In December’s edition, Anglo&Celtic magazine welcomed a new columnist – The Scotsman Graeme McColgan.

G’day, mates!
Ever since I set foot on the sunny Australian shores, my mission has been simple: to share my passion for ceilidh dancing with all Aussies, and the journey has been nothing short of incredible.

With two decades of experience in calling dances, it’s heart-warming to witness how ceilidh and bush dances, especially post-COVID, are weaving people and communities back together. Forget the formality of yesteryears; today, it’s about fostering a lively, informal, and inclusive atmosphere.

At events and weddings I’ve organised, I’ve watched toddlers chuckling alongside wise grandmas, all caught up in ceilidh dance steps within moments of giving it a try. And if there are missteps? No worries – we share a laugh, try again, and revel in the beautiful chaos.

As a young dad, my motivation springs from wanting to pass on the ceilidh legacy to my kids. I want them to grow up cherishing the fantastic social benefits that community events like ceilidh and bush dances bring.

So, if there’s a ceilidh happening in your neck of the woods, don’t miss out! It will be “pure dead brilliant”. And, if you find yourself in Launceston on New Year’s Eve, come join our Hogmanay Hootenanny.

Feel free to reach out for more details about ceilidh dancing events happening across Australia.

Cheers to dancing, laughter, and pure, unadulterated fun!

Graeme McColgan The Scotsman – www.thescotsmanmusic.com