Clan MacLennan Association Australia Melbourne Inc.

NEWSLETTER NO. 102 June, 2012
PRESIDENT: Graeme MacLennan 722 Balloong Rd., WOODSIDE 3874 TEL 5187 1291
VICE—PRES: Max McLennan Unit1/6 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, David McLennan, Ivan and Liz McLennan,
Marion McLennan, Mary McLennan, Ross McLennan, Kath Nicholls, Heather Vickers.
WEBSITE: EMAIL: ed-au@clanmaclennan-worldwide.com
Dear Clansfolk,
Clan MacLennan Association
Australia Melbourne Inc.
CHIEF: RUAIRIDH DONALD GEORGE MacLENNAN OF MacLENNAN
CHIEFTAIN: GREGORY SCOTT MacLENNAN
PATRON: OLIVE MacLENNAN
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
I have some exciting news to announce. Chief Ruairidh is planning to visit us in Melbourne in November
2013. All clan members will have the opportunity to meet the Chief at a luncheon to be held on Sunday
10th November 2013. Some of our younger members are already planning to take Ruairidh on a trip to
experience some Australian kayaking and mountain bike riding.
A visit from the Clan Chief would be an ideal time to think about some traditional Scottish clothes to
wear. If you have been thinking about a kilt and are not sure about where to look, there are people such as
Bob McLennan who runs the Clan Shop who would be able to help. Bob has spent most of his working
life in the clothing business and would be just the man to advise on such matters. If Bob were not
available I would be happy to explain how I bought most of my own outfit online.
Ruairidh’s visit will also be an opportunity for those who are planning to visit Scotland the following year
in 2014, to meet Ruairidh and prepare for their trip of a lifetime at the Scottish Gathering. A special
committee is already set up and is working to plan a MacLennan Gathering at this time. The last
MacLennan Gathering in 2009 was held at “The Whisky Experience” restaurant in Edinburgh and a fine
time was had by all. Thousands of Scotland’s finest malt whiskeys were on display and the seafood was
magnificent. The Ceilidh that followed showed off the musical talents of clan members from around the
world. Those who are planning to be at the Gathering will have the opportunity to renew friendships with
Scots from Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, USA and other parts of the world. (read article from our
Clansman Francisco of Chile page 12).
A recent Gathering was the Ringwood Highland Games held at Jubilee Park, Ringwood (article page 6)
It was good to catch up with old friends and to see some of our younger Clan members enjoying the day.
We had a good sized contingent to represent the Clan in the march past and an enjoyable day was had by
all. Those stalwarts who normally arrive early to erect the tent and stay behind to pack up and dismantle
them were especially pleased to be relieved of that duty this year, due to us renting a Scout tent in the
Clan Village.
A RED CROSS MEANS you are unfinancial for the year 2010/2011.
Please forward back payment/s with your 2011/12 Membership Fee which was due on 1/5/2011.
Your 2012/13 Membership Fee was due on 1/5/2012
ANNUAL FEE: $22.00. LIFE MEMBERSHIP: $250.00 plus Voluntary yearly levy of $6.00.

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE continued
Scots o’ the Murray annual dinner was held at Rutherglen on the 5th May. Twenty-two MacLennan Clan
Members were present for what I’m told was another wonderful dining experience at Tuileries Restaurant.
Unfortunately Frankie and I were unable to be present this year but look forward to being able to attend
again next year. I’m told that once again hosts Alister and Heather Chisholm excelled themselves and there
was a lot of dancing, excellent food and many a wee drop o’ the finest! (see article page7)
Clan members are looking forward to our AGM and Ceilidh on Sunday June 17th.
We look forward to seeing all of the MacLennan Clan at the Roseville Community Centre, 110 King
Street, Doncaster East, (Melway Map 34/B9/10) from 1.00pm on Sunday the 17 th of June. “Bring-a-Plate
and your own drinks for a shared lunch”. Hot soup, tea, coffee and afternoon tea will be provided by the
Committee.
A special highlight this year will be the recognition of winners of the MacLennan Perpetual Piping trophy
over the past thirty years, including a performance by the 2011 Clan MacLennan Perpetual Piping
Trophy winner, Laura Watson, from Wangaratta. We can look forward to a splendid display of piping
along with our own musicians at the Ceilidh and all are welcome and encouraged to attend this special
event..
Kirkin’ of the Tartan to be held at The Scots’ Church on July 1st is another date to mark in your
calendar. Tartan Day in Australia occurs on the 1 st July each year to commemorate 1 st July 1782 when the
Disarming Act of 1746 (imposed by the British Government) was repealed. The 1746 proscription Act not
only disarmed the Highland Scots after the Battle of Culloden but also forbad them from gathering in large
groups, banned the wearing of Highland Dress, public use of the Gaelic language and playing of the
Bagpipes, in an attempt to crush the Scottish Highland Clan culture. This resulted in almost two
generations of Scots being deprived of much of their own culture. This year our Service falls on the actual
day - July 1st.
Following the Service, all Clans will meet for a very brief “bring-your-own lunch” - I suggest
sandwiches may be easier and quicker this year. Tea and coffee will be provided. Following our brief lunch
we will be walking in groups to Federation Square where we’ll be entertained by a number of top class
acts, all to celebrate Tartan Day. I’d suggest you bring a small foldup chair if you have one, as seating is
very limited within Federation Square.
