’ Club Newsletter #8

 033 234 1167 |  [email protected] |  facebook.com/MHSOldBoys/ OBNews#8 November 2020 Dear Old Boys,

Normality of a sort has returned, at least for now, to who has been awarded the Order of Cyrene, the highest the Balgowan Valley. The last newsletter was penned honour bestowed on lay persons by the Anglican Church. from a silent campus devoid of the sounds of boys and the energy that comes with ten bustling houses. It is Once again our men have been active in improving wonderful to have the boys back, classes and exams the lives of others during the lockdown and pandemic. underway and summer sports on our fields, even if Funds continue to arrive for the Nottingham Road we are still playing against ourselves! There have Relief Fund. Sean Lumley (Baines, 1994) UKOM been a number of boy vs staff matches, the number President has joined forces with Hilton and Bishops of bicycles has mushroomed, skateboards abound and Old Boys to connect, through a LinkedIn group, with an encouraging number of boys have discovered the alumni from the three schools who may need support. pleasure of walking in the nature reserve. Ken Drysdale (West, 1957) and Gavin Steiner COVID protocols have forced a number of changes (Founders, 1990) are carrying the Michaelhouse flag on how we do things: A first virtual Speech Day, Old by making a difference to the earth as they work at Boys AGM and Central Committee meetings. The clean energy and alternatives to plastic packaging upside has been the number of overseas members who respectively. have been able to join these virtual gatherings. Andrew Jason Schwegmann (Pascoe, 2014) is creating Pennington (Auckland), Peter Campbell (New York) opportunities for Commerce graduates. and Richard Gellie (Melbourne) were welcome attendees at the last Central Committee meeting. Who would have thought that the C Block boys on their Journey would walk into the history of the school The C Block Journey, D Block Hike and E Block as they hike through the theatre of battles around Camp went ahead as planned at the end of last quarter, Spioenkop. bringing a welcome breath of routine to an otherwise very different term. The number of our published authors continues to grow and this month their work covers topics ranging The Senior Certificate Examinations have started from mentoring, to aviation, from history to geology and the last paper will be written on 27 November and policing to fiction. when the Club President will induct the next cohort of young men into the Old Boys’ Club. Guy Pearson (Rector 2002 – 2012) has finally hung up his gown and will soon be joined in retirement by Our featured Senior Prefect is Graham Herbert, Head Alan Smedley (Chaplain 1993 – 2020, Hilton Old Boy Boy in 1982. Graeme’s son, followed in his and Honorary OM) and Peter Stevens (Farfield, 1972) footsteps, being Second Prefect in 2018. 2021 will again see the son of an Old Boy taking the helm of boy The WIOW (Wear it on Wednesdays) campaign is leadership. Congratulations to Deon Dhlomo (West, gathering momentum, as are the LinkedIn pages for 1989) on Kwande’s appointment as First Prefect. Old Boys and some brave staff and boys strutted their Jerusalema stuff on campus. Our Old Boys continue to make a difference to the world and their communities. On this occasion we pay special Take care out there and, whatever you do, make a tribute to Don MacRobert (St Michael Award 1996), difference wherever you are.

Kind regards,

 033 234 1167 |  [email protected] |  facebook.com/MHSOldBoys/ Head Boy 1982 – Graham Herbert

I have been based in for the past 28 years, and for most of this time have been working in the mining industry.

After leaving Michaelhouse in 1982, I studied a BSc and MBChB at UCT, graduating in 1985 and 1990 respectively. Over the next two years, I completed an internship at Ernest Oppenheimer Hospital in Welkom, and SADF conscription with SAMS in Pretoria.

Without knowing that I would not return to clinical medicine, I applied for the Anglo American Management Trainee Programme that exposed me to finance and marketing in the gold, coal, and diamond divisions. Towards the end of this two year programme, I began working on health benefit options for the families of migrant mineworkers.

In 1993 I married Sally Jackson who I had dated in A Block and VIth Form a decade before. Soon after our marriage, Sally and I committed our lives to Christ, and have followed Him since. Sally and I consider these two decisions to have been the most significant in our lives. We have three children: Georgina (24) who graduated last year from UCT (BSc Civil Engineering), currently working at Zutari in Cape Town, Michael (20, Founders 2014 to 2018) currently in second year BSc at UCT, and Katherine (17) currently in Grade 11 at St Anne’s.

I was awarded a Pew Fellowship to Cambridge University for 1995 and 1996 to research health benefit options for migrant workers together with a group of Southern Africans researching similar population and migration topics. On returning to , I relocated to TEBA to conclude the research that culminated in a GPS distribution map and needs analysis of AngloGold’s migrant mineworkers.

James Motlatsi, having retired from the National Union of Mineworkers after 17 years as President, was deployed to TEBA in 2000. James and I found alignment in a vision for TEBA, a company that was then 100 years old, and with its origins in the NRC (Native Recruiting Corporation) and WENELA. James’ relationship with helped us relaunch TEBA in the mining industry in 2003.

