General News
3 January, 2023
Trevor rewarded for five decades of service
A celebration of Scottish heritage for over a century and a half, Sunday’s Highland Gathering piped on with its 160th event — but its decades-long history wasn’t the sole beneficiary of praise, with one drummer commended for marking his...
A celebration of Scottish heritage for over a century and a half, Sunday’s Highland Gathering piped on with its 160th event — but its decades-long history wasn’t the sole beneficiary of praise, with one drummer commended for marking his presence at Maryborough’s flagship program for more than 50 years.
Since he was 12, Trevor Kuhle has been coming down to the Maryborough Highland Gathering as a member of the Castlemaine Highland Pipe Band and now the drum sergeant, aged 65 has been awarded a certificate by the Highland Society recognising his contribution to the event.
During the Gathering’s official opening ceremony on January 1, hundreds watched as Mr Kuhle was applauded for his legacy — a feat he did not know he was going to be rewarded for.
“I had no idea I was going to be given this certificate, I found out just before the ceremony,” he said.
“I could have had a heart attack and dropped dead when I found out.
“It turns out that my wife knew and she didn't say anything to anyone. My mother also knew — I couldn’t work out why mum suddenly rocked up for this because for years she hadn’t come here. I didn’t know why they were so keen to come but now I know.”
Being awarded for his valuable service has been an experience tuned with humility for Mr Kuhle.
“It has made me feel very humble to be quite honest,” he said.
“Drummers have sometimes been known as the pipers’ labourers — we’re not always seen as musicians. It’s an unkind phrase for drummers.
“But there’s so many people I’ve taught the drums to and contributed over the years [and this certificate shows that].”
As a young boy, Mr Kuhle picked up his first drum sticks after watching a pipe band performance — he instantly knew only one instrument could make his heart beat to the rhythm.
“Years ago, it was a known fact that side drummers in pipe bands were the best and so I decided to take it on,” he said.
“Drumming is something I can do and I try to do it the best that I can.”
Beyond the music, playing in the pipe band also equips people with skills that they carry for life.
“Being part of a pipe band is a very intricate affair. You’ve got to make a note of the time, play the notes and complement the pipers. You also need to march in a straight line so it's almost like a military precision,” Mr Kuhle said.
“I’ve gained some important life skills and I’m very grateful for that.”