PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Dear Clansfolk,

NEWSLETTER NO. 98 March, 2011

PRESIDENT: Graeme MacLennan 722 Balloong Rd., WOODSIDE 3874 TEL 5187 1291 VICE—PRES: Max McLennan 4 Fisken St, BALLAN 3342 TEL 5368 2691 SECRETARY: Patsy McLennan 13 Lamart St., STRATHMORE 3041 TEL 9379 2425 TREASURER: Geoff McLennan 34 Hornsby St., MALDON 3463 TEL 5475 2092 EDITOR: Carol Davis PO Box 3500 Mdl.CAMBERWELL 3124 TEL 9836 2298 COMMITTEE: Carol Davis, Reg Davis, Bob McLennan, Ivan McLennan, Marion McLennan, Mary

McLennan, Kath Nicholls, Heather Vickers WEBSITE: <www.clanmaclennan-worldwide.com> EMAIL: ed-au@clanmaclennan-worldwide.com

A RED CROSS MEANS you are unfinancial for the year 2009/2010. Please forward back payment/s with your 2010/11 Membership Fee which was due on 1/5/2010. Your 2011/12 Membership Fee is due on 1/5/2011 ANNUAL FEE: $22.00. LIFE MEMBERSHIP: $250.00 plus Voluntary yearly levy of $6.00.

CHIEF: RUAIRIDH DONALD GEORGE MacLENNAN OF MacLENNAN CHIEFTAIN: GREGORY SCOTT MacLENNAN PATRON: OLIVE MacLENNAN

Clan MacLennan Association Australia Melbourne Inc.

With the crises of floods in Queensland, NSW and Victoria, Cyclone Yasi in Northern Queensland and the devastating earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, barely over, we now hear of the horror of the earthquake, tsunami and nuclear instability in Japan. One can only wonder about those who are less fortunate and I am sure you join with me in sending our prayers and best wishes to all those suffering extreme hardship at this time. Our clan members have attended many functions including on November 28th, a Scottish Dinner organised by Geoff and Marion McLennan, to celebrate St. Andrew’s Day with the community at Maldon, which is 150km North of Melbourne. My wife Frankie and I were honoured to attend and thoroughly enjoyed the evening, especially the traditional music and

singing. Congratulations to Geoff and Marion for putting together such a wonderful event. Our Clan Christmas Picnic and Games on 21st of November 2010 at Woodlands Park, Essendon was another enjoyable day. With fine sunny weather, there were plenty of starters in the annual Junior and Senior Petanque Championships which was won by Max McLennan with the Junior Petanque Championship being won by Max’s grand-daughter Jaz McLennan. A number of our clansfolk travelled long distances to attend this event. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the mem-bers of your Committee who provided a sumptuous after-

noon tea. Their tireless efforts contribute so much to the enjoyment of our events each year. I look forward to sharing another pleasant day at our next Christmas Picnic Gathering at Woodlands Park, Essendon on 20th November 2011. Our Chief Ruairidh will celebrate his 34th birthday on 22nd of April and his sister Kirsteen’s birthday will be on the 23rd of April. We wish them both a very Happy Birthday and I am sure they would appreciate receiving your best wishes.

President Graeme MacLennan presenting trophy to

Max McLennan Jnr. Petanque Champion

Jaz McLennan & Graeme MacLennan

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE (Cont’d)

One of the highlights for a Clan President is to announce the winner of The MacLennan Clan’s Perpetual Trophy for Piping, which is awarded on results in competitions run by the Victorian Pipers Association during 2010. I am delighted to announce that the MacLennan Clan’s Perpetual Trophy for Piping for 2010 has been won by Cameron Marshall. (see article on page 8) We look forward to meeting Cameron and hearing him play at our AGM and Ceilidh on 19th June, 2011, at Roseville Community Centre.

At this time of year many Clansfolk will be looking forward to the fun and spectacle of our first Gathering of the year at the Ringwood Highland Gathering and Games, to be held on the 10th of April, 2011 at Jubilee Park, Ringwood. (Melways Reference, Page 49, J10/11) There will be a free, frequent, shuttle bus between Ringwood Railway Station Car Park at the clock tower to the Gathering at Jubilee Park.

This event is always a great family day and a wonderful opportunity to proudly wear your tartan. There will be plenty of entertainment or participation if you choose, including competitions for Highland dancing, Pipe bands, Games and many carnival events. Don’t forget to visit our clan tent – which will be displaying our banner – for a “cuppa and a chat” anytime during the day between 9.00am and 5.00pm. Ours will be one of many clans gathering on that day and your attendance will help us once again be one of those with the strongest representation in the Grand March Past of the Clans. Rally at our Clan tent at 1.00pm to march together in the parade.

On Saturday 7th May the 17th Annual Dinner of the “Scots o’ the Murray” will be held at the Tuileries Restaurant in Rutherglen, and as usual, many of our members will attend. This is always a great evening as evidenced by our Clan’s expanding numbers each year. You are most welcome to join with us in our Clan’s contingent!

Our Second Gathering for 2011 will be on the 19th of June, at the Roseville Community Centre (Melway map 34 B9/10), with a “Bring-a-Plate and Share” lunch followed by our Annual Meeting and Ceilidh from 1pm - 5pm. As usual Clan members can expect a very pleasant day in the comfortably warm lounge area, with a shared lunch and great traditional Scottish entertainment, followed by afternoon tea. Please reserve this date in your diary and join us for a happy and entertaining afternoon.