Please note that due to extensive building works, parking has been relocated to the Grand Hyatt Hotel
Carpark. (See details below)
I look forward to seeing you all at the AGM on Sunday 17th June for a shared meal and Ceilidh.
Sincerely yours,
Graeme MacLennan, President
Kirkin ’o’ the Tartan Service
The Kirkin ’o’ the Tartan Service will be held at The Scots’ Church, Russell Street, Melbourne on
Sunday 1st July at 11am.
Free parking is available at the Grand Hyatt Hotel Carpark
enter from Russell Street or Flinders Lane.
*Don’t forget to have your ticket validated at The Scots’ Church to obtain your free parking.
Following the Service, all Clans will meet for a brief “bring-your-own lunch” followed by a short
walk down to Federation Square for live entertainment at the
Scottish Tartan Day Celebration
We invite all Clan members to attend this “Kirkin” Service and Federation Square to
celebrate the lifting of Proscription - and of course, don’t forget to wear your Clan Tartan!

Dear Clansfolk,
Chief Ruairidh
at Stirling
3
NEWS FROM OUR CHIEF
With the usual notification that a newsletter message was due soon, I was convinced that
the newsletter dates had been mixed up as surely I have just completed one a matter of
weeks ago?! I checked my computer files and found my previous report, full of talk about
the clear signs of spring and hopeful optimism that summer is just around the corner.
Yes, I thought I knew that I had just written a newsletter report as here we are still
waiting for spring to leap into summer. Well, sadly not, a whole three months has slipped
by at remarkable speed and the weather seems to be reversing itself back into the depths
of winter. Outside temperature currently a good bit off double figures with ample rain
and wind to go with the mix. Not the most inspiring weather for what had until now been
one of our better months. Anyway, that’s enough about the weather, the infatuation of
which is clearly a Scottish tradition. What people in the warmer climates have to talk
about, I have no idea?!!
I have recently come back from a trip to
Norfolk, Virginia, USA where I was
performing with the pipeband at the
Virginia International Tattoo. We were there for just over a
week and between rehearsals and performances, there was
very little time for much else. There were quite a few new
pipe tunes to learn in advance of the trip and most of us
felt fairly “piped out” by the end of the trip! We then
returned home to a military training camp near Dundee for
the remaining few days of our annual military camp. We
had a band photograph taken on board the USS Wisconsin
which is now a museum ship located in Norfolk, Virginia. The ship was launched two years after Pearl
Harbour and saw action in the Pacific before the end of WWII. Interestingly, it was moth balled only to be
reinstated in time to see action during the first Gulf war in 1991 by which time she was a fairly old ship. I
am sure we were not the first pipeband to play aboard her but perhaps the first Scottish one!
Chief Ruairidh aboard
the USS Wisconsin
Chief Ruairidh in Norfolk, Virginia USA
During our time in Virginia, I celebrated my 35 th birthday and would like to thank
all the Clansfolk who sent birthday greetings. The previous year I was trampling
across Spain during the Camino de Santiago so it was lovely to spend another
birthday in another interesting location to make it all the more memorable.
There has been constant Clan activity over the past few months both in terms of the
Scottish Committee starting to put things into place for a 2014 world Gathering in
Scotland. We should be in a position to confirm dates and location by the time the
next newsletter comes out but can safely say that we are looking at July 2014 with
two events held on consecutive weekends, one being in Stirling and the other being
in Inverness. For those keen to make this into a big trip, there is also the
Commonwealth Games in Glasgow towards the end of July. There has also been a
lot of ongoing work on the web project. Bruce McLennan in Sydney, along with his
brother Don and a number of other willing volunteers have been steadily uploading
records onto the online database. In addition, they have been uploading my father’s history book along
with some updates where necessary, including an updated biography of both my father and myself to date,
which I have been working on over the past few months. Over time, this information will become available
through the Clan web site and will hopefully be a useful source of information for existing and new
members.
The family are all well. Kirsteen, James, Charles and George are preparing for the forthcoming addition to
the Eckersley family with Kirsteen due to give birth in July. They have decided, due to the recent sale of
James’ seafood business, to relocate in or around Inverness. They have therefore decided to put their
Fochabers property on the market and have been house hunting in the area. Hopefully they are not moving
with a view to having more babysitters close at hand!! James has now set up a new seafood business,
“Highland Bay Seafoods” which was one of a number of names that I suggested for the new company …...

4
NEWS FROM OUR CHIEF continued
name. Perhaps I’m in the wrong job!!
Lorna and Robin are both fairly busy with work although no doubt planning a holiday before too long!!
They did manage a few days up at the bothy in Shieldaig a week ago and managed to coincide this trip with
the only few days of sunshine that we have had lately! I have just returned from a trip to the bothy this
weekend during which time the west coast endured some of the worse storms for some time. I did not
realise it was possible for a building to move so much in the wind. I continue to travel the country with
work including the usual island hopping which is always interesting. There are also quite a few adventures
planned over the summer months between holidays overseas and weekends up at the bothy, climbing hills,
kayaking and testing out a new shiny mountain bike that I recently purchased, all with a view of keeping fit
and active. Fitting all this in with other commitments and hobbies is all part of the challenge!!
Wishing you all the very best.
