DANCING, music, strong men and a Scottie dog costume competition – this year’s Highland Gathering is one not to miss.
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The Scots School’s much-loved community event is back for its 33rd year with a range of family-friendly activities this Sunday.
Scots’ enrolments and promotions officer Lynda Ireland said “it’s an iconic Bathurst event that showcases all things Scottish”.
Pipes and drums bands from across the state will compete centre stage in front of the school’s castle which will be erected for the Highland Gathering.
“One of the greatest spectacles is the massed band which is all the bands coming together at the end of the competition to play together,” Mrs Ireland said.
“This is a phenomenal spectacular and one not to be missed.”
Highland dancers will entertain throughout the day, while the hugely-popular strongmen will be back by popular demand.
Mrs Ireland said the group of professional strongmen competed on the main oval for the first time last year and they received a great response from the crowds.
“It’s a great family day with lots of stalls and a fete and good food and rides,” she said.
“It’s open to everyone and we usually get thousands of people.”
New this year is the Scottie dog costume competition and anyone with a Scottish terrier or west highland white terrier are welcome to take part.
One of the greatest spectacles is the massed band which is all the bands coming together at the end of the competition to play together.
- Scots School's Lynda Ireland
Registrations will take place on the day and entrants should check in at 12.15pm.
“There’s no fee to participate, but donations are welcome and the contest begins promptly at 12.30pm,” Mrs Ireland said.
Two tours of the grounds will be held on the day, including a school tour at 11.30am, followed by a boarding house tour at 2pm.
Chieftain on the day will be Liz Lennon who has had a long association with the school and had three children attend as students.
Mrs Ireland praised the many local businesses that have supported the school for this year’s event.
The Scots School Highland Gathering runs from 10am until 4pm this Sunday at 4173 O’Connell Road.
Entry is $2 and children under five are free.