After I returned from the Advanced Management Programme at Harvard Business School in 2005, James and I affected a management buyout, converting TEBA from a cost centre of the Chamber of Mines to a profitable and broadly owned BEE services company for mineworkers and their families. TEBA’s services have evolved to include home based care and medical services to mineworkers, development projects in labour sending areas, and the payment of backlog monies owing from various mining industry funds.

Like most Old Boys, my time at Michaelhouse was seminal. The abiding lesson that I was privileged to learn was that life is not about me, and that the most fulfilled humans live outward looking lives in service of others.

My time at Michaelhouse was enriched by following my father Richard Herbert (East 1951 to 1953) and my uncle Basil Hersov (Pascoe 1940 to 1944), by overlapping with my brother Bruce Herbert (Founders 1982 to 1986) and my cousins Robert Hersov (Pascoe 1974 to 1978) and James Hersov (Pascoe 1978 to 1981), and by having a son Michael Herbert (Founders 2014 to 2018) and nephews Nicholas Herbert (Pascoe 2012 to 2016) and Richard Taylor (East 2015 to 2019) as fellow Old Boys.

The cohort of Old Boys who left Michaelhouse with me in 1982 celebrate their 40th Gaudy in 2022. The WhatsApp group that has been formed in preparation has revealed how close our relationships are, even when some have been dormant for many years. I also qualify to attend the 1981 Gaudy next year and look forward to re-connecting on WhatsApp with my fellow matriculants! I am blessed to be a member of this brotherhood.

1 Graham with his family

Head Boy 2021 Congratulations to Joy and Deon Dhlomo (West, 1989) on Kwande’s appointment as Head Boy and the simultaneous appointment of Ande, Kwande’s twin sister, as Deputy Head Girl at St Mary’s Waverley for 2021. We look forward to Kwande’s leadership next year and wish the Dhlomo family a wonderful and successful year.

Deon and Kwande

Old Boys Moving On… Guy Pearson: Rector 2002 - 2012

If Guy was your Rector, you will recall a wonderful man who knew you, your parents, and your siblings! A man of unshakable integrity who tackles tough issues with the tenacity of the proverbial dog with a bone. A people person with a great sense of humour, he greets everyone in a way that makes them feel important. A man of faith and humility, without any sense of entitlement. What you see is what you get; and it is all good. And this goes for Maree too. The Rector’s wife who chose to work in the Trade-Inn so that she could meet and know boys and parents, who warmly supported Guy through 24 years of Headmastering. Guy and Maree, we wish you both a wonderful retirement in St Francis.

2 Guy, as he was so often seen, chatting with boys

Peter Stevens (Farfield, 1972): Ten years teaching Maths and Ten Great C Block Journeys Pete, outstanding Maths teacher and stalwart leader of C Block Journey Group 2, has not missed a Journey since the inaugural event in 2011. Pete always enhances the Journey experience for his group by adding lectures, illustrated on one of the cardboard rations boxes, of the significant historical events which occurred on their route. Staff leading Group 2 know that they will not escape presenting the story of one of the battles and so soon become familiar with the details of: Langalibalele, Vaalkrans, Colenso, Spioenkop, Ladysmith and the like.

Not many boys or staff can keep pace with this tough, rugged 65-year-old group leader and accomplished bushman who is an inspiration for all. Thank you Pete. We salute you. Group 2 will be your legacy!

Another ‘Green Number’ for Pete Stevens – Ten C Block Journeys done!

3 Alan Smedley: Honorary Old Boy and Chaplain 1993 – 2020 Alan hangs up his vestments at the end of the year after 28 years as Chaplain, a member of the Matric Dance organising committee, C Block Journey Group 4 leader and initiator of a new and modern Confirmation Camp. We wish Alan and Kate happy wandering and safe travels as they join the Grey Nomads in their retirement.

Alan and Kate at the Oyster Box, Umhlanga

Making a Difference For Humanity… Don MacRobert (Baines, 1956) Don MacRobert has been awarded the highest honour from Anglican Church in South Africa.

Don (St Michael Awardee 1996) will soon join the ranks of Alan Paton, Leah Tutu, Sally Motlana, Saki Macozoma, Michael Cassidy (Pascoe, 1953) and Brigalia Bam in receiving the Order of St Cyrene, named after Simon of Cyrene, the First African Saint. This is the highest Award by the Anglican Church of Southern Africa and is bestowed to laity for distinguished service. As the Order of St Cyrene designate, he is awaiting the date of investiture.

The citation, as adopted by all the Bishops, noted his Pastoral services, including his working in Soweto for 15 years for Doctor Nthato Motlana and also for Archbishop Desmond Tutu. He is recognised for his role as an activist, particularly against the former regime. His work included visits to prisoners in the high security section of the Pretoria jail and representing school pupils charged with treason flowing from the 1976 Soweto riots. In 1986 he hid twenty pupils from the Security Police, to enable them to write their matric examinations successfully.

