Newsletter #4 October 2019 Dear Even in the relative quiet of the Balgowan Valley we are amazed that the end of the year is almost on us. Just a few weeks until the boys pack their laughter and lively noise into cars and buses, leaving silent cloisters in their wake. It has been a full and eventful year at Michaelhouse and we have enjoyed recording the more recent Old Boy happenings in this newsletter. Ryan Thomson is our past Senior Prefect featured in this edition. The solar cooker, which Ryan developed during his engineering studies may well become one of my retirement projects! Robbie Leggat is completing the St Statue commissioned by Graham McIntosh, which will soon be a prominent feature at the front of school. Christian Botha returned to school to open the Matric Art Exhibition and inspire our current art students. A few more old boys who are leading schools and making a difference to the lives of young people in classrooms around the world, have found their way onto these pages, as has Simon d ’Aubrey, making his name on agriculture. Storm Green has made the queen’s birthday honours list and Tim Harkness met James Fleming at the Elite Sport Summit Conference in Cape town, where he provided new insights into the psychology of success in sport. Old Boys continue to excel on the rivers, on their bikes and on the sports fields globally, performing well in the Berg and Bush, Amashova, Fish River Marathon and on the rugby field in Ireland. Joshin Raghubar is a John McNulty Prize laureate for his work in IT and the Midlands Branch managed to entice Keith Begg to Fordoun where he shared his inspirational life work in wildlife filming and, more recently, community-based conservation in Niassa. We welcome our newest members to the Old Boys’ Club: One honorary member: Sarah Pennington and the class of 2019, who will soon be inducted into the Club. As I look forward to visiting Old Boys in the Antipodes and Dubai and the Rector and Old Boys’ President prepare to represent us in London, we thank the branch chairmen and other men who have been working behind the scenes to make these events happen. This edition also records a busy programme of local branch events. The Chapel, particularly the kneelers and St Michael+ chairs, organised by Sarah Pennington and Fred Pitout respectively, feature as our items from the Archives this month. Until next time, have a blast, take care and make a difference out there! Best to you all

PAUL FLEISCHACK OLD BOYS CLUB SECRETARY

PAST HEADS OF SCHOOL: Where are they now?

Head of School: Ryan Thompson Currently residing in House Founders Years 2009 - 2013

Since leaving school, Ryan has studied a mechanical engineering degree at the University of Cape Town and graduated with first class honours for my B.Sc Mechanical Engineering. Ryan was also the top achiever for the Certified Energy Management course in 2018 for the Association of Energy Engineers.

He started working in the renewable energy industry, specifically in the commercial Solar PV space and is currently employed at a company called, Terra Firma Solutions.

Ryan helped design and build a 75kWp ground mount solar PV system for a rural community in the Eastern Cape. He was on site for almost a month in total and lead a team of 9 people who we employed from the local community that we were building the system for.

Lesson I draw on from Michaelhouse? To treat everyone equally and with respect

Ryan has done the OxPecker Trail run which takes place every year at Em'seni Camp - a place where Michaelhouse boys spend a lot of time during their school years and one which holds many fond memories for him.

IN THE ARTS Robbie Leggat

Robbie started his schooling career at WHPS in Pretoria, where his Dyslexia was diagnosed. He then moved to Bella Vista school in Johannesburg. Robbie clearly recalls being awarded a gold star for one of his drawings, which his teacher asked him to go and show the class next door! It was the sensitivity of this teacher, which set Robbie off on his career path in the arts. In 1977, Robbie joined Baines House and was there until 1981. Paul Lavender (his Art teacher) was an enormous inspiration and gave him his own set of Art Room keys so he could work whenever he wanted. Mr Lavender’s wife, Beryl, a remedial teacher also had a huge influence on Robbie and had a profound effect on his time at school. It was in C Block that he remembers being confronted with the periodic table, his absolute downfall in Science. Tony Carter, his Science teacher had to break the sad news to him that with 11% for the subject, chances of Matric were quite impossible.

Robbie then took up biblical studies, which influenced his life incredibly positivity and it was an absolute victory to pass his matric. In his own words, it is a “testimony to the dedication of the staff, as well as the inspiration and assistance I got from them.”

