2017 Gathering and the Restoration Appeal
The Gathering is approaching very quickly and the Duart Castle Restoration Appeal wishes to make you aware of its activities planned for the week.
Our task is straightforward – raise £600,000 from the Clan worldwide for the Restoration Fund to save Duart Castle. Collectively this is a significant investment for the Clan and will match funding from other sources.
At the Gathering you will be briefed on the progress of the Appeal and when you visit the Castle you will see for yourselves what has been achieved with the restoration work done so far.
The construction techniques engaged have been well researched and applied by a dedicated team of specialists. They are building for the future by conserving this ancient and imposing structure for Macleans.
Donating to the Restoration Fund
The main source of funds for the Clan component of the Appeal has been from donations from Clans people themselves. Donors from categories such as Guardian, Life Guardian, Patron or Chief’s Circle as explained in the attached Brochure are invited to Aros Hall from Tuesday 20 June to collect their Duart Castle Guardian Badges and other awards as appropriate. New donors and those wanting to top up their contributions to possibly achieve the next category are also very welcome. Donors also may contribute online at any time. You can donate as a couple and if the Guardian level is reached or exceeded, then you and your partner each will be awarded a Guardian badge.
We ask those people who receive Guardian badges to wear them proudly during the week.
If you are at Guardian & above level you will also receive a Certificate signed by the Chief and Malcolm to recognise your support and we ask that you please advise us how you want your name(s) written, e.g. John Maclean or John and Mary Maclean.
Silent Auction Fund Raiser
You have been made aware of our fund raiser with Heli Air helicopter flights and now we would like to introduce you to our Silent Auction to be conducted in the Duart Marquee from 11.30am to 2.00pm (Table 1) and 2.30pm (Table 2). The items (see attached Silent Auction Flyer) generously donated demonstrate an amazing diversity in application and value as well as donors’ imagination. From a Maclean tartan kilt to a week’s accommodation on Mull, from very high quality Whiskies to a one off handcrafted Duart Rowan dirk and from rare books to affordable jewellery and clothing, there is something there for everyone! Who will be the bidder who takes home the Chief’s flag with his personal coat of arms and his written permission to fly? This is a unique and incredible opportunity. Not forgetting the “Jolomo” painting of Duart Castle, how would this look on your wall? Take a Sneak Peek at the items by calling into the Aros Hall on Tuesday where advertising sheets will be displayed or view online at maclean.us.org/news/maclean-news/40-silent-auction-preview. Click on the item name and you will be able to see a photograph and more information if available.
If you aren’t able to attend the Silent Auction why don’t you have someone who will be present to bid and pay for an item on your behalf!
Importantly, all money raised will go to the Restoration Fund.