational would be an have helped us in a number of ways to set up and expand happened! There may be a few local beekeepers who have a very popular! few jars but it is selling like hot cakes as the saying goes so you understatement – fast access to the internet, no buffering our reach. need to be quick if you want some! If you would like us to bring the bees along and give a talk to when streaming television or I-player and no slowing down your group or if you would like more information about what when the school children along our road came home and There remains much for Locheilnet to do. There are still Our training apiary we do then please do call our Secretary (Sarah Kennedy) on fired up their computers! several rural communities in Lochaber with little or no The training apiary has had a few ups and downs through the 07768 805040 or e-mail [email protected]. broadband capacity and we are working with them and past few months. The colony that I told you last time was I guess like many people I had some concerns about a local, Community Broadband Scotland to see how we can help. Sarah Kennedy missing a queen had a beautiful looking queen cell in it and the community company providing me with a service usually We have also just learned that we have been shortlisted for new baby queen had emerged. Sadly, due to the weather, she delivered by some giant national organisation and I did in the UK’s Rural Business Awards which is a significant was unable to go out and get mated (or maybe she got eaten or fact keep my BT broadband for a few months just as back achievement and reflects the outstanding efforts of our died whilst out on one of her three mating flights) and therefore up, but never used it. (I have since given up my BT landline exceptional team. it was the end of that colony. When eventually we were able to too - recently there was only ever one person who phoned have a look inside it was completely empty with all the honey me on it and my 86 year old mum now has her mobile and is Find out more about Locheilnet at www.locheilnet.com robbed by wasps and other bees. The only thing left behind a great texter!) was quite a lot of pollen which the bees cannot steal. The other two colonies are looking quite strong and despite Jackie Wright, Chair, Locheilnet having been infested with the varroa mite last year they are So, how did it all come about? Well in 2012, a very brave doing ok. We found the queen in the bees from Kilchoan and lady called Chris Pellow, who lives along Locheilside, suffered managed to trap her in the top section so last week we were a brain tumour and, after surgery and a full recovery, could able to get rid of the awful green box that they had originally not drive. Without broadband, Chris could not start her own been kept in. This box would normally only be used for business so she did some research and discovered that pilot Why choose Locheilnet? temporarily housing a swarm - they had been in it for over 2 projects delivering wireless broadband were being set up  No Phoneline required years so it was such a relief that they were now moved into a and working well. Within months, she had a pilot, funded by  No Line Rental proper looking hive to get settled for the winter. Highland Council, and had broadband installed to 15 houses  VoIP Compatible

in the Locheilside area. Further substantial funding from the  Local Installers Talks Ardgour Area Fund, Marine Harvest and Foundation  Local Technical Support Alison Blair and I were delighted to take the bees to Ballachulish Scotland helped with significant expansion during 2013 and  Only a 12 Month Contract and Spean Bridge Primary Schools in June this year. The the coming of Community Broadband Scotland meant that children were amazed when looking at these wonderful we could develop services in several other rural areas.

Today, Locheilnet’s broadband service is delivered through two, high capacity, leased internet lines which come into Fort William and the signals are then routed wirelessly from K is for Kinlocheil a number of high locations in the area to over 300 rural P is for Puiteachean customers. Having two lines means that, in the event of Tom Guisach Pinewood before the meeting. Nominations should problems in one location, we can transfer customers onto include the name of the nominee, confirmation that he the second route. As a customer, I have equipment, smaller & Cnoc nam Faobh Oakwood or she is prepared to stand and the name of a Proposer than a satellite dish, on the side of my house running to a and Seconder. Directors will serve for three years. router inside. Some of our customers act as relays to Notice of AGM & Agenda 6 AOB Notice of any other business must be given to the Friday 28th October 2016 at 7.30 pm secretary at least one week before the meeting. in the Kilmallie Back Hall. After the AGM there will be a general discussion mainly on the programme of work that might be carried out in the woods. Members and non-members are welcome. Membership We are sorry to announce that ‘Party in the Park’ on future. In the meantime, ‘Friends of Banavie Park’ will look

application forms will be available on the night for those Saturday 24 September has now been cancelled. This is due at how best to use existing funds to make further The woods continue much as always. It is now ten years wishing to join and offer their support. to uncertainty regarding the future of the project. improvements to the play area. since we took ownership and the community company has 1 Apologies We are very grateful to everyone who has supported continued successfully throughout. Not much work is 2 Minutes of the last AGM ‘Friends of Banavie Park’ to help improve the play and If you’d like to get involved in helping to take the project required other than the occasional work party to litter pick 3 Progress Report recreation facilities there and to all the people who have further, please get in touch through the ‘Friends of Banavie and do other odd jobs. Many thanks are due to those who 4 Treasurer’s Report contributed their time and energy as volunteers. Park’ Facebook page or come along to our AGM at 7.30pm continue to offer their support. th 5 Election of directors Banavie Park is a special place for so many of us and we on Tuesday 27 September at the Moorings Hotel.

We have one vacancy for a new director. Nominations hope that Scottish Canals will decide to invest in providing Paul Biggin for directors can be taken at the meeting or made known new recreation facilities for children there in the near Friends of Banavie Park Committee