Yours aye
Chief Ruairidh
Chief Ruairidh and the Territorial Army Pipeband
Aboard USS Wisconsin, Norfolk, Virginia USA
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
The Committee of Clan MacLennan Association Australia Melbourne Inc. are delighted to
announce that Chief Ruairidh has confirmed plans to visit Australia in
November 2013.
A luncheon is being planned for Sunday 10th November 2013
*Please note this date in your diary
Further details of events and fundraising efforts will be announced in upcoming newsletters.

5
NEWS FROM THE SCOTTISH CLAN COMMITTEE
Email received from Scottish Committee Chairman, Alistair MacLennan - Hi Folks, we had our 2nd
Scottish committee meeting on 31st March and the following was agreed. Our annual get together has
been put back to September 29th 2012, possibly in Inverness (Time and venue to be decided). All
MacLennans are welcome and encouraged to come along to this informal night. We agreed to hold the
Clan Gathering in 2014 on 18th-20th July. This is the middle weekend between the Homecoming at
Stirling and the start of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. This would mean people could attend all
three events over three consecutive weeks. The dates for your diary are:
Homecoming Event, (Stirling) 11th - 13th July 2014
Clan Gathering, (Inverness) 18th - 20th July 2014
Start Commonwealth Games, (Glasgow) 23rd July 2014
Holding any organized tours during your stay would be dependent on numbers and we would encourage
you to speak to your country’s committee so they could give us an idea of numbers to see if it is viable.
Those who attended the Homecoming Gathering in 2009 will know how many people attended this
memorable event. Visitor numbers will also be up due to the Commonwealth Games, therefore we
encourage you to begin thinking about your visit well in advance. If you would like any more
information, please send me an email at firybits@blueyonder.co.uk and I shall try to answer your query.
… Alistair MacLennan, Chairman, Scottish Committee
- o O o -
In upcoming newsletter editions we plan to introduce you to the members of the newly formed Scottish
Clan Committee. The first in the series is of Clan Committee Chairman, Alistair MacLennan.
Alistair
MacLennan
“I was born in Elgin 18/9/57, and brought up in Lossiemouth. I joined the army at the
end of 1973, and spent 5 years in The Scots Guards, serving initially in Germany, but
spending most of my career at Chelsea barracks in London. Most of my time there was
spent on Ceremonial duties, guarding the Royal Palaces and the Tower of London. My
claim to fame is that I was on Guard in Buckingham Palace on the Queen’s Silver Jubilee
day in 1977. While in London I did manage some real soldiering in Northern Ireland and
also spent 3 weeks in Nepal doing some Jungle and Hill trekking, white water rafting and
looking for Rhino and Tiger on Elephant back.
On leaving the army I moved to Aberdeen, and worked initially with Group 4 doing telex
operating for Conoco, before joining SPS (Scottish Prison Service) in 1984. I have served
in Aberdeen, Shotts, and mainly at my current establishment, Polmont. My main interest is
Rugby. I played with Aberdeen Wanderers/Accies, Murrayfield, and Livingston before
injury made me turn to refereeing and coaching. I still play with the old guys at Linlithgow "Peelers" and
have toured Holland and Italy with them. I also got involved with the choir at Linlithgow and we have
been on tour to Beijing and Toronto and are scheduled to appear at the Royal Albert Hall in November, in
a big concert for Cancer charities. This involves a large number of choirs throughout the U.K. and we
have a warm-up concert in Elgin in September with all the Scots choristers and musicians who are
performing in London. When my wife Sheila's mum died of Leukaemia in 2005, six of us decided we
wanted to raise money for Marie Curie Cancer Care, who looked after Cathie in her latter days. We
undertook a charity challenge, to complete the Maccu Pichu trail in Peru, and between us raised £18,000.
It really was a challenge, (not least the plane landing at Cusco), but the views were truly spectacular,
matching those in Nepal. The most memorable moment was when we reached the Sun Gate, overlooking
Maccu Pichu, and saw our goal. All the emotion of fund-raising and effort of high altitude walking came
out, and there was not a dry eye anywhere to be seen.
After the last homecoming, I kept in contact with Ruairidh, who eventually persuaded?? me to take up
the post of Chairman of the Scottish Clan Committee. I have now less than 5 months left with SPS, and
we intend to move back up north, (if we can sell the house). Also my son Simon and his wife Catherine
are expecting their 1st child in August, so there is a lot to look forward to. Watch this space.”
- o O o -

2012 RINGWOOD HIGHLAND GATHERING
Kath, Bob and I have retired from tent erecting and this year was our first in rented accommodation, a
Scout tent in the Clan Village. As well as visits from a ‘goodwill bear’ and a cheeky black Westie on a
doughnut hunt, we enjoyed the company of several visitors who made their base at our tent. It was great
to have Leila Gaston back in the fold and good to catch up with Derek Gibson who we haven’t seen for
many years.
It was only a few paces to the activities on offer—the piping and dancing competitions, the games and
various stalls selling food or Scottish wares. A good contingent of MacLennans gathered on the arena
after lunch for the march prior to the massed bands parade and opening of the Games. Then it was back
to the tent for a drink or icecream and a chance to bask in the autumnal sunshine while we shared news or
reminisced. As the day drew to a close the pipes called us back to the arena for the final massed bands
performance and presentation of awards. And what joy, no tent to pull down! Our grateful thanks to
everyone who attended and made it worthwhile.