The “Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan” service organised by the Council of the Scottish Clans and Associations will be held at The Scots’ Church, corner of Collins and Russell Streets, Melbourne on Sunday 3rd July, 2011 at 11am. After the Service all the Clansfolk will meet upstairs in the Church Hall in Russell Street for a “bring-your-own” lunch followed by some entertainment. Tea and Coffee will be provided.

On behalf of our members, I send our best wishes to all those suffering deprivation and loss of loved ones in the recent natural disasters in Australia and overseas. It’s difficult to comprehend the immense sense of loss they must be experiencing and we extend our prayers and condolences to them.

I look forward to seeing you all at the Ringwood Gathering on the 10th of April. Sincerely yours, Graeme MacLennan President Clan MacLennan Association Australia, Melbourne

-ooooooOoooooo-

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NEWS FROM OUR CHIEF

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Dear Clansfolk,

After what seemed like a long dark winter, I am pleased to say that the Highlands are currently basking in some lovely spring like weather. Walking down the street in Inverness, it is interesting to see the obvious positive impact that the sunshine and longer daylight hours have on people's spirits. Many resemble creatures that have just emerged from winter hibernation and the sunshine has allowed them to once again smile and laugh!! I find that the older I get the more I realise what an impact the long dark winter months have on people's well being. It seems to have been a long winter although we did not get the harsh prolonged snow that we did last year. Non-the-less, spring is a very welcome sight here in the Highlands although the forecast, a constant reminder not to become complacent, indicates that we may well get a further flurry of snow later this week. The ski resorts in the Cairngorm will be pleased!

The weather this weekend has been beautiful, clear crisp skies and plenty of sunshine. I had hoped to get up into the hills for some hiking but there has been too many distractions at home which is always frustrating when the weather is so wonderful. Lorna has just today arrived home following a 3 week holiday in Thailand with a group of friends. There seems to be a growing number of friends embarking upon this seasonal migration to the warmer climates during January and February and coinciding their return with spring. I am finding myself becoming increasingly jealous and tempted to follow suit and join these “fair-weather Highlanders”!!

It has been a relatively quiet couple of months since the Christmas and New Year period. We were all doing our own thing at New Year but then all got together for a weekend trip up to visit Godparents and friends in Lochinver and Ullapool early in January. There was a lot of snow which made the journey entertaining and at times hazardous. Young Charles has reached an age where he can appreciate the snow and we had a lot of fun building snowmen and sledging. Kirsteen, James and the boys came through to Dores for a weekend recently where we were joined by our cousin on our father's side, Rupert Crisswell and his wife Merryn and their two young children. Rupert's parents Colin and Annette Crisswell were regular attendees at Clan Gatherings, as was Colin's brother Keith Crisswell both of whom many of you will remember. Rupert and family have recently moved up to St Andrews and have become regular visitors to both Fochabers and Dores. During the weekend, I took Rupert and James for a hill walk to Beinn Damph near our bothy in Shieldaig. We both have many happy childhood memories of holidaying together in Beinn Damph and Shieldaig as children. A typical day of sunshine followed by a snow storm ensured they both got a good feel for Highland hill walking!

I have managed a fair few hills since the New Year, often in fairly deep snow which has added to the excitement of the exhibitions. I have re-cently purchased a new camera, a Canon SLR which I am hoping will take my photography to a different level. I have become increasingly interested in landscape photography which is a perfect hobby for someone who is often clambering up hills in the Highlands and Islands.

Kirsteen and James very kindly gifted me a place on a landscape photography course as a Christmas present which is due to take place at the end of March in Torridon. The fact that the course is being run within a few miles of our bothy in Shieldaig reinforces just what a spectacular part of the country it is. Kirsteen and James' youngest child George was christened in Fochabers at the end of January. This resulted in over 40 family and friends coming through to Fochabers for the service which was followed by a dinner party at the house. It is amazing how many children now seem to be present at these events, a sign Cont’d

James Eckersley & Rupert Crisswell, Beinn Damph

Ruairidh & Rupert Crisswell Beinn Damph

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NEWS FROM OUR CHIEF (cont’d)

that we are all getting older!! They are all well and Kirsteen is starting to prepare for her return to work flying for British Airways in early July

Work for me has been less hectic over the winter months and the economic situation has resulted in a notable downturn in the property market. The result is less work, less jobs and a degree of uncertainty throughout the economy. People are therefore keeping their heads down and most folk are just thankful to be in employment. I have had a few piping events over the past months, both with the TA pipe band and playing at Aldourie Castle near Dores which runs corporate events. There has also been the occasional BurnsSupper,

wedding and other events. The past month has been TA annual testing time involving all the usual shooting and Combat Fitness Tests. Last Sunday we had to do an 8 mile march with 25kg plus rifles, part marching, part running. The experience does not seem to get easier each year and results in me often questioning why I still put myself through this torture when all I really want to do is to play the bagpipes!! I have a pipe band trip to Sweden in May for 5 days which makes it all seem worthwhile temporarily and the band are returning to play at the Basel Tattoo this July although it is looking unlikely that I will be able to commit to the trip this year.

We received the sad news last month of the death of Elva MacLennan, wife of Doug (Wee Doug) MacLennan, Canada. Both Doug and Elva have been keen loyal Clan members for many years and helped to host various visits made to Canada by both my father and myself. I have very fond memories of touring Canada with my father in 1987 with Doug, Elva, Smokey and Mary McLennan. Elva will be missed and our thoughts are with Doug at what must be a difficult and sad time.

