Members updated in Dundee

On 25 March, nearly 100 members of Highland RFCA from across the Highlands and Islands gathered at Discovery Point in Dundee for the Annual Association Meeting (AAM).

HRFCA Chair, Captain Nick Dorman, opened the meeting by welcoming and thanking members. He also covered the Election of Officials and Resolutions, for which the paperwork had been emailed to Voting Members earlier in March. HRFCA Chief Executive, Brigadier Mark Dodson, then delivered his Annual Report 2022-23.

Members during the meeting — The AAM in full swing at Discovery Point.

The keynote speakers took the floor next, covering important areas of the Association’s work. Board Chair of the Council of Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Associations (CRFCA), Major General Greg Smith, updated members on recent changes. As the Cadet Health Check Team Leader, The Right Honourable The Baroness Garden of Frognal, Lady Susan Garden, offered insight into the activities and challenges facing the Cadet Forces. Last but not least, Commander of 19th Light Brigade, Brigadier Owen Lyttle, informed the audience of the reformed Army Reserve Brigade’s role, opportunities and challenges.

Keynote speakers presenting to members: Maj Gen Greg Smith (top, left); Lady Susan Garden (top, right); and Brig Owen Lyttle (bottom).

Members and guests had the opportunity to network during the lunch provided by Discovery Point. The spectacular views were also courtesy of Discovery Point.

Meeting attendees having lunch — Attendees enjoying a networking lunch.

The break was followed by the Chief Executive of Dundee Heritage Trust, Deirdre Robertson, signing the Armed Forces Covenant. Naval Regional Commander for Scotland and Northern Ireland (NRC SNI), Brigadier Andy Muddiman, signed the Covenant on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. Dundee Heritage Trust is a registered charity with responsibility for Discovery Point, an award-winning visitor attraction and museum including the internationally significant Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery, and Verdant Works, one of the nation’s most important textile museums.

Armed Forces Covenant signing during the meeting — HRFCA Head of Engagement Michelle McKearnon announcing the Covenant signing and presentation (top), and Deirdre Robertson with the Covenant in front of Discovery Point (bottom).

The Covenant signing and presentation was followed by updates from the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force. The following Single Service representatives provided presentations: NRC SNI, Brigadier Andy Muddiman; Chief Engagement of HQ 51st Infantry Brigade and HQ Scotland, Lieutenant Colonel Hugo Clark; and Air Officer Scotland, Air Vice Marshal Ross Paterson. Members were then able to interact with them during a tri-service Q&A.

Tri-service — From top, left: Capt Nick Dorman, Brig Owen Lyttle, Lady Susan Garden, AVM Ross Paterson, Brig Andy Muddiman, Lt Col Hugo Clark and Michelle McKearnon.

HRFCA President and Lord-Lieutenant of Fife, Robert Balfour Esquire, closed the meeting.

HRFCA President speaking — Robert Balfour Esq thanking all attendees at the end of the meeting.

After official business was handled, delegates had the opportunity to take part in a free guided tour of Discovery Point and RRS Discovery. In addition to the exhibition galleries, attendees could also explore the latest addition to the museum – Discovery Dome – an immersive 360-view audio-visual experience. The formerly inaccessible upper cupola area, which includes suspended artwork ‘Gaia’ by British artist Luke Jerram, transports visitors to Dundee and River Tay in 1901.

Members and guests were delighted with the new venue and iconic backdrop provided by Discovery Point, seeing as this was the first year with a new location.

To find out more about the Armed Forces Covenant signing with Dundee Heritage Trust, click HERE.

To find out more about Discovery Point and RRS Discovery, click HERE.

To find out more about Dundee Heritage Trust, click HERE.