Honourary Chieftains

The Chieftain

The role of clan chief is one of the most revered in the Scottish tradition. History suggests that heavy events like those held during the Highland Games were originally skill tests so that clan chieftains could identify the strongest and fastest warriors for future battles.

Each year, the Greater Moncton Highland Games & Scottish Festival asks a notable member of the community to preside over the event as its Honourary Chieftain, a custom followed by most Highland Games throughout the world. The Honourary Chieftain presides over the official opening and closing ceremonies, awards prizes, and is celebrated for their own accomplishments.

Our Chieftains

2007 Ian Patterson

Ian Patterson was a first-generation Scottish immigrant, and a long time president of the Moncton Scottish Association.

2008 & 2009 Senator Marilyn Trenholme Counsell

The Honourable Dr. Marilyn Trenholme Counsell, who was a Highland Dancer in her youth, served as an MLA for ten years, followed by six years as New Brunswick's 28th Lieutenant Governor, before her appointment to the Senate.

2010 Lt. Col. Tim Hogan

2011 Lt. Col. Ghislain Sauve

2012 Kathryn Barnes

Kathryn Barnes, a long time member of the MSA and GMSA, was an ardent supporter of Scottish culture during her time as a Moncton City Councilor.

2013 Lt. Col. Don Bourque

2014 Robert Dupuis

2015 Dr. Terrance M. Punch

Dr. Terrance M. Punch was a genealogy expert, often heard on CBC radio, who openly shared his knowledge to help others trace family roots.

2016 Andrea MacLean Holohan

Andrea MacLean Holohan, born in Moncton, was Chief of the MacLean Clan for

Atlantic Canada during her retirement.

2017 Kathryn Barnes

2018 Nelson Stewart

Nelson Stewart was the front man for the American Rogues who performed on several occasions for our Games, and represented Clan Stewart.

2019 Alena MacAlasdair

Alena MacAlasdair was well-known in the Moncton area for her involvement with the Scottish community, and was instrumental in the development of the Moncton tartan.

2022 Michael Yellowlees

Michael Yellowlees became known as the 'Scot who walked across Canada' with his dog, Luna, raising money for reforestation of the Scottish Highlands.

2023 Mel Fitton

Mel Fitton is a long time President of the New Brunswick Scottish Cultural Association, has prepared a school curriculum on Scottish Heritage, and is a key figure in organizing the Haggis Café at the New Brunswick Highland Games and Festival.

2024 Kaitlyn Clarke

New Brunswick's Kaitlyn Clark was the first female athlete to win the Greater Moncton Highland Games Scottish Heavy Events Champion of the Day Award.

2025 Elizabeth MacFarlane

Elizabeth (Liz) MacFarlane is one of the founding members of the Greater Moncton Scottish Association and a lifelong supporter of the Games. Her husband, Don MacFarlane, was known for his passionate recitation of the Address to a Haggis at many Association events.