There has been interest in organising a small Clan event here in Scotland and we are looking to get something organised for later this summer, possibly in the Inverness area. Details will be circulated once we have a date and venue confirmed. Around the globe there has been continued communication with Clan members via letter, email, the Clan Web Site and the various Facebook sites. It is amazing the power and ease of the internet based forums and I now often look at my pile of letterhead writing paper slowly gathering dust and forget what it is like to send actual letters to people! With the Highland Games season fast approaching, I wish to thank the many volunteers who will be sacrificing their own time and expense in supporting the various Clan MacLennan Associations by attending various Games and ensuring that our Clan is represented and supported. Your hard work and commitment speaks volumes about your loyalty and dedication to your Clan.

Yours aye, Chief Ruairidh

George’s Christening, Fochabers January 2011

Ruairidh on the summit of Beinn Damph

A magical view of Beinn Damph Ruairidh on the summit of Tom a Choinich,Glen Affric

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CLAN CHRISTMAS BBQ/PICNIC AT WOODLANDS PARK, 21st NOVEMBER

What a relief! The day dawned bright, just perfect for outdoor activities. By lunchtime everyone had settled down under the shady trees by the house to talk and eat. It was a pleasant surprise to see a kilted Doug McLennan

from Kerang, with his wife Ann, daughter Kim and grandson Steel. Work had got around that Doug had brought his didgeridoo to play but that rumour proved groundless. Next time Doug, maybe? Joan and Dick Parker with Joy Peck had also made the long trek to be with us from Rosebud. As we ate, Gary King played his pipes in the background, just within hearing. Everyone became just a little too relaxed and almost had to be prised out of their comfy seats and encouraged onto the not so perfect Petanque pitch. The Juniors launched proceedings and after a tight contest, Jaz McLennan became the Junior Champion for 2010. Congratulations to

Jaz! The Seniors’ battle was soon underway and following quite a lengthy tussle, our past President Max McLennan triumphed over the difficult conditions and won out on the day. - Well done Max! A vast array of goodies from our Committee ladies was set out on the trestles for afternoon tea while President Graeme MacLennan thanked all those present for again making our break-up such a success. Patsy McLennan

ST.ANDREW’S DAY CELEBRATORY DINNER, 28th NOVEMBER

Following reports of flash flooding in surrounding areas over Saturday night, there were concerns that guests travelling to Maldon on Sunday might not get through. More importantly, would the Haggis make it?! To the relief of organiser Geoff McLennan, it fined over next morning and most roads became passable. The local cherry farm didn’t fare so well and there were no gorgeously sweet and plump cherries on sale this visit.

Our President Graeme MacLennan and his wife Frankie hosted pre-dinner ‘wee drams’ complete with ice and nibbles in a sunny courtyard at their motel. Thanks to both of you, it was much appreciated. - We then headed to Penny School Café for our Dinner, a little early. This gave us the opportunity to view the interesting landscape oils hanging on the walls surrounding the dining area before Geoff welcomed the guests and called on the Haggis Procession to begin. The much travelled “Wee Beastie” was again addressed by the great Richard “Screitch” Leitch with suitable feeling and we soon tucked into generous servings of the tasty delight with “tatties and neeps”.

Richard treated us to some wonderful poetry before the main course arrived. Our trio of

musicians, Frank Donovan, John McLennan and Geoff’s new discovery, Bernard Boulton, the ‘magician’ of piano, entertained us during the evening and at times some of us were unable to resist joining in which made it even nicer. After lovely, tangy Summer Pudding, coffee and Marion’s chocolate thistles, we sang every verse of the entire Scottish song book, urged on by one very vocal guest from Maryborough. The night was soon spent as were our musicians, who swung into ‘Ault Lang Syne’ for the Grand Finale to another great evening. Our grateful thanks to Geoff for organising the Dinner, no mean feat, to our caterers and to our wonderful entertainers.

It was by no means over for the Melbourne visitors, who once again joined Marion and Geoff next morning in their country cottage for a thoroughly relaxing and delightful breakfast with all the trimmings. Many thanks to them both for their warm and welcoming hospitality. Patsy McLennan

Doug & Ann McLennan

Wes Vickers, Joy Peck & Dick Parker

Geoff McLennan, Richard ‘Screitch’ Leitch, Chef & Bob McLennan with the

‘Wee Beastie’

Geoff & Marion McLennan

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NEWS OF CLANSFOLK BOTH NEAR AND FAR

Once again Christmas has come and gone, but as usual we have received many cards and letters from Clan folk all over the world including –

Ruairidh MacLennan - A very Happy New Year and I hope you all had a lovely festive seaon. We are all heading up to Lochinver and Ullapool tonight for the weekend which should be fun! Charles and George are growing up fast and I will send you a recent photo of the two of them. We all had a good Christmas and New Year although we were all in separate places. Kirsteen and James took the boys to Barbados and left the rest of us to suffer in the cold winter...`I am again back at work and depressed about the prospect of very few holidays until Easter which seems very late this year !!

James, Kirsteen, Charles and George Eckersley - We have lots of snow here, as you can see from the photo. All well here. Peggy Leonard, Henley-on-Thames – I had my first ever spell in Hospital in 91 years!! Tripped on a raised paving stone and broke my arm. I was two weeks in Hospital – everyone was so kind to me and I had helpers for 5 weeks when home. I’m fully OK now and can play my pipes again. I did pipe the Haggis in on the Burns Night in January, – possibly the oldest piper playing!! My garden has been good & I have had some help but do a fair amount myself. I often think of you! Thanks to all who send me Clan news. Hope you had a Good New Year, Peggy and Bruce. (Peggy’s Old Scotty Dog “Bruce”)

Kate McLennan, Canberra. – Season’s Greetings! Still doing the same timetable as last few years. Had tickets to the “Masterpieces from Paris”. Went to the Prom.Concert in the grounds of the Governor-General’s house in February. Was in Sydney for Madeleine’s 21st. A good evening at one of the hotels in the city. We had a stretch limo, plus champagne. Many of the family have been travelling but not me! Jock (the bird) is still going strong. I now leave the radio on for him when I’m out and he doesn’t seem so demanding. Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2011.

