For the last two years, community groups in Strathnairn have run a limited Farr Gala in June. This gala was organised by a few community groups with help from SDC.
Both galas were well-attended, with a third of the community attending, despite the rain and wind last year.
It is the intention of SDC to help organise a gala for June 2025. It should be appreciated that a gala is never short of volunteers to help on the day itself, but a fair amount of organisation is required in the months leading up to a gala. Planning a gala normally requires planning to begin in the preceding January.
This may come as a surprise but is simply the result of the organisers having to fit the work around the rest of the lives, including work and the needs of their families. It is also important to book equipment, and other services well ahead to ensure that the facilities are available for the desired date for the gala.
SDC cannot organise a gala alone, as there is no CDO to carry out the other work that SDC trustees are engaged in.
Therefore, we would appeal to the community for volunteers to help with the planning. It will not be a lot of work if there are many volunteers – just a few hours a month. If you are able to help, please send us an email.
In addition, the gala could benefit from some more ideas. Please also let us know if you have any suggestions and send via the above email address.
Finally, even if you are unable to help with organising or with volunteering on the day, you can offer to support an application for funding to SCBF.