Annual Report 2009 Royal Over-Seas League

social and cultural links worldwide Royal Over-Seas League

Patron Central Council as at 31 December 2009 Her Majesty The Queen Miss Farah Amin Mrs Marilyn Archbold* (Deputy Chairman) Vice-Patron Mr Graham Archer CMG Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra KG GCVO Mrs Shirley Barr* Mr Ralph Bauer President Mr Clive Carpenter The Rt Hon the Lord Luce KG GCVO DL Sir Roger Carrick KCMG, LVO Mr Christie Cherian* Chairman Nik Raof Daud Mr Paul Dimond CMG Mr Stanley Martin CVO until 7 December 2009 Mr John Edwards CMG* Sir Anthony Figgis KCVO CMG from 7 December 2009 Mrs Patricia Farrant Sir Anthony Figgis KCVO CMG* (Chairman) Deputy Chairman Mr Simon Gimson Mrs Marilyn Archbold Ms Diana Gray Mr Robert Gregor MBE Hon Treasurer Sir James Hodge KCVO CMG Mr Simon Ward FCA Mr David Jamieson Mrs Beryl Keen (deceased January 2010) Director-General and Secretary Mrs Anne de Lasta Mr Robert Newell LVO The Rt Hon the Lord Luce KG GCVO, DL (President) Dr Edmund Marshall Vice-Presidents Miss Sheila MacTaggart LVO Their Excellencies the Commonwealth Secretary- Mr David Newman General and the High Commissioners for Mr Ian Partridge CBE Commonwealth countries in London Mrs Doreen Regan* The Viscount Boyd of Merton Mrs Judith Steiner* Dame Mary Bridges DBE Mr Geoffrey Thompson OBE Sir Lawrence Byford CBE QPM DL Mrs Pamela Voice Mrs Yvonne Calver Mr Simon Ward FCA* (Honorary Treasurer) The Archbishop of Westminster *Executive Committee The Rt. Hon the Baroness Chalker of Wallasey Mr Colin Clark ROSL world headquarters Mr Maneck Dalal OBE Over-Seas House The Dean of Westminster Park Place, St James’s Street Mr Martyn Goff CBE London SW1A 1LR The Lady Gore-Booth Tel: 020 7408 0214 The Lord Imbert CVO QPM Fax: 020 7499 6738 Sir Colin Imray KBE CMG Email: [email protected] Mr Graham Lockwood Web: www.rosl.org.uk The Lord Chief Justice of England & Wales Mr Stanley Martin CVO Acknowledgements The Countess Mountbatten of Burma CBE CD JP DL Sir David Scott GCMG Design, editing and production: Samantha Whitaker Sir Kenneth Scott KCVO CMG Printing: Broglia Press Sir Donald Tebbit GCMG The Rt Hon the Lord Woolf

Front cover pictures: (clockwise from top left) the Solstice String Quartet; HRH Princess Alexandra inaugurates the new Steinway piano (© Robert Piwko); children in Nhoma village, Namibia; HRH Princess Eugenie meets the Hong Kong Down’s Syndrome Association football team at Over-Seas House, London; the winners of the Younger Member’s Inter-Club Quiz Back cover pictures: (top) the Twisted Woman by Lilian Naubulime and (below) Princess Alexandra Hall ( © Charles Glover) Contents

4 Chairman’s report 6 Director-General’s report 8 Clubhouse news 10 ROSL centenary 11 Overseas magazine 12 ROSL-Namibia project 14 Members’ events 16 Younger Members’ Inter-Club Group 18 ROSL ARTS 21 ROSL branches 31 Honorary Treasurer’s report 32 Financial statements

The Royal Over-Seas League was founded in 1910 by Sir Evelyn Wrench to foster international friendship and understanding. ROSL operates under Royal Charter and ‘aims at promoting an enduring multi-racial fellowship pledged to the support of the Commonwealth and to the service of others and humanity at large’. It is required to encourage the arts, particularly among the young people of the Commonwealth.

ROSL seeks to fulfill its aims by: • supporting Commonwealth ideals • offering clubhouse hospitality to members • organising annual competitions for young artists and musicians • developing joint welfare projects for disadvantaged communities • providing a network of contacts and representatives around the world

ROSL has over 18,000 members worldwide. There are branches or member groups in Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Thailand and the UK, plus reciprocal arrangments with over 85 clubs worldwide.

Membership of ROSL is open to men and women who are citizens of Commonwealth countries and of countries which have constitutional links with the UK at any time since 1910, such as Bahrain, Egypt and Jordan, or such citizens of any country which the Central Council shall specify from time to time.

3 Chairman’s report

he year 2009 got off to a right Krakow were fascinating, the former royal start. In January, Princess largely rebuilt after the savage TAlexandra, Vice-Patron of wartime destruction and the latter ROSL, inaugurated the Steinway historically intact because the grand piano in the hall she had Germans had used it as the capital of opened exactly three years earlier. In their General Government. Only an May, a princess from a younger hour’s drive from the medieval castle, generation, Eugenie of York, attended cathedral and university, examples of the tea party for a group from the the heights to which man can rise, Hong Kong Down’s Syndrome was Auschwitz, the supreme Society. example of the depths to which he Below: (l-r) Mrs Hanni My main overseas visit of the year can sink. The visit was enlivened by Martin, Lord Luce (ROSL President),Mr Stanley never took place. Because of the accidents on the escalator and train Martin, Mr Hugo Vickers, political riots in Bangkok in April, my Lady Luce, John Julius visits to our branches there and in “The whole event brings Norwich (guest of honour Hong Kong had to be cancelled. and speaker), the Hon Sadly, Hong Kong remains the only great credit to ROSL ” Ivor Lucas and Mrs Christine Lucas at the active overseas branch that I was Chairman’s Lunch in May unable to visit during my chairmanship. steps at Warsaw station, from which Later, in July, I went again (with the we emerged bruised but not broken. Right: ROSL staff (l-r) Director-General) to the annual dinner My wife and I visited a number of Mr Roderick Lakin, Mr of the Switzerland branch in the branches in Britain: Bournemouth Rachid Mellah, Miss Margaret Adrian- Lausanne. Because the British (twice), Taunton, West Sussex and Vallance, Mr Stanley Ambassador was suddenly taken ill, I Bath. Twice we went to Edinburgh, in Martin, Mrs Fatima had to make the main speech, May for the branch AGM and, in Vanicek, Mr Shakil Tayub, instead of merely the supporting one. August, to attend the concerts Mr Michael McCall and In September (for the sixth year organised every year by ROSL ARTS Mr Robert Newell, who celebrated their long running), my wife and I went with the at 100 Princes Street during the service to the ROSL at London Group on their overseas visit Festival. We had heard much about the Central Council lunch – to Poland. Both Warsaw and them but the reality exceeded all in September reports. The music, provided by prizewinners in the ROSL Annual Music Competition, was wonderful; the capacity audiences were enthusiastic; the whole event brings great credit to ROSL. As Chairman, I spoke at two non- ROSL events: a lunch of the Rotary Club of Edinburgh and a dinner of the 200 year old Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society. Our events have continued to attract eminent speakers, thus continuing to fulfil one of our original aims. At the crowded Chairman’s Lunches, John Julius Norwich gave a brilliantly concise account of 1500 years of Venice, and Cardinal Cormac Murphy- O’Connor reflected on his time as Archbishop of Westminster and his experiences of a papal conclave. A third lunch marked the 60th anniversary of the modern Commonwealth; the President, staff party, which my wife and I Chairman was due to end by Director-General and I entertained were privileged to attend. representing the ROSL at events the Commonwealth Secretary- Graham Lockwood’s very and ceremonies connected with General and all the High special contribution to the ROSL the Commonwealth Heads of Commissioners. Mr Newell and I – as Deputy Chairman, as Government Meeting in Trinidad. also attended the anniversary Chairman of the vital Sponsorship Suddenly, however, serious flag-raising at Marlborough Committee and as a generous illness intervened and I was House. benefactor – was recognised by unable to go. The Central Council entertained his election as a Vice-President. Indeed, my term of office the High Commissioners for ended ‘not with a bang but a Canada and Australia, where we “I thought I had achieved whimper’. I could not be at the have thousands of members, and London Group Christmas lunch what I set out to do in 2005 Sir David Brewer, who as Lord- ” or at the Festival of Christmas Lieutenant of Greater London is carols. Sadly, I also missed The Queen’s representative in the All this illustrates the great debt chairing the last meetings of the capital, where we also have owed by ROSL to its (very) Executive Committee and Central thousands of members. permanent staff and to those Council during my term, at which One particular duty I fulfilled members who give their time I was formally to hand over the with special emotion. I repres- voluntarily both at headquarters chair. Even the Council farewell ented ROSL at the service in in London and in the branches in lunch for my wife and me took Westminster Abbey, attended by Britain and overseas. (I shall not place without us: ‘Hamlet’ The Queen and Prince Philip, to rehearse again my thoughts on without the prince. commemorate the passing of the ROSL – past and future – which I Nevertheless, I thought I had last surviving veterans of the First set out in my farewell article in achieved what I set out to do in World War. Many ROSL members Overseas , issue 4, 2009.) 2005: to attend as many as from throughout the Common- As the year went on, more time possible of the wide range of wealth served and died in that was devoted to preparations for ROSL activities and to represent conflict; my father was wounded ROSL’s centenary in 2010. The ROSL fully in the outside world. on the Somme. new logo was introduced and the More recently, I have been able to It was especially pleasing excellent ‘History’ of ROSL (by work with the Director-General to during the year to mark long Adele Smith) was published and ensure that everything feasible periods of service to ROSL. At launched at an evening event. By has been done to prepare for the one of its lunches, the Central the end of 2009, most of the centenary year. Council honoured Roderick Lakin, arrangements for the centenary As you read this, the centenary Fatima Vanicek and Mick McCall had necessarily been made, celebrations will be well under for 25, 30 and 25 years with us. although much detailed work way. Later, Robert Newell’s 30 years remained to be done. Stanley Martin were recognised by a surprise My year (and term) as Chairman