The pipe band winners at Ringwood: Grade 2—Moorabbin City Pipe Band. Grade 3—Williamstown
RSL Pipe Band. Grade 4—Golden City Pipe Band. Juvenile—Scotch College Pipes and Drums.
….By Patsy McLennan
Christine Hovell
Jenny & Tracey Quinn with
cheeky Westie hunting for
donuts!
Jenny, Helen & Tracey Quinn
RINGWOOD HIGHLAND GATHERING PHOTO GALLERY
Carol McLennan
Bob McLennan with
The Goodwill Bear
President Graeme &
Frankie MacLennan
6
Andrew McLennan David McLennan
Ewen & Kath Nicholls
Marshalling for the march past
Leila Gaston

Hosts
‘extraordinaire’
Alister & Heather
7
SCOTS O’ THE MURRAY DINNER—RUTHERGLEN
Alister and Heather Chisholm must be doing something right as 22
MacLennans, including this year, Kath & Ewan Nicholls and Carol & Reg Davis,
headed to Rutherglen for more feasting and merrymaking at Tuileries Restaurant.
Following the traditional street march by Albury/Wodonga Pipes and Drums,
guests gathered for drinks and nibbles, before being marched to our tables for a
hearty four course meal and entertainment led
by Mike Giblin.
Alister welcomed everyone with a special
mention of appreciation to Clan MacLennan for
its continuous support. After warming soup, all
chatter ceased for the procession of the Haggis
which was addressed with flair by Alister himself. Through the night,
the pipe band played familiar and newer pieces and the lead drummer
gave a demonstration of the intricacies of beats and rhythms which
concluded with a performance accompanied by the soft, steady beat of
the side drum.
Alister Chisholm addressing
the Haggis
Max and Alister had us in stitches with their jokes and Max took the opportunity to thank Heather and
Alister for their efforts in organising this special Dinner. Sometimes at these occasions, truly amazing
ideas can be hatched. An 'innocent' remark from Bob led to a suggestion from Carol that he become the
centrefold for our newsletter, in the ‘name of art’, of course! This then developed into a calendar with an
offer from Reg to be Mister October. A number of ladies then volunteered their husbands to fill the
other months of the year and many laughs were had by all. Maybe this could have been a winner of a
fundraiser but I don't think we're quite that desperate yet!
Mike had no trouble getting dancers up but Gweneth & Don put even the
younger ones to shame with their enthusiasm and youthful energy. It all too soon
came to an end and 'Auld Lang Syne' completed another enjoyable evening in
good company.
On a fine Sunday, our group met for a BBQ at the newly landscaped outdoor
area of Alister & Heathers' home. Alister paid us the ultimate compliment when
he said we were now all Chisholms, "with a hyphen" added Heather. We can't
thank them enough for hosting lunch at such a hectic time for them both. Slainte!
Don & Gweneth
See you again next year. … By Patsy McLennan
Scott & Nicola McLennan
Joyce MacLennan & Stuart
Sharpe enjoy the music
Clan Gathering ‘the day after’
Yvette & Ross McLennan
Bob & Patsy
McLennan
Carol & Reg Davis

8
NEWS FROM CLANSFOLK NEAR AND FAR
Clan members Joan and Dick Parker are thrilled to announce the arrival of two more beautiful grandchildren
to their family. Joan and Dick’s daughter Joanne and her husband Mark Topp, welcomed
the arrival of their 4th child, Charlie Mark Topp born on 13the August 2011. Next, Joan and Dick’s son
Gary and his wife Rita welcomed their first baby, Amalie Nina born 30th October 2011
Editor’s note: Congratulations go to Joan, Dick and family.
Alan & Sally Hawley
with sons Connor
and Logan at Alan’s
Victoria Police
Academy Graduation
On the 23rd of March, 2012, Geoff and Marion McLennan together with their
daughter Sally Hawley (McLennan) and their grandsons Connor and Logan,
attended their son-in-law Alan's graduation ceremony at the Victoria Police
Academy in Glen Waverly. After 15 years working in the furniture industry and
logistics for the ADF, Alan decided to pursue a long time dream of becoming a
police officer. Alan is currently working at Fawkner police station and would
eventually like to become a detective.
Editor’s Note: Congratulations to Alan on achieving your long held dream.
Sally, Connor and Logan together with Sally’s parents, Clan members Geoffrey
and Marion McLennan, congratulations are extended on behalf of Clan members
at this proud time for all concerned.
e-mail received 15 March, 2012, Subject: Christina McKenzie Sutherland
Beresford (nee McLennan)....
I am writing re the above person who would be a 2nd cousin to me twice
removed. Her historical grave sits on Olive Downs Station a station property
once owned by the Kidman family in Qld. I was contacted recently by BHP Billiton who want to mine
for coal on this station property but before they can do that they have to remove her grave as it is an
historical one with a lovely headstone with her brothers names around it. They are seeking family
permission so contacted me as being the closest living relative.
Christina died in childbirth after being in labour for 6 days, giving birth to a still born daughter.
