The RSCDS Centenary Ball – Melbourne & District Branch

On Saturday August 19th, over 160 dancers from throughout Victoria celebrated the centenary of the RSCDS with a formal Ball at the Malvern Town Hall. Guests were welcomed to this majestic building by piper Mick Ryan and served with celebratory drinks and nibbles in the foyer and a welcome address by Melbourne & District Branch President, Mary Buckingham.

This was followed by a Grand March to get everyone in position for the first dance of the night, The Laird of Milton’s Daughter. Music for the evening was provided by the Melbourne Scottish Country Dance Band featuring David South (Accordion), Matthew Robertson (Fiddle), Philip Healey (Fiddle), Allan Evans (Flute), Julia Arnold (Piano) and Isaac Gunnoo (Bass). A few more dances and then a break for the main course. At the tables, each guest found their souvenir stemless wine glass printed with the centenary logo. Dancing continued after the main course and included among others Miss Milligan’s Strathspey, Scott Meikle and Quarries’ Jig.

There was another break from dancing for dessert and the cutting of the cake. The cake was cut by two of the founding members of the Branch, Heather Byers and George Cooper. More dancing followed and included the event appropriate Anniversary Reel. The evening ended with a rousing rendition of Auld Land Syne.

Thank you to all who ensured the evening was so special especially Christine Freeman and Jo Reed and the other members of the Ball subcommittee, Mary Buckingham and Leanne Smith. Also, Irwin Campbell for all the printing including the decorative banners featuring images of Miss Milligan and Mrs Stewart, and the Victorian Scottish Heritage Cultural Foundation for its financial contribution.