5 Director-General’s report

t the beginning of the year, my financial initiatives and for the extra colleagues and I met to burden they endured due to the cuts Adiscuss the economic doom to our budget. They responded in a and gloom being widely reported by financially mature manner, and ack- the financial pundits. The recession now ledged that, as world economies was just starting to take effect and are not yet out of the woods, 2010 the consensus of our meeting was would also be a year of uncertainty. that we should react immediately by Mr Stanley Martin’s annual report is cutting costs wherever possible. We his last, as he retired from the chair- were conscious that there should be manship at the end of the year after no diminution of services, events and nearly five years in office. He did so facilities to the membership. to allow his successor, Sir Anthony Figgis, to be Chairman through out

“ROSL ended 2009 in sound financial shape ”

the centenary year, which was both generous and thoughtful of him. Mr Martin first joined the Central Council in 1982, when he was with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO). He retired as a diplomat in 1992 and became ROSL Vice- Chairman in 2002, and Chairman in 2005. He shares in the credit for our sound financial health. He travelled At Over-Seas House (l-r ) widely in the UK and overseas to visit Miss Lucia Sanchez (FA It was the right decision, as ROSL branches, often with his wife International Manager), revenue to the end of June fell, but Hanni, and together they made many Mr Geoffrey Thompson fortunately, in the latter part of the friends and admirers. We are grateful (Central Council member, Vice-President of UEFA year Over-Seas House, London to them both for the service they and FIFA and immediate experienced high levels of occupancy. have provided to the ROSL and con- past FA Chairman), Recruitment and retention of vey very best wishes for the future, Princess Takamado of members, suffered due to the particularly to Stanley after his recent Japan, Mr Robert Newell recession but the membership serious illness from which, I am revenue budget was almost achie - pleased to report, he is recovering well. ved. 2009, therefore, ended with Sir Anthony Figgis joined the ROSL ROSL in sound financial shape with a Central Council in 2004 and became better than expected surplus. I am Vice-Chairman in 2007. He was HM grateful to my colleagues for their Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps from

6 2001 to 2008. Before that he was year was 18,383. a diplomat with the FCO and Four of my colleagues served in Belgrade, Bahrain, celebrated long service: Fatima Madrid, Geneva and Bonn, and Vanicek (Asst. to Director- was Ambassador to Austria from General/Membership Secretary) 1996 to 2000. Sir Anthony was 30 years; Roderick Lakin (Director appointed CMG in 1993 and of ROSL ARTS) 25 years; Michael KCVO in 1996. He is married to McCall (Head Hall Porter and Mayella, and to them both we Health & Safety Officer) 25 years; send best wishes for a very and Alan Chalmers (Manager happy term of office. Over-Seas House, Edinburgh) 20 bye-laws 14.6 and 14.7, Mrs Much work during the year years. I myself completed 30 Lindsay Ross, Miss Maureen focused on preparations for the years in October. Howley, Mr Peter Hamlyn and Mr ROSL centenary. The first projects At the AGM, in May, the app- Monojit Chatterji are nominated were the publication of the ‘History’ oint ments to the Central Council for election to the Central Council of ROSL, written by Adele Smith, of Miss Sheila MacTaggart, Mr at the AGM in 2010. Mr Graham and the design of a new ROSL Graham Archer, Mr Ian Partridge Lockwood was elected a Vice- logo incorporating our coat of and Mr David Jamieson were President in accordance with arms. The logo was designed by confirmed under the term of bye- bye-law 18.1, as was Mr Stanley Raymond Patmore (Helix Design), laws 14.6 and 14.7. In accordance Martin upon his retirement from assisted by input from Council with the terms of bye-laws 20.1 the chairmanship. members and staff, and it now and 20.2, Mrs Judith Steiner, Mr I am grateful to Lord Luce adorns all ROSL stationery and (President), Mr Stanley Martin literature and was featured on the (Chairman), Mr Simon Ward (Hon front cover of Overseas magazine “The first project was the Treasurer), and members of the issue 4 2009, to mark the design of a new ROSL Central Council for their support beginning of the centenary year. logo ” and help to my colleagues on the During 2009 a Centenary staff and me, during the year. I Appeal was launched for dona- Christie Cherian and Mr John am also very grateful to all those tions to ensure the continuation, Edwards will retire at the AGM in who serve ROSL so ably around, in perpetuity, of our endeavours 2010. The Chairman, Central the world on a voluntary basis. on behalf of young Common- Council, my colleagues and I Robert Newell wealth classical musicians. The convey our grateful thanks for the Director-General initial response has been service they have provided. In excellent and we are grateful to accor dance with bye-law 21.3, Mr Above: Mr Newell celebrates those members who have already Stanley Martin retired from the his 30th anniversary at ROSL donated. Chairmanship in December 2009 Below: (l-r) Lady Luce, Lady A cause of sadness during the and Sir Anthony Figgis was Figgis, Lord Luce and Sir year was the death of the eminent elected by the Central Council to Anthony Figgis at the Central artist Donald Hamilton Fraser RA, suceed him. Under the terms of Council lunch in December a ROSL Vice-President. With the help of our membership database support company, a thorough reconciliation of the membership records took place, archiving a large number of life members and those whose membership had lapsed. In 2009, 1,279 new members were enrolled and worldwide member ship at the end of the Clubhouse news

Over-Seas House, London House Advisory Committee

Early in the year, the balcony, The committee is always receptive which stretches the full width of to observations by members about Rutland House, built in 1735, was all aspects of the London clubhouse found to be unstable. After much and service. There has been investigation by Richard Watkins particular praise for the enthusiasm (structural engineer), Peter Bickerstaff and helpfulness of the staff who work (building surveyor) and Paul Streat in the Buttery and also for the (Maintenance Manager), the balcony Porters, particularly during the was expertly pinned back to the wall Christmas period. and fully repaired. Patricia Farrant Soon after, other unexpected and Chairman costly maintenance was required to the bar and Hall of India and Discussion Group, London Pakistan. The second and third floors Below: A recently- of the Westminster Wing bedrooms The Discussion Group's monthly refurbished bedroom at were refurnished and redecorated, lectures in 2009 covered a wide Over-Seas House, London which completed the modernisation range of topics with excellent and of that part of the building. varied speakers, from John Bird Right: Former Scotland Essential maintenance to the (founder of The Big Issue ) to the Rt First Minister Mr Jack Green Park elevations of both Vernon Hon the Lord Woolf (former Chief McConnell spoke at the and Rutland Houses also took place. Justice of England and Wales). The November Arts lunch at Over-Seas House, Paul Streat talks were followed by lively Edinburgh Maintenance Manager discussions which the speakers greatly appreciated. completed at the beginning of the In May, John Edwards succee- year and the Robert Louis ded Maj Gen Tim Toyne Sewell as Stevenson Room was redec- Discussion Group Chairman. orated. Most bedrooms have had John Edwards flat screen televisions with Chairman Freeview installed, which provide a wider choice of TV and radio London Group stations. Successful weekend packages The London Group had a were organised, for members, successful year. Membership which included trips to the Royal increased, and talks covered a Yacht Britannia and Glamis variety of topics, including Soho Castle. in the 50s and 60s, living and Alan Chalmers working in Ghana and a history of Manager, the dictionary. There were also Over-Seas House, interesting and well-supported Edinburgh visits to the Handel House December Arts Lunch. Museum, the British Medical ROSL Scotland ROSL ARTS delivered a high- Association, Thomas Carlyle's quality programme, ranging from House and the Brit Oval. 2009 was an extremely difficult regular Music with a View events The AGM in April was also a year for ROSL in Scotland. The to special dance and Gala social success, commencing with national economic situation, Evenings. The outstanding refreshments and concluding with combined with the advent of Edinburgh Festival Fringe series a talk by Adele Smith, who tramworks in Princes Street, of concerts was again very presented her ‘History’ of ROSL. created an almost surreal atmos- popular. Members also heard In September, London Group phere of depopulation and from pupils of the Yehudi members and friends visited silence in the main thoroughfare Menuhin and St Mary’s Music Poland. They stayed in Warsaw for many months. It also meant Schools, and the work of ROSL and Krakow, and learnt a good that Over-Seas House recorded a prizewinning visual artists was deal about the history, culture financial loss and recruited only shown at the Landings Gallery and architecture from the 70 new members. throughout the year. excellent guides. The social programme, I am indebted to all members Andrew Brewis provided piano however, continued to thrive and colleagues who support and vocal entertainment at the thanks to the loyal support of ROSL in Scotland: Bob Gregor annual Christmas lunch and was members. Former First Minister (Edinburgh Branch Chairman) and enthusiastically received. Jack McConnell MSP addressed Bill Agnew (Glasgow Branch Doreen Regan the November Arts lunch in Chairman); and the core President support of the University of Edinburgh personnel, including Edinburgh Centre for African kitchen, housekeeping and Over-Seas House, Studies, and other events attrac- reception staff who gave Edinburgh ted a number of distinguished excellent service in 2009 under speakers such as authors Lorn Manager Alan Chalmers, Over-Seas House, Edinburgh MacIntyre, Billy Kay, and Alasdair particularly over the very busy has had a difficult year due to the Hutton. Gordon Arthur, Head of festive season. Their combined work to install tram rails on Communications for Glasgow efforts managed to combat, to a Princes Street which, combined 2014 (Commonwealth Games) degree, the extremely difficult with the economic downturn, was guest speaker at the economic climate. affected food and beverage Commonwealth Day Lunch and James Wilkie sales. Adele Smith presented her book, Scotland Development Bathroom upgrading work was the ‘History’ of ROSL, at the Officer