Quite a few of my family members and myself have been working on our McLennan families in NSW
over many years and we decided that she should be moved to Nebo which is not far from
Mackay. Some of my families are buried there. Not that I have seen them. The only other ones I am
familiar with are those down in Armidale Cemetery and out at Kilcoy Station near Armidale which is a
private family burial grounds. Christina's father is buried up in Qld. as he owned a station property
there. Her mother is buried down in Armidale Cemetery. - Frank Davidson from the Scottish Australian
Heritage Council also relates to me through some of these families. He is going to do a story on her
for the Scottish Australian Heritage Council's newsletter. - One of the local Historians of Nebo is
looking forward to having a female pioneer in the graveyard as they conduct historical tours.
...Regards, Sue Catterall (Mrs) BA (Hist)
e-mail received 16 April, 2012.....Clan MacLennan USA is deeply saddened to notify you of the
recent passing of Win MacLennan. Win was in his 74th year, and had had a previous bout with cancer,
although we do not know if that was a factor. Although Win had removed himself from Clan
MacLennan USA affairs in recent years, he made substantial contributions of time and effort on behalf
of The Association over many years, and those contributions are deeply appreciated by the Executive
and members. ... David Jones, President, Clan MacLennan USA.
(Our Clan MacLennan Association’s Australian Members would like to add their Heartfelt Condolences
for Win MacLennan’s sad loss to his family and to the world-wide community of MacLennans’.)
e-mail received 26 April, 2012.....Very many thanks for the kind birthday wishes, card and present, it is
very much appreciated and kind of you. I'm in Norfolk Virginia with the T A pipeband. Bruce is
keeping me busy with the web project at the moment, which I am enjoying. We also have the ball rolling
for a 2014 Gathering. I hope that you are all well and please send my love to all.
..... Chief Ruairidh

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NEWS FROM CLANSFOLK NEAR AND FAR continued
On Saturday the 28 th April, 1962, Ian McLennan married Ann Grigg in
Murtoa, Victoria.
On the 28 th April, 2012, after 50yrs of Marriage, they celebrated their
Diamond Wedding Anniversary with 75 family and friends, at the Boatshed
Restaurant on the foreshore of Lake Wendouree in Ballarat, Vic. During these
50yrs Ann and Ian raised five children (Simon, David, Nicholas, Helen and
Colette) and they in turn have given them 10 grand-children; all of whom they
can be justly proud. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this celebratory night, which
was regularly punctuated by numerous short speeches that were delivered with
Ian & Ann McLennan much good humour, reminiscences and commendations for the happy couple.
(Our Clan Members add their congratulations to Ann & Ian, foundation members of our Association.)
Editors Note: Just prior to going to print we learned that Ian is to be admitted to Cabrini Hospital,
Malvern to undergo heart surgery. We send Ian and his family our very best wishes for a speedy recovery
from all your Clansfolk.
Another Wedding in our McLennan Family. We reported in the June, 2011, Newsletter the wedding on
5 th March, 2011, of our second grand-daughter Jessica. We have now
celebrated the wedding of our eldest grand-daughter Elspeth Horn
(daughter of Anne McLennan and Mac Horn) to Anthony Harrison.
Elspeth and Anthony were married on the 14 th April, 2012, on a beautiful
autumn afternoon in the immaculate and lovely gardens of “Tieve Tara” at
Mount Macedon.
Elspeth & Anthony
It was a perfect day for the wedding with the sun shining from a cloudless
sky! Both parents (Anne and Mac) escorted Elspeth and her two
Bridesmaids (Emily McMullin and Vanita Bodhanker, fellow Doctor
friends of Elspeth) through the Gardens and assembled Guests to the
Celebrant Lynton Round, where Anthony was waiting with his Groomsmen
(brother Ben Harrison and friend Mark Scalzo). Elspeth looked absolutely
beautiful and radiant wearing the wedding dress that her mother Anne had worn!
Then followed a lovely warm,
friendly and simple Service
witnessed by sixty Guests. Whilst
the Wedding Party and witnesses
were signing the Register etc.
Elspeth’s Step-Father (Frank
Donovan) sang a beautiful and
loving tribute.
Stuart & Alison Sharpe,
Ross & Yvette McLennan
Elspeth & Anthony
Anne & Frank
The Wedding Reception was held
at “Braemar House”, Mount
Macedon. The original venue had
been burnt down, so it was moved
Bridesmaid, Mac, Elspeth
& Anne
to “Braemar House”. Initially it was a bit of a worry, but it finally
worked out very well. After a most enjoyable meal and completion of the formal proceedings the music
dancing and happy celebrations continued. All the Guests thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful night and the
Bride and Groom were given a rousing farewell off to their honeymoon in Fiji.
… By Mary McLennan
Editor’s Note: Just prior to going to print we also learned that ‘our own’ Mary McLennan has been
unwell and will undergo some heart tests in the coming week. We send Mary our very best wishes for a
speedy return to good health.

10
A TOUR OF IMPERIAL RAJASTHAN
The Kingfisher flight from Delhi to Udaipur, our first stop in India’s
north western state of Rajasthan, was two and a half hours late. No
explanation offered. Darkness had fallen when we eventually arrived so
we missed out on visiting the famous Jag Niwas, or Lake Palace Hotel,
patronised by the rich and famous and featured in the classic Bond movie
‘Octopussy’. The next morning we were greeted by a breathtaking view
from our hotel across Lake Fatel Saga in the mist. This was real mist, not
Delhi smog. It was an early introduction to the Indian maxim ‘everything Udaipur Lake Palace Hotel
will work out in the end’.
