Gazette

A sombre highland fling

By Kelly Yates

3rd February 2010 02:00:08 AM

FIREFIGHTERS will open this year’s Berwick Highland Gathering to remember the lives and properties lost on Black Saturday.

More than 3500 people are expected to fill Akoonah Park in Berwick on Saturday 13 February, with Simon Hall from the Rotary Club of Narre Warren saying last year’s gathering was a tough one, being held the day after Black Saturday.

“It was much quieter last year,” he said.

“People were still receiving news of the devastation that was happening around the state. Our thoughts were with them on the day.”

The Berwick CFA will officially open the games, with some of the proceeds on the day going to the brigade.

Pipe bands will battle it out at the Berwick Highland Gathering, with guests also being treated to other attractions including the black and white dog show, a pipe band display, highland dancing, traditional Scottish games and a number of stalls, vendors and traders.

The event, in its 24th year, runs from 9am to 5pm.

Tickets cost $5 for adults, $3 for pensioners and children are free.

The Berwick Highland Gathering is one of the Rotary Club of Narre Warren’s biggest community service events of the year.

For details email berwickhighlandgathering@y7mail.com or visit http://home.vicnet. net.au/~berwick