9 ROSL centenary

t has been a year of busy prep- lively and readable account of the aration for the ROSL cent enary. past 100 years and is available from IWith its rich history of social, the ROSL Shop and by mail order. cultural and charitable endeavour, it To complement the ‘History’, ROSL was essential that ROSL’s 100th has commissioned a Centenary DVD anniversary should be marked in a which focuses on the ROSL today. fitting manner. As with most Directed by former BBC producer milestones, the centenary is a time and BAFTA award winner Christopher for reflection, reassessment and Swann and narrated by Chris de change. Souza, the DVD will showcase the This was especially true wide range of activities in which the of the decision to create ROSL is currently involved, including a new logo. Since exclusive footage from the ROSL- 1960, the ROSL logo Namibia Project, the annual ROSL bore its coat of arms ARTS tour of New Zealand and the with its motto, Visual Arts Scholarship programme in ‘Ubique Navig- Arbroath, Scotland. The DVD is avimus’, and name, intended to celebrate the ROSL and Royal Over-Seas its achievements so far, but will also League, beneath. For act as a promotional tool for the centenary it was membership recruitment. decided to adopt a The premiere of the DVD follows more contem porary the Chairman’s Lunch on 4 May 2010 look. After much at Over-Seas House, London. Further discussion with graphic screenings will take place at branch designer Raymond Patmore events worldwide during 2010. (Helix Design), we alighted upon a To mark the centenary, and to new logo which emphasised the acknowledge the Annual Music acronym ‘ROSL’, and retained the Competition as one of ROSL’s coat of arms, encompassed in an most significant and enduring eye-catching centennial flourish. achievements, the Centenary Appeal The new logo has been imple - was launched in September to mented in a variety of ways including secure endowment in excess of stationary, brochures and a selection £1,000,000 to support outstanding of centenary merchandise sold in the young professional musicians. The ROSL Shop and by mail order. funds raised will be held in a November saw the launch of The restricted fund within the ROSL Royal Over-Seas League: from Golden Jubilee Trust (registered Empire into Commonwealth, A charity number 30695). History of the first 100 Years pub - Polly Hynd lished by IB Tauris and written by Centenary & International Adele Smith. The ‘History’ provides a Events Co-ordinator

10 Overseas magazine

t was a good year for the Overseas Editor, Jessica commissioned a magazine, with issue 3 2009 range of inspirational articles, includ- Imarking the first of five special ing a glimpse at the work of a chief centenary issues. Characterised by a cheetah keeper in Namibia. The unique ‘Centenary’ section, with editorial team also produced two stories from the Overseas archives special covers: the first featuring and excerpts from Adele Smith’s Adele Smith’s ‘History’ and the ‘History’ of ROSL, the centenary second introducing the new issues have a Focus on a specific ROSL logo. theme, rather than a country. The Miranda Moore September-November issue focused Editor on the Commonwealth, specifically on CHOGM, while the final issue of the year investigated the issue of climate change. Despite the new centenary articles, Overseas managed to maintain all its regular features – in issue 4, by increasing the number of pages to 40. Some of the highlights from 2009 were the pick of the best shows from the Edinburgh Festival, an interview with ROSL member Len Goodman and an examination of how Malawi took itself from famine to surplus. The most successful ROSL events were also covered – with pieces on the 57th Annual Music Competition and the arts scholars – while the report on the ROSL-Namibia project looked at past bursary students who are now teaching a new generation. Middleton Mann took over as Deputy Editor in January and changed the design of the magazine so that articles could be longer in length, while maintaining the overall ‘look’. The Editor, Miranda Moore, went on maternity leave in May, leaving Overseas in the capable hands of Jessica Moore, former editor of Guardian Monthly . As Acting

11 ROSL-Namibia project

he success of ROSL bursary development funds of three primary awardees in remote areas such schools in isolated areas: Katora, Tas the Kalahari, the generosity Hippo and Huigub. of ROSL donors and new fund- 2009 saw most of the 17 ROSL raising initiatives were the main bursary recipients doing well. Kobus highlights of 2009. Gaiseb, for example, who started at The ROSL-Namibia project was Huigub Primary and is now at established in 1995 with Clara Otjikoto Secondary, was selected for Bohitile, then Deputy Minister of a leadership training course, cont- Basic Education and Culture, to inued to win school prizes and was provide primary school bursaries for voted head of the school hostel. individual San (Bushman) and other Tamigu Gariseb, who started at children living in remote areas. Due to Katora Primary and is now at ROSL bursary recipient the generosity of ROSL members and Swakopmund Secondary, excelled in Cwisa Cwi with the text books he has helped to non-ROSL donors it was possible to maths and other subjects. translate into Ju’hoansi extend this support to secondary and During the year, two caring and San tertiary levels and contribute to the supportive Principals who had played such a vital part in the project came up to retirement: Rheinhard Doeseb at Katora Primary and Habakuk Shilongo at Huigub Primary. At Katora the five ROSL bursary recipients did well, and at Huigub a new kitchen and classrooms were built with additional funding from Germany. At Windhoek College of Education, ROSL continued to support seven students, mainly from Himba communities in the far north. In September it was agreed that the ROSL-Namibia project should feature in a short section of the Centenary DVD. Director Chris Swann therefore joined the first part of the annual monitoring visit, in October, and filmed in the east and west of the country. My co-monitor Paul Oosthuizen and I filmed in the north and the Nyae Nyae conservancy. In the Nyae Nyae our guide was ROSL bursary recipient Cwisa Cwi, La Fondation raised the interesting question as to whether the project could be used as a template in other Commonwealth countries and why it works so well. The main reason, as confirmed by Clara Bohitile, is the long-term commitment by ROSL, and the project is there fore very now Principal of five bush Fondation Espace Afrique, which grateful to all those donors who schools in his homeland of the ‘provides support for the realis- have kept it going since 1995. Jo’hoansi San. Cwisa was one of ation of projects and initiatives at Margaret Adrian-Vallance several awardees to give an the Pan-African level and is the Director of Public interview in a confident and Petrolin Group’s commitment to Relations & Development thoughtful way. Others included the development of Africa’. In two of the first nine in the project December, it was confirmed that – Elias Araeb and Ellie Velskoen a grant agreement would be from the Omaheke. Both are now ready in early 2010 and it was Left: The approach to Katora Primary School teachers. Chris also interviewed decided that a short DVD should in the Namib desert Clara Bohitile MP in Windhoek, be made about the project to ROSL bursary recipients at support such applications in the Below: An evening Katora and took general shots to future. gathering at Nhoma village in the Nyae Nyae

“Cwisa was one of several awardees to give an interview in a confident and thoughtful way ” indicate the tyranny of distance in this vast country with its population of only 2 million. On the downside, 2009 was the second year in which the project was not entirely self-funded due to the recession, falling exchange rates and fewer donations from non-ROSL sources. In order to safeguard funds for those already in the project, support for the three schools was therefore reduced and only one new bursary award was made during the year. As it was essential to find new donors to supplement the £5,700 from members, an application was made in November to Members’ events

he 2009 members’ events and learn about the area’s history. In programme presented an 2009, guided walks were taken Texceptionally broad array of around Greenwich, Kew Gardens, events. The popularity of the events Little Venice and St James’s, where, has grown, and more members than in Floris, members learnt about ever before enjoyed meeting each making perfumes. other and relishing what London has Private guided tours were also to offer. taken around several historic Explorations included backstage palaces: Kensington Palace, tours of the Royal Opera House, the Hampton Court, Kew Palace and Poppy Factory and the BBC, where Lambeth Palace. members were able to make their During the summer, many own piece of television in the BBC’s members attended the traditional interactive studio. Members have favourites: Trooping the Colour, also gone behind the scenes of some Wimbledon and the Chelsea Flower of the most magnificent historical Show. There was also a delicious tea houses and gardens, including at the House of Lords, hosted by Osterley House and park, Marble Hill ROSL President Lord Luce, after House, Syon Park and the Chelsea which, thanks to a torrential Members enjoyed a Physic Garden. downpour, members squelched guided tour of the Royal Guided walks around London are home wet but happily fed. Later in Hospital by one of the always extremely popular, as the year, those who attended Chelsea Pensioners members discover hidden treasures returned to the House of Lords for a guided tour. The first wine tasting event using vintage wines from ROSL’s cellar took place in October in the Restaurant at Over-Seas House, London, and was a great success. Also in October, Stanley Martin hosted his last Chairman’s Lunch which was attended by more than 100 members, and in November the new members reception allowed those who had joined in 2009 to meet each other and the ROSL staff. Many exciting events are planned for 2010 to celebrate the centenary year. Alexandra Debarge Events Co-ordinator & PR Assistant  The Royal Opera House  Osterley House  Hampton Court Palace N o s t a w d i v a d / t s u R t l a N o i t a N

k © u . e o s c u . o m H  Foundling Museum a e a t R s e w p e o N l . a w y w o w R

