Report on the CLAN MACRAE BATHURST HIGHLAND GATHERING & COUNTRY FAIR AND DINNER – Report by: Ray MacRae
A brisk sunny morning greeted us as we arrived on a wet oval with views almost like Scotland.
We erected our tent and began to arrange our coffee, tea and Scottish yummies. Some of our visitors look for some refreshments during the day.
As the sun climbed the warmth returned and a more perfect day could not be imagined.
14 bands from thought out the country arrived and began forming and tuning instruments. The pipes and the drums brought a reality to the day and the crowds knew they were in for a Scottish feast of movement, colour and music.
The Scottish dancers were a treat to see, the results of many months of practice. The movement, the colour and their steps near brought a little moisture to the eyes. I am sure the tradition will live long at this place.
Then the bands began to show us what they had been practicing. We were in for a treat. Once again the colour, movement, sounds and the setting took one back through the years and it could have been a hundred years ago in Scotland.
Excitement in the crowd was electric and applause deafening, the whole oval and grounds were alive to every movement and sound.
The day drew to a close around 4pm and the crowd not wanting to leave such a place, but knowing we must go, they went. A wonderful experience was taken home by all.
The Clan MacRae dinner at night was held at a popular Chinese restaurant “Rose Garden” in central Bathurst.
A joyful crowd gathered, and a good time was had by all. As the evening drew to a close we began to move to the cars all agreeing it was a wonderful day and planning our gathering next year.