are asked about holding events, charity page 14 fundraisers etc on our land. As times have page 19 changed over the years and more emphasis canal news is placed on safety, it is important that home made hydro anyone organising an event or fundraiser A fascination with hydro As you read the canal news most of you will asked one of our engineers to get quotes for contacts our events co-ordinator who will have seen the Kelpie maquettes at Banavie work improvements. As you can imagine, ask that appropriate risk assessments, schemes ranging from the at the beginning of September. This was the repairs to the car park are a bottomless pit method statements, First Aid safety, one that supplied Fort William first time they have visited the Caledonian hence the reason we have to look at insurance and indemnity letters are all in in the 1890s, the one that provided Canal and the Highlands and personally I additional revenue from this area. On the place prior to an event taking place. electricity to Lord Abinger's Inverlochy would like to thank Falkirk Council for the same lines Friends of Banavie Park have Castle home, and to the many others old opportunity of displaying them at Neptune’s recently installed two new picnic benches to and new that help to keep our lights on, has Staircase. A chance conversation with our the swing park but have decided to cancel Boats led me to many interesting corners of Project Manager when talking about the Party in the Park this year till a clear Over the summer it looks like boat Lochaber. Neptune’s Mirror (shiny box): only then did direction is in place for the future of the play movements are slightly down but income is we realise there might be an opportunity to area. up. The main reason for boat numbers being Before the recently completed scheme at display them when they were en route to down is the poor weather we had during the Annat, the only one in Kilmallie that I had the World Canal Conference which is in school holiday period when boats would be discovered was along Locheilside. A friend Inverness from 19th to 22nd September Filming tied up at one location waiting for better showed it to me and a not easily found weather. Speaking to boaters they have 16th. We recently had a visit from Channel 4 who gem, for me anyway, was revealed . were filming for the series Great Canal mentioned being stuck at Barra, Mull and Neptune’s Staircase is certainly busier this Journeys, featuring actors Tim West and Lochaline just waiting for the bad weather Certainly the smallest that I know off and year with the added attractions bringing Prunella Scales. Their journey through the to abate. Although figures are down, income an ingenious use of reusable items. The more visitors to the location. The café canal finished with a ceilidh at Corpach is up. This will be because vessels are story, as I was told, was that it was built by getting bigger. When I first started in 2001 bistro at the Moorings Hotel certainly seems Picnic Area with over a hundred people in a handyman who used it to supply a couple to be popular with locals and visitors: we attendance. It was a beautiful sunny day it was common for between six and nine of lights in his house on the other side of certainly notice with the additional coffee which will certainly be a fantastic advert for boats to be locked through in one lock; cups in the bins which are emptied daily at the local area and the Caledonian Canal. nowadays we are more likely to fit only four the road. The pictures show that he used an this time of year. Rockhopper Canoe and Speaking to the directors, this programme or six. old electric cable drum with wooden slats Bike Hire seem to be busy: had the weather will be broadcast in October so look out for inserted to form the driving wheel. An been better they would probably have been it. Interesting boats that made passage assortment of cycle and motorcycle items busier. Clyde Cruise trips up to Bunarkaig through this year: a French pilot boat Etoile; were used to transmit the power to what Bay and back are picking up on last year and At the beginning of the year we also had a and a few luxury cruisers - Spirit of Fortitude we imagine must have been a car or van I have been informed another holiday coach company filming a feature film called (Maltese), Stina Kajsa (Swedish), Azura dynamo. That item was nowhere to be company are going to use them next year. Darling Lush which again is scheduled to be (German). As you can see our boats come found. Probably a battery was used in the All these businesses add to the attraction released at the end of the year. from all parts of the world bringing income system perhaps in the house itself. which can only be good for the area. into the Scottish economy. We also attract over 2,000 canoeists to the area each year. Unfortunately the woodwork used had One of the minuses to the location is the Events deteriorated to the extent that we were condition of the car park, but in recent As you can imagine. being part of the Canoe John Stafford afraid to investigate any further, and since

What does your company do? The weather spoils it sometimes The flowering tubs have We are a wholesale and retail – especially when the midges been beautiful this year, bakery come out! much appreciated by

Banavie Floral residents and visitors alike, all thanks to the dedication A regular task for the team is to attend helicopter landing of the BFI volunteers, their sites for Air Ambulance and Coastguard helicopters when HM COASTGUARD gardening skills and their they are landing or transferring patients from the Belford Improvements hard work. AT CORPACH Hospital. The team provide portable landing lights for the helicopter at night, communications with the helicopters and Children's trophies: I bet you’ve all been asking yourselves assist the ambulance crews to transport the patients to and 2016 Flower and  Best Exhibit in Playgroup “What’s the Coastguard been up to recently?” from the helicopter. Toby Smith Well, as the new Coastal Operations Officer Corpach Produce Show for the Lochaber area I’ve been invited to answer that I’ll finish with one of those out of the ordinary incidents: the  Best Exhibit in Nursery burning question. team were tasked by Stornoway Coastguard at 9:45 pm on Thank you to everyone who put entries Kaye Halewood

7th June to assist the Fire Service with a horse trapped in in Colour in to the competition. The prizewinners  Best Exhibit in P1-P3 I am Martin Collins and I’ve been a full time Coastguard for mud at Loch Arkaig. The location was right at the Western We hope you have enjoyed the sight of are: Isla Dennison the last 24 years, serving in the co-ordination centres at end of the loch and it took about an hour and half to get the tubs blooming along the roadside Solent, Greenock and Stornoway. Recent changes within the  Best Exhibit in P4 & P5 there. We were met by a Police officer who informed us that this summer - they were mainly planted  Treasures of the Earth Trophy for Coastguard gave me the opportunity to move into a new role Alex Drysdale

the Fire Service couldn’t attend and a couple of estate with begonias and cordyline this year. most points in Flowers created last year. workers were about to head up the hill to locate the horse Isabel Campbell  Best Exhibit in P6 & P7

and its rider, but they thought it was just over a mile into the We will soon be emptying the tubs and Roslyn Campbell My role is to train the volunteer Coastguard Rescue Teams, hills from the track.  Kilmallie Community Council replanting them with bulbs for  Corpach Hotel Trophy for best attend multi-agency incidents as the Coastguard Incident Trophy for most points in Garden flowering in the spring, usually daffodils Children's exhibit Commander, liaise with the other emergency services, Two of the Fort William Coastguard kitted up and went with Produce or tulips. This is normally done in Kaye Halewood councils and volunteer organisations, such as Mountain the estate workers on an Argocat. After about half an hour Isabel Campbell October. There are around 47 tubs Rescue and Red Cross, and look after the day to day we got a call from them to say they had found the horse and along the roadside between the  The Ewen & Isabel Campbell Trophy Congratulations to all our winners. It maintenance of the Coastguard team’s kit and vehicles. rider, the horse was stuck by its hind legs in a bog and they ‘Corpach’ sign at the Tomonie/Badabrie for most points in Floral Art was lovely to see the fruits of all your I am part of a team of six officers who collectively look after were going to attempt to free the animal with the equipment end of the village and Harbro at the Sandra Fortune & Clare MacDonald labours and we appreciate the hard the Western Isles, Skye and Lochaber, including the Small they had. Annat end, as well as the boat outside work that has gone in to producing such Isles. Although based in Lochaber I undertake training and  Most Outstanding Exhibit in Floral M is for Muirshearlich Kilmallie Hall at the top of Station Rd, other duties throughout the area, which can lead to a lot of After a couple of attempts and an hour later, the horse was Art great produce! and the flower beds down at Corpach travel and long days, but what a place to have to work! free and was being walked off the hill. They then decided the Sandra Fortune Railway Station. Many thanks to everyone who turned N is forN Neptune’s Staircase horse was too tired to walk off in the dark: it turns out it had up to the show; to Kilmallie Hall for The local Coastguard team, called ‘Fort William Coastguard’ been stuck since 5pm that afternoon, so the rider and one of  M&S Dental Trophy for most points As always we welcome volunteers to hosting us; to the hall committee for but based at the Sea Lock in Corpach, are a team of ten the estate workers remained on the hill overnight with the in Baking and Preserves help empty and re-plant the tubs - it providing refreshments; to the judges volunteers who normally cover an area from Fort Augustus to horse and the rest came back to the track. Jillian Clark goes without saying that the more and stewards who gave up their time to Ballachulish and out to Lochailort. They do go further afield bodies we have, the less tubs you  Tradewinds Trophy for most points share their knowledge and experience to supplement the other Coastguard teams around the area: As everyone was safe, the Coastguard team headed back to would have to empty and plant… in Arts & Crafts with us; to the Corpach in Colour in July they went to Rum on board the Mallaig Lifeboat for a Fort William, arriving at 2:45am. I spoke to the grateful Please don't be shy, we would love to Norman Clark committee; and last but not least to missing person search. In May they also took part in the owner a couple of days later and she told me she and her hear from you - it’s only for a few hours Isabel and Linda Campbell for all their search for the crewman from a fishing vessel on South Uist. friend were trekking down to Strontian over six days and  Cameron Trophy for best exhibit in twice a year (early summer and help. when the horse got stuck she wasn’t riding it as the track was Arts & Crafts autumn) and it’s quite fun! The Fort William Coastguard specialise in Water Search & too narrow. She said the horse stumbled on a tuft of grass, Norman Clark Happy growing, producing and baking!

Rescue and carry specialised kit to allow them to respond to put a back leg out to steady itself and slipped into the bog. Nicola & Louise (Corpach in Colour) Feel free to contact us using the email  Corpach in Colour Trophy for most someone in the sea or a fast flowing river, as well as the She went on to say that she walked the horse off the hill at (contact Nicola: 772870 or or telephone number on the right. points overall Caledonian Canal. They also train to provide assistance to the daylight where it was washed and fed. After some rest, the [email protected]) Isabel Campbell other emergency services during floods and this is an area pair continued on their trek to Strontian as planned. the Coastguard have become more involved with in recent Thanks to Christine and Sue for taking pictures of the Flower and Produce Show for KCC, see overpage. years nationally with the likes of Cockermouth. Martin Collins You can see them all full size and in full colour on KCC’s website www.kilmallie.org,uk

page 18 focus on business congratulations page 15 How long has your company to two young members We are delighted been operating in Kilmallie? of our newsletter delivery team... to welcome Archie Kyle Dignan Paterson as the 36 years newsletter’s latest who delivers newsletters generous sponsor. How many people do you to Crown Cottages Banavie employ locally? won GOLD What is your company name? 35 people and Nevis Bakery Robbie Murray What do you and your who delivers newsletters to Tomonie Where are you located? business like best about being won SILVER Our bakery is at Annat Industrial in Kilmallie? in this year’s UK Mathematics Trust’s Estate and we have a shop on It’s a beautiful part of Scotland Junior Maths Challenge. Fort William High St. with very friendly people.

