Since its founding in 1857, the Maryborough Highland Gathering has been an annual New Year’s fixture, with the only interruption being the wartime years of 1942-1945 when the Australian Commonwealth faced national crisis.
This enduring event was initiated by Scottish gold prospectors, landowners, and entrepreneurs who had made their way to Victoria’s goldfields. They sought to re-establish their cherished New Year Highland traditions in their adopted homeland. Over the past 160 years, this custom has not only persisted but flourished, evolving to incorporate Australian sports and recreational activities. Now in its 163rd year, the Gathering remains as popular as it was upon its inception.
Official site here: https://highlandsociety.com.au/highland-gathering/