As a side note, Robbie’s Science teacher, Tony Carter, came from the private sector, where he subscribed to a Scientific journal from Mintech. After completing his studies, Robbie made a sculpture in stainless steel and took it to Mintech to have it coloured. In turn, they asked whether they could use the sculpture as an example of their stainless steel colouring, resulting in Robbie’s work being published in a Scientific Journal, subscribed to by his past Science teacher! After school, Robbie completed a three-year diploma majoring in sculpture and sought a full time career therein. A few years later, he heard of a commission to sculpt an Archangel Michael to stand in the St Michael’s Quad. He produced a maquette (with full funding behind him) but sadly he had joined the race too late and so didn’t secure the commission. On his return home, he opened his Bible and happened upon the scripture “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” Proverbs 3:5-6 Robbie had long given up on the dream of having this sculpture at Michaelhouse, until 23 years later, when Graham McIntosh approached him once again and asked if he would still be interested in casting the sculpture of St Michael. A suitable location at the front of school was identified and work has commenced. The sculpture embodies composition of a strong diagonal line which shows conflict, with the Archangel above the serpent dragon.

Robbie shares that “The weight of responsibility of doing the sculpture was overwhelming, which has encouraged me to do my best and give my all on this project. It has been special to share the process with a few members of the Michaelhouse community who have visited the studio during this time. Also, very special is that Murray Houston (Founders, 1978 – 1981) one of Robbie’s contemporaries, has helped source the 700kg of copper needed to produce the sculpture.” The sculpture is now nearing completion and it is with great joy that Robbie has invited the Michaelhouse community to join him as he casts the last section of this piece, and hopes that many will join for a fun evening of celebration. Please find the invitation below.

St Michael Bronze Pouring Invitation

… BACK AT MICHAELHOUSE

Christian Botha (Pascoe, 2011 – 2015) was the Guest Speaker at the Opening of the Michaelhouse Matric Art Exhibition for 2019. Christian is currently completing his final year of a BA in Creative Brand Communication at Vega in Pretoria.

IN EDUCATION Please click on the hyperlinked names below each image to view further information on each of the below Old Boys in Education.

Simon Moore (West, 1980 – 1983) Brad Roets (Farfield, 1996 – 1999)

Iain Guthrie (Founders, 1982 – 1985)

IN AGRICULTURE Congratulations to Simon d’ Aubrey (Founders, 1996 – 1999) who was recently announced the Kwazulu Natal Agricultural Union Young Farmer of the Year 2019. The KZN Agricultural Union (Kwanalu) held its 21st Annual Congress at the Royal Show Grounds in on Thursday, September 19, where it announced the 38-year-old Eshowe sugar cane farmer the winner.

IN THE FORCES…AND THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY LIST Storm Green (Mackenzie, 1997 – 2001) was recently awarded an MBE as one of the 65 regular and reserve soldiers and officers of the British Army, recognised on this year’s Queen’s Birthday Honours list.

There has been a long tradition of Old Boys serving in the British Armed Forces that extends back to First World War – and possibly earlier. Service has been on land, sea and air. Ranks held have ranged from Private to general. We are aware of some but probably not all. If you are aware of any Old Boy who has served in the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Marines or Royal Air Force, we would love to know more. Please include any details you may have in our Google Form here: https://forms.gle/T6rY5Qn1og39kpnD8

ON THE SPORTSFIELD … Sports Conditioning Our Sports Conditioning team headed down to Cape Town to attend the Elite Sport Summit Conference. James Fleming (West, 1986 - 19889), Head of Sports Medicine at Michaelhouse is pictured alongside fellow Old Boy, Tim Harkness (West, 1986 - 1989) who has flown out from London to present. Tim is currently the head of Sports Science & Psychology at Chelsea Football Club.

.…. On the water Fish River Canoe Marathon

Hearty congratulations to Old Boy, Stuart MacLaren (East, 2005 - 2009) and his partner who secured a win at the Fish River Canoe Marathon this past weekend. Also featuring in the top 10, was Old Boy, Alan Houston (Tatham, 2011 - 2015) and his partner.

…. ON THE INTERNATIONAL RUGBY FIELD Keynan Knox & Patric Cilliers

Old Boys across the world! We loved this picture of OM Keynan Knox (Founders, 2013 - 2017) - who is currently playing for Munster - and OM Patric Cilliers (West, 2001 - 2005) - who is currently playing for London Irish - playing rugby against each other in Ireland.