4 Don has served as Chancellor for the Diocese of Pretoria and has spent his life caring for the poor. Lately, he assisted the Archbishop in piloting a unique method to feed the poor in the squatter camps, by the use of cell phones to deliver food to families in desperate need.

His care for the environment also saw him suing the Government in a landmark decision preventing the building illegal cottages on the Wild Coast.

Don we salute you!

Don with his wife, Marianne

During COVID Times… McCormick Family – John (Baines, 1961), Jason (1996) and Matthew (1999) On Good Friday, 10 April, Exemplar REITail, run by the McCormick family launched #MasksforGood in partnership with Yes4Youth and Youth@Work across their portfolio in an attempt to protect their most vulnerable customers.

Exemplar REITail sourced township based seamstresses, donated TC poplin material (used to make medical scrubs), with a pattern and video instructions. They then bought the completed masks back from the seamstresses and distributed to the public for free. This initiative saw a national awareness campaign about the benefits of wearing a mask being rolled out at their centres and to date, over 40 000 free, reusable masks have been donated to customers visiting our malls.

It was the launch of #MasksforGood that opened their eyes to the real state of disaster that was surpassing the threat of COVID-19 hunger.

5 MasksForGood seamstresses

It became clear that so much more needed to be done. Thus, the One People Fund (OPF) was established. The fund bulk buys maize at discounted rates and then distributes it to community members and NGOs who need it most. Established as an interim relief fund, the goal was to feed 1 million people in 3 weeks. In partnership with the Click Foundation and thanks to both local and international donors, they have managed to provide 6.7 million portions (1,670 tonnes) to date to the most vulnerable.

One People Fund maize handouts

Graham Raynor (Founders, 1982) We started our ventilator project somewhere in early March 2020. By mid-April we had knocked out our first working prototype. Then started the long road with certification. By early June we had submitted our first proposal to SAHPRA. Late September / early October we finally had success in receiving authority and certification from SAHPRA. We do realise that the dire need for ventilators for COVID related treatment has waned somewhat but we still do see a need going forward to get the unit fully certified so that we can produce a home grown product for the local and African markets.

Video: https://youtu.be/mKgH3qoIAzo Clifford Omnivent 2020

6 Ugasen ‘Yogi’ Govender (Pascoe, 2002) Ugasen, better known as ‘Yogi’ in circles and amongst his peers, has been giving back to his local community in Verulam as a thank you to all the support they gave him in his early cricket years.

He has been holding a number of drives to provide food and hampers to the elderly and unemployed, who have been particularly affected during this COVID lock down.

His first initiative included him personally making and donating bean curry and bread to 50 people, followed by him reaching out to parents of his Gus Cricket Academy and to the KZN Cricket Union to raise funds to donate over 100 hampers of over 17kg each (mealie meal, oil, baked beans, tinned fish, etc) to residents in the Mt View area of Verulam and then a further drive to feed over 1,000 people mutton curry, rice and bread in the same area.

Yogi cooking up a storm and handing out food parcels to the elderly and unemployed in Verulam

Having helped feed the elderly, Yogi then felt he needed to help the young, and managed to raise funds to feed 50 orphans at a Children’s Home outside of Verulam near La Mercy.

Yogi cooking up a storm and handing out food parcels to the elderly and unemployed in Verulam

Next on Yogi’s agenda is to throw a Christmas party for two Children’s Homes near La Mercy providing each child with a hot meal and gift. Should you wish to help with donations or gifts for the children, please contact Yogi at [email protected]

7 In Times of Natural Disaster… Dylan Meyrick (Pascoe, 1978) Below: An account by Dasen Thathiah, a reporter who travelled to Beira with the Rescue SA team on the Cyclone Idai Mission 2019.

Rescue SA’s team - including several members from IPSS in KwaZulu-Natal - showed Mozambicans what uBuntu truly is. We traversed hundreds of kilometres in trying conditions, towards a storm that threatened to (and eventually did) kill thousands. The road to Beira was treacherous; what we were to find there was unknown.

Team members slept on an airport floor for almost two weeks. There was no water and no sanitation for a significant portion of our stay. We lost all cell phone reception for days. But still, they pushed on, going out into the flooded terrain every day to save yet another life. It was gruelling work, both physically and emotionally - yet no one complained. Their only reward? The expressions of gratitude emblazoned on the faces of hundreds of men, women and children who escaped certain death through the intervention of the rescue team.

As a journalist with a front row seat, it was incredible to watch. I drew courage and strength from the team, and I witnessed the personification of selflessness, honour and bravery.

Among many other things I am grateful to Dylan Meyrick for, I credit him with helping us break the story of Beira to the world by flying a digital copy of the news insert to Maputo with the SANDF. It was there that he was able to send it to our studio. His contribution to the Beira mission did not only come in the form of being an integral part of the operational team, but also in helping us disseminate information at a time when it was most crucial.

I hold massive respect for all involved in the Rescue SA Cyclone Idai mission. We went there as team mates, but left as family.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OKDUvucKRWw#action=share

Rescue SA Team in Beira as part of Letter from the United Nations Cyclone Idai Mission in 2019 recognising Dylan’s efforts

8 For the Environment… Gavin Steiner (Founders, 1990) Gavin Steiner is currently Head of R&D Packaging and Technology at Nestle in Switzerland is working on alternatives to plastic packaging with some bold and noble objectives.

