Rise early and catch the Massed Band Salute and Chieftain’s Address. 

Later in the day there is the Highland and Country Dancing, Pipe Band displays, Strong Man events with the Tartan Warriors, tug-of- war, egg tosses, three-legged races, and the famed Kilted Dash. 

Stores and stands surround the area selling all manner of Scottish heirlooms and souvenirs, clothing, and food and drink. 

For the full program and to buy your tickets in advance and beat the queues visit www.aberdeenhighlandgames.com

NAIDOC Week is also held in early July and Council will be running a number of events and exhibitions, thanks to grants received from the NSW and federal governments.

A Welcome to Country, flag-raising ceremony and a performance by an Indigenous dance group will kick off NAIDOC Week on the morning of Monday, July 4 outside the Upper Hunter Shire Council Administration Office in Scone. 

Everyone is invited to attend and encouraged to bring children along to participate in Indigenous-themed activities at Scone Library afterwards.

On Saturday, July 9 Scone Youth Centre will be hosting an event celebrating Indigenous culture with a modern twist as Aboriginal musicians perform modern poetry, storytelling through their songs.

Transport to and from Murrurundi and Merriwa will be available.

In Murrurundi and Merriwa, Indigenous crafts will be taught in weaving workshops. 

More details will be announced soon so check our website or Facebook page.

Nominations are now open for the Upper Hunter Shire Council Young Endeavour Scheme which involves six young people spending 11 days sailing a tall ship in open seas.

My daughter was lucky enough to take part a number of years ago and it was a wonderful experience for her.

Young Endeavour is a fantastic opportunity and challenge for young people in the Upper Hunter.

I urge businesses, community and sporting groups to get behind the scheme and nominate young people to be in the running to set sail.