Lake Pichola, the largest of Udaipur’s five lakes, is overlooked by the City Palace, a complex of eleven
palaces, now museums, built over two centuries in marble and golden granite. Here we spent the
morning admiring the Garden Palace, the Ruby Palace, the Pearl Palace and the Crystal Palace, all
intricately and beautifully decorated. The best view of the whole palace is from the lake, so we
descended to the Bansi Ghat (City Palace Jetty) for a boat ride. The still water reflected the magnificent
buildings lining the shore and the majestic Aravali Hills surrounding the town. The romantic white
marble aforementioned Lake Palace Hotel, once a royal summer retreat, appeared to be floating.
Jodhpur, located at the edge of the Thar Desert, is the second largest city in
Rajasthan. It’s dominated by the Mehrangarth Fort, which Rudyard Kipling
described as ‘...the creation of angels, fairies and giants’. Ranging in height
from six to 36 metres, its battlements rise out of a 125 metre outcrop from
which the sandstone for building the fort was hewn. After a steep climb you
enter the fort through a series of seven defensive gates. The sixth gate, Loha
Pol (Iron Gate) has a sharp right angle turn and sharper iron spikes to hinder
Mehrangarth Fort
the ascent of charging enemy elephants. Over the centuries Rajasthan had
been fragmented into competing kingdoms. Beside the gate are fifteen tiny
handprints, the sati (self immolation) marks of the Maharaja Man Singh’s widows, who threw
themselves on his funeral pyre in 1843. A lift took us up to the seventh floor from where we gazed at a
panorama of cobalt blue painted buildings, known as the ‘Blue City’. The origin of the blue is not
known exactly; some attribute it to an old custom adopted by local Brahmins (the highest Indian caste),
while others believe this intense shade deters insects, especially insects and termites.
The ‘Golden City’ is the desert city of Jaisalmer. The fort, reminding one of a multi-turreted sandcastle
glistens at sunset. There are 99 bastions spread across Trikuta (Three-Peaked) Hill. One quarter of
Jaisalmer’s population actually lives within its walls, making it one of the last ‘living forts’. It’s packed
with houses, temples, handicraft shops and beauty parlours and criss-crossed by
stone paved narrow winding lanes. Modern plumbing has wreaked havoc with
the foundations of the fort and it is now on the World Monuments Watch List.
Established in 1156 AD, Jaisalmer gained its wealth from its location along the
prosperous camel-caravan trade route between central Asia and India. These
days the proximity of the city to Pakistan has given it a modern military
significance and a new lease of life.
A camel ride to the Sam Sand Dunes was to be a highlight of our visit to
Jaisalmer. Now officially classified as ‘elderly’ I felt that it was incumbent on
me to ‘have a go’. I really hadn’t enjoyed my first camel ride in Egypt one bit.
Mounting requires a considerable amount of contortion of the body. This time
Camel Ride to Sam
Sand Dunes
the camel had stirrups so it was easier to maintain some balance and survive the half hour bumpy ride
and the camel wallah was sympathetic. The sunset didn’t happen; it was too cloudy, but our
disappointment was offset when Kumar, our guide, produced a ‘traditional’ Indian drink, rum and coke,
and nibbles. It was local Indian rum , and rough at that. We were entertained by musicians and dancers
and accosted by some locals who considered it our duty to provide them with some financial assistance,
which of course we did. The next morning there was a glorious sunrise over Lake Gadi Sagar. The
ornate buildings along the shoreline cast beautiful reflections. These were disturbed when the lake’s
prehistoric and ugly looking catfish swarmed in a writhing mass when tempted with breadcrumbs.

Karni Mata Temple
‘Rat Temple’
11
A TOUR OF IMPERIAL RAJASTHAN continued
Just out of Bikaner, another desert city situated on the old caravancamel
trade route, is the notorious Karni Mata Temple, appropriately
nicknamed the ‘Rat Temple’. The holy rodents of the goddess Karni
Mata are regarded as incarnations of storytellers. The approach, past
stalls selling special rat supplies and through intricately carved silver
doors, belies the interior. Divested of shoes, which have to be left with
the shoe minder because shoes are not worn on holy ground, we were
surrounded by thousands of rats running rampant over the holy
ground. They were all shapes and sizes; some bloated, some had
obviously come off second best in combat and some baring vicious
looking teeth. If you managed to avoid the rats you couldn’t avoid the
corn and faeces on the floor. After negotiating several courtyards we
arrived at the inner sanctum and were confronted by the goddess Karni Mata sitting in a gold and marble
alcove. In front of her squatted a priest with dozens of rats playing with his toes. We abandoned protocol
and bolted!
There is an early scene in the film ‘The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel’, recently released in Melbourne,
where the elderly would be residents of this establishment are travelling by bus from the airport to the
hotel, located in Jaipur .Without warning their driver pulls out to overtake, only to be confronted by an
even larger vehicle almost on top of them. Disaster seems certain but miraculously the driver is able to
swerve and thus avoid annihilation. Any traveller on Indian roads can relate to this situation. The major
highways we travelled on had only two lanes. One driver who narrowly missed our bus as he was
approaching us overtaking a camel- drawn cart was flossing his teeth and steering with his elbows.
Hawa Mahal
(Palace of the Winds)
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. The old city, founded in 1727 to replace
the former capital of Amber situated on the rugged hills which surround
Jaipur, was Northern India’s first planned city. In 1876 it was given a pink
paint job to welcome Britain’s Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII).
