The Origins of the
Highland Gathering
The Origins of the
Highland Gathering
A Legacy of Community and Tradition
The Highland Gathering has become one of South Africa’s most cherished cultural events, attracting thousands of visitors each year. But few know that it all began with a simple goal: building a swimming pool for a local school.
A Humble Beginning (1964)
In 1964, Betty and Clifford Leesam stepped in to help Umbogintwini Primary School raise funds for their much-needed swimming pool. They organised the first-ever South Coast Highland Gathering, bringing together the sounds of bagpipes, the energy of Highland games, and the spirit of community. The event was such a success that it became an annual tradition, growing into one of the largest Highland Gatherings in South Africa.
A Royal Connection (1967)
In 1967, the Gathering reached royal heights when John Nichol, the Queen’s personal piper, was invited to judge the competition. After official correspondence with Buckingham Palace, Nichol’s visit was confirmed, and his arrival in South Africa was a momentous occasion.
As his plane touched down at Louis Botha Airport, the Mayor, local dignitaries, and a massive crowd gathered on the apron to welcome him in grand style. The Natal Mounted Rifles band, dressed in full regalia, played “Flower of Scotland” as hundreds cheered.
A Weekend of Celebration
For the first time, bands from across South Africa travelled to Amanzimtoti to compete, with out-of-town pipers hosted in holiday flats by the Dalziel family. After a spirited day of competition, the evening celebrations at Jubilee Hall were legendary—hot dogs, mince rolls, and a mix of Scottish folk dancing and Elvis tunes kept the crowd dancing well into the night!
On Sunday morning, the local ladies prepared bacon and eggs for the tired but elated pipers, followed by a Sunday feast at the Dalziel home. As the weekend drew to a close, pipers played a final tune on the Durban train station platform, their music fading into the distance as they departed—some barely making it onto the train in time!
A Legacy That Lives On
Over the years, the Highland Gathering moved from Umbogintwini Primary to Kingsway High School, before being entrusted to the Amanzimtoti Lions Club, who continue its legacy today.
From its humble beginnings as a school fundraiser to becoming the largest pipe band gathering in the Southern Hemisphere, the Highland Gathering remains a celebration of Scottish heritage, community spirit, and small-town heart.