IKEY Tigers World Varsity Cup Win Congratulations to the University of Cape Town, Ikey Tigers, who defeated Bordeaux University 17-3 in Japan on Monday to secure a second successive World University Rugby Cup title. We are proud to have three Old Boys in the team, namely Josh Moon (West, 2008 - 2012), Gary Porter (Founders, 2010 - 2014) & Liam Furniss (Pascoe, 2011 - 2015).

…. ON THEIR BIKES Berg and Bush Cycle Race Congratulations to all of our Old Boys who took part in the Berg and Bush Cycle Race. This race takes mountain bikers from the top of the Drakensberg escarpment near Harrismith and drops down into Kwazulu- Natal negotiating world-famous single track into the bushveld below into Winterton. Among the finishers were: William Hardie (Baines, 1981-1985), Roger Gauntlett (East, 1982-1985), Simon Woodland (Farfield, 1981- 1985) and Peter Woodland, currently in D Block. John Perrott (East, 1975 - 1978) and Brian Denny (Tatham, 1975 - 1976), Honorary Old Boy, Mr Gordon Bruins, Michael Lawrence (Founders, 1999 - 2003), Robbie Diack (Founders, 1999 - 2003), Old Boys Club President, Phil Roberts (East, 1973 - 1976) and Stuart Graham (Tatham, 1999 - 2003), Gerry Noel (Tatham 1999-2003), Rory McComb (West 1999-2003)

AMASHOVA Cycle Race Congratulations to Michael Richardson (West, 2005 - 2009) who completed the Amashova in a time of 5 hours and 47 minutes.

…MAKING A DIFFERENCE Joshin Raghubar (Farfield, 1990 - 1993) Congratulations to Old Boy Joshin Raghubar (Farfield, 1990 - 1993) who has been recognised as one of the 2019 John P. McNulty Prize laureates. The ASPEN Global Leadership Network writes: " Shackled by decades of systematic exclusion, remains as one of the world’s most unequal societies. With the Cape Innovation & Technology Initiative - CiTi, Africa Leadership Initiative - South Africa Fellow Joshin Raghubar is changing this reality by driving the country's technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem and, in turn, creating a more inclusive, future-proof economy. Joshin Raghubar and the Cape Innovation & Technology Initiative - CiTi are 2019 John P. McNulty Prize Laureates." CiTi is a non-profit organisation that aims to boost the Western Cape’s technology sector and recently also began offering support to other areas in South Africa. The prize — run by the Aspen Institute and Anne Welsh McNulty — is aimed at those who have leveraged their expertise, experience and networks to build and lead transformative social impact ventures.

NEWEST MEMBERS OF THE OLD BOYS’ CLUB The Matric Class of 2019 will be inducted to the Old Boys ’Club on 28 November 2019

Mrs Sarah Pennington Following the annual Speech Day Ceremony, Mrs Sarah Pennington was awarded an Honorary Old Boys’ membership by Old Boys Club President, Mr Phil Roberts.

Mrs Sarah Pennington, our newest Honorary Old Boy, with (from left) Mr Paul Fleischack, Rector Antony Clark, Mr Phil Roberts and Steuart Pennington.

ARRIVALS, MARRIAGES AND DEPARTURES Departures

Our condolences go to the families of the following men:

Lyall Ferguson (1968 – 1973 Baines)

SCHOOL NEWS The first thunderstorm of the season on 6 October 2019 saw this old conifer near the squash courts take a direct lightning strike. The almighty thunder crack at about 22:00 woke most of the campus and shards of the tree trunk were scattered over a distance of about 50 metres from the tree. We will pay more close attention to the lightning alarm now!

Recognition of Staff who have served Michaelhouse for 30 years Fourteen staff members were awarded long service certificates at Speech Day. In total they have served Michaelhouse for just over 470 years. The longest serving members are Elias Bhengu (43 years) and Simon Zondi (40 years)

From Right to Left: Lindiwe Nxumalo, Rector Antony Clark, Rita Bhugwandeen, Elias Bhengu, Simon Zondi, Bongiwe Mlotshwa, Shakila Moola, Bhekukwenza Madlala, Guest Speaker Ms Rachel Nyaradzo Adams, Dambuza Ndlovu, Florence Jali, Raymond Duma, Cecilia Zondi, Samuel Zuma and Paul Fleischack.

OLD BOY EVENTS

…. 82nd Hudson Bennett Golf Day

The Pietermaritzburg Old Boys Branch once again hosted another successful Hudson Bennett Golf Day on Friday 4 October 2019.