Margaret MacLennan, Sydney, Nova Scotia. I hope this finds you well and happy. Time has flown more quickly than ever this year in spite of me having some health concerns. I had a stone removed from my bile duct and then a bad bruise from connecting corner of a plastic bin. My platelets have been low for sometime – cause unknown. I have regular blood tests to keep track. Gwen still lives with me and is able to drive me. Actually I feel quite well – just feel my age and therefore have slowed down considerably. I now can’t travel far-a-field but keep up with your newsletter and also Ontario for which I subscribe. - Thank you so much for the Newsletters. Sincerely, Margaret.

Roddy McLennan, Plymouth, Eng. With Best Wishes to all the Clan.

Marilyn, Leslie, Kristin, and Erin Lawlor, Ottowa, Canada. Thanks again for being so hospitable to Erin while she was in Melbourne. Have you seen “The History of Scotland” on your TV, it is wonderful. Kristen and I had a short but lovely trip to Scotland at the end of August to attend a wedding in Dunkeld on the banks of the River Tay. We went up to Inverness first to Culloden and actually saw our names on the ceiling of the Visitors Centre. Then we took Ruairidh and Rachel to dinner at the Dores Inn – a really good evening! Hope all are keeping well.

Ross & Vivienne McLennan, New Zealand. Warmest Greetings of the Season and very good wishes for the coming year. A very Happy Xmas to all! From The Lobbans in Pooraka, S.A. All is well since we became citizens – although we were the only group who did not receive an official photograph. It seems the film got lost somewhere!! I am still very active with Clan MacFarlane so I guess I have kind of fallen away from Clan MacLennan business – out of touch might be more correct. Hope you all have a nice time at Christmas and New Year. Our respects to the Clan. Malcolm & May.

Jack and Bette MacLennan, Chicago, USA. Lots of Love to all for a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year.

John D. & Mrs MacLennan, Skokie, USA. Best Wishes to all the MacLennan Clanfolk in Australia, for a Happy Christmas and a Safe and Healthy New Year.

Charles & George ‘Christmas Elfs’

NEWS OF CLANSFOLK BOTH NEAR AND FAR (Cont’d.)

Jeanette & Brian Jasper, We were very disappointed to miss the Clan Functions this year and hope for better times in 2011. Unfortunately we both had some health problems during 2010 - Jeanette had surgery in February and Brian in June, both spending a few days in hospital and then a recovery period at home. It was a comfort having the family so close to us on these occasions. Although we seem to have medical appointments on a regular basis we are able to enjoy a fairly active social life. The grandchildren are all growing and everyone seems to lead such busy lives. We hope this letter finds you all well and happy with every good wish for Christmas & New Year. Isabel & Allan Anderson, Balnarring, Vic. Christmas is with us again – it doesn’t seem long since the last one. According to last years newsletter we were having regular bouts of short term memory loss – the bouts are now more regular. All the children, grandchildren and 2 great children are all doing well and we look forward to two more great grandchildren early in the new year. The rest of the family are busy with family and travel. Isabel is still keeping her hand in patchwork and involved in various other meetings etc. Allan is still having some success in bowls in the Nepean Association. Apart from bowls he is kept busy looking after the Church property and the garden. We will be celebrating our 60th wedding anniversary on February 10th and plan to have an “at home” on Sunday 13th. No more at the moment – and love to you and yours, and a Happy Christmas and best wishes to all the Clan. Harry Dale, Thurso, Caithness, This is just a wee note to let you know that everything is going fine with me. It is still hard but is gradually getting easier in no small part to all the support I have received from you and everybody else. I wish you a Merry Christmas and a very happy and prosperous New Year. Please give my kindest regards to all your Association members for all the support they have given me.

From Don MacLennan, Brookfield near Melton, Victoria - Our eldest Grandchild, Timothy Lyon & his partner Jade Ford, have brought into the world our first Great Grandchild, born on the 2ndFebruary 2010 and named Ashley Joe Lyon a really handsome boy, we are so proud that it has happened, and we do see him quite often as they live in Melton not very far from us, however, this will change in the near future as they will move to Berwick. This is quite sad as his paternal Grand-parents Anne and Steve will not get to see him so often, Margaret and I will not either. But in the New Year Tim & Jade hope to build at the Eynesbury Estate, south-west of Melton.

The next bit of news is.... my Aunty Fanny became One Hundred Years old on the 23rd October (she is my mothers sister), she keeps very well and is so alert, she is an expert on working out crossword puzzles and has done so for many years, we think this is the secret to keep the brain active. Aunt Fanny was born on the family farm in the Clunes District, I think along with 9 siblings. After being married she and her husband Keith worked their farm in the Horsham area, growing seed crops, mainly wheat in those early days. They had 5 children to raise as well as milk cows, feed and tend many hens, turkeys, feed new born calves; a very busy life on the farm. During the harvest time in hot weather she would carry food and drinks out to the men working on the crops. After many years of hard work she and Keith moved into Horsham and had some rest and quiet times, however both played Bowls for several years, until sadly her husband Keith died suddenly. But with family not too distant and many friends she found life goes on; her garden gave her much pleasure and she was able to do many things until recently, when it was agreed she move into a local Nursing Home which she loves and in turn is loved by all for her happy disposition. Editor’s Note: Congratulations to Margaret & Don on the arrival of their 1st G.Grandchild Ashley. Congratulations also go to Aunt Fanny for joining the Centenarian’s Club!