 Lambeth Palace

e s c H a l R a H p c H o t N e e b m N a o l J

 Syon House  The Wallace Collection

15 Younger Members’ Inter-Club Group

he Younger Members’ Inter- followed by a quick stop at the Club Group began 2009 with a Farmers Club before members Tdelicious curry buffet, hosted finished the crawl at the Savage Club by the Oriental Club, followed by with music and dancing. Also in after parties ending in the early hours. August, the first Inter-Club Tennis In March the Oxford and Cam- Tournament took place at the bridge Club was filled with laughter Queen’s Club, with Pimms, a barb- as comedians took to the stage for eque lunch and traditional Comedy Night. Charlie Talbot was an strawberries and cream. excellent MC, raising the polite The Inter-Club Quiz was hosted by applause to a near standing ovation. the Army and Navy Club in Sept- On Location, hosted by the Royal ember where, after a series of Automobile Club in April, featured challenging questions, the Carlton property developer and television Club managed to usurp reigning presenter Phil Spencer, who provided champions for the past two years, an insight into the property world as the Savage Club. Later that month, a well as many entertaining stories. In Ceilidh at the Caledonian Club was a May, the Lansdowne Club hosted a great success with traditional Moveable Feast for 120 members Scottish fare, whisky, and plenty of and guests, where the men changed dancing to George Buchanan and his seats after every course. Ceilidh Band. The anniversary of D-Day in June A Reverse Dinner at the Savile was celebrated with a Summer Club in October really put members’ Swing Ball at the Army and Navy taste buds to the test. The meal Club. Members and guests dressed started with whisky and coffee, in black tie and military uniforms and followed by a three cheese selection, the club was transported back to the chocolate tart, a succulent filet of 1940s for the night. Also in June, a beef and, finally, spiced crab and summer drinks party was held at the champagne. Palates were stimulated Travellers Club. again, in November, at the Port and In August, the annual Club crawl Stilton Tasting hosted by the Carlton was a great success. Members Club and, in December, the began the crawl at ROSL, with a Hurlingham Club was transformed glass of champagne in Princess into a winter wonderland for the The first Inter-Club Tennis Tournament at the Alexandra Hall, and then continued Narnian-themed Christmas Ball. Queen’s Club through torrential rain to the Army & Complete with an ice bar, vodka luge Navy for canapés and wine. and a huge choc olate fountain, the When it was time to leave, ball concluded another successful the club sold a record year of Inter-Club events in style. number of umbrellas. The Alexandra Debarge Reform Club put on a Events Co-ordinator speedy dinner, which was & PR Assistant

16  Comedy Night

 On Location

 Summer Swing Ball  Club Crawl  Tennis Tournament

 Inter-Club Quiz  Port and Stilton Tasting

 Ceilidh

 Christmas Ball

pHotos : © c HRis baRsley

17 ROSL ARTS

Annual Music Competition International Summer School. A total of £40,000 was awarded: In February and March 2009, the four solo award finalists received musicians from Australia, Canada, £2,500 each and the overall winner Hong Kong, Ireland, Malaysia, New and gold medallist received the Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, £5,000 first prize. Uganda, and the UK participated in The four finalists were Sarah Beaty, auditions at Over-Seas House, clarinet (UK), Madeleine Pierard, London for the 57th ROSL Annual soprano (New Zealand), Yelian He, Music Competition. The final was cello (Australia) and Ben Schoeman, held on 5 May 2009 at the Queen piano (South Africa) who won the Elizabeth Hall, at which the prizes First Prize and Gold Medal. Two Ensemble Awards of £5,000 were awarded to the Solstice String Quartet and St James’s Wind Quintet, and the Accompanists Award of £2,500 went to Simon Lane (UK). This was the first time in the competition’s history that three of the four solo award winners were from overseas. Ten musicians won overseas awards including Sarah Power, soprano and Alison Murphy, flute (Ireland); pianists Shuenda Wong (Malaysia) and Carlisle Anderson Frank (Canada); and Eric Dippenaar, harpsichord (South Africa). Prizewinners’ concerts were given throughout the year in London at Annual Music Competition were presented by David Sigall Hon Over-Seas House, St Mary’s Perivale, winner Ben Schoeman FTCL, who is a Director of Ingpen St James’s Piccadilly, St George’s receives his trophy and Williams Ltd, former Chairman of Hanover Square, St Martin-In-The- the British Association of Concert Fields and St Barnabus, Ealing. Agents and a Director of The Concerts were also presented at International Artists Manager Wigmore Hall as part of the prest- Association. igious Monday Platform series, and The panel of judges was chaired by at the National Portrait Gallery. ROSL Gavin Henderson CBE, Principal of ARTS also supported prizewinners’ the Central School of Speech and concerts in the Brighton Festival, the Drama, and Director of Dartington Budleigh Salterton Festival and the

18 stage in the transformation of the House, London: Mamle Kabu hall. (Ghana), Parselelo Kantai (Kenya), To show off the superb new Alistair Morgan (South Africa), EC instrument, the concert prog- Osondu (Nigeria) and Mukoma ramme encompassed the five wa Ngugi (Kenya). disciplines of the ROSL Annual This is the eighth year ROSL Music Competition: keyboard, ARTS has supported the Caine strings, wind, singers and Prize by providing accommo- chamber ensembles. dation for shortlisted writers at, Music by Bach, Schumann, Over-Seas House, prior to the Chopin, Rachmaninov, Strauss, announcement of the winner. Poulenc and Czerny was performed by pianists Martin Visual arts

o Cousin, Nicola Eimer, Simon k w i

p Lepper and Ben Schoeman, The ROSL Annual Scholars t R e

b soprano Madeleine Pierard, cellist Exhibition was held at o R Brian O’Kane and the Camarilla gallery@oxo, in London’s South © Ensemble. Bank cultural quarter. The King’s Lynn Festival. exhibition brought together At Over-Seas House, Edin- Book events paintings, sculpture and instal- burgh, prizewinners performed in lation produced by the four 2008 bi-monthly concerts and ROSL ROSL ARTS presented a wide Visual Arts Scholars: Melanie ARTS presented its 10th concert range of speakers at Over-Seas Fitzmaurice (Australia), Michele series as part of the Edinburgh House, London, in 2009, including Fletcher (Canada), Lilian Festival Fringe: 31 concerts in 12 historian Edward Paice on the Nabulime (Uganda) and Kazi days, the majority of which great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755; Sahid (Bangladesh). played to a full house. film critic Barry Norman on his Prizewinners’ concerts were other passion – cricket; Adele also given in Australia, Canada, Smith on the ‘History’ of ROSL; Above left: Pianists New Zealand, Singapore, Trinidad and Chairman of Adjudicators for Nicola Eimer, Ben and Tobago, and Zimbabwe. the ROSL Annual Music Comp- Schoeman and Martin etition, Gavin Henderson, on his Cousin play Czerny’s Inauguration of the new planned definitive history of Overture Fra Diavolo for 6 Hands on One Piano at Steinway piano British seaside piers. the inauguration concert In July, the five shortlisted 25 January 2006 was a writers for the Caine Prize for Below: HRH Princess landmark date for ROSL when, African writing took part in an Alexandra meets the following extensive refurbish- evening of readings at Over-Seas musicians who performed in the concert ment, the concert room at © R obeRt piwko Over-Seas House, London was re-opened by Vice Patron HRH Princess Alexandra, and renamed Princess Alexandra Hall in her honour. Her Royal Highness graced us with her presence once again, almost three years later to the day, on 26 January 2009, for a very special evening to inaug- urate the new concert grand piano, which marked the final Visual Arts Scholar Kazi Throughout the year, solo and Prize, University of Nigeria- Sahid at Hospitalfield with his work group exhibitions were held at Abuja) and Peter Robinson and Over-Seas House, London and Ruth Watson (Elam School of Edinburgh. Artists included Jacob Fine Arts, University of Auckland). Carter (UK), Leo du Feu (UK), Four overseas artists were opera concert evenings in Jason Gibilaro (UK), Christina selected: Keagan Simon (Trinidad January and July at Over-Seas Papakyriakou (Cyprus), Lauren and Tobago), Todd Stratton (New House, Edinburgh. Porter (UK) and Douglas Crane Zealand), Chan Kok Hooi (New Zealand). (Malaysia), and Anikpe Ebene Sponsorship committee In association with the Thailand (Nigeria). They each spent a Branch, an exhibition was held at month at the Patrick Allan Fraser The appeal for £70,000, to Over-Seas House, London of the Foundation at Hospitalfield, purchase the new Steinway 12 shortlisted works from the Arbroath,Scotland, plus a week model D concert grand piano, 2008 ROSL Young Artist of at Over-Seas House, London. reached a successful conclusion Thailand competition. Winner before the inaugural concert for Patcharaporn Arunsirichok came Friends of ROSL ARTS the piano, in January. to London for the opening of the Chairman of the Sponsorship exhibition, as a guest of ROSL ‘Friends’ continued to play an Committee Graham Lockwood ARTS. important part in supporting the and Director of ROSL ARTS Visual Arts Scholarships 2009 work of ROSL ARTS, particularly Roderick Lakin have concen - were selected in collaboration by raising funds to purchase the trated their efforts on the with Julian Bukits, Edinburgh; new grand piano for Princess fundraising strategy and launch Emma da Costa (Commonwealth Alexandra Hall. of the Centenary Appeal to Foundation); John Lai (Malaysia); The Friends Garden parties in secure the long-term future of the Sarah Myerscough (Fine Art, July and September at Over-Seas Annual Music Competition. London); Ebony Patterson House, London were extremely Roderick Lakin (Jamaica); Liz Peri (Sandor Peri popular, as were the supper/ Director of ROSL ARTS