For a full report and results, please view the link below. Hudson Bennett Report

…. Midlands Old Boys Function Wednesday 2 October 2019 saw the Midlands Old Boys Branch play hosts to Old Boys, parents and the broader Michaelhouse Community. With over 180 attendees, the audience was regaled with tales by OM Keith Begg (Baines, 1985 – 1988) whose career in conservation and life in Niassa is incredibly inspiring.

…. Old Boys Branch Annual Dinner Thursday 17 October 2019 saw 100 of our Durban Old Boys gather for the Durban Branch Annual Formal Dinner. The Guest Speaker for the evening was HRH Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi MP, President Emeritus: Inkatha Freedom Party, who shared on the topic of "Equipping the next generation: why education can make or break our nation." Old Boy, Ray Mkhulisi Jr (Baines, 2007 – 2011), shared the following sentiment following the dinner: "What an honour it was to sit next to our Rector Mr Antony Clark and engage him on our beloved school and the bright future it has, to introduce our guest speaker HRH The Prince of KwaPhindangene, Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, who imparted invaluable knowledge during his marvellous speech; and to catch up with other old boys including fellow former rugby captain Pat Lambie and my brother and friend HRH Prince Zakithi Buthelezi. Michaelhouse forever, forever Michaelhouse!" Well done to all involved.

Left: Rector Antony Clark with HRH Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi. Right: (Left - Right) HRH Prince Zakithi Buthelezi Steven Boast, Ray Mkhulisi and HRH Prince Zuzifa Buthelezi past member of the Board of Governors.

…FROM THE ARCHIVES With the awarding of Mrs Sarah Pennington as an Honorary Old Boy, we thought that this edition of “From the Archive” should look at items within the Michaelhouse Chapel, some of which Sarah had first-hand dealings with seeing to fruition.

St Michael’s + Chairs

In 2009, to provide seating for growing numbers of boys, Fred Pitout commissioned Hugo Partridge to craft 104 hardwood, upright chairs which would be placed at the end of each pew, on either side of the central aisle. The chairs were made of Kiaat at a cost of R1 400 each. These were sponsored by Old Boys, with the full amount being raised in just one month. Each chair bears an engraved brass plate dedicating it to the memory of another or to record the donor or his family. These chairs are still in use today.

Chapel Kneelers There are 700 hand-made tapestry kneelers in the Michaelhouse Chapel. Sarah Pennington (wife of Rector Rex Pennington, 1969 – 1977) started the project after her own mother had been active in creating the tapestry kneelers for Westminster Abbey. Sarah had planned for a budget of R4500 for material, six months for one tapestry per donor and that the project would take five years to complete. It was decided to use a tent stitch, which could last up to 100 years and does not stretch with 100 stitches to the square inch, resulting in 24000 stitches per kneeler. Doris Campbell (the school secretary) sent letters to mothers of current and past Michaelhouse boys, after which mothers were given a kneeler kit consisting of tapestry needles, wool instructions and letter templates. The first demonstration of what was required was held by Mrs Tony Barrett in Pietermaritzburg. Ten centres were visited for demonstrations and kneeler kits to be handed out. Most families chose to depict family crests and personal interests, with almost every kneeler including a boy’s initials or name on it. After six months, kneelers started arriving back and a team of Sarah and other staff wives put them all together. Priscilla Meiklereid and Paul Lavender created the Michaelhouse design to be found on the 48 kneelers in the choir stalls. The kneelers in the Crypt, were designed by Sarah and David Moon – a burgundy cross on an old gold background.

UPCOMING EVENTS / OLD BOYS CALENDAR

An overview of the Michaelhouse Old Boys Club Diary for the remainder of the year, is available by clicking below. Updated Old Boys Diary

UK Branch The UK Branch will be hosting a number of functions in November and we ask that you RSVP soonest in order to secure your place.

Edinburgh Drinks Evening UK Winter Luncheon UK AGM Dinner

Michaelhouse Old Boys Club – Tour down Under! Old Boys Club Secretary, Mr Paul Fleischack, will be travelling to New Zealand, Australia and Dubai in November to connect with and update Old Boys “down under” on news from Balgowan as well as some projects and advancements for the Old Boys’ community.

Full Tour Itinerary New Zealand Brisbane Perth Sydney Melbourne – Kindly note the new date! Dubai

Johannesburg Branch Hilton/Michaelhouse Golf Day