Their vision is that none of their packaging, including plastics, ends up in landfill or as litter, including in oceans, lakes or rivers. Their vision is not just some lofty ideal - they are working hard to deliver on it and help to achieve a waste-free future.

They announced in 2018 their commitment to making 100% of their packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025. In January 2019, they set out our broader vision for a waste-free future, and announced a series of specific actions to meet their commitment.

While they are committed to pursuing recycling options where feasible, they know that 100% recyclability is not enough to successfully tackle the plastics waste problem. They need to push the boundaries and do more, including investing up to CHF 2 billion to lead the shift from virgin plastics to food-grade recycled plastics and to accelerate the development of innovative sustainable packaging.

Gavin with his family in the Swiss Alps near to Villar-sur-Ollon

Kenneth Drysdale (West, 1957) Ken Drysdale is working on a major project in Australia which is currently under consideration by the Australian Federal Government.

The project is designed to provide large scale employment following the COVID-19 pandemic and enable the production of low cost electricity and clean water for growing food and livestock feed in the driest continent in the world. The clever use of algae has been incorporated into the system. This will provide a continent- scale resilient clean energy network in a country now prone to mega-fires. The project will also provide considerable assistance to indigenous communities living in remote areas who are increasingly concerned about the unprecedented temperature rises.

If you’re in this industry and wish to help in this project, Ken would like to hear from you and can be contacted at [email protected]

9 Bursary Opportunities Jason Schwegmann (Pascoe, 2014) has advised the Old Boys’ Club about the bursary and scholarship scheme that his company, The Knowledge Trust, is offering. The company’s mission is to make education more accessible to more people, more often. Sustainably.

They have a few opportunities at the moment that can be viewed at the link below: https://knowledgetrust.org/opportunities/

In particular, they have one where they are giving away a ‘Future Leaders Bursary’ worth R100 000 towards a candidate’s education fees. https://knowledgetrust.org/ypo-future-leaders-bursary/

Secondly, they are giving 20 B.Com graduates the opportunity to become fully qualified CA’s through a bridging course – click on link below to find out more: https://knowledgetrust.org/nmbrs/

Wear it on Wednesdays (WIOW) Campaign

Wear it on Wednesdays, otherwise shortened to WIOW, is a Marketing campaign started some time back encouraging OMs to wear their Old Boys ties each Wednesday, wherever they might be in the world.

This year the Old Boys’ Club have decided to bring this campaign to life by encouraging Old Boys near and far, young and old to send in photos of themselves proudly donning their Old Boys tie, or any Michaelhouse merchandise for that matter, and sharing a little about what they have been up to since leaving Balgowan – both from a professional and personal perspective.

Reading the comments and seeing OMs reconnect has been so rewarding and we’d love to continue with this campaign indefinitely. So far we have profiled 15 OMs on both our Michaelhouse Old Boys’ Facebook page and also more recently on the ‘Michaelhouse Community – SA & Abroad’ LinkedIn group.

On that note, we’re calling all OMs to please take a high resolution landscape / horizontal photo of yourself proudly sporting your Michaelhouse Old Boys’ tie (or any other Michaelhouse branded clothing) and send it to Taryn at [email protected]

Please don’t forget to include some information about yourself… • Your house and leaver year • Where you are now based i.e. are you based in South Africa still and where or overseas • Your occupation, job title and what company you work for or if it is your own business • Anything else that you may wish to include i.e. marital status, kids, hobbies, interests, etc or a sentiment / quote.

10 New Honorary Old Boy Damien Rautenbach, seen below with Paul Fleischack, has since his arrival at Michaelhouse prepared the budgets and financial statements for the Old Boys’ Club pro bono and received the Central Committee’s nomination in recognition of his contributions to the Club.

Damien and Paul smiling behind their masks whilst doing a COVID elbow bump on a Wear it on Wednesdays

11 Old Boys at Michaelhouse Landscaping and Terracing at Front of School Following on from our previous newsletter where we featured Robbie Leggat’s statue of St Michael Slaying the Dragon, this magnificent statue and fountain will now form the focal point of the landscaping and terracing at the front of school, which is the culmination of the work of numerous OMs. Thank you Graham McIntosh, Jamie Inglis, Nick Grice, Robbie Leggat, Roger Turner, Shaun Renton and Tim Steyn for this exciting feature at the front of school.