20 ROSL branches

AUSTRALIA Dick and WA Branch President Jeff Turner, with his wife June. Australian Chairman, Jason The British High Commissioner, the Ronald, visited the UK in August and Rt Hon Helen Liddell, was given a was welcomed by Chairman Stanley farewell celebration, and her Martin at the Executive Committee successor, the Rt Hon Baroness meeting where he reported on Amos, was welcomed at receptions activities in Australia. He also joined in Victoria, at the home of the British Director-General Robert Newell, at Consul-General Stuart Gill, in Nov- his Tuesday evening reception for ember and December respectively. members staying at Over-Seas Jason Ronald House, and met members from Australia Chairman around the Commonwealth, including some from Australia and New New South Wales (Sydney) Zealand. The New South Wales Branch held Also in August, the Opera Awards a lunch in April to mark The Queen’s were conducted in Sydney where birthday, and in November, members Victoria Branch Vice-President Jean attended a Remembrance Day Black and NSW Branch Secretary Lily service, and held a lunch to welcome Murray represented the ROSL. Of the the new British High Commissioner, four finalists, Emma Pearson won the Baroness Amos. ROSL Bursary as well as the overall Director of ROSL ARTS Roderick Award donated by Di Bresciani’s Lakin brought the Barbirolli String Youth Music Foundation of Australia. Quartet, winners of the ROSL Annual The semi-finals of the Mathy Music Competition 2009, to Sydney Awards, the Australian Singing in December where they gave a Victoria: A lunch at the Competition, were held in Sydney in concert for over 100 members and RACV City Club to honour September where five were chosen guests. Branch Vice-President to compete at the finals in Perth, Many branch members have Rob Pollock for his accompanied by the Western attended events in conjunction with a lengthy service to the ROSL Australian Symphony Orchestra. The number of other clubs throughout the winner was Sam year, including The Monarchists Roberts Smith, League, The Australia Britain Society, baritone, who The Royal Commonwealth Society, received a total prize the English Speaking Union and the package valued at Australian Decorative Fine Arts AUS$48,000. Association (A.D.F.A.S). Jason Ronald and Financially the NSW Branch is in Jean Black attended good health and recruited many new the final with members during the year. Tasmania Branch Lily Murray President Robert Secretary

21 Queensland (Brisbane) South Australia (Adelaide) In June, many members attended The core of the SA Branch activity the ‘Queensland Day’ Open Day at is the monthly lunch, which is usually Government House and enjoyed a followed by a speaker. In 2009 the guided tour of the building and the speakers were varied and all mature bush land. There was also a exceptionally interesting, including a Community Fair with displays and teenage schoolgirl, born profoundly demonstrations, and later, a picnic on deaf, but who can now hear thanks the surrounding lawns accompanied to cochlear implants inboth ears, and by music and entertainment. who is now a Cochlear Awareness Also in June, branch Chairman Network Volunteer, informing and Sharon Morgan and several branch encouraging those with similar members attended a reception to disabilities. mark The Queen’s official birthday, Other speakers covered the and, in August, a presentation by the treatment of drug and alcohol abuse, Commonwealth Secretary-General memories of Ireland in the 50s and Kamalesh Sharma, which was 60s and the special accommodation followed by a reception in his honour. which is planned to house the only Later in the year, Sharon Morgan two pandas in the Southern and her husband attended a Hemisphere at Adelaide Zoo. reception to mark the Sesqui- The content of the two branch Centenary publication about the lunches is predetermined: the Governors of Queensland. Melbourne Cup lunch in November, During 2009, several new members where the ladies can sport their fancy were welcomed to the branch, mainly headwear and many lose their money from outside the metropolitan area, in the sweepstake; and the Christmas and membership remains stable. Lunch. Many branch members travelled A highlight of the year was the and enjoyed the wonderful position 100th birthday of Daphne Duval, a and facilities at Over-Seas House, long-serving member and former London and Edinburgh, and also of Branch Secretary, who rarely misses some of the reciprocal clubs. a lunch. In addition to the congra- Branch Chairman Sharon Morgan tulations from local members, the thanks Patricia Tritton for her Director-General’s message was enthusiastic assistance. much appreciated. Victoria: British Consul- General Stuart Gill and Sharon Morgan The SA Branch can report a very Australia President Jason Chairman/Secretary successful year, a loyal membership Ronald and a modest influx of new members. Michael Kent Secretary

Tasmania (Hobart) In March, branch members attended the Commonwealth Day service at St Mary's Cathedral, and a lunch to mark The Queen's birthday was held in April at the Black Buffalo Hotel where branch Patron, the Governor of Tasmania, the Hon Peter Underwood, proposed the loyal toast. In November, the Prince of Wales’s birthday was marked with a lunch at Drysdale House and branch Chairman Robert Dick attended the Australian Singing Competition 2009 Final, in Perth, Western Australia. Robert Dick Chairman/Secretary

Victoria (Melbourne) Many branch members journeyed to Cruden Farm in February to be the first to sing happy 100th birthday to Dame Elisabeth Murdoch. A presentation was made, followed by a tour of the gardens and a lunch at the Ranelagh Club, Mt Eliza. Also in February, on the National Day of Mourning following the horrific Black Saturday bushfires, many members attended a ‘Together for Victoria’ Service at Rod Laver Arena with the Prime Minister, the Governor-General and the Premier. In April, the Premier of Victoria, the Hon John Brumby, held a reception in Melbourne to welcome the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce, and Michael Bryce on their first official visit to Victoria. The reception provided the opportunity to talk to the ROSL’s national Patron As part of their tour, the Barbirolli Western Australia: Branch Secretary Anna and to wish her well as Her Majesty’s String Quartet gave a concert at Dean on a fundraising representative in Australia. the home of Lino and Di Bresciani, bike ride which raised Many members attended theatre where Director of ROSL ARTS over $500 for the ROSL- trips organised by the branch to see Roderick Lakin also introduced Nambia project Trial by Jury and other Legalities, Billy Adele Smith’s ‘History’ of ROSL. Elliot and The Jersey Boys . The year ended with a Christmas British Consul-General, Stuart Gill, reception at the home of British spoke at the branch AGM and Ron Consul-General Stuart Gill and his Williamson was elected onto the wife Maggie. Council. Jason Ronald Later in the year, members President attended a dinner and quiz at the Melbourne Savage Club hosted by Western Australia (Perth) Graham Ryles, where a raffle was The WA Branch report that, also held to raise funds for the ROSL although membership numbers have Bursary; and a surprise lunch at the been retained, they have sadly lost RACV City Club was held to honour some long-standing and valuable Vice-President Rob Pollock for his friends during 2009. lengthy service to the branch. Speakers at the social evenings

23 covered a wide Accommodation at the Karrakatta range of Club, a ROSL reciprocal club, was interests, from first class and highly recommended. Zimbabwe to In December, branch members International celebrated Christmas with the annual Technical lunch and carol concert. Relations. Jeff Turner In March, Chairman following the AGM, speaker CANADA Brett Christian gave an Alberta absorbing talk on The Alberta Chapter reports a the foundation membership of 71, and, sadly, the and progress of deaths in 2009 of Anthony Cordery the Post and Robert Matheson QC, a long- newspaper. standing member and ROSL Alberta: The annual Branch Secretary Anna Dean Vice-President, whose mother, Eva summer social event in participated in a sponsored cycle ride Johnson, was a founder member of Edmonton of 575km to raise funds for the the Edmonton Branch in 1954. ROSL-Namibia project. The Alberta Executive meets bi- Also in March, many members monthly and information is passed to attended the Multifaith Common - the membership through the wealth Day Service at St George’s ROSLink newsletter, on a regular Cathedral organised by the Joint basis. Commonwealth Societies Council, In 2009, the branch held its AGM in and the Youth Rally the following day March, the President’s lunch in where entertainment was provided by October and a Christmas lunch in school choirs and pipe and concert December. The Eva Johnson Mem- bands. orial Scholarship was presented to In April, the guest of honour at The Ikena Ijeke (Nigeria), a third year Queen’s birthday dinner was Hon student at the University of Alberta. Professor David Malcolm, and at a Three Cadet Awards (Army, Navy and morning tea in June, the theme was Air Force) were presented at the the Antiques Roadshow with expert Cadet Annual End of Year cere- advice from Carolyn Staveley. monies in June. The 2009 winner of the Royal Cynthia Cordery Schools Music Club Young Singer Secretary Competition, sponsored by the branch, was soprano Victoria Wilkie, British Columbia and branch Chairman Jeff Turner Many branch members were attended the Final of the National unfortunately snowed-in for much of Australian Singing Competition, in the beginning of 2009. Perth. The following evening In April, the branch held a Australian Chairman Jason Ronald, reception followed by a visit to the and other members of the Victoria theatre to see Table Manners by Alan Branch who had also been at the Ayckbourn, and in August, Grace Mo Final concert, were welcomed by the gave a recital at the Silk Purse, a little WA Branch to a reception at the house, on the shore of West Victoria League Headquarters, on Vancouver, which belongs to the Melbourne Cup Day. municipality and where concerts and

