Excitement mounts for 56th Highland Gathering

It’s that time again when momentum for Amanzimtoti’s spectacular showcase, the Highland Gathering, starts to mount. This year’s gathering, which is hosted by Amanzimtoti Lions Club at the Amanzimtoti Sports Centre, takes place on Saturday, 27 April and will feature 1,000 pipers from around South Africa.

“For the 56th annual Highland Gathering, we are revamping the fields to make room for a section that will feature only genuine arts and crafts,” Lion Carol Botha. “Bookings for stalls are open. When sending in your forms specify ‘crafts’ if that is what your stand is selling.” Email forms to john.west@amanzimtoti-lions.org.

Last year estimates of between 8,000 and 10,000 visitors flocked to the second largest gathering of pipe bands outside Scotland. “This year also, for the first time ever, we have invited the classic car club to display their vehicles, as well as the new car dealers,” said Carol.

If clubs or anyone wants to participate in the arena events, email ken.toward@sappi.com. “Keely Crocker has once again been invited to sing with the pipers, and we are always looking for new, young talent to perform in the arena.”

Parking at the Amanzimtoti Sports Centre on the day will be managed by the ASC and all funds raised from this go back into the park for maintenance and facilities. The cost is R20 per vehicle and parking will again be via the Hutchison Road (Amanzimtoti Rugby Club) entrance onto the oval and then the Riverside Road entrance onto the Toti two field and parking area.

For more information on the Highland Gathering, call Carol on 076-934-7527 or email botha.carol60@gmail.com.

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