Gathering exceeds expectations
The highlight of the event was Keely Crocker singing with the pipers.
“Absolutely awesome. We believe it is possibly the best Highland Gathering ever.”
Those are the ecstatic words of convener and Amanzimtoti Lions member, Ken Toward after more than 12,000 people enjoyed the sights, sounds and delicious smells of this year’s Highland Gathering on Saturday, 2 May, the largest gathering of pipe bands in the Southern hemisphere.
“The event went off smoothly. The bands were happy. We just seemed to get everything right this year.”
With more than 10,000 paying visitors, adding in all members of the bands and exhibitors, Ken reckons it is on par, if not slightly improved from last year’s attendance.
“We ended up with 26 pipe bands performing. That’s every single pipe band in the country, from as far as Cape Town, Knysna, Pretoria and Benoni that travelled to Amanzimtoti to be a part of this special occasion.”
The winner of this year’s competition was ‘Transvaal Scottish’.
But the Highland Gathering is much more than just a band competition, with entertainment for every member of the family, including drum majorettes and beauty pageants.
“The highlight of the event was Keely Crocker singing with the pipers. It was absolutely stunning. For a 12-year-old to stand up in front of about 4,000 people and sing with pipers, which is the most difficult thing to do, she killed it. I don’t know how we are going to top that next year.”
A new addition to last year’s Gathering was the inclusion of the Lifestyle Expo and this year it entrenched itself firmly as a new element to the annual event.
“The Lifestyle Expo has added a different dimension. Each year we need to think of ways to add to the event. The Lifestyle Expo has improved the Gathering, which helps grow the event from strength to strength. The arena events also went off well. All-in-all it was a very, very good Highland Gathering this year,” said Ken.
All funds raised at the Gathering are ploughed back into the local community and Amanzimtoti Lions urges any charity or person in need to contact president, Shayne Tocher on 083-306-9997 if they would like assistance.
