By CASEY NEILL
ALL things Scottish and a touch of Dandenong’s past will take centre stage this weekend.
Dandenong Showgrounds will host the 12th annual Scottish Heritage Day and the Back to Dandenong Stock Market Reunion, on from 10am to 3pm on Sunday 25 May.
Event chairman Graeme Marriott said the free festivities would showcase animal breeds that originated in Scotland, including Shetland ponies, Clydesdale horses and various dogs.
“I’ve been involved in the Clydesdale horse world for many, many years and many, many members of my family are involved in it,” he said.
“Over in Scotland they have a mare and foal show, which is what we have.
“It’s a real family atmosphere.”
There’ll be highland music and dance and a kilt competition with cash prizes.
“Anyone that wears a kilt can go in it,” Mr Marriott said.
“You might look for the cutest kid in the kilt or the man with the hairiest legs!
“It’s a fun day, and that’s what we want.”
The Dandenong Agricultural and Pastoral Society event will also include a memorabilia display in the shed housing the Dandenong Stock Market milker sale ring, saved when the Cheltenham Road site was closed in 1998.
“It’s a good spot to reminisce with mates,” Mr Marriott said.
He said more than 100 perpetual signs lined the walls in tribute to families from the district with connections to the market.
He encouraged families to contact the society if they’d like a sign for their ancestors included.
Dandenong Showgrounds is at Greaves Reserve in Bennet Street, Dandenong.
Visit www.dandyshow.com.au for more information.
