After 7 years of service, as a final year masters, a PhD student and a PostDoc, Dr Michael Doig was leaving the group at the end of October. The group travelled to Oban to celebrate Dr Doig's contributions to the group and that he was finally leaving us! A rain-filled journey later, that was not enough to dampen our spirits (just our clothes), we arrived at Oban and Reray House, where we would spend the weekend. We discovered the local amenities, and purchased some supplies to augment those we have brought from Edinburgh. The group spent the night supping some classic cocktails and experimenting with a few new recipes.
The morning after saw no casualties, and while Dr Camp headed northwards to fish, the remainder of the group took a boat ride from the harbour to the local seal colony and past the salmon farms. Alas the seals were not our group mascot, the Baikal seals, but were common seals.
Returning to Oban, we jumped on the local ferry to Kerrera island and walked to the south. There we explored the ruined Gylen Castle and were refreshed at the nearby cafe with scones and tea. As the light began to fade and the rain crept in we ventured back to the ferry and to the mainland.
We were joined in the evening by our resupply party, Drs Alexander and Ward, although not all of their supply was appreciated, in particular a salted caramel vodka. Foraging through the internet we discovered the local takeaway and the evening was topped off with Dr Doig's speech about his time in the group.
After lazy morning wandering around Oban and exploring another local ruined castle, we spent Saturday afternoon at Oban Distillery, in the heart of the town, where we toured their site and learnt about the distinctions of Oban whisky, with samples. As afternoon turned to evening, and sun held off the rain, we visited McCaig's tower, a folly that overlooks the town. The following morning we made our way back to Edinburgh.
Dr Doig will be missed by the group and we all wish him the best of luck in his future endeavours.