Robbie Leggat’s masterpiece, St Michael Slaying the Dragon takes centre stage at the front of school. From L-R: Prithipaul Harrypersads (who has built much of Michaelhouse), Nick Grice, Tim Steyn, Graham McIntosh, Robbie Leggat, Shaun Renton, Lungi Zikala (from Rietvlei Landscape) and Jamie Inglis on site for the occasion

Recent Books by Old Boys Rennie Airth (Tatham, 1952) The Decent Inn of Death and Cold Kill Rennie has been an extremely prolific writer over the years, having not just written fiction, but also having worked as a foreign correspondent for the Reuters news agency too, adding to his long and extensive backlog of accomplishments throughout his lifetime. Creating a name for himself, he’s managed to build a respectable brand of journalism, along with his historically accurate and highly detailed fictional stories. Winning awards for his work, he’s exemplified by both his peers and contemporaries, with his novels

12 being appreciated by the critics and the general public alike, on a national and an international scale. The first novel in his John Madden trilogy, River of Darkness, was published in 1999 to huge critical acclaim, was shortlisted for four crime fiction awards and won the Grand Prix de Littérature Policière in France. Rennie now lives in Italy.

His latest novels are The Decent Inn of Death and Cold Kill, both published this year.

Should you wish to order any of Rennie Airth’s books, please see link below: https://www.fantasticfiction. com/a/rennie-airth/

Michael Beaumont (Founders, 1999) The Accidental Mayor - Herman Mashaba and the Battle for Johannesburg In August 2016, well-known South African businessman Herman Mashaba became mayor of Johannesburg, heading a razor-thin DA-led coalition in the city.

Three years later, in October 2019, he resigned from the party and from his position as mayor. At the time, Mashaba’s approval rating stood at almost 70% and there were calls in overwhelming numbers for him to stay.

In this explosive tell-all, his chief of staff, Michael Beaumont, reveals the real story behind these events.

To read more about this story: https://www.timeslive.co.za/sunday-times/ books/news/2020-07-19-michael-beaumont-on-how-the-accidental- mayor-came-to-be/

Should you wish to order Michael’s book, please see links below: • https://www.exclusivebooks.co.za/product/9781776095544 • https://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Mayor-Herman-Mashaba-Johannesburg/dp/1776095545

Robin Cox (Staff 1984 – 1989) Mentoring Minutes: Weekly Messages to Encourage Anyone Guiding Youth

Teacher, youth mentoring expert, coach, motivator and writer of inspirational resources, Robin promotes the spirit of mentoring to encourage youth to reach their potential.

Mentoring Minutes: Weekly Messages to Encourage Anyone Guiding Youth

Robin’s book aims to encourage and equip people working with youth with the knowledge, strategies, ideas, and recent youth research to build meaningful and developmental relationships with these young people. There are five daily messages for fifty-two weeks of the year which cover topics like: understanding the world of youth, self-image, the impact of technology on youth, resiliency, goal setting, effective communication, values, how to resolve conflicts using a positive mindset, the role of family and other networks in the lives of youth, and the power of mentoring. True stories of mentoring experiences of the author and others are included, along with short daily tips to promote the spirit of mentoring, and weekly quotes to inspire the reader. The hundreds of strategies and tips are arranged into general themes focused on the development of the whole person. This user-friendly book will be an encouragement to schools, youth workers, mentors, parents, grandparents, employers of young people, indeed, anyone who

13 wishes to see young people fulfil their potential.

On that note, should you wish to read more about Robin and his motivating ways, please check out the links below: • https://yess.co.nz/about-robin/ • https://www.evidencebasedmentoring.org/robin-coxs-new-book-mentoring-minutes-weekly-messages- to-encourage-anyone-guiding-youth/ • https://www.facebook.com/robin.coxmentor/

To order his book, please click on the links below: • https://www.amazon.com/Mentoring-Minutes-Messages-Encourage-Guiding/dp/1725269457 • https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Robin_Cox_Mentoring_Minutes?id=Jin4DwAAQBAJ

Andrew Embleton (Farfield, 1956) Vol 1 - Facta Nostra Vivent Vol 2 - Going Around Again Vol 3 - Wings Over Langebaanweg

Three books compiled on the history of South African Air Force training, the central flying school Dunnottar and the history and memories of air force base, Langebaanweg written by Andrew Embleton with the 3rd volume including technical support by Major General Des Barker (SAAF Retd).

The books contain a short history of flying training at both Dunnottar and Langebaanweg with hundreds of collected anecdotes from many of the people who served there in various capacities. Memories abound as well as numerous colour and black and white pictures of aircraft and people. For those who were at CFS and those who came to LBWG for weapons courses, the books provide a collection of memories from 1946 through to 1995 when the Harvards and Impalas were withdrawn. Going Around Again is unique in that it includes the names of every pupil pilot and course from 1946 - 1995.

Should you wish to order yourself a copy of any or all of these 3 books , please contact Andrew on [email protected]

14 Mark Flawn-Thomas (Pascoe, 1965) Beyond Kushnapur This is the first novel for father and son writing team Peter and Mark Flawn-Thomas. Peter was born a year after the end of the Great War and the Second World War started the day after his 20th birthday. After the war he lived in Southern Africa where he witnessed the unravelling of the British Empire at first hand. He subsequently spent time in India and Pakistan travelling extensively where both personal relationships and painstaking research provide the material for this atmospheric saga. Peter died in 2015.