24 other music events take place. Loretto Abbey Catholic Secondary In October, branch members joined School. This was the third year that members of the Commonwealth ROSL participated by presenting a Society for a lunch at the Vancouver trophy. Lawn and Tennis Club where Nora Ishrani Jaikaran Harrison spoke on the work of ‘The President High Achievers’ Program’, which helps deserving young Kenyan boys HONG KONG secure places in secondary schools. The Christmas lunch was held at 2009 marked the 10th anniversary the Terminal City Club where member of the Hong Kong Branch and the Sir James Barlow, who is Charles year was a busy one, during which Darwin’s great-great-grandson, many new members were welcomed. Hong Kong: (l-r) spoke about a television series he is In February, members attended an Countess Cawdor; Sir taking part in called The Future of the evening of New Zealand wine and David Tang (Hong Kong Species. food organized by the New Zealand Branch Patron); HRH The Princess Michael Pamela Ducommun Society, and in March, Common- of Kent; Mr Paul Chairman/Secretary wealth Day was celebrated with a Surtees (Branch reception at the Hong Kong Club. President) Nova Scotia There has been a ROSL branch in Nova Scotia in the past and, in 2009, Barbara Hughes QC met with Director-General Robert Newell at Over-Seas House, London, and agreed that a new Nova Scotia Chapter should be opened, along the lines of those in Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia. The Chapter has been estab lished under the Chairmanship of Barbara Hughes, who has been busy getting it up and running. Barbara Hughes Chairman/Secretary

Ontario Branch members enjoyed trips to Stratford and the Shaw Festival in 2009, and the Annual Lunch was held Her Royal Highness Princess in November, at the University Club in Michael of Kent joined members at a Toronto, with speaker Consul- reception, in April, while passing General Jonathan Dart and special through on a private holiday. guests, the Director-General Robert One of the charities the branch Newell and his wife. supports is the Hong Kong Down The runner-up in this year's Syndrome Association. In May, the ‘Shakespeare on the Platform’ Hong Kong DSA football team visited competition and recipient of the Sir London and enjoyed tea at Over- Evelyn Wrench Trophy, contributed Seas House with Her Royal Highness by ROSL, was Angelica Samaniego, Princess Eugenie, and in August, an a 17-year-old grade 12 student at Olympic-themed cocktail reception,

25 in the presence of Her Royal NEW ZEALAND Highness The Princess Royal, helped to raise a considerable sum for the The six branches in New Zealand organisation. continued to meet monthly. In June, several branch members Highlights included a Quaich joined members of the Italian greeting and reading of ‘The Origin of Chamber of Commerce for an Italian St Andrew’s Day’ to Southland film and music festival, and in Branch members; a talk on their October, the Southern African ‘Opera Houses of Europe’ tour by Association of Hong Kong invited Oamaru Branch members; the branch members to join in on a Manawatu Branch’s 60th anniversary challenging hike across the rugged celebrations; a trip to Terrace Downs island of Lantau. by Christchurch members; and a Later in October, branch Patron Dr concert by Maurice Till (piano) and Hari Harilela treated members and Natalia Lomeiko (violin) to a capacity guests, and representatives of the audience at Chalmers’ Church charities which the branch supports, organised by the South Canterbury to an Indian buffet and cocktail Branch. reception at his palatial residence in The 2009 Visual Arts Scholarship Kowloon Tong. winner Todd Stratton enjoyed his 5- British Consul-General Andrew week residency at Hospitalfield, in Seaton and Professor Kevin Arbroath, Scotland, and trip to Over- Thompson were guests at the Seas House, London. Christmas party at the Library of the The winners of the 2008 China Club. Pettman/ROSL ARTS Chamber Branch President Paul Surtees Music Scholarship, Duo Giocoso – thanks all the branch Patrons and Helen Bevin (viola) and Rafaella Committee Officers who have Garlick-Grice (piano) – enjoyed the supported branch activities, and the many concerts, performances, branch committee for organising the master-classes and festivals New Zealand: The Barbirolli String Quartet many events. organised for them in the UK in July played to Maori Paul Surtees and August. audiences President The Barbirolli Quartet, former ROSL prizewinners, toured New Zealand and gave 10 concerts over two weeks in Christchurch, Dunedin, Wellington, Napier, Gisborne and Waiheke Island, captivating their audiences with their enthusiasm and fearless approach to music. Director of ROSL ARTS Roderick Lakin joined Euan Murdoch, CEO of Chamber Music NZ, and Stephen de Pledge, Head of Piano University of Auckland, to mentor and judge at the Pettman/ROSL ARTS Scholarship 2009 weekend held at the University of Waikato. The winners were the Leonari Trio – Hilary Hayes (violin), Edward King (cello) and Maria Mo (piano) – from the University of Waikato. Membership in New Zealand of Switzerland, the Switzerland currently stands at around 900 Branch of the Royal British Legion, members. the Federation of Anglo Swiss Clubs Lyn Milne and the British Swiss Chamber of New Zealand Director Commerce. Jo Brown Chairman SAUDI ARABIA Riyadh Committee THAILAND Early in 2009, Hong Kong Branch President Paul Surtees spent some In January, the 2008 Young Artist time in Riyadh and, through an of The Year Final and Gala reception enthusiastic publicity campaign was held, postponed from November supported by the Ambassadors of 2008 for organisational and logistical Commonwealth countries, ROSL reasons.The artworks from the 2008 Saudi Arabia was created. finalists were displayed at Over-Seas A lunch on Commonwealth Day, in House, London and Edinburgh during March, hosted by the British the year. Ambassador, marked the official The Young Musician of Thailand launch of the committee. Since then, 2009 Final competition was held at the membership has attended a the Conrad Hotel in April, preceded variety of functions at Common- by a reception. The winner, Krit wealth embassies. A highlight was a Niramittham (piano), was awarded dinner at the residence of the New the prestigious King's Trophy and Zealand Ambassador to celebrate the travelled during the summer to first Saudi to have climbed Mount London, where he gave a recital at Everest. Over-Seas House, London. Stan Izmajlowicz In November, the Final of the 2009 Committee Officer Young Artist of Thailand competition was held at the Sukhothai Hotel, with an afternoon reception for the SWITZERLAND finalists, and their families and Thailand: The 2009 ROSL supporters. Young Musician of Thailand competition The annual dinner for members of Roger Willbourn winner, pianist Krit the Switzerland Branch was held at Secretary Niramittham the Lausanne Hotel School in July. Chairman Stanley Martin, who was the guest of honour, spoke on the role of ROSL in today’s Common- wealth, and Director-General Robert Newell spoke about the plans for the centenary year celebrations. Several branch members were present at the ANZAC Ceremony in April and at the Remembrance Day Service in November, both of which were held at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery. The branch maintains friendly links with the British Residents Association UK Anthony Figgis, attended the Christmas lunch during which where Bournemouth a raffle was held and members raised In 2009, Gordon Irving succeeded over £200 for charity. Marjorie Harvey as Bournemouth Gordon Irving Branch Secretary, and Chris Bladen Secretary was appointed Chairman. ROSL Chairman, Stanley Martin, hosted a Cheltenham lunch at Over-Seas House, London During the year, the branch held for Marjorie Harvey, in recognition of eight afternoon meetings with her 25 years of service. illustrated talks on various subjects, During the year, a questionnaire including Georgian Cheltenham, was sent to all branch members, the Saudi Arabia, Ecuador and the Gulf results of which provided the Stream. All meetings were followed Edinburgh: Branch committee with useful information on by afternoon tea. Chairman Bob Gregor the needs and desires of the Lunches were held in March, June received a Robert Burns membership. and December, and all events were memento from Chairman Regular Thursday coffee mornings well-supported and enjoyed by Stanley Martin at the Edinburgh AGM were held throughout the year at the branch members. A party of six braved the British Rail system and enjoyed a mid-week break in April at Over-Seas House, Edinburgh, and, as usual, in July, a party of 12 had a long weekend at Over-Seas House, London. Kathleen Northage Secretary