Jeanette & Brian

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Margaret, Don, Ashley, Timothy & Jade

Don’s Aunty Fanny 100 years young

NEWS OF CLANSFOLK BOTH NEAR AND FAR (Cont’d.)

Email from Doug MacLennan, Canada 24th October 2010: I know you are all interested in my 19 year old Grandson Richard’s speed skating results this week-end so here are the details. He skated three distances, 500, 1000 and 1500. He needed to place 5th or better in the 500, 5th or better in 1000 and 2nd or better in the 1500 to make the world cup team in that distance. He was 6th in the 500, 5th in the 1000 and 4th in the 1500. He qualified in the 1000 only and will go to the Netherlands, Germany, China and Japan for that distance. He is the first alternate in the 500 and I am told one skater (Jamie Gregg) is skipping the first 3 meets so Richard will get to do the 500 at those competitions. In talking to him and Sandra I picked up that he was disappointed in his skating this weekend and thought he could have done better, i.e. slipped in his 500 a num-ber of times. So this was a learning experience. It is interesting that the distance that he was least confident in, the 1000, is the one he qualified in.

Editor’s Note: To read many articles following Richard’s speed skating career over recent years, go to http://saultstar.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2807102 in the “search” box type in Richard MacLennan. Email from John & Marion Daly regarding holiday accommodation on the Isle of Skye: We've come across your Clan MacLennan contact details in the "Scottish Banner" that we have picked up in a newsagent whilst on holiday here in Australia. We have recently purchased a holiday home on the Isle of Skye that we intend to make available for rental. Given your organisation's ties with Scotland, we were wondering if any of your members would be interested in visiting our website.www.skyeluxurycottage.com

Editor’s Note: John & Marion Daly have no affiliation with Clan MacLennan Australia. This article is included for your interest only and is not an endorsement by Clan MacLennan Australia. Many greetings have been received by email from: Hamish & Margo MacLennan, Kiltarlilty nr.Beauly; Greg & Annelle MacLennan, Murrurundi, NSW; Patsy Wood, Minnesota, USA; Lock & Mary Ann McLendon, Texas, USA; Claire MacGregor, Edinburgh; Bruce & Lorna Hocking, Sunbury; Marg.MacLennan, Sunshine; Joyce & Peter MacLennan, Gisborne, Vic.

CLAN MACLENNAN PERPETUAL PIPING TROPHY WINNER 2010

Congratulations go to Cameron Marshall, winner of the 2010 Clan MacLennan Perpetual Piping Trophy. Cameron is the youngest of four boys who have all learned the Bagpipes from Ross Campbell at Scotch College. Cameron commenced his lessons when in Grade 4 at the age of nine. Ross Campbell retired in 2007 and Mark Saul then took over as Cameron’s teacher for the next 3 years.

Cameron joined the Scotch College Pipe Band in Year 7 and began competing in the Victorian Pipers Association Solo Competitions that year.

Ross Campbell also tutored Cameron in Piorbreachd and encouraged Cameron to compete in the Piorbreachd section at the Victorian Pipers Association competitions.

In 2008 Cameron travelled to Adelaide and participated in the R.U. Brown Piorbreachd Competition achieving 2nd Place in the Bronze Section.

In 2009 whilst in Year 11 Cameron was awarded the Geoffrey Donaldson Prize for Piping at Scotch College and in Year 12 was made Pipe Sergeant of the Scotch College Pipe Band.

Having finished VCE at the end of 2010 Cameron has joined two of his brothers at the City of Hawthorn Highland Pipe Band. Cameron commenced a Bachelor of

Information Technology and Communication at Swinburne University this year.

Cameron Marshall 2010

Clan MacLennan Perpetual Piping Trophy Winner

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Richard MacLennan

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OUR PATRON’S 99th BIRTHDAY

Olive MacLennan, the Patron of our Australian Clan MacLennan Association, had a very special day on 23 January, 2011, it was the day that Olive celebrated her 99th Birthday. If it hadn’t been for Olive and Elsie Smith we probably would not have our Australian Clan MacLennan Association; but for the hard work both these ladies had done we would not know each other. To celebrate, her daughter Faye held an ‘Open House’ at her home and most of the immediate family visited her during the afternoon to celebrate this very special birthday with Olive.

All Our Clanfolk Wholeheartedly Congratulate and Wish Olive All Our Love and Best Wishes.

VALE – BERT FARQUHAR OAM, TASMANIAN FARM PIONEER

Bert Farquhar died on 27 February, 2010, at the James Scott Wing of Scottsdale’s North-East Soldiers Memorial Hospital, aged 91; he was one of the great men of the Scottsdale district. Bert Farquhar joined our Clan MacLennan Association in 1984 as a Life Member; his mother being Jane McLennan. He was always a leader of agriculture and he certainly did a lot for North East Tasmania. Everybody

who grew up in the district knew of him.

Bert Farquhar started his working life at age 14 in tin mining at Lottah and Weldborough with his father.He soon bought land and began an innovative farming career, which included using early irrigation methods from former mine water races and using millions of worms to make the sandy soil on his North-East properties around Musselroe and Waterhouse more productive. In 1986 Bert bought the huge North-East property Rushy Lagoon, taking his land portfolio up to 27,930 hectares. For decades he was influential in bringing employment and industry to the North-East and was credited with the establishment of the Dewcrisp vegetable processing plant in Scottsdale, where he served some time as its managing director. He was instrumental in bringing the Armed Forces Food Science Establishment to Scottsdale in the 1970’s, and dabbled in mining and saw-milling industries throughout the State.