Pink is traditionally the colour of hospitality. The city’s signature building is
the Hawa Mahal (Palace of the Winds). It’s actually a pink (more terra cotta
shade) facade in the shape of a step pyramid full of delicately worked lattice
covered windows beneath half cupolas, from which the royal ladies could
discreetly observe street processions.
The fascination of the Maharajah Jai Singh, founder of the city, with astronomy led to the construction
of Jantar Mantar, an outdoor observatory containing ingenious celestial tracking devices including a
giant sundial and instruments to calculate eclipses and plot the positions of stars. The observatory is
situated near the gate of the City Palace, once the royal residence of the Maharajahs of Jaipur, which
covers one-seventh of the city area. The Royal Family still lives in one section of the magnificent
complex.
Ranthambhore National Park, in eastern Rajasthan, is a former royal hunting
ground. It comprises 1354 km2 of wild jungle scrub hemmed in by rocky
ridges. At its centre are the remains of the tenth century Ranthambhore Fort
around which are scattered ancient temples, mosques and hunting pavilions.
The park is best known for its endangered wild tigers, but it’s also home to
other wild mammals which include leopards, spotted deer, sloth bears, sambar
(a species of large deer) and wild boar. There are also crocodiles and abundant
bird life. Travelling in an open topped jeep we bounced along the stony, rutted
roads enthralled with the wild life and getting excited when our guide pointed
out a tiger scat, which of course we enthusiastically photographed. That was as
Tiger, Ranthambhore
National Park
close to a tiger as we got even after nine hours (not consecutive) on the bone shattering trail. Our tour
party had been divided into two groups. Those in the other group were thrilled to see a tiger on two
separate occasions. They’ve since kindly shared their photographs with us!
Our tour of imperial Rajasthan had come to an end. We crossed the border into Uttar Pradesh and
headed towards Agra and the fabled Taj Mahal. … By Kath Nicholls

12
RESEARCHING OUR ROOTS
Genealogy is an appealing hobby for many people these days. In this issue we hear how one
MacLennan researcher got started and where it is taking him (and could take you!) ...Bruce McLennan
Francisco’s mother
(centre) with her two
cousins in Scotland —
taken 40 years ago
I was 8 years old when I visited Scotland with my parents. I couldn’t
understand why we kept visiting cemeteries, one after another in what seemed
like an endless search for something we could never find, until, one day, my
mother burst into tears in front of an old headstone. We had found what we were
looking for, the grave of her grandfather.
That incident, at the time, didn’t generate any interest in genealogy for an
8-year old boy like me. It came some 40 years later, when, my mother having
become a widow twice, suddenly suffered the loss of my only sister. She lost all
interest in life and didn’t show enthusiasm in any topic we could talk about.
Then I found the key - I asked her to tell me about her childhood, her parents,
the family back in Scotland… that was when she suddenly seemed to recover an
interest in something.
I told her I’d like to do her family tree but that I would need her help. That
made her feel useful again, and she started looking for documents, letters and pictures. The magic came
when she mentioned “secret love affairs” of some ancestors and some births that were tinted with
doubts, I made some jokes about it and she started to laugh, something she hadn’t done in months. I
realised that this family tree was being more effective than any of the medical treatments.
What started as a help for my mother’s recovery soon became a passion for me. It compelled me to try
to fit in all the pieces of the family tree. I even started discovering things that maybe had influenced my
own personality. In my youth I had been a pretty good song writer, with no musicians in my immediate
family circle. But I discovered that my ancestors included four generations of well known Scottish
pipers. And, my interest at one time of studying sheep-farming in New Zealand (strange considering
that there were no sheep where I lived) may have originated in my Scottish MacLennan ancestors, all of
them sheep farmers.
My point here is to spark your interest in your own family tree. Why not give it a try? Some people
consider genealogy dull. I’m not so sure about this - I still love parties, love sports, and love social
life… but I also love genealogy.
Not long ago I heard about Bruce McLennan’s project to create a MacLennan Worldwide Tree. In
my mother tongue, Spanish, the word to describe such a project would be “formidable”, which I guess
has the same meaning in English. It has taken me years to research the MacLennans in a small Scottish
parish called Gairloch; but Bruce’s ambitious project covers all MacLennans, all around the world! The
amount of information and documents he has already uploaded amazes me. It’s not just names with
birth, marriage and death dates it also includes census entries, photos, headstones and images of the
original birth, marriage and death records. It covers absolutely everything!
The MacLennan Worldwide Tree will save you enormous amounts of time and money. It will also
avoid you many mistakes and prevent you from following some wrong paths, because Bruce’s focus is
on facts and not on guessing. Give it a try. Maybe you will become another passionate researcher of
our MacLennan roots and contribute your findings to the Tree.
Cheers to all MacLennans from your distant relative in South America. ….Francisco Jackson, Chile
For more information about the MacLennan Tree project and how you can become involved write to
famhist@clanmaclennan-worldwide.com

13
SMILE AWHILE
We don’t stop laughing because we get old …
We get old because we stop laughing
A Scotsman got into a Sydney cab and said "Show me the sights." The cabbie inquired "Is this your
first time in Sydney?" "Aye" he said "and I am on my honeymoon." "Then where is your wife?" …..
"Oh, she's been here before!"