Mark has also travelled widely and after a career in finance has devoted much of the last 20 years to writing and painting. He lives in London with his wife and two children. Peter contributed his military and colonial experience and Mark has brought to life a cast of authentic characters and a captivating romance. Together they have crafted a thoroughly gripping story.

Mark is currently working on the sequel and is looking to hopefully get the book made into a Netflix series or film.

To order Mark’s book, please click on the links below: • https://www.beyondkushnapur.com/collection • https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Kushnapur-Mark-Flawn-Thomas/dp/1916144004

Brian Kramer (Tatham, 1948) I Believe in Angels Born in 1930, Brian Kramer lived on a sugarcane farm in Gingindlovu, Zululand, in the northern Part of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. I Believe in Angels (referring to his narrow escapes through life) records the life of Brian in a series of fascinating memories of significant events in his life and the interesting people he met along the way.

Brian led an exciting and fulfilling life, well-travelled, well-connected, successful, not afraid to stand up to authority - a life that most ordinary people wouldn’t fit into five lifetimes. Describing his life experiences, Brian touches on his schools, especially his beloved Michaelhouse (he was a pupil and school governor), his family, sugarcane farming in Zululand, the sugar industry and its politics, meeting people of note, notes on local natural history, his travel experiences, game farming and tourism, his flying and piloting experiences, and most important, his passion for music and the stage. Brian is an accomplished pianist.

The book is a significant contribution to the social history of Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal and South Africa and is available in both paperback and in Amazon Kindle ebook formats.

15 To purchase Brian’s book, please contact his publisher, Keith Sanderson via email at [email protected] or via WhatsApp on 083 872 3983.

Nick Norman (Farfield, 1962) Going to Ground: A geologist’s adventures in Africa and South America Well known for his earlier books Geological Journeys, Geology off the Beaten Track and Box of Rocks, Nick has now written an entertaining memoir of how he became interested in geology, and the adventures and experiences he has had as a geologist.

Geology is a fascinating subject, especially if it takes you to such remote places in Africa as Nick went to - Botswana, Namibia, Mozambique, Angola, DRC, Uganda, Mauritania, Gabon and Tanzania - and being able to write engagingly about his explorations turns working into an interesting and fun read.

South America was another continent that Nick spent time in, nearly four years exploring in Brazil, with another two years in Chile and eight months in Guyana prospecting for gold. But the pull of Africa, where he was born and bred, was too strong, and he gladly returned to settle. Between farming and writing he continues to consult.

Sharing an extraordinary life, a spiritual awakening, love of family, his dogs, nature, his joy and enthusiasm, and even the rough times, with many amusing anecdotes, Going to Ground is an absorbing read, illustrated with a gallery of colour photos.

To purchase a copy of Nick’s book, click on the link below or alternatively you can order the book in from Exclusive Books and Bargain Books: https://www.takealot.com/going-to- ground/PLID70534071

16 Rick Peacock-Edwards (Pascoe, 1961) Rate of Climb Further to our segment in the May Old Boys’ newsletter about Ricks’ book, Rick has advised that he is happy to for any OMs living in South Africa to contact him direct at [email protected] should they wish to order a book.

Alternatively, Rick’s UK publisher, Grub Street, does have an agent in SA, a company in Johannesburg called Intersoft that you can try obtain a copy from by contacting them on 011 325 2643 or via email at [email protected]

Douglas Wade (West, 1965) The Adrenalin Junkies This is a personal view of a time and a place. Douglas was in the South African Reserve Police Force in for 18 years (1979 to 1997) - an interesting time but now decidedly part of history. He had an unusually wide experience, starting as a raw constable, but later heading the Reserve unit in Durban’s red light district as well as running the training for the District. He has tried to place the actual police work in the context of the times, its people, their attitudes and language, as he experienced them. These tales can also serve, in a small way, as a record of, and tribute to the many members of the Reserve whose work has long vanished into dusty dockets.

The results will, undoubtedly, not fit with popular preconceptions of policing, especially in South Africa, and may seem at times somewhat surreal. But this is what happened.

Should you wish to order yourself a copy of Douglas’ book, please see link below: https://www.amazon.com/Adrenalin-Junkies-Memoir-African-Reserve/dp/191334066X

Calling all Old Boy Authors As the first scheduled event kicking off the Michaelhouse 125 celebrations in 2021, the Media Centre will be hosting a Book Week from 15-18 February.

The week will celebrate the school’s culture of reading, and Michaelhouse’s legacy of producing a host of astonishingly talented writers and scores of published authors.

Book Week will include events such as a guest speaker address, talks from authors, Q&A sessions, a creative writing workshop, book sales and signing, and an on-campus literary tour. Select events will have ticket sales made available to the public and to local high schools as group bookings.