Community-minded Bert served as chairman of the North-Eastern Soldiers Memorial Hospital for a number of years. Bert Farquhar’s full life and varied working career was detailed in a memoir he wrote in 1990 called “Bert’s Story”. - Bert will be sadly missed and we extend our condolences to his family.

VALE - ELVA MACLENNAN, CANADA

It is with great sadness we report that on 6 February we lost a most highly respected Clan MacLennan member in Elva MacLennan. As you know Doug MacLennan and his wife, Elva, were the founding members of the Clan MacLennan Association Canada 25 years ago. Clan MacLennan Canada nationwide offer our condolences and prayers to Doug and his family for the loss of Elva. Our thoughts are with them as they struggle through these trying days. Peace be with you as we share in the sadness of this difficult time. Yours in Kinship, Ray McLennan, President Clan MacLennan Association Canada.

Editor’s Note: Clan MacLennan Australia join Ray in offering our condolences to Doug and his family at this sad time.

Our Patron Olive MacLennan

Bert Farquhar

Elva MacLennan

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THE VICTORIAN FLOODS AND OUR CLANFOLK

There were four of our Clan families in the flooded areas; all eventually escaped any serious damage. Barbara Crick of Horsham, Jock & Glenice McLennan of Clunes, Leslie & Phil Maher of Nyah West and Doug & Ann McLennan are all reported on in the following: Doug and Ann McLennan of Kangaroo Lake (Mystic Park) were fortunate to avoid being flooded but others in the nearby area were not so lucky. The following is an email received from Doug on 2 February advising us of his preparations prior to evacuation away from the threatening floodwaters: - G’day to all my friends and family, this is just a sample of what we are going through. We’ve done all

the preparations for the ‘big event’ and now all we can do is wait. Every-thing that can be moved to higher ground and things that are heavy just stacked high inside the house; levee banks checked, pumps removed and power turned off. Just to put you in the picture, we’re in North West Victoria just south of the Murray River with the Loddon River to the east, the Avoca River to the west and all the irrigation lakes and channels feeding from the Murray River via the Torrumbarry weir system running past our front door into Lake Kangaroo, just a stones throw away. To ease the water problem at Swan Hill the Water Board are running all lakes at 110% capacity and if it rains again “we’ll be in deep water”. We spoke to a local mate who was looking

for a generator and told him that I’ve got room in our deep freezer; only to find out when we got home that the freezer had broken down and the foodstuff had to be put into my beer fridge. - It goes to show that if it doesn’t rain it pours....well sure hope that it doesn’t. YES we had to evacuate. – A mate helped Ann and myself prepare the house and remove what furniture we could, in case of flooooding. We are now sharing the cooking whilst we are guests at Ray and Helen Brooke’s...... I will keep you informed, Doug Glenice McLennan of Clunes, wife of Jock, reported from their farm at Clunes that thankfully the rain hadn’t wreaked too much havoc there, despite the swollen stream on the property. The sheep were safe and their house, being on a more ele-vated area suffered no damage. She said it was a different matter in the town of Clunes itself where quite a few homes were flooded, some twice in a short space of time.

Barbara Crick of Horsham also luckily has a home on higher ground and was safe, not so though for many other residents she said. She knew of one lady living along the river in a 100 year old mud-brick house whose home ended up a pile of mud! The rain didn’t cause the damage but the rising waters did.

Bill and Leslie Maher at Nyah West were able to harvest most of their grain, though for the first time it had to be thoroughly cleaned due to the weeds which grew thick, fast and high in between the plantings and got caught up in the harvester which also periodically became jammed and had to be

de-clogged. Their home was fine but Leslie said many younger folk took a risk and built on lower ground and suffered dire consequences. Leslie said there could still be further flooding as the Murray contin-ued to fan out unpredictably and advised anyone driving in the area to bring their old maps rather than rely on navigator systems, as some roads were still closed. On the 6th March, in Swan Hill Gardens, a de-layed Australia Day Breakfast will be held, an annual event.

Many city dwellers were also affected as was our committee member Kath Nicholls. Following recent heavy falls, Kath and Ewen’s home

in Ringwood was badly flooded and carpets and flooring immersed. Equipment was brought in to dry things out but the floor coverings will have to be replaced. Editor’s Note: As we go to press news of the devastating earthquake & tsunami to hit Japan has just reached us. This comes so soon after the powerful earthquake devastated Christchurch, NZ.