Two paddies were working for the city public works department. One would dig a hole and the other
would follow behind him and fill the hole in.
They worked up one side of the street, then down the other, then moved on to the next street, working
furiously all day without rest, one man digging a hole, the other filling it in again.
An onlooker was amazed at their hard work, but couldn't understand what they were doing. So he asked
the hole digger, " I'm impressed by the effort you two are putting into your work, but I don't get it: why
do you dig a hole, only to have your partner follow behind and fill it up again? "
The hole digger wiped his brow and sighed …. " Well, I suppose it probably looks odd because we're
normally a three-person team. But today the lad who plants the trees called in sick. "
On a bitterly cold winter’s morning a husband and wife in Glasgow were listening to the radio during
breakfast. They heard the announcer say, “We are going to have 8 to 10 inches of snow today. You
must park your car on the even-numbered side of the street, so the snow plows can get through”.
So the good wife went out and moved her car as instructed.
A week later while they are eating breakfast again, the radio announcer said, “We are expecting 10 to 12
inches of snow today. You must park your car on the odd-numbered side of the street, so the snow plows
can get through”.
The good wife went out and moved her car again.
The next week they are again having breakfast when the radio announcer says, “We are expecting 12 to
14 inches of snow today. You must park........” then the electric power went out.
The good wife was very upset, and with a worried look on her face she said, “I don’t know what to do.
Which side of the street do I need to park on so the snow plows can get through?”.
Then with all the love and understanding in his voice that all Scotsmen who are married to blondes
always exhibit, the husband replied ……..
“Why don’t you just leave the car in the garage this time?”.
I Don't Need A License
A friend of a friend of mine was sitting on a lawn sunning and reading, when he was startled by a fairly
late model car crashing through a hedge and coming to rest on his lawn.
He helped the very elderly driver out and sat him on a lawn chair.
"My goodness," he exclaimed, "you’re quite old to be driving!". "Yes," he replied, "I am old enough that
I don’t need a license." "What... NO LICENSE?"
"Nope! The last time I went to my doctor he examined me, and asked if I had a driving license.
I told him 'yes' and handed it to him.
He took scissors out of a drawer, cut the license into pieces, threw them in the wastebasket and said,
'You won’t be needing this anymore.'
……..So I thanked him and left.
CLAN MACLENNAN GOODS ON SALE—HURRY STOCKS LIMITED!
Windcheater Sale:
Mens light grey windcheaters and Ladies royal blue windcheaters with embroidered Clan Crest
Were $25.00 each - NOW $15.00 each
Two for one Special! 1 teaspoon plus 1 sugar spoon
Both spoons for only $10.00

OURS:
14
DATES TO REMEMBER
(You always find the most recent Events Calendar on our Website:
www.clanmaclennan-worldwide.com )
17 June 2012 AGM&Ceilidh, Roseville Community C’tre, 110 King St.E.Doncaster. (Mel.34 B 9/10)
18 Nov. 2012 Christmas Picnic Gathering, Woodlands Park, Essendon. (Mel. 28 F 1 )
OTHERS:
9-11 June 2012 National Celtic Festival, Portarlington, Vic. (0409 995 638)
22-30 June 2012 Scottish Week in Sydney, NSW (01-9982 6229)
24 June 2012 Hogmanay Australis, Ascot House, Moonee Ponds, Vic. (03-9803 9678)
30 June 2012 Kilmore Celtic Festival, Vic. (03-5781 1711)
1 July 2012 Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan, Scots’ Church, Melbourne. 11am (03-9836 4232)
1 July 2012 Tartan Day Celebration at Federation Square, Melbourne. 1pm (03-9836 4232)
7 July 2012 Aberdeen Highland Games, Jefferson Park, Aberdeen, NSW (02-6543 6240)
10-12Aug 2012 Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, Ontario, Canada (866-871-9442)
15 Sept. 2012 ‘Clans on the Coast’ Celtic Festival, Nelson Bay, NSW (0418 495 336)
6 Oct. 2012 Canberra Highland Gathering, Kambah Oval, Kett St., Kambah, ACT (0418 243 418)
7 Oct. 2012 Scottish Clans & Ass’ns C’cl Luncheon, Karralyka Centre, E.R’wood (03-9836 4232)
4 Nov. 2012 143 rd Annual Highland Gathering, Castle Hill Showground, NSW (02-9871 3593)
9-11 Nov. 2012 Beechworth Celtic Festival (1300 366 321)
11-16 Nov 2012 Celtic Pilgrimage Walk, Bright to Beechworth (03-5728 2835)
11 Nov. 2012 Scots’ of Victoria AGM/Seminar, Canterbury St. Stables, Flemington (03-8361 0282)
1 Dec. 2012 Daylesford Highland Gathering, Victoria Park (03-5348 1800)
1 Jan. 2013 152 nd Maryborough Highland Gathering, Princes Park (03-5461 1480)
Plain Ties with Crest
Tartan Material by the metre
Tartan Ties (Wool Blend)
CLAN MacLENNAN GOODS AVAILABLE
$ 15.00
POA
$ 35.00
Tartan Bow Ties
Key Board with Crest
Music and History CD/s
Tartan Beret/Tam-O-Shanter
$ 29.00
$10.00
$ 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
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
“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 Street, STRATHMORE , VIC., 3041. Tel: (03) 9379 2425