The enchanting Achnagairn Castle provided the perfect festive backdrop for the Inverness Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas Charity Lunch on Thursday 5 December. Guests from the local business community gathered for an afternoon of delicious food, engaging conversation, and a shared commitment to supporting a great cause.
This year, High Life Highland’s Chief Executive, Steve Walsh OBE, took centre stage in an illuminating “In Conversation with Colin Marr,” the Chamber’s Chief Executive. Steve shared his inspiring journey, weaving together anecdotes from his time in the Royal Air Force (RAF), insights into his leadership ethos, and stories from his weightlifting career – a discipline in which he is a British Masters Champion and former World Champion.
A Whistle-Stop Tour of a Remarkable Career
Steve’s conversation offered a fascinating glimpse into his multifaceted career, which began with his service in the RAF, including stints at RAF Kinloss and memorable encounters with Prince Philip and Queen Elizabeth II. From military tours to weightlifting triumphs, his experiences exemplified resilience and dedication.
Steve also highlighted the growing popularity of weightlifting in the Highlands, particularly among women, and shared his commitment to giving back to the community. This ethos is evident in his numerous roles, including serving on the NHS Highland Board, the SNAP Board, and the Highland Tourism Awards Board, and as Chair of Highland Disability Sport.
On leadership, Steve emphasised the importance of strong values, noting, “If you lead by those values, you can expect the same from everyone else.” His insights resonated with attendees, leaving them with much to reflect on as they look toward the new year.
A Delicious Feast and a Successful Raffle
Guests were treated to a warm welcome drink and a sumptuous two-course Christmas lunch, catered by Good Highland Food Ltd. The festive atmosphere at Achnagairn Castle, decked out for the season, made for a truly magical setting.
The afternoon concluded with a charity raffle that raised an impressive £1,348 in aid of RASASH (Rape and Sexual Abuse Service Highland). Three lucky winners took home a fantastic selection of prizes donated by Highland businesses – including Caledonia Dallas, Blackfriars, Tulloch Homes, High Life Highland, Ledingham Chalmers, Landmark Forest Adventure Park, Brodies, Fasaidh Tattoo, Macdonald Group, AC by Marriott Inverness, Corbies Rest Guest House, Alert Health, Palace Hotel & Spa and Highland Blindcraft – bringing a joyful end to the event.
Colin Marr, Inverness Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, said, “It was great to bring together our business community to celebrate the start of the Christmas season, and to raise such a large amount of money for an important Highland Charity. Hearing from Steve Walsh is always a treat – he is a truly inspiring leader and as one gust commented “how has he packed so much into one life?”.”
A Wonderful Start to the Festive Season
The Inverness Chamber’s Christmas Charity Lunch was a celebration of community, leadership, and generosity—a perfect way to usher in the holiday season. Thank you to all who joined us and contributed to this meaningful event.
We look forward to seeing you at our next Chamber event. Until then, we wish you a joyous festive season and a prosperous New Year!