conversation with a senior manager he has Trail & the Great Glen Way, increasingly we Canal Superintendent a few years have passed since the pictures were taken I expect that much will have gone now. The rusted tin can used as an automatic oil feed to the chain was a wonder on its own. I am sure there were other similar machines around and would be delighted to hear from anyone with any info on them L is forL Laragain or on the one described. I know of one private unit of more recent but not very modern construction that is in use in Glen Loy. Alex Gillespie O is for Outward Bound Loch Eil Loch O is for Outward Bound creatures and we were able to tell them all neighbours extending the service further. Of course, things page 20 Lochaber about the lifecycle of bees, how we try and go wrong – lightning strikes and power failures are our main page 13 help them survive in the challenging bugbear – but we try and re-route customers and fix faults Beekeepers environment we have in Lochaber and also as soon as we can. how important they are with regard to pollination. Locheilnet employs one full time member of staff – Chris, Association our manager - and a part-time technical genius who works Well, the bees had a great start to the summer in the glorious Next Events out all the hard stuff. If you’re a customer, you may have weather we had in May and then it’s all gone downhill over The Training Apiary inspections are still continuing at 2pm Going the Extra Mile! met Alan, Stuart or John who handle installations. We are June and July. This has meant that when the bees should be on the inspection dates as scheduled on the Training Apiary also very lucky to have the services of a number of local going out and gathering lots of pollen and nectar they have page of our website - weather depending. Do contact our been forced to stay in their hives and eat the honey they have Secretary if you would like to attend one of the sessions. I first became involved with Locheilnet as a customer. After people who are interested in what we do and who are years of poor broadband service from BT and no sign of it willing, voluntarily, to climb hills to maintain and extend our stored to keep alive. This has meant that any honey we thought We attended the Strontian Agricultural Show on Saturday as beekeepers we were going to steal off them hasn’t getting any better, I signed up and within days I had my new system. We are also indebted to a few local companies who 13/08/16 and chatted to lots of folk – the honey cakes were connection. To say it was transformational would be an have helped us in a number of ways to set up and expand happened! There may be a few local beekeepers who have a very popular! few jars but it is selling like hot cakes as the saying goes so you understatement – fast access to the internet, no buffering our reach. need to be quick if you want some! If you would like us to bring the bees along and give a talk to when streaming television or I-player and no slowing down your group or if you would like more information about what when the school children along our road came home and There remains much for Locheilnet to do. There are still Our training apiary we do then please do call our Secretary (Sarah Kennedy) on fired up their computers! several rural communities in Lochaber with little or no The training apiary has had a few ups and downs through the 07768 805040 or e-mail [email protected]. broadband capacity and we are working with them and past few months. The colony that I told you last time was I guess like many people I had some concerns about a local, Community Broadband Scotland to see how we can help. Sarah Kennedy missing a queen had a beautiful looking queen cell in it and the community company providing me with a service usually We have also just learned that we have been shortlisted for new baby queen had emerged. Sadly, due to the weather, she delivered by some giant national organisation and I did in the UK’s Rural Business Awards which is a significant was unable to go out and get mated (or maybe she got eaten or fact keep my BT broadband for a few months just as back achievement and reflects the outstanding efforts of our died whilst out on one of her three mating flights) and therefore up, but never used it. (I have since given up my BT landline exceptional team. it was the end of that colony. When eventually we were able to too - recently there was only ever one person who phoned have a look inside it was completely empty with all the honey me on it and my 86 year old mum now has her mobile and is Find out more about Locheilnet at www.locheilnet.com robbed by wasps and other bees. The only thing left behind a great texter!) was quite a lot of pollen which the bees cannot steal. The other two colonies are looking quite strong and despite Jackie Wright, Chair, Locheilnet having been infested with the varroa mite last year they are So, how did it all come about? Well in 2012, a very brave doing ok. We found the queen in the bees from Kilchoan and lady called Chris Pellow, who lives along Locheilside, suffered managed to trap her in the top section so last week we were a brain tumour and, after surgery and a full recovery, could able to get rid of the awful green box that they had originally not drive. Without broadband, Chris could not start her own been kept in. This box would normally only be used for business so she did some research and discovered that pilot Why choose Locheilnet? temporarily housing a swarm - they had been in it for over 2 projects delivering wireless broadband were being set up  No Phoneline required years so it was such a relief that they were now moved into a and working well. Within months, she had a pilot, funded by  No Line Rental proper looking hive to get settled for the winter. Highland Council, and had broadband installed to 15 houses  VoIP Compatible

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page 11page I is for Inverskilavulin Parliament. The Highland Youth Youth rugby returns page 10 Parliament (previously known as page 23 Highland Youth Voice) is an elected youth parliament for the Highlands for Mini Rugby returns to Banavie after its

The purpose of the ‘Hike’ is to raise money for extra-curricular activities in the school with 10% going to a

children’s charity to be chosen by the elected Pupil Voice. It is hoped that, when all sponsor money pledged has been collected, the ‘Hike’ will raise over £7,000.

We are all looking forward to the Anyone wishing to attend new season of art workshops, workshops will be made very starting with Edinburgh-based welcome. Jemma Derbyshire who returns in If you would like to see the October with a colour workshop, programme in more detail please 'Understanding Colour'. visit our website: Following that, Highland artlochaber.co.uk landscape artist Jonathan Shearer or contact secretary Dorothy on from Alness will lead a landscape 01855 82129 or ring Lorna on workshop in November. Both will 01397 772806. be held in Glencoe Visitor Centre. Lorna Finlayson Friends of page 24 Caledonian Canal page 9 Lochaber missives from MSPs Ever since we started, KCC’s newsletter have been better informed about how herself. In later issues we hope to ask has given a platform to our three the EU has contributed to our local our regional list MSPs for contributions Visitors to the canal elected Highland Councillors in our wellbeing, before we voted in the EU too. Residents and visitors alike, we’ve all enjoyed the short visit from ‘Councillors’ Corner slot. We reckoned referendum). Let us know if there are any questions the kelpiettes. It’s a great spot for temporary sculpture, and we it was time to give a platform to other Our aim is to put our elected of local relevance that you would like us hope other works might come here too in the future for a short elected representatives too: our MSPs representatives on the spot about topics to put to them. season. Objects like the mirrored box are entirely acceptable and and our MP; maybe even our MEPs too, with local relevance - we are not interesting enough too as temporary installations, though not though their constituency is enormous We have seen too often lately the way offering a platform for party political sufficiently worthy of a permanent home here. and Kilmallie will inevitably be just one many politicians get away with saying messages. We intend to ask them of hundreds of communities that they what we want to hear, then doing We are all also really enjoying the new footpath surface at specific questions, not give them a free must serve. (Though perhaps if nothing or doing the opposite. In our Neptune’s Staircase. It is a joy to walk on. rein for propaganda. But for this first community newsletters had given air to very small way, we’d like to start trying outing, we allowed our constituency MSP Good to see (and hear) the return of puffer VIC 32 for his annual European politics more often, we might to hold them to account. Kate Forbes a clean sheet to introduce visit.