Edinburgh The branch enjoyed an excellent programme of events in 2009. A Burns Supper, the Scottish members’ dinner and St Andrew’s Day dinner were addressed by Douglas Abercrombie, Robin Harper MSP and Billy Kay respectively and all attracted near-capacity audiences. Coffee mornings with bridge and Mah Jong meetings added further range to the programme. Marriott Highcliff Hotel and in June, A substantial charitable donation the branch hosted Chairman Stanley was made to the Gurkha Welfare Martin and his wife, Hanni, at a lunch Trust and Scottish members greatly to celebrate The Queen’s official enjoyed the annual August visit to birthday. Over-Seas House, London. The summer garden party was held The branch once again appreciated for the 18th time at the home of Mrs the continued efforts of James Wilkie, Granville-Lewis, and many members Alan Chalmers and the staff at Over- enjoyed the annual three-day trip to Seas House, Edinburgh. Over-Seas House, London. Margaret Beard The new ROSL Chairman, Sir Secretary

28 Glasgow The branch held five afternoon meetings at the Western Club, where members heard talks on a wide range of subjects, from the Glasgow trams to a sponsored trek for charity in China. In April, a group of members visited Queen’s Cross Church in Glasgow, followed by lunch at New Kilpatrick Church, Bearsden. The Christmas lunch was held at the Western Club where James Wilkie, ROSL Scottish Development Exeter: Branch members Officer, was guest speaker. raise funds for the ROSL-Namibia enjoyed a picnic at Sand The year ended on a sad note with project, and in July, the annual near Sidbury, Devon news of the death of Professor Arthur picnic was held at Sand historic Kennedy, a former branch committee house near Sidbury. member. Brian Hawkes William Agnew Secretary Chairman/Secretary Taunton: The branch was saddened ROSL West by the death of its President, Maj Gen In September, 27 members from John Carpenter in the early summer. Bath, Exeter and Taunton branches Weekly coffee mornings were held enjoyed a weekend at Over-Seas every Wednesday throughout the House, London. They had the year at the Castle Green Inn. opportunity to visit Kenwood House, In May, a group of members, the Garden Museum, the Chelsea including John Carpenter, toured Physic Garden and a performance of around Exmoor, and later in the the musical Oliver! . summer, members travelled to Tiverton for a trip on the canal in a Bath: The branch held monthly horse-drawn barge, followed by a coffee mornings at Pratt’s Hotel and lunch hosted by the owner of Taunton: Branch members two lunches were held during the Tiverton Castle. toured on Exmoor year at the Bath and County Club, the first, in April, with Vice-Chairman Sir Anthony Figgis and his wife, and the second, in October, with Chairman Stanley Martin. Sally Roberts Secretary

Exeter: The branch held monthly lunches and talks at St Olave’s Hotel, from September to March, and were pleased to welcome Director of PR and Development Margaret Adrian- Vallance to the AGM in April. At a coffee morning at Topsham Museum in June, a raffle was held to The winter members back together after the lunches were summer break, and Barbara Kirk, a very well local expert, also gave a talk about attended, and members’ antiques and collectables. from October A SAGA ‘ambassador’ gave a talk Honorary Treasurer’s report were held at a in October, and in November Dr Sue new venue, Turner gave a fascinating account of Somerset her time working in Kiribati. College, where At the December talk, on the the food is subject of the wildlife on the Falkland cooked and Islands, members enjoyed mince pies served by with their cream tea. Branch catering students membership has remained steady West Sussex: Author at a very moder ate cost. throughout the year. Adele Smith (centre) viewed the ‘History’ of Talks ranged from a behind-the- Ian Wood ROSL for the first time at scenes look at the Antiques Secretary the branch’s book launch Roadshow to a career working for with (l-r) Pamela Voice The Queen in the Royal Household. West Sussex and Branch Chairman - The branch raised £660, during the The year began with an informal Marilyn Archbold year, for the Taunton Deane lunch party in February, followed by Association for Neighbourhood Care, the AGM and lunch in March, which which helps the elderly and disabled was attended by Director-General with gardening and decorating Robert Newell. services. In May, a group of members Sally Roberts attended a Brighton Festival Secretary Lunchtime Concert, arranged in association with ROSL, which Torbay/Torquay: The branch held featured Laura Lucas, flute, winner of monthly coffee mornings at the the 2008 ROSL ARTS Annual Music Livermead Cliff Hotel. Competition. A lunch was held in Sally Roberts June to celebrate the official birthday Secretary of The Queen, with guests of honour Chairman Stanley Martin and his West Cornwall wife, Hanni. Monthly branch meetings followed After the summer break, meetings by a cream tea were held throughout recommenced in October with an the year at the Carbis Bay Hotel near informal lunch. In November, the St Ives. branch held its first centenary event In January, members enjoyed a talk to launch the ‘History’ of ROSL, with on New Zealand, which was followed its author Adele Smith, who in February with a film by John Potter introduced the book and signed recording his visit to Borneo. copies for members. Lady Mary Holborow, Lord The year concluded with a Lieutenant of Cornwall, was guest of successful Christmas lunch, during honour at the Annual Lunch in March, which the traditional Christmas raffle and, after the AGM in April, newly- was held to raise funds for the elected branch Chairman Margaret branch’s contribution to the 2010 Knighton gave a talk about her ROSL Annual Music Competition experiences in Oman. Sussex Prize. The traditional September social Marilyn Archbold evening at Trevethoe House brought Chairman

30 Honorary Treasurer’s report

eflecting the experience of We have taken the opportunity most businesses in the grip of presented by the centenary to Rthe recession, the first six commission several long-term months of 2009 were extremely projects, such as the redesign of our difficult in both London and Edinburgh. logo and the launch of more market- Happily, by the third quarter, able memorabilia. The centenary is a bedroom occupancy at Over-Seas unique opportunity to raise our profile House, London, had picked up so throughout the Commonwealth. that the operating surplus there, for Although subscription income held 2009 of £281,008 compared favour- up well in 2009, indications are that ably with the surplus achieved in more members are not renewing for 2008 of £236,130. Notwithstanding 2010. The publicity generated by the centenary will hopefully help to reverse this trend. The three-yearly valuation of the Defined Benefit Pension Scheme on 1 October 2008 showed an increased deficit of £1,190,000. This is disap- pointing, particularly bearing in mind that we had made contributions of £200,000 more than required in respect of the smaller deficit of £532,000 revealed by the 2005 valu ation. We continue to monitor the position. The Golden Jubilee Trust continues its sterling work supporting our cultural activities by contributing to the various art prizes and ROSL’s work in Namibia continues to reward ing effect. The Trust has launched the Director of Finance and the very best endeavours of all invol- Centenary Appeal to raise an Administration Shakil ved, and not helped by the severe additional £1,000,000 to secure and Tayub with Honorary Treasurer Simon Ward disruption caused by the tramworks enhance the standing of the Annual in Princes Street, the Edinburgh Music Competition. I am sure operations incurred a loss for 2009 of members will respond generously. £23,203 compared to a profit in 2008 Once again, Shakil Tayub and his of £11,474. The net overall result is a team have been diligent in their work surplus for 2009 of £257,805 and I would like, on behalf of the compared to £260,599 achieved in membership at large, to thank them 2008. The outlook for 2010 is for all they do. positive, although we are budgeting Simon Ward for a lower surplus than 2009. Honorary Treasurer

31 Financial Statements

Financial statements

Statement of responsibilities of the Central Council in respect of the accounts and annual report

The bye-laws of the Royal Over-Seas League (ROSL) require its Central Council at the annual general meeting to lay before the membership an account and balance sheet. In accordance with standard accounting practice, the Central Council has adopted a policy of producing accounts, which in its opinion give a true and fair view of the income and expenditure and state of affairs of ROSL. Furthermore, in accordance with such accounting practices in preparing these accounts, it has selected suitable accounting policies and applied them consistently, made judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent, and prepared the accounts on a going concern basis. The Central Council also takes responsibility for safeguarding the assets of ROSL and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities.

NOTE 2009 2008 £ £ £ £ Royal Over-Seas League FIXED ASSETS 2 6,386,485 6,404,149 Incorporated by Royal Charter CURRENT ASSETS Stock 148,034 114,208 Debtors and prepayments 381,878 343,360 BALANCE SHEET at 31 December 2009 Cash on deposit 478,242 486,071 Bank current accounts and cash 132,836 281,894 1,140,990 1,225,533 Approved on 29 March 2010 by Central Council: CURRENT LIABILITIES Creditors and accrued expenses 557,901 625,994 Sir Anthony Figgis, Taxation 6 341 5,034 Chairman Simon Ward, Subscriptions received in advance 465,178 632,063 Honorary Treasurer Bank loan payable within one year 8 120,000 120,000 Shakil Tayub, 1,143,420 1,383,091 Director of Finance & Administration NET CURRENT LIABILITIES (2,430) (157,558)

TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT 6,384,055 6,246,591 LIABILITIES

LONG TERM LIABILITIES Bank loan payable after one year 8 (572,016) (692,016)