Grain being cleaned, Nyah West

Doug & Ann’s sandbagged home

Flooded Roadway Kangaroo Lake

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AUSTRALIA DAY HONOURS, 2011

In this year’s Australia Day Honours list there were two MacLennans who received awards; Professor Alastair MacLennan receiving the AO and Gwen MacLennan the OAM. – Gwen is the mother of our Clan MacLennan Chieftain Greg MacLennan and we extend to her and Alastair our sincere congratulations from all their clansfolk on receiving their Award. – The following are extracts from the Governor Generals website: - Officer (AO) in the General Division of the Order of Australia – Professor Alastair Harvey MacLennan, St Georges, South Australia. – For distinguished service to medicine as a leading researcher and practitioner in the areas of obstetrics and gynaecology and the causes of cerebral palsy, to medical education, and to professional development. Included amongst the many supporting reasons for this award were the following: - Author of over 320 publications and 5 books, and a frequent international Keynote Speaker. - Examiner for Melbourne University, Sydney University, Australian Medical Council, College of Midwives, and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. - Awarded the South Australian Scientist of the Year for the Public Good, 2009. - Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in the General Division – Mrs Gwenyth Zena MacLennan, St Ives, NSW. – For service to the community through Torchbearers for Legacy NSW. – Supported by: - President, Torchbearers for Legacy NSW, 2000-2007; Life Member, 1991; Long Service Member 1993.- Treasurer, Roseville Torchbearers for Legacy, 1992-1997 and since 2007; President, 1988-1992; Vice-President, 1989-1991; Member, since 1978; Delegate to Central Executive Committee, Sydney Torchbearers, since 1998. - Honorary Secretary, Scottish Australian Heritage Council, 1990-1992; current volunteer; Member, Sponsorship Committee, from 1981; Member Ball Committee, 1982-1985. - Co-Founder, Clan MacLennan Association Sydney, 1976; Treasurer, 1977-1990.

KINTAIL

Can you see them the Sisters of Kintail

rising through a mist of tears the Mothers of our scattered kin

we look upon this refuge of our past and it remains unchanged

evoking still in hearts that seek to lose the chaos of uncertain times. By Bob McLennan

MACLENNAN PLACE NAMES

Bruce McLennan took this photo of a MacLennan Crescent street sign in Inverness during a recent trip to Scotland. - Bruce’s comments were “I don’t suppose it’s much of a surprise to find a street named MacLennan in Inverness - Capital of the Highlands - but a Crescent that’s a dead-end, now that’s surprising! Quite near to where the Ness River joins the Firth.”

Bruce combined a holiday with some family research and has kindly written a very interesting article to help other researchers in their quest for family history. (see article on pages 12 & 13)

He tells us that much of the information you seek is more easily obtained on-line before you undertake your trip. We’d be interested to see more MacLennan/McLennan place names from around the world. Please send your photos for inclusion in future Newsletters. MacLennan Crescent

Inverness

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RESEARCHING OUR ROOTS

“ScotlandsPeople” – treasure chest for the family researcher.

Genealogy is a booming hobby for many people these days. A lot of information can now be found on-line before you travel to Scotland.

Perhaps the most useful for tracking our Scottish roots is ScotlandsPeople website. Previously researchers had to start at the “ScotlandsPeople Centre” in Princes Street, Edinburgh. In this article I will introduce this wonderful site.

The government has contracted a firm called Bright Solid to build this website for the resources of the General Register Office, National Archives and Lord Lyon’s Office and they have done a very good job, building a search facility that will often reveal the people you are looking for – very quickly. But, like everything, there are some tricks to use to get the best out of it.

The site address is: www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk.

Some records on ScotlandsPeople go back almost 500 years. There is a good “Getting Started” page, a frequently asked questions (FAQs) page and other suggested help.

The main births, deaths and marriages are divided between pre and post 1855 – the year when civil registration of these events began. There are, however, gaps in some of the earlier records – such as lost parish records.

A good family tree relies on well documented sources. On ScotlandsPeople you will find immediate access to the original (often handwritten) records of births, deaths and marriages. The search tool on the site is one of the best. You will quickly learn that the record-keepers (and the informers) were not too fussed about how names were spelt! Names like Jean, Jessie and Jane can be interchanged. It is possible to search for alternative spellings of McLennan and MacLennan at the same time (choose “allow wildcards”), or choose “broad metaphone” or “soundex”. Don’t give up straight away try alternative search inputs – e.g.: leave gender unspecified, even if you know you are looking for a male!

The site charges modest amounts for the search results (1 credit = 20 British pence for each 25 search results) and only 1 Pound to see (and download) the original document. Compared to, say, the England and Wales equivalent, this is much quicker, more information and significantly cheaper. The minimum purchase is 30 credits (£6). If you are buying credits with your Australian dollar credit card your bank will usually charge you a minimum foreign currency fee – so, it may be better to buy more than the minimum. However, credits expire after 90 days. It is usually worth getting the original document as more information is included and sometimes transcription errors occur in the text version.

It is important to record the citation reference for each information source – to prove where you got it from. Family Tree programs have a field to record this reference.

Perhaps the next most useful documents (after births deaths and marriages) are the censuses taken every ten years from 1841. Many of you who are interested in researching your family history will already have a subscription to ancestry.com.au. Ancestry will give you access to a transcript of some of the censuses of Scotland but the original (handwritten) census returns are not available on Ancestry. The original censuses often have extra details like the address where people lived or their occupations. Also ScotlandsPeople allows you to check for transcription errors.

Copies of wills and testaments can be very useful to the family researcher. Search results for these documents are free. Viewing the images of an original will, testament or inventory costs £5 per document, irrespective of its length.

The latest information to go on ScotlandsPeople will be the 1911 Census to be released on 5 April 2011. So, if you have relatives who were in Scotland in that year, you can now look them up! Unlike previous censuses, the image will span two pages because of the additional questions that were asked about the fertility of marriage and the profession or occupation. Each page is 34 cm by 43 cm so it’s best to view them on your computer screen to print them on A3 paper. Bruce A McLennan Editor’s Note: Thank you Bruce for a most informative article. Readers will be pleased to learn that Bruce has kindly consented to provide us with more information in coming issues. For those unfamiliar with Bruce, he is our brilliant Webmaster.

RESEARCHING OUR ROOTS

Search Screen– Choose the right search options to get the best results

SMILE A WHILE Jock once attended a Temperance lecture given by Scotland's top medical man, a noted anti-drink campaigner.