fantastic visitor experience, with far more intrinsic interest and

Member of the following Member of the following G is for Loy Glen MSPs Committees: Committees:  Rural Economy and  Environment, Climate John Finnie Connectivity Committee Change and Land Reform Scottish Green Party (Member) Committee (Member) Member of the following  Standards, Procedures and Public Committees: Edward Mountain Appointments Committee (Substitute  Finance Committee Scottish Conservative and Member) (Substitute Member) Unionist Party  Justice Committee (Member) Member of the following Maree Todd  Rural Economy and Connectivity Committees: Scottish National Party Committee (Member)  Public Petitions Committee Member of the following  Standards, Procedures and Public (Substitute Member) Committees: Appointments Committee (Substitute  Rural Economy and Connectivity  Finance Committee Member) Committee (Convener) (Member)  Health and Sport Committee (Member) Donald Cameron Douglas Ross Scottish Conservative and Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party Unionist Party Member of the following Member of the following Committees: Committees:  Health and Sport  Justice Committee (Member) FOCAL is a subgroup of the Kilmallie Community Company (entirely independent from Kilmallie Community Council) Committee (Member)  Local Government and Communities For more info, or to be added to our mailing list, please contact Jan MacLugash  Justice Committee (Substitute Member) Committee (Substitute Member) 01397 772383, email: [email protected] as some females take turn in looking after a crèche of page 8 ducklings, whilst other mothers have a better chance to page 25 our Highland councillors’ corner wild about feed. This time we asked our three Highland Councillors: Drakes play little part in rearing their offspring. Goosander Is it acceptable to you that Highland Council (or its Pension Fund) invest heavily in the arms industry and the tobacco industry? males depart in May for northern Scandinavia where they kilmallie form moulting flocks, returning in late October. The ducks As the Highland Council is mainly a I do believe that Highland Council, or scrutinise every company and their moult locally once their broods have been fledged in July on borrower of funds I do not see the more correctly the pension companies dealings, especially as pension Sawbills the sea lochs. Conversely, the merganser drakes moult much requirement to, or the possibility, to administering the fund, do not go out committees only meet on a 3 monthly Amongst the more handsome of the ducks seen in Kilmallie closer to home in coastal waters around Scotland. Already invest heavily in either industry. and deliberately pick arms or tobacco basis. waters are the goosander and red-breasted merganser. this year we have seen large congregations of over fifty birds However, as a very prudent and ethical companies to invest in. Certainly the These are present in both Loch Eil and Loch Linnhe for most in Loch Linnhe, but far larger concentrations may be found pension provider that is a different councillors who oversee this fund and An interesting Freedom of Information, of the year as well as the River Lochy and its tributaries and on the east coast. During the moult it is even more difficult matter, with real funds of the investment policy would not granted to a Sarah Roberts is on-line Lochs Lochy and Arkaig. Together with the smew, a small, to distinguish males and females. By the time the males approximately 1 and a quarter billion advocate this source for income and gives a full run-down of the striking black and white duck very rarely seen on the west return to the west coast in the autumn they have regained pounds, belonging to local government generation. Highland Council has a clear holdings by Highland Council Pension coast, they are the British representatives of the sawbill their splendid breeding plumages. and other local service providers’ policy, listed on-line, stating its Fund as at October 2015. While it is family. These are so-named because of their long, thin bills employees to invest. I would certainly Investment strategy and principles. easy to criticise pension funds I would with serrated edges, and often a hooked tip, specially Mergansers are often joined by large numbers of mainly advocate that Highland Council Pension Social, environmental and ethical issues like to commend the work of the designed for catching fish. Although both mergansers and Icelandic birds for the winter, but most of our goosanders fund scheme does not invest heavily in must be taken into consideration. The councillors who earnestly do their best goosanders will catch small trout and salmon parr, they eat a will be local and form smaller flocks. Both species pair up arms or the tobacco industry. But then I council has instructed its Investment to get the most for ex-employees of wide range of small fish such as sprats, and particularly in during the winter, and the males have spectacular displays in also ask the question--- Is it right to managers to take into account all these Highland Council and may I suggest that the case of goosander, frogs. On several occasions locally I which they extend their necks and head straight up into the invest in alcohol companies, sugar key principles. However it does they look at funding homes for rent, in have seen both species struggling to swallow rather larger air and call. The sight of a large mixed flock of mergansers in companies, or whatever companies are recognise that not all risks can be conjunction with private providers, to prey such as flatfish. the throes of courtship is one of the sights of the Lochaber bad for people’s health, rather than eliminated or even minimised. What is ease the housing waiting list. winter. The area between Corpach and Lochy Mouth is a pension wealth? Where do you stop important is that they are managed. The goosander is the larger of our two species, with the male good place to look for sawbills and a variety of other ducks investing? That question is best Large conglomerates do from time to Cllr Allan Henderson boasting a striking pinky-white body and a green head. The at this time of year, and can enliven a winter walk. answered by those receiving Highland time merge, or take over other drake merganser has a punky crest, a brownish-red, speckled Council pensions, some of which are conglomerates, who may have tenuous breast and a delicately marked body. The females are much Jon Mercer, Glenloy Wildlife very modest and augmenting hard connections to arms and tobacco more alike, being largely grey-brown with a reddish head, pressed pensioners’ budgets. industries. That makes it very difficult to hence their collective name of redheads (that also applies to similarly marked juveniles). The head markings of the duck Local Councillors have been asked for responsibility for management of the Tobacco falls into the same category as merganser are less tidy than those of the goosander, with a their views on Highland Council and its fund. Employees are not given the above, the balance between ethical scruffier appearance and less defined line between the head Pension Fund investments in the option of how the fund is managed but investments and the balance of risk and and the neck. In flight both male and female mergansers tobacco and arms industries. As an Trade Unions are represented on the return. have notably more white on the wings than goosanders.

