As ever, the 19th event will be held on the first Saturday in July, the weekend after next.

Gates open at 8am and the Massed Band Parade will commence at 9am, whilst the Tartan Warriors will make their first of several appearances at 10.30am, shortly after the Chieftain of the Day, Dr. Wej Paradice’s Opening Address.

For those wishing to get into the swing of things earlier, then there are two events on Friday, with the Tartan Golf Day at the Golf Club and a Ceilidh Band night at the Muswellbrook RSL.

There are also events after dark on Saturday, with the Piped Band Quintet competition at the Aberdeen RSL and the raucous and popular Ceilidh held at the Scone High School (booking essential).

Amidst all the fun and games, it is easy to overlook what a strong supporter of local causes the Highland Games has been since its inception.

There is over $100,000 given to local groups such as the Aberdeen SES, Aberdeen Men’s Shed, the Rescue Chopper and the Scone Scouts.

The large and hard working committee, led by Charles Cooke, are a terrific example of the community doing great things for the community.

You can save on ticket fees by pre-booking at TryBooking.com or by following the link from the event website www.aberdeenhighlandgames.com where the full program and all event information is collated for you.

Or drop into the Scone Visitor Information Centre, opposite Elizabeth Park any day of the week and pick up the Games program booklet for $2.

The friendly staff can even help you book your tickets.

Seussical, Jr.

Seussical, Jr at the Scone Grammar School was an absolute treat, quite simply the best and most amazing school production I have ever seen and an absolute credit to all involved, the cast, the crew, the band and the school.

The time, hard work and the effort put into this quality production by so many people was just incredible, and the talent that has been discovered, nurtured and showcased was such a pleasure to witness.