5,812,039 5,554,575

FINANCED BY: General fund 5 5,812,039 5,554,575

32 Financial Statements

NOTE 2009 2008

Royal Over-Seas League £ £ £ £ Financial statements Incorporated by Royal INCOME Charter Entrance fees 55,677 42,099 Subscriptions 1,429,029 1,370,613 INCOME AND Food and beverage and bedrooms EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT Gross receipts 3,168,401 3,219,366 for the year ended 31 December 2009 Direct expenditure (1,264,844) (1,397,203) 1,903,557 1,822,163 Interest receivable 1,196 22,517 All results derive from continuing activities Miscellaneous receipts 17,508 15,655 3,406,967 3,273,047 EXPENDITURE Magazine 97,572 119,082 Promotion 154,114 182,452 Clubhouse running costs 853,994 751,486 Legal, professional and financial 154,354 147,575 ROSL ARTS 419,972 319,280 Administration 409,380 435,870 Administration salaries 710,428 681,291 Staff costs 334,348 360,412 Audit fee 15,000 15,000 (3,149,162) (3,012,448) SURPLUS 257,805 260,599

Taxation 6 (341) (5,034)

BALANCE added to General Fund 5 257,464 255,565

NOTE 2009 2008 £ £ Royal Over-Seas League Incorporated by Royal Charter OPERATIONS Net cash inflow from operating activities 4 (i) 4,897 434,483

CASH FLOW STATEMENT for the year ended TAXATION 31 December 2009 UK corporation tax paid (5,034) (4,147)

CAPITAL EXPENDED Purchase of tangible fixed assets (36,750) (115,216)

FINANCING Repaid (120,000) (120,000)

Total net cash (outflow)/inflow (156,887) 195,120

(Decrease)/increase in cash 4 (ii) (156,887) 195,120

33 Financial Statements

Notes on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2009

1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES All income is accounted for on received basis. (a) These accounts are prepared under the hist orical (c) No depreciation is provided on buildings at valuation, cost convention modified to include the revaluation of nor on extensions thereto, as the buildings are consid- freehold land and buildings. The accounts are prepared ered to be worth at least their book value and any in accordance with applicable accounting standards. depre ciation would be imma terial. Depreciation is (b) Subscriptions are those receivable from full members provided on depreciable improvements at a rate of 10% of the ROSL together with the proportion of subscrip - per annum. Depre ciation of the furniture fixtures and tions from branch members which is payable to central fittings and computer and office equipment is charged funds. In addition to the prop ortion of subscriptions at a rate of 5%, 20% or 33% per annum as is applicable. retained by branches, support may be given to them (d) Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are from central funds. translated at rates ruling at the year end.

2 FIXED ASSETS Freehold land Furniture fixtures and buildings and fittings and computer and office equipment Total £ £ £

Cost or valuation At 1 January 2009 5,766,982 1,861,153 7,628,135 Additions 0 36,750 36,750 At 31 December 2009 5,766,982 1,897,903 7,664,885 Depreciation At 1 January 2009 0 1,223,986 1,223,986 Charge for year 0 54,414 54,414 At 31 December 2009 0 1,278,400 1,278,400 Net book value At 1 January 2009 5,766,982 637,167 6,404,149 At 31 December 2009 5,766,982 619,503 6,386,485

The valuations relate to World Headquarters at £2,250,000 and the Scottish Branch at £180,000 which were valued professionally on an open market basis at 12 August 1983 and 16 March 1984 respectively. The transitional provisions of FRS 15 are being followed and the valuation has not been updated. It is not the policy of ROSL to revalue the prop erties on a regular basis.

3 PENSION SCHEME The pension scheme now administered by Scottish Widows covers the old Money Purchase scheme and the on- going Final Salary scheme. The new Money Purchase scheme is administered by Clerical Medical. The schemes are externally managed and have independent trustees. The League's contribution to the final Salary scheme and the new Money Purchase was 18% and 6% respectively. The final salary scheme is multi-employer and it is not possible to identify the underlying assets and liabilities of the scheme between employers as required by the Fin- ancial Reporting Standard No 17 Retirement Benefits and therefore the scheme has been treated as a defined contribution scheme. The final salary scheme had a deficit of £ 1,190,000 as at 1 October 2008.

34 Financial Statements 4 CASH FLOW 2009 2008 5 GENERAL FUND 2009 2008 (i) Reconciliation of surplus before taxation £ £ £ £ to net cash inflow from operating activities At 1 January 5,554,575 5,299,010 Surplus before taxation 257,805 260,599 Surplus in the year as shown in the Depreciation 54,414 56,336 income and expenditure account 257,464 255,565 (Decrease)/increase in creditors (68,093) 114,210 Accumulated at 31 December 5,812,039 5,554,575 (Decrease)/increase in subs in advance (166,885) 78,691 Increase in debtors and stock (72,344) (75,353) 6 TAXATION 2009 2008 Net cash inflow from operating activities 4,897 434,483 £ £ Provision at 1 January 5,034 4,147 (ii) Cash at bank and in hand Amount paid during year (5,034) (4,147) At 1 January 767,965 572,845 Charge to I&E Account 341 5,034 (Decrease)/increase in cash (156,887) 195,120 Provision at 31 December 341 5,034 At 31 December 611,078 767,965 ROSL is exempt from taxation of its income to the extent that it arises from its mutual activities. Only investment income is subject to tax. 7 STAFF Employees' remuneration totalled £1,813,512 (2008: £1,807,453).

8 LOAN The loan, which is from ROSL's bank, is secured on land and buildings. Repayment will be over fifteen years, payable in quarterly instalments of £30,000 and interest is variable with the bank's base rate. The charge for interest on the loan amounted to £20,044 and is included as part of direct expenditure charged to bedrooms, as the loan was raised to finance the sixth floor of eight bedrooms.

Independent auditors’ report to members of the ROSL

We have audited the financial statements of the Royal report if we become aware of any apparent misstatements Over-Seas League (ROSL) for the year ended 31 or material inconsistencies with the financial statements. December 2009 which comprise the Balance Sheet, the Income and Expenditure Account, the Cash Flow BASIS OF OPINION Statement and the related Notes numbered 1 to 8. We conducted our audit in accordance with International These financial statements have been prepared under Standards on auditing issued by the Auditing Practices the accounting policies set out therein. This report is Board. An audit includes examination, on a test basis, of made solely to the members, as a body, in accordance evidence relevant to the amounts and disclosures in the with the bye-laws of ROSL and their Royal Charter. Our financial statements. It also included an assessment of audit work has been undertaken so that we might state the significant estimates and judgements made by the to the members those matters we are permitted to state Central Council in the preparation of the financial state - to them in an auditors’ report and for no other purpose. ments and of whether the accounting policies are To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept appropriate to the circumstances of ROSL, consis tently or assume responsibility to anyone other than ROSL and applied and adequately disclosed. We planned and the members, as a body, for our audit work, for this performed our audit so as to obtain all the inform ation report, or for the opinions we have formed. and explanations which we considered necessary in order to provide us with sufficient evidence to give RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CENTRAL reasonable assurance that the financial statements are COUNCIL AND AUDITORS free from material misstatement, whether caused by As described in the Statement of Responsibilities of the fraud or other irregularity or error. In forming our Central Council, the Central Council is responsible for opinion we also evaluated the overall adequacy of the the preparation of the financial statements, which are presentation of information in the accounts. required to be prepared in accordance with your Royal Charter and accounting standards. Our responsibility is OPINION to audit the financial statements in accordance with In our opinion the financial statements of ROSL give a regulatory requirements and International Standards on true and fair view of the state of affairs of ROSL as at 31 auditing (UK and Ireland). We report to you our opinion December 2009 and of the surplus of ROSL for the year as to whether the financial statements give a true and then ended. fair view of the state of affairs of ROSL and of the haysmacintyre surplus of ROSL. We read the Honorary Treasurer’s Chartered Accountants, London Report for 2009 and consider the implications for our 29 March 2010

35 ROSL branches

AUSTRALIA Jason Ronald OAM, Chairman

New South Wales Lily Murray, Secretary

Queensland Sharon Morgan, Chairman/Secretary

South Australia Marjorie Scriven, President Michael Kent, Secretary HONG KONG Cheltenham Paul Surtees, President Mera Stone, Chairman Tasmania Kathleen Northage, Secretary Robert Dick, Chairman/Secretary NEW ZEALAND Lyn Milne, NZ Director of 6 branches Edinburgh Victoria in North and South Islands Robert Gregor MBE, Chairman Jason Ronald OAM, President Margaret Beard, Secretary Coral Strahan, Secretary SAUDI ARABIA (Riyadh) Stan Izmajlowicz, Committee Officer Exeter Western Australia Ewan Macleod, Chairman Jeff Turner MBE, Chairman SWITZERLAND Brian Hawkes, Secretary Anna Dean, Secretary Jo Brown MBE, Chairman Glasgow CANADA THAILAND William Agnew, Chairman/Secretary Jim Napier, Chairman Alberta Roger WIllbourn, Secretary Taunton Cynthia Cordery, President Cllr Nigel Stuart-Thorn, Chairman UK Sally Roberts, Secretary British Columbia Pamela Ducommun, President Bath Torbay/Torquay June Jessop, Chairman Sally Roberts, Secretary Nova Scotia Sally Roberts, Secretary Barbara Hughes QC, President West Cornwall Bournemouth Margaret Knighton, Chairman Ontario Christopher Bladen, Chairman Ian Wood, Secretary Ishrani Jaikaran, President Gordon Irving, Secretary West Sussex Marilyn Archbold, Chairman Pamela Voice, Secretary

There are over 85 reciprocal clubs around the world