Nothing on this topic from Cllr Ben Thompson this time, but see the piece he gave us in response to the article in the June 16 issue about Highland Council’s investment in the arms industry. Ben sits on Highland Council’s Pensions Committee which is responsible for decisions on investment. Hi. My name is Donald MacRae. I have not long returned page 26 from a trip to Kigali, Rwanda. I went with a group of football East Lochaber and Laggan Community Trust page 7 Rwanda coaches, an SFA chaplain from Kilsyth and my dad Kiki, who is the chaplain for Fort William football club. Hallo. Is mise Domhnall MacRrath. Chan eil fad o thill mi bho cuairt gu Kigali, Rwanda. Fhuair mo cothrom a dhol ann We went to share our skills with the coaches and children comhla ri buidhuin de coidsean ball coise bho Dhun-Eideinn , over there. What struck me the most was the joy and seaplain ball-coise bho Kilsyth agus m’athair, Kiki a tha na gratitude of those people despite their poverty. They can fair sheaplain aig club ball-coise An Gearasdan. You have probably been hearing about the These ordinary members elect the Board. In the normal way, these initial directors will pass and control a ball too! Maybe we should get a few of Trust that was set up to try to buy the Rio The Trust has no shareholders, each stand down by rotation at annual general their players over here! Chaidh sinn ann airson leasachadh sgilean ball coise gu clann Tinto Aluminium Estate for the surrounding member has one vote and members’ liability meetings and the future directors will be community. To explain the background, the is capped at £1. elected by the members. agus coidsean thall an sin. Se an rud a sheas a mach as The genocide that happened 22 years ago in Rwanda, was Trust has provided KCC with the answers to motha an uair a bha mi ann, cho toilichte agus cho tainegeal too horrific to even try to describe in words. It lingered in my some frequently asked questions. Youngsters aged between 12 - 15 can also What about the smelter? agus a bha na daoine an sin am miosg am bochdainn aca. join as Junior members. The Trust does not intend to bid for the mind every day on the trip. It was very humbling to see that Agus is tha fior fhios aca ciamar a chumas iad smachd air am What is the East Lochaber and industrial operations – the smelter and main the survivors and victims had managed to forgive the Why now? bala nuair a tha iad a cluiche ball-coise! Gur docha gum bu accused murderers and were working together to bring Laggan Community Trust? hydro power stations at Fort William and choir dhuin cuid de na cluichdeadairean aca a thoirt a nall a The Trust was set up in response to Rio Kinlochleven – but instead to own the Estate peace to their country. The Trust is a company limited by guarantee Tinto Aluminium’s announcement in January seo! (SC 533796). Profits must be reinvested in lands and the potential industrial land that they would be undertaking a strategic around the smelter. The Trust will want to Some people would say of football “It’s only a game.” But the local community and directors cannot review. The Trust aims to own the Estate – Bho chion fichead agus a dha bliadhna air ais thachair sgrios be paid. Its governing document, called the work with other companies who would own one special occasion in Rwanda, when I was playing footie around 115,000 acres, believed to be under- the smelter and the two main power cinnidh ann a Rwanda , tha e robh dhulich a chuir ann am articles of association, can be seen on the utilised and potentially profitable- with a with a group of 30 disabled children and seeing the website below. stations. briathran cho uamhasach agus a bha seo. Bha na smaointain view to protecting employment and creating enormous joy it gave them 6,148 miles across the world – substantial opportunities for the agam gach latha air an turras agam air an tachartas seo. Se made me realise there is an awful lot more to it than that! Can I be a member? How can I help? rud isealachadh a tha ann a bhi faicinn daoine a thanig communities and local businesses. A Your membership of the Trust is vital. We Anyone can join. Ordinary members are feasibility assessment is underway at the troimh an sgrios cinnidh a seo. Chunnaic mi neach fulaing a Home again and seeing those aged 16 or over on the electoral roll must demonstrate to Rio Tinto, the Scottish toirt seachad mathanas gu murtair agus iad ag obair comhla time of writing (early September). Government and to funders that there is the wars and conflicts within the Community Council areas of: significant community desire to own the airson sith an duthaich aca. that continue to happen  Kilmallie Who are the directors and how  Caol land around us. Apply to become a member today, which we witness are they elected? today through our website below or using Tha cuid ag radh mu dheidhinn ball-coise “Se direach geam  Fort William on our TVs in the comfort The initial directors are: the enclosed forms. For more forms, phone cluich a tha ann”. Ach, air aon latha gu sonnraichte, ann a  Inverlochy & Torlundy of our homes, made me  John Hutchison, Badabrie (Chair) Christine or John Hutchison on 01397  Spean Bridge, Roy Bridge and Rwanda, nuair a bha mi a cluiche ‘footie’ comhla ri  772252. understand we have a lot Achnacarry Patricia Jordan, Fort William buidheann de trithead clann ciorramach agus a faichinn an  to be thankful for. Many  Nether Lochaber Campbell Slimon, Laggan toileachas mor fhuair iad , 6,148 mile tarsainn an -t saoghal –  Flora McKee, Inverlochy For more information, visit our website: of our moans and groans,  Glencoe & Glen Etive bha fhios agam gur e fad air bharrach na geam a tha ann am  www.eastlochaberlaggan.scot seem relatively small in  Kinlochleven and Ben Thompson, Erracht and ball-cois!  and find us on Facebook and Twitter. comparison with those  Laggan. Andrew Baxter, Kinlochleven. who have suffered and Tha mi a nis air ais agus a faichinn air an telebhisean, bho

officers are doing their utmost to ensure Kilmallie or Lochaber area. and 1/2 Hours: What is the single best support to make the first steps. I would

03/08/16 16/03459/FUL Erection of house and detached garage, Old Railway Embankment South Of Daylesford Banavie

Alteration of garage extension to form self catering unit, erection of extension and formation of 24/06/16 16/02841/FUL parking area. Mirador Badabrie Corpach

Demolition of garage and erection of replacement garage/bedroom extension, 07/06/16 16/02299/FUL 13 Hillview Drive, Corpach in primary schools – which was a lot warmer and drier! - as part Contd from previous page page 28 of our education programme. Sadly funding for education work page 5 From a personal perspective I was sat at this focus on is getting thin on the ground so we can’t do as much- a shame as I enjoy working with children and raising awareness of local meeting feeling like one of those volcanoes that This time our focus is on conservation issues. start rumbling and smoking before they actually Lucy Smith, who lives at erupt... mercifully I managed NOT to erupt but it folk Muirshearlich. I am definitely an outdoor person and enjoy lots of outdoor was pretty close. Is it just me, am I alone in this world in pursuits. I had never skied before moving up to Lochaber so I thinking that human lives and safety are far more important took ski lessons up at Nevis Range and now ski locally and I was born in Leicestershire but from the age of 7 I was brought then codes of practice, guidelines and methodology? I felt abroad. When I was young I had access to boats as my dad ran up in Abergavenny – a market town in South Wales where my we had demonstrated very vividly to Transport Scotland and narrow boat hire on the Monmouth canals, and we had several parents ran a canal boat business. At the age of 13 I set my BEAR that there is a real danger with this road, and to be fair family holidays canoeing through canals and rivers. I've learned heart on becoming a marine biologist and followed this through the two representatives did say they understood and to sail at the local sailing club and am now a keen sailor. I'm to university. I studied at Liverpool. This was an interesting and trying to accrue plenty of hours in boats with the aim of appreciated the situation and would put crossings in vibrant city well before it was named European City of Culture eventually being able to volunteer as a dinghy sailing instructor tomorrow if they could, but they are bound by the in 2008. for the club. I do admit that sometimes, after a wet and tiring guidelines...

