More than 140 guests gathered at Trinity Hall on Friday 18th July 2025 for the sold-out Winds of Change Dinner, a prestigious black-tie event that formed a standout moment of the Tall Ships Races Aberdeen weekend.
Hosted by the Seven Incorporated Trades of Aberdeen, the evening brought together civic and business leaders to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Aberdeen Line and the city’s ongoing legacy of maritime innovation and energy leadership.
The dinner featured an inspiring keynote from Dan McGrail, CEO of Great British Energy, who spoke passionately about Aberdeen’s central role in the UK’s energy transition. Drawing comparisons between the ingenuity of the city’s clipper ship era and today’s offshore wind advancements, McGrail highlighted why Aberdeen continues to stand at the forefront of innovation.
Two additional speakers brought rich historical and cultural context to the evening:
- · David Henry examined Aberdeen’s shipbuilding achievements, including the revolutionary ‘Aberdeen Bow’, while charting the 200-year journey of the Aberdeen Line from sail to steam.
- · Lisa Honan shared fascinating insights into Aberdeen’s influence on the global tea trade and treated guests to a tasting of a specially blended Tall Ships tea, underscoring the city’s deep ties to maritime commerce and invention.
Guests also enjoyed a maritime-inspired musical performance by renowned Scottish singer Fiona Kennedy, whose set beautifully complemented the evening’s themes of heritage, storytelling, and the sea.
A major highlight of the evening was the community’s remarkable generosity. Through donations and fundraising activities, the event raised an incredible £5,000 for Sea Cadets - Aberdeen.
“We are absolutely thrilled and grateful to receive this support,” said Peter Ritchie, Commanding Officer, Sea Cadets - Aberdeen. “The £5,000 will make a significant contribution towards the ongoing refurbishment of our headquarters, T.S. Scylla, located at Pocra Quay next to the city’s historic shipyards. This funding helps us continue providing a safe, inspiring environment for local young people to learn maritime skills and grow in confidence.”
“The Winds of Change Dinner exceeded all expectations,” added Andy Leiper, Deacon Convener. “It was a privilege to celebrate Aberdeen’s past and future with such a distinguished group of guests, during one of the most vibrant weekends the city has seen in years.”