Wednesday, January 25, 2023
Rachel and Marg moved to the Beenleigh area 14 years ago, having left the UK several years prior, to travel around Australia. This was their 3rd attempt to hold a Burns night, thanks to Covid.
The invitation features Peggoty and McGinty, their very precious Yorkies. They have just starred in a 2nd production of The Wizard of Oz, sharing the role of Toto.
Our hostess's Dowager Duchess McHunt [Rachel] and Dowager Duchess McWalford. [Marg]
Very few of the invitees had any great knowledge of Robbie Burns, let alone the format for the evening. It was a brilliant evening however, with everyone dressed in tartan and sharing in the providing of Cock-a-Leekie Soup, Neaps & Tatties, Haggis and Tipsy Laird.
Janice, Rebecca and I await our carriage.
The drawbridge was lowered and Piper Greg escorted the guests inside and then outside.
Being a disorderly Aussie mob, and hard to round up, the decision was made to dance the Gay Gordon, whilst we were all outside and with room to move. A group photo was also captured.
The Traditional, Welcome and Selkirk's Grace took place inside and delicious Cock-a-Leekie broth was enjoyed.
A sextet of lovely Scottish lassie's then sang Robbie Burns's poem, "A Red Red Rose."
The haggis was piped in and carried by Ross and Kerry Heldon, the haggis chefs.
Marg performed the address to the haggis and we all raised our glass of a small nip of whisky.
Below is a link to this tradition, if you are interested.
https://www.roddythepiper.com/haggis-address/#:~:text=Usually%20the%20haggis%20procession%20is,the%20Toast%20to%20the%20Haggis.
Delicious scran was then served buffet style.
One thing that was very impressive on this wonderful evening, was the volunteers in the kitchen keeping the washing up in check. These 3 Scottish Braves were often spotted, quietly getting on with the job.
Traditional jiggin, poetry, songs and Scots gaiety had everyone toe-tapping.
The Toast tae th' Ladies was presented by Rod Smith, seen here, standing next to Piper Tattum.
The eloquent response was given by Alison Campbell.
Time then for dessert of Tipsey Laird, although Cranachan would have been more traditional for a Burn's night. [oatmeal, raspberries, whisky, honey and cream.]
A rousing Auld Lang Syne brought this brilliant evening to its conclusion.
We were all in agreement that if Rachel and Marg felt that they could host another Burn's Night, we wouldn't hesitate to attend.
I would love to read your comment.
