By Jim Mynard
ROTARY District 9820 governor Ray Stewart has highly commended the organisers of the record breaking Berwick Highland Games.
The highland gathering held at Akoonah Park, Berwick, on Sunday, 12 February was dubbed the best of 20 and broke all attendance records with an estimated 4000 people at the park.
Mr Stewart officially opened the games traditionally run by the Rotary Club of Narre Warren and major sponsor the City of Casey.
“The pipe bands, the strong competition in all events, including new ones, and the wide-ranging program, provide us with a memorable occasion.
“The community support is greatly appreciated,” he said.
Haileybury College won the prized Tom McGill memorial trophy for Grade 4.
Casey mayor Kevin Bradford officially closed the games.
He said the games had provided a wonderful success. “I am sure you all join with me in congratulating those responsible for the organisation of this event.
“In particular, I congratulate the Rotary Club of Narre Warren, representatives of the Casey Pipes and Drums and the Berwick Highland Dancing Association who have undertaken the arrangements.
“The City of Casey has been pleased to sponsor this great event and I acknowledge other sponsors who have provided support.
“Today was the 20th presentation of the Highland Gathering and we look forward to future events.
“The Highland Gathering has become an important part of our calendar and my fellow councillors and I have been pleased to again provide support for this wonderful day.
“I invite you all to assemble at this place in the year 2007 for the conduct of the next gathering,” he said.
@BT Vox Pop News:Competition results
Highland Dancing
Under 13 premiership, 1st Madison Christie, 13-16 premiership, 1st Emily Brown, 16 and over premiership, 1st Tiffany Elba.
@BT Vox Pop News:The Black and White Dog Competition
The winning breed was the Scottish Terrier Club, runner up, West Highland White Terrier Club.
The best exhibit was Balindalloch Imperio exhibited by Pam Ryan-Orchard and runner up was Aust Ch Westmor Celtic Rose exhibited by Sue Stewart.
@BT Vox Pop News:
Heavy Games
Bill Lyndon from Wallace, near Ballarat won the caber tossing, and the Atlas Stones of Strength contests.
The Atlas Stones of Strength created enormous crowd interest when it was contested directly in front of the pavilion viewing area.
Contestants were asked to carry five round stones weighing from 65 kilograms to the heaviest at 130 kilograms.
Mr Lyndon lifted the stones on to the bench in 18 seconds.
Runner up Rick Simpson from Narre Warren lifted the stones in 29 seconds.
Some competitors were unable to manage past the third stone in this event that requires enormous physical strength.
The shot put event went to Matt Sandford.
@BT Vox Pop News:
Band results
Juvenile grade Haileybury College Pipe Band; grade 1, Australian Highlanders; grade 2, Clayton; grade 3, Ballarat; and the Tom McGill trophy for Grade 4 Haileybury College Pipe Band.
