Christine Cowie, is a local lass born in Old Caithness Road into the well known and respected Mackay fishing family.
 
Christine has spent her whole life in Education teaching across all sectors from Primary and Secondary to Further and Higher Education latterly.
 
She graduated Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Mathematics from the University of Aberdeen 1967 and holds postgraduate qualifications in Health Education, Education Industry Links, Guidance and Counselling, a Higher National Diploma in Professional Development and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
 
She was Assistant Head Teacher at Golspie High School before joining the University of the Highlands and Islands as a Maths Lecturer where she has worked at the North  Highland College, Thurso, for the past 13 years.
 
Away from her professional duties she has been a committed and active member of the Helmsdale Bunillidh Church of Scotland, is a member of the Session, Board, Singing Group, Convener of the Ladies Fellowship and Fabric Convener amongst other roles.
 
 
She is also a member of the board of Timespan Heritage and Arts Centre and is an enthusiastic member of the Heritage and Fund Raising Committees there.   She also serves on  the Helmsdale Medical Equipment Committee.
 
Christine enjoys spending time with her family, growing flowers, vegetables and fruit in her polytunnel, enjoying time at their cabin caring for her herd of pet deer and the rest of her time is spent attending meetings!
 
She has been married for over 40 years to Davy, the retired skipper/owner of the successful fishing vessel, Bunillidh.   They have one daughter, Mary, a court lawyer working in Inverness who is married to William.   Mary and William are Patrons of the Highland Games.
 
Christine has an abiding love of Scotland and all things Scottish.   She has enjoyed being actively involved with the Helmsdale Highland Games since its inception and is proud to be this year's Chieftain.