This is an invitation to the writers in the Michaelhouse Old Boy Community who would like to share their works and wisdom and take part in any of the events mentioned above, please reach out to librarian Jed Coventry at [email protected]

17 Calling all Choir Old Boys Festival of Music at Michaelhouse If you want to join the Old Boy Choir at the MHS@125 Festival of Music from 7 – 9 May 2021, please contact Reiner Schnieder-Waterberg (Farfield, 1986) at [email protected]

International Vocal Ensemble Festival Reiner Schneider-Waterberg will be our ensemble specialist extraordinaire at the International Vocal Ensemble Festival hosted by the Music Department from 28 - 30 April 2021. The festival will feature concerts, masterclasses, individual lessons, several national ensembles and lectures on all the aspects of ensemble singing. A rare opportunity in South Africa, covering natural tuning, chord character, singing technique and intonation. Participants will also perform and network with likeminded singers. 25 Great South African Rugby Schools A History of Excellence

SA Schools Rugby Book A superb volume of 276 pages and over 500 pictures. Don Nelson, a third generation Bishops Old Boy and book publisher, is about to publish a very relevant book on rugby entitledThe 25main GREAT contents SOUTH in the AFRICAN 25 chapters are the following: RUGBY SCHOOLS and naturally a substantialList of all chapter the Captains on Michaelhouse down the years rugby List of all Craven Week players is included. The book is 276 pages in lengthList andof all contains SA Schools over caps 500 photographs. List of all Springboks A brief (5000 word) introduction The Book People would like to present youof witheach schoolthe offer to purchase and secure a copy of this book that clearly articulates through text and photographs the important role that Michaelhouse playedSchools in providing included are so asmuch follows talent: in South African rugby over the years. Bishops, Paul Roos, Paarl Boys High, Paarl Gim, SACS, Rondebosch BHS, Wynberg Boys High, Boland Agric, Drostdy, Outeniqua, Grey High, Selborne The names of all the captains down the years, Craven Week players, SA College, St Andrew’s, Dale College, Queen’s College, Glenwood, Maritzburg Schools caps and Springboks are includedCollege, inMichaelhouse, the book, so Hilton no doubtCollege, it Monumentwill HS, Affies, Helpmekaar, become a treasured item. KES, Jeppe High, Grey College. The Standard Edition (soft cover) will retail in the book trade for R495, but they are offering the book to Old Boys and Parents for R450 (incl. postage). There is also a Hard Cover Edition available at R550 (incl. postage).

In addition, they are offering a Collector’s Edition which will be bound in half leather with a tipped in page which includes the signature of the headmaster together with the school crest and in colour the name of the purchaser, the limited edition number and the book will be signed by the publisher. First XV Team, 1906.

To purchase a book you can either order online at www.bookpeople.co.za or send an email to [email protected]

18 First XV Team, 1988. Bader Pretorius.

First XV huddle. Hilton Michaelhouse Day.

Josh Moon

The Michaelhouse warcry.

Pat Lambie.

19 Other Old Boys Making News Graduates… Lonwabo Mgoduso (Baines, 2013) Finished Masters in Engineering at Cambridge. See abstract below from his thesis entitled: A Systems Thinking Approach to a Transition Towards Renewable Energy in South Africa

South Africa continues to rely on a coal-intensive energy system to drive employment and growth of the economy. In light of the global climate crisis, this is no longer sustainable due to coal’s substantial carbon emissions. The rising concerns around energy security, coupled with the urgency for climate change mitigation, pose significant challenges to the country’s electricity sector. This research focuses on South Africa’s current electricity generation system. It investigates the opportunities, implications and barriers for renewable energy (RE) in response to climate change. Through a systems thinking (ST) approach, this dissertation develops critical intervention strategies to facilitate a just and fair transition away from coal. Finally, a high-level Theory of Change (ToC) framework consolidates research outcomes and maps out a transition pathway.

This dissertation identifies opportunities for a just transition towards a new green economy in South Africa that benefits all.

Lonwabo in his graduation gown with the Cambridge River in the background

20 Once Again Old Boys Responded… Laptop and Computer Drive: Thanks to the Old Boys who responded to the service project initiated by Nathan Bau, Head of Pascoe. By donating laptops and cash, Nathan was able to establish a computer lab at Lion’s River Primary School.

Nathan Bau with teachers from Lion’s River Primary School

Nottingham Road Relief Fund: As the appropriate municipal and state departments have become active in feeding schemes and donor fatigue has set in, the momentum of the fund-raising drive has slowed. Old Boys have contributed a total of R180 332.00 for the Nottingham Road Relief Fund food parcel programme through BackaBuddy and Zapper. Our focus will now turn to sustainable fundraising through Old Boy businesses’ CSI spend for our Community Partnership Programme.

Old Boys Events 2020 JOHANNESBURG BRANCH – Billiards & Social Evening: The first of its kind, James Findlay (Tatham, 1988) arranged a social evening on Heritage Day, 24 September at the Rand Club in Johannesburg for OMs and their partners, an event James and Rob Brown (Founders, 1985 and branch chairman) hope to repeat more regularly in 2021.

21 BRANCH - Hudson Bennett Golf Day Despite COVID, Nick Jackson (East, 2004 and Pietermaritzburg branch chairman) once again arranged the annual Hudson Bennett Golf Day at Victoria Country Club in Pietermaritzburg. Congratulations to the winning four-ball: Brandon Tattam, Mark Venter, Jordan Sesink Clee and Stuart Ferguson.