In 2006 a Wildlife and Wetlands Trust project saw me coming Lucy Smith up to survey bird breeding in Scotland. This was my first visit to Scotland and I thought "Wow!" and just knew that I wanted to live here, especially on the west coast. So I started looking out for jobs and since 2007 I've been working for Lochaber Fisheries slower, safer, smilier Trust. The Trust was set up in 1996 following concern about declining numbers of salmon and sea trout and is a charity dedicated to improving and raising awareness of the fish populations and freshwater habitats in Lochaber. My job is an incredibly varied one so it's extremely interesting. We monitor some hops in right direction fish numbers and health in the rivers and along the coastline, In July, I attended a meeting organised by Transport As well as this, Transport Scotland and BEAR will now also - survey the habitats and work on the eradication of invasive Scotland in response to the Banavie Parent Council  provide an indicative programme species (such as Japanese knotweed and non-native crayfish) to correspondence with them this year regarding the road  review controlled crossing criteria and fit with the C is for Corpach protect our native species. It's quite a physical job- such as safety issues on the A830 at the school road end. The junction (it is unlikely that a controlled crossing will when I need to carry heavy monitoring and sampling equipment meeting was also attended by Mrs Dunham (Banavie be installed at the school road end as the school is up the hill to a river, and it often involves getting cold and wet Primary’s head teacher), representatives from Fort William the only activity which generates crossing wading into the rivers and along the shoreline. My work police, Highland Council roads department, BEAR Scotland, movements, unlike the High School and Inverlochy uniform is waders and waterproofs! I used to spend more time Kilmallie Community Council and by Cllr Ben Thompson. crossings)  review surface colour on the carriageway Five residents of Corpach and Banavie are half. Previous speakers have included The main reason for the meeting was for BEAR and  review signage on the approach to the junction. W is for West Highland Railway W is for Highland West part of a local group called Friends make-up sessions, local history talks, Transport Scotland to present a draft plan for improvements friends Together. hairdressing, slide shows and much more. to the A830 at the school road end and for them to ensure When the detailed plans are received, the intention is to They also organise monthly outings that they had covered all issues with the current road hold a meeting at the school for any feedback from parents Friends Together was started in January which include ten pin bowling, shows, layout. The intention is to bring the bell mouth of the school and carers. together 2003 for women who are on their own dinners and day trips. There have been road further into the A830 which will in turn widen the through bereavement or separation. The holidays and weekends away. In the footpath at each road end corner and decrease the width of Banavie Parent Council is very pleased aim of the group is to provide support summer they hold a buffet evening and the crossing point from 11.1m to 8.5m. The works are with the positive approach being taken and friendship and to provide an quiz, and a Christmas buffet evening in expected to be “on road” by March. by Transport Scotland and BEAR opportunity to meet up with others who December. towards our continued concerns for are in a similar situation. The draft plan appears to achieve the desired result of the safety of the school children They have approximately 20 members The group meets on the first Wednesday and new members are always welcome, slowing the traffic by reducing the width of the carriageway, crossing the A830 at the top of of each month in The Braxi Hall, as are speakers for the group. You can and the police representative expects it to achieve positive the Banavie School road end. Inverlochy at 7pm. They usually have a contact Carolyn MacLeod on 01397 results. We have asked Transport Scotland to look at further speaker for the first part and have teas 700995. reducing the width of the carriageway, which is an option Louise Pescod and a get-together during the second for them. Banavie Parent Council page 4 B is for Badabrie Paul Peebles for photos. for Paul Peebles to John Thanks bridge. the canal at traffic heavy fast the facing Hobson Annette Tina and page: Jan, Co the to cross trying to after Donnelly Nicky and Meehan Chrissie with Tina, daughter her and MacLugash Jan KCC’s This page: and BEAR: Scotland to Transport difficulties our Demonstrating

nerve outwithtime,that theroad is still a theduring tourist season but even time of year with theincrease in traffic challengeto usall. disabilitya ornot, this roadais nimblein mind!)and whetherhaveyou sonimblenot on yourfeet (butstill school,oran oldand wise Highlander Whetheryou area weebairn at the for everyoneinthe community. alongthe A830 to makedaily life safer battling to havecrossings putin place editions of the newsletter, are we Asmanyof you will know from previous CorpachCo atvisits Banavie swingbridge and the Thismeeting involved us doingall site and myself,disableda local resident. LDAP(Lochaber Disability Access Panel) Scotlandand membersof KCC,the Transportfrom Scotland and BEAR wasarranged between representatives It tocame pass recently that a meeting the speedwith volumeand of traffic. trying totrying cross. encounteredby the disabled when demonstratedthe difficulties touristsstruggle to cross. shownthe places where localsand organisations named above were representatives from the two highly are dangerous. maincrossing points on this roadand hearted. pavement...not forthe faint getting your wheelchair ontoup the road,this inspeeding traffic, and contendto with...you try gettingacross wheelchairshave the problem of kerbs of spectacles of which mimic my poor askingby them to tryon special a pair representatives how poormy visionis blindand Idemonstrated to the two

- racking obstacleracking to getacross

In myown case,am I nearly - op.

