On Wednesday the 13th of January 1915, the town of Bunyip came alive with music, dancing, and community spirit as people gathered for the 8th Caledonian Day.
The weather was warm, and the town was filled with visitors, laughter, and the sound of bagpipes drifting through the air.
Leading the procession was Chief Henry Rodger, acting as marshal, alongside pipers including J. E. Center, George Hay, T. D. McGregor, and M. Gillies. Together, they made their way towards the showgrounds, followed by lassies and laddies dressed in Highland costume, creating a splendid and colourful sight.
Mr. Henry McSwane Rodger, the Bunyip baker, was a 49-year-old Scottish-born man from Crieff in Perthshire. Also present that day was George Sinclair Hay, aged 29, who had travelled up from the city to Bunyip for the event.
I was delighted to discover that he was my great-great-uncle and renowned as one of Australia’s finest Highland dancers. Interestingly and delightfully for me, George Hay knew Henry Rodger.
The day was filled with competition and celebration. Dancers performed traditional Highland dances, pipers played proudly, and children and adults alike took part in events that honoured Scottish heritage.
George Hay stood out among the dancers, winning several events including the Highland Fling, the Gillie Callum, and the Sailor’s Hornpipe, and placing strongly in others.
His name appeared many times in the results, a true reflection of his talent and skill.Beyond the dancing, the gathering included Scottish games and athletic events, where competitors tested their strength and ability, and the crowd cheered them on.
Even during the hardships of the time, the attendance was strong, with £80 and 5 shillings taken at the gates, money for the Warragul Hospital, showing the importance of community and coming together.
Mr Ern Vickery was kept busy at the publican’s booth, while Mrs Marsden served from the luncheon and fruit stall, catering to the crowd with her usual high standard — no doubt as busy as the publican.
For me, this day is more than just a moment in history.
It is a connection — between family, heritage, and place.
It is where Henry McSwane Rodger and George Sinclair Hay stood in the same gathering, part of the same story, here in Bunyip.
Today, the story continues with Henry the Bunyip.
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