Gather around for a highland spectacular

THE 22nd annual Berwick Highland Gathering will take place this Sunday at Akoonah Park in Berwick.
The Rotary Club of Narre Warren is staging the event, which starts at 10am.
Some of the activities that locals can enjoy on the day include a Scottish Highland Dancing competition and Scottish Country Dancing exhibitions.
The popular ‘Heavy Games’ will run again this year, which includes the traditional caber toss and Atlas Stones of Strength competition. The black Scottish Terriers and West Highland whites will also be in competition.
Locals can also enjoy some traditional Scottish music, with 20 pipe bands from across the state scheduled to compete throughout the day.
There will be a solo drumming contest, and the day will conclude around 4pm with a parade of mass bands.
The City of Casey is the major sponsor of the Highland Gathering, and has been a strong supporter of the event for many years.
Casey mayor Cr Janet Halsall said the Highland Gathering is one of the highlights on Casey’s events calendar.
“There are a variety of activities and shows on the day that the whole family can enjoy.”
Convenor, Rotarian Ross Chudleigh said an official opening will take place at 11am.
Local identity Mr John Seymour, a former member and president of Narre Warren Rotary Club, will open the Highland Gathering.
The closing ceremony will be conducted by Cr Halsall in the tradition role as Chieftain of the Gathering.
Mr Chudleigh urged local families to come along and enjoy the day.
“Along with the competitions throughout the day, Scottish apparel, crafts and souvenirs will be on sale, together with food and drink, displays, and Scottish clan representatives,” he said.
Admission is $5 per person, $3 for concession, with under 14s admitted free.