For many people, their association with the bagpipes extends only as far as occasionally hearing the iconic solo in John Farnham’s classic hit, You’re the Voice.
But Warwick’s passion for the instrument runs much deeper. He recently attended the Winter Flame community event in Tanunda, sharing the evening with many who share his passion for the pipes.
The community celebration is essentially ‘Christmas in June’ for Warwick, featuring a spectacular flaming torchlight parade of massed pipe bands, as well as brilliant Highland dancers.
After attending the event for the first time last year, organisers were “very excited” to welcome Warwick back to take part and connect with others who share his love for the bagpipes.
This year, Warwick proudly took on the role of flag bearer, marching alongside the pipe bands and taking pride of place at the front of the parade. He described the experience as “really fun”.
“I loved being able to march in the event again. It was really fun and I am already looking forward to next year.”
One of the highlights of Warwick’s evening was reuniting with former Minda volunteer bagpipers, who used to perform monthly at the Brighton Neighbourhood.
Former volunteer Carolyn fondly recalled her time playing the bagpipes at Minda, noting that performing always brought a smile to Warwick’s face.
“Playing the bagpipes at Minda — whether on the lawns or during the MyPath Christmas Pageant — was one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering there,” she said.
“Seeing the joy on Warwick’s face made it all worth it. He’d basically be waiting in the car park before you even arrived to perform.”
Warwick’s participation in the event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Bibash Paudel, who has witnessed the joy the event brings him over the past three years.
“He always loved participating physically and actively in these events. I’ve been taking Warwick to the event for the past three years and you still can’t wipe the smile off his face.”
“During the event, he proudly carried a flag, symbolising the values and significance of the occasion. He also sang along with the bagpipe music and marched enthusiastically with the group.”
He mentioned that Warwick has built strong friendships with others who participate in the event.
“Every time he attends, he is warmly welcomed by the bagpipers and encouraged to participate — they all know Warwick very well,” Bibash said.
While the Winter Flame event has come and gone for another year, Warwick is already looking forward to more opportunities to embrace one of his passions.
Since the event, Warwick hasn’t stopped sharing his positive experience, proudly telling everyone about the fun he had and how much he loved being part of it.