The Waverley Great excitement was stirred up in Gairloch recently - and history made - with the short visit of the paddle-steamer Waverley, giving the opportunity to enjoy a cruise round the loch. Hundreds of people gathered on Gairloch pier, either to see this amazing vessel, or to take the opportunity to "paddle" their way round the loch.
Although the Waverley had been as far north as Kyle of Lochalsh on the mainland coast before, it was the first time that she had been to Gairloch and the first time a paddle steamer had visited the village for nearly a century-and-a-half. The pier was black with people ranging in age from babe-in-arms to nonagenarians in wheelchairs. They came from a' the airts. When the vessel paddled in to Flowerdale Bay, consternation arose as to where and how the waiting crowds were to be accommodated with the appearance of several hundred already on board. However, most of those, who had come up on a trip from Kyle of Lochalsh and the Island of Skye, disembarked for the duration of the trip round Gairloch and enjoyed some of the local sights - in the meantime, we boarded in our hundreds and sailed right round the loch on a beautiful evening of sunshine and calm. It was wonderful for those of us who had not "been to sea" for some time to remind ourselves of the natural beauty of the area and once again to express a "wow!" at the spectacle of sea, land and mountain. How refreshing it was too, to meet up with the "world and his wife" in such pleasurable circumstances. For the record, the vessel is 239.6 feet in length. Waverley - haste ye back!
Sea Eagle Camera No effort is being spared in the attempt to obtain a camera for viewing the sea eagles on Shieldaig Island. It was recently unanimously agreed that the local community council should approach various funding bodies to try to secure funding for a camera. LibDem candidate Robbie Rowantree offered some suggestions which Alice MacLennan will follow up. The council will provide £250 and it is likely that the Sports Association will also contribute. Alice will approach local business and holiday home-letting premises to ask whether they would be interested in helping.
Cool and Crazy Praise Party! All children are invited to a party which includes crazy juggling, cool songs, Xciting stories, crazy quiz, and a cheeky puppet! This is a chance to have fun, keep fit and celebrate all at the same time! It will be held in Poolewe Village Hall on Friday, June 10, 6-7.30pm. The leader will be John Hardwick, author of Jungle Jamboree, Champions and Robot Razzamatazz. Just turn up for an evening of amazing fun - and it's free!
Book transport from Gairloch and Aultbea by Thursday, June 9 by calling Jeremy on 731345 or Susan on 731376.
Gairloch Heritage Museum From June 4 to July 16 Gairloch and District Heritage Museum will host a "M3osaic Sculptures" Exhibition by Ingela Davis with an exhibition preview evening for members and their guests on Friday, June 3 from 7.30pm. Ingela is a self-taught mosaic artist working from a home-based studio in Gairloch. The exhibition is a compendium of her craft and visual art work to date, drawing heavily on the themes of Highland life and landscape, utilising locally sourced castaway items, found objects and recycled materials.
Also two events have been organised for National Family Week (May 30 to June 4). On Tuesday, May 31 from 10.30am to 12.30pm there will be a net and creel making session. Spinning and carding demonstrations will be held on Thursday, June 2 from 10am until 5pm. It is hoped that visitors will join in the activities and perhaps learn a new skill! Free admission is offered to all under 16s during the week.
The museum reports that Phil Staton, who has handled the museum's accounts in a very professional manner over the last three years, has now retired from the post. The new treasurer is Sheona Mackintosh. Thanks and best wishes are extended to Phil and a warm welcome is extended to Sheona.
