Sun, surf, and saffron?

September 21, 2011 - Diaspora Jottings - Tagged: , , , , - no comments

- by Kevrenor -

Sun – there was that in abundance!
Surf - just nearby at your choice of ocean or bay-side location!

Saffron - well, no saffron buns or cake for this year alas – but there was certainly saffron in the Cornish national tartan worn by the Cornish who met up at last weekend’s 4th ‘Clans on the Coast – Celtic Festival’ at Nelson Bay, Port Stephens (NSW) on the east coast of Australia.

[A few of the Cornish were keen to march under our St Piran's flag and show off their Cornish tartans

Starting with a get-together at the Nelson Bay Diggers club on Friday night entertained by Celtic rock band Highlander and Scots dancers and pipers, the main event is on the Saturday at the nearby Tomaree Oval.

[A Celtic choir perform, with two Cornish singers wearing their Cornish national tartan

A parade of Scots clans, bands, and Celtic associations kicked off the day, with a display of flags, banners, colour and sound.

The Cornish born and descendants in attendance had a chance to catch up, and meet with new people searching for more on their Cornish roots.

[Mal Leyland's pasties - always a treat (no mince, peas or carrots!)

Yes there were Cornish pasties of course – During the day various events take place, including choirs, bands, dancing, strong man events, and various stalls selling merchandise from all the Celtic nations.

“]

[An Australian flavour to the strong man events - toss the chaff bag

Saturday night had a ceili with dining, music, and dance and on the Sunday the festival was closed by a ‘Kirkin of the Tartan’ ceremony on the harbour waterfront.

Held over 16-18 September, 2011 this year – this festival will return on the 3rd weekend in September, 2012

As well as the festival the attractions of the area gave a lot to enjoy.

[Fingal Bay and the local coastline looking north

Clans on the Coast web site: http://clansonthecoast.com/

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by Kevrenor
21  September, 2011