Christine McCorry’s journey as a dancer began when she was just 10 years old, leading to a significant moment in the history of the Maryborough Highland Gathering. In what would become a cherished tradition, McCorry was called upon last-minute to perform on a drum, a decision that would shape a New Year’s Day ritual celebrated for generations.
The inspiration for this unique performance originated from a trip to Scotland in 1960, where a member of the Highland Society witnessed a young girl dancing on a drum in Aberdeen. This sparked an idea that was proposed to the then president of the gathering. The first official performance took place in 1976, marking the start of a tradition that will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.
When McCorry was approached to perform, she found herself in an unexpected situation. An organizer reached out to her parents when another performer backed out. Given her experience in Scottish dancing, McCorry was a fitting choice. However, the initial experience was daunting. “When they lifted me onto the drum at full height, my first thought was, ‘this is pretty scary,'” she recalled.
The organizers quickly adapted their approach. McCorry had practiced on the ground, but when lifted to waist height, they moved her up to shoulder height, leaving her feeling unsteady. “I’d practiced at that height, but I was not used to being up there,” she said.
Growing up with a father who was a pipe major immersed McCorry in Celtic culture from a young age. She began Scottish dancing at six years old and continued to dance on the drum for five years. By her third year, the men who carried her had to modify their shirts to manage the weight. “My dad made a platform underneath the drum with three pads on it so that it would rest comfortably on the shoulders of the guys,” she explained.
To further assist her during performances, McCorry’s father created a “doughnut” out of Masonite, attached to the bottom of the drum. This innovation provided her with a visual cue, helping her maintain balance while performing.
Since 2020, safety concerns have led to changes in the performance format. Young dancers are no longer lifted onto shoulders; instead, a support stand has been introduced to ensure their safety.
As the tradition continues to evolve, the legacy of McCorry’s first performance remains an integral part of the Maryborough Highland Gathering. The event not only serves as a celebration of Scottish culture but also as a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness that brought a frightened girl and her clever father together in the making of history.