The speaker began by placing a live, wriggling worm in a glass of whisky. After a moment or two it died and sank to the bottom.

The speaker said quietly to the audience, "Now my friends, what does this tell us?"

Jock piped up, "If you drink whisky you'll not be bothered by worms!" A Scotsman is working at a sewerage plant. It's a warm day, so he takes off his jacket and drapes it over a handrail - where it slips off into a vast tank of poo! He's just about to dive in when his mate shouts "It's nae guid tae do that, the jacket's ruined" He replies "Aye, ah ken, but ma sandwiches are in the pocket" The helicopter lost power while flying over a remote Scottish island and was forced to make an emergency landing. Luckily there was a small cottage nearby. The pilot walked over to it and knocked on the door. "Is there a mechanic in the area?" he asked the woman who answered the door. She scratched her head and thought for a few seconds. "No," she finally said, pointing down the road, "but we do have a McArdle and a McKay." An Irishman goes into the confessional box after years of being away from the Church.. There's a fully equipped bar with Guinness on tap. On the other wall is a dazzling array of the finest cigars and chocolates.

Then the priest comes in. "Father, forgive me, for it's been a very long time since I've been to confession, but I must first admit that the confessional box is much more inviting than it used to be. The priest replies: “Get out - you're on my side!” There was a very gracious lady who was mailing an old family Bible to her brother in another part of the country.. "Is there anything breakable in here?" asked the postal clerk. "Only the Ten Commandments." answered the lady.

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DATES TO REMEMBER

(You always find the most recent Events Calendar on our Website: www.clanmaclennan-worldwide.com )

OURS 10 Apl. 2011 Ringwood Highland Gathering & Games, Jubilee Park. (Mel.49 J10/11) (Free, frequent shuttle bus between Ringwood Railway Station Car Park at the Clock Tower to the Gathering at Jubilee Park.) 8 May 2011 North East Victoria Gathering, 2 Moodemere St, Rutherglen (12 noon) (02-6032 8328) 19 June 2011 AGM&Ceilidh, Roseville Community C’tre, 110 King St.E.Doncaster (Mel.34 B 9/10) 20 Nov. 2011 Christmas Picnic Gathering, Woodlands Park, Essendon. (Mel.28 F1) OTHERS 20 March. 2011 Geelong Highland Gathering, Showgrounds, East Geelong. (03-5275 8413) 2 Apr. 2011 Bundanoon Highland Gathering, NSW (02-4883 7471) 28 April.- 1 May 2011 Glen Innes Celtic Festival, NSW www.australiancelticfestival.com (02-6730 2400) 1 May 2011 Burns Club Pleasant Sunday Afternoon, Altona RSL, Sargood Street. (03-9743 5383) 7 May 2011 Scots’ o’ the Murray Dinner, Tuileries Restaurant, Rutherglen, Vic. (02-6032 8328) 29 May 2011 Scottish Heritage Day, Greaves Reserve, Dandenong (03-9794 0562) 11-12 June 2011 National Celtic Festival, Portarlington, Vic. (0403 192 631) 25 June 2011 Kilmore Celtic Festival, Vic. (03-5781 1711) 26 June 2011 Hogmanay Australis, Ascot House, Moonee Ponds, Vic. (03-9803 9678) 3 July 2011 Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan, Scots’ Church, Melbourne. 11am (byo lunch) (03-9836 4232) 16-18Sept. 2011 ‘Clans on the Coast’ Celtic Festival, Nelson Bay, NSW (0418 495 336) 6 Nov 2011 142nd Annual Highland Gathering, Castle Hill Showground, NSW (02-9871 3593)

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CLAN MacLENNAN GOODS AVAILABLE

Plain Ties with Crest

$ 15.00

Tartan Bow Ties

$ 29.00

Tartan Material by the metre

POA

Key Board with Crest

$10.00

Tartan Ties (Wool Blend) (Boy’s $25)

$ 35.00

Tartan Beret

$ 40.00

Tartan Caps (Mens) $ 45.00 Tartan Scarf or Square $ 40.00 Tartan Evening Sash $ 65.00 Tartan Shawl $120.00 Clan MacLennan Post Card $ 2.00 MacIain Post Card (Logan) $ 1.50 Men’s Handkerchief with Crest $ 3.50 Ladies Handkerchief with Crest $ 3.50

Tea Spoon with Crest $ 6.50 Sugar Spoon with Crest $ 6.50 Small Lapel Crest Badge $ 6.50 Pewter Crest Brooch $ 45.00 Key Tags with Crest $ 5.50 Book Mark with Crest $ 5.00 Clan MacLennan Kilt Pin (Pewter) $ 45.00 Polo Shirts with Crest - short sleeve $ 25.00 Fridge Magnet $ 6.00 Crest Stickers $ 6.00 Crest Coasters (Set of Two) $ 15.00 Polo Shirt - long sleeve $ 25.00 Windcheaters – Grey Marle with Navy Crest $ 26.00 T-Shirts – Grey Marle with Navy Crest $ 10.00

Books and Music

“In Search of Clan MacLennan” by Malcolm Lobban and James McLennan on CD/Pdf . $14.00 ”Return to Kintail” words and music by Ross McLennan on CD $15.00

Please add Postage/Packing: Within Australia: under 500g A$4.00 for one item plus A$1.00 for each additional item, over 500g A$10 flat. Overseas Surface Mail - triple the rates for “Within Australia” Supply subject to availability of stock and variation in price. Cheques payable to “Clan MacLennan Association” Orders with payment to Bob McLennan 13 Lamart St., STRATHMORE , VIC., 3041. Tel: 03) 9379 2425