The unmistakable skirl of bagpipes will echo across Johannesburg on Saturday 31 May 2025, as De La Salle Holy Cross College hosts its BIGGEST Highland Gathering yet—now officially awarded Championship Status!

This time-honoured event is more than a celebration of tartan and tradition. It’s a feast of culture, family fun, and fierce competition. With top-grade pipe bands from around the country set to compete, this year’s gathering promises both intense musical rivalry and joyful community spirit. As Michael Tuson—fondly known by his students as Captain—puts it:

“When you get 10 cats and tie them together and squeeze them, it’s not quite as loud as a pair of bagpipes. And we’ll have hundreds!”

Tuson, who teaches and leads the school’s bagpipe team, explains the allure:

“The kids spend their whole day being told to keep quiet. This gives them an outlet to make noise—structured noise, with discipline and comradery. It’s the best kind.”

Watch Rob Vega speaks to Michael Tuson about the upcoming event: