December 28th, 2024Going to the Gatherin’ at the ‘borough

The Maryborough Highland Gathering is readying to return for its 162nd instalment this upcoming New Years Day.

Maryborough’s Highland Gathering was originally formed by Scottish squatters and businessmen in an attempt to recreate the New Year celebrations of their native home.

Today, the Highland Gathering attracts people from all across the country – athletes, dancers, musicians, and those who just want to soak up the incredible atmosphere of piped bands and traditional Scottish culture.

Organisers say the program set for the first day of the new year will have something for everyone: “a piped band street parade, all-day athletics, highland dancing on two stages all day, Highland games and traditional strongmen event”.

Track events on the day range from 70-metre sprints to middle-distance races over 1500 metres.

There are events for men and women, including veterans and the athletics program culminates with the running of the $15,000 Max Martin Memorial Maryborough Gift, contested over 120 metres and now one of the country’s most prestigious footraces.

Anyone who’s attended the event over the past 35 years will likely have a lasting memory of the Girl on the Drum feature that’s become a highlight of the New Year celebrations.

It features a highland dancer atop a base drum, lifted to the shoulders of three burly Scots.

Flanked by a full piped band and other traditional dancers, it’s a sight and sound spectacular well worth catching.

Organisers also say there’ll be plenty to keep the kids entertained too, with games, sideshows and rides happening throughout the day.

The day concludes with a free evening concert and a fireworks display to help usher in the new year ahead.

Entry to Princes Park is $18 for adults, $10 for seniors, with children under 16 free.

Words: Eve Lamb