Those ofus in

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whichelicited the result, among other Co the Theytold usa survey wascarried out at organisationscan do. safely thenthere nothingis the two Corpacharestruggling to cross this road localthe elderly folk in Banavieand ifweand provecan't to themthat all Scotlandhaveset a of rules workto to words,inplain English, Transport crossinghasto be ascertained. out,essentiallyand the demandfor a traffic and vehiculartraffic are worked donebe and percentages of pedestrian trafficlights and on.so Surveys have to when lookingat putting incrossings and criteriaand methodologyto work to wastheythat have strict guidelines, firstthe thing Transport Scotland said allthe problems we have with this road, sitethe visit had clearlydemonstrated overus. havinga bucketof cold waterthrown summarisedthe situation. Transportthe Scotland gentleman the of community hall inCorpach where meetingThe adjourned to the warmth non two equallythought carriedout witha wheelchair was eyesight. crossto this busy road withsolittle suitablyimpressed by the ideaof having cross. totrying judge whensafeitis to standingtheat side ofthe road and vision.Ithen asked them to imagine

I'm pleased to saythat they were - op inopCorpach last 2015,May

- Whilst we werepleased that

disabledpeople. Likewise,the demonstration - provokingforthese

Itwas like Inother Contdoverpage alltimes of the year andit's never easy. betweenthe lorries, cars, busesetc at livesbattling to get across thisroad in crossand we have to spend ourdaily eventhat so, the localsstill have to fewerhave tourists pointedbut I out carriedout inthe winter wemonths will survey.Unfortunately ifthis survey is moneyinthe budget to conducta looka and see ifthere wasenough TransportScotland would need to have surveyedyet and we were told that for localsand tourists, this hasnot been Banaviewhich is a majorcrossing point With regard theto swingbridge at dangerous. againwill because justit sois fact I haveonlyonce done so and never attempt thecrossing heremyself: in horrendous. outside layby the shop was vehicles of pulling inand out of the bothroad in directions and the number volumethe oftraffic goingalong the required!!!And yet, duringthe site visit, Co instead. friendsto getto where they want to go trywilland geta lift family from or scaredattemptto tocross the road and disabledresidents around here aretoo gentlementwo that elderlymost and crossingnecessary. isfigure toolow for them to deem a crossingwere elderly. things,that only8% of the people - op concludedop that a crossing notis

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page 29 X is for Xcellent place to live page 30 Y is for Your community Frazer,Peter Cameron, and Ferguson.a Cameron,Annie Band. 2nd picture: Donald Alex, Moy, a MacIntyre, Charlie MacIntyre,Jean Margaret Ferguson, Isobel Russell,Jean Russell,Mary fewnames... top picture:Ailsa Somerville, Jessie Flanigan, Minnie Livingstone, theon same day, butwhat year wasit? And who are they all? Neil’s given us a Thanks to NeilMacBride for thesephotos. They looklike theywere alltaken bygone banavie scholars ten years ago

comingand going, it hardisto anmaintain up newWith houses getting built all thetime, and businesses volunteers,itis hard to meet the costs. bottom(see right). Even with theinput from all our donations, and grant a from Lochaber Housing Association sponsorship money,KCC’s own verylimited funds, alldoneit is on a voluntary basis. The costsarefunded by for,pay and the cost just of a fewcopies that get postedout, couldn’t dowithout it you.Apart thefrom printing which we thewaysto production and delivery of the newsletter. We Thanksasalways to everyonewho contributes so in many Council. ofviews the newsletter team or of Kilmallie Community Viewsexpressed inthis newsletter are not necessarily the [email protected] Emailusat Mandy Ketchin ChadneySue JanMacLugash 772383 Christine Hutchison 772252 newsletterYour team: new for topics, new contributors and new volunteers. articles, and ideas for articles. Weare always the lookouton asAndever please letushave your stories,poems, pictures, know,you notis receiving their regularnewsletter. Kilmallieaddresses. Please letusknow if you,orsomeone Chair checkwiththe Secretary incase of changes. every monthexcluding July and December. Please KilmallieCommunity Centre on the 4th Monday of meetings. Meetingsare currently held at 7:15pm in Membersthe of publicare welcomemost at allour COUNCIL COMMUNITY KILMALLIE Treasurer Secretary

Members

community community

kilmallie

[email protected] Christine Hutchison JanMacLugash [email protected] RussellLeaper Canal House,Canal Banavie,PH33 7LY Carol AnneCarol Campbell Mandy Ketchin [email protected] Salen,Banavie PH33 7LY Jim Jim Ramsay news

- to -

date listdateof

page 3 A is for Annat issues while her husband Ian was terminally ill. I am very page 2 grateful to you Mandy and I know that you will give me page 31 kilmallie helpful advice when I ask for it.

safety rather than doing things that they the Blar roundabout. know will make things worse. and who is Russell Leaper, Secretary the mysterious Mr E?

help make the biggest ever in this issue

Banavie Floral - p15 1000 local people have already supported the idea and feedback... and and pictures...andarticles...and stories Corpach on Colour - p15 Produce Show - p16-17 simply by becoming members BOYD BROTHERS CLYDEBoyd focus on business - p18 of East Lochaber and Laggan Community Trust, congratulations - p18 but another 1000 members would be really great (HAULAGE) LTD Fort William Ltd HM Coastguard - p18 to help make a really strong case to the Scottish Land Fund home made hydro - p19 for the funding to make it a reality. beekeepers - p20 FORT Corpach Woods - p20 Loch Treig, on the eastern boundary of the Rio Tinto estate. see page 10 for more info Wildings gig - p21 WILLIAM Picture by Richard Webb and PLEASE JOIN NOW! see application forms enclosed Music For All - p22 TYRE Shinty Club - p22 Rugby Club - p23 SERVICES Art Lochaber - p23 Keystone award for Kilmallie Community Centre FOCAL- p24 see page 12 wild about Kilmallie - p25 Rwanda - p26 step it up - p27 Focus on Folk – p28 friends together - p28 charabanc - p29 Green fingers - p29 bygone scholars - p30 ten years ago - p30 would you like to become a sponsor too? W Highland Colosseum - p30 We rely on the contributions from our business community for the cost of producing and distributing this free newsletter to every address in our Puzzles from Pithean - p31 area. We welcome sponsorship from all businesses located in Kilmallie, or with principal key personnel resident in Kilmallie. If you would like to see your name or logo in print supporting your community newsletter, please join with our current sponsors. All donations,bi g or small, are Sponsors - p32 hugely appreciated. Please contact us at [email protected] for details. please sendletters...please us YOUR