Report from Nick below:

The 83rd Hudson Bennett Golf Day arrived out of the blue with the changing of the lock down regulations. The easy decision would have been to cancel the day, but with a committed committee we were able to scramble to organise a field of 36 golfers in two weeks. Old Boys were treated to a belter of a day for golf and for some much needed socialising at Victoria Country Club.

It was thanks to the PMB committee, who worked tirelessly to get sponsors on board, that created a day that was of huge value for money.

On that note, a huge thank you goes out to our sponsors for their kind donations and involvement – Fordoun Spa, Intambo Creations, 4 Mix International, Duckworth Drilling, ISUZU, Rotunda Farm Stall, Carisbrooke Valley Citru, Mark De Wet, Jacksons Cleaning Services as well as Michaelhouse Old Boys Club and the Michaelhouse Marketing department.

Nick Jackson, Tom Watkin, Xillen van Rooyen and Tim Smythe, were the winners of the four ball with the most golf. It was a long day out there with only 72 points.

Hudson Bennett Golf Day Awards:

Most Golf T. Smyth Hilton Mug / 48x Toilet Rolls Most Golf Team D. Johnson, R. Johnson, R. Strudwick, M. De Wet Caps 3rd Adrian Brown Rotunda Hamper Longest Drive 18th Nick Jackson Isuzu Jacket 8th Adrian Brown A Night at Fordoun Spa Nearest The Pin 6th Tony Tatham Wines of South Africa Book 13th Adrian Brown Whisky

22 Hole In One Prize 17th Kyle Flanegan 3x Michaelhouse Wine Kehla Trophy 1st Nick Grice Famous Grouse / Box Of Lemons Ken Drysdale 1st Pierre Bekker (40 pts) Famous Grouse / Box Of Lemons 2nd Pierre Bekker (77 pts) Famous Grouse Rhys Evans Johnnie Walker Black / Box of 1st Simon Greyvensteyn (73 pts) Lemons Pierre Bekker Nigel Tatham 4 Bottles of Wine / Wine Cooler 3rd Mark Lynn Bags Andrew Smythe Sandy Davidson Hudson Bennett Nick Grice 2nd Craft Gin and Box of Lemons Trophy Gavin Erasmus Simon Greyvensteyn Brandon Tattam Mark Venter 4 Bottles of Johnnie Walker Black 1st / Intambo Creations, MHS Golf Jordan Sesink Clee Shirts Stuart Ferguson

Proud Winners of the Hudson Bennett Trophy with 97 Points!! From Right to Left: Jordan Sesink Clee, Stuart Ferguson, Mark Venter with Brandon Tattam missing in action

All in all, a wonderful day was had and I would like to thank the Pietermaritzburg branch committee for their help in making the day a success!

Head down, Swing hard, Nick

23 Forthcoming Events 2020: DURBAN BRANCH – Drinks Evening Still to come is a casual drinks evening on Tuesday, 17 November at Blues on Beachwood, located at the iconic Beachwood Country Club in Durban North, which has recently been taken over and renovated by Guy van der Post.

This event is open to local OMs, their partners and parents of boys past and present.

Steven Boast (Tatham, 1991 and Durban branch chairman) has arranged for drinks upstairs at the Rooftop Bar - the perfect atmosphere for after work drinks, G&T’s and sundowners while overlooking the golf course.

No RSVP is required, but should you have any enquiries, please drop Steve an email at [email protected]

Old Boys Events 2021

Over the long weekend of the 23 – 26 April 2021, we look forward to welcoming all our Old Boys to celebrate Michaelhouse’s 125th birthday here in Balgowan.

Next year’s event includes a Super Gaudy (the most recent of which was held in 2001 and marked the centennial

24 of our Old Boys’ Club) on Friday, 23 April which is open to ALL matriculation years and please note special attention will be given to anniversary years for the combined 2020 and 2021 event: • 10 years (2010 & 2011) • 20 years (2000 & 2001) • 25 years (1995 & 1996) • 30 years (1990 & 1991) • 35 years (1985 & 1986) • 40 years (1980 & 1981) • 45 years (1975 & 1976) • 50 years (1970 & 1971) • 55 years (1965 & 1966) • 60+ years (1960 & 1961)

Please note... • Year champions will be in contact with the special anniversary years in due course. • Any Old Boys who left school before 1960, please contact Dan Wardlaw (Founders, 1956) on [email protected] if you wish to attend the Super Gaudy, so that we can make suitable arrangements for the senior Old Boys. • Final details for Super Gaudy and Old Boys’ weekend will be based on numbers and COVID restrictions.

The Class of 1971 (who are celebrating their 50th anniversary next year), holds the distinction of being the matriculation year of Michaelhouse’s first E Block intake in 1967.

In addition to Friday’s Super Gaudy, on Saturday, 24 April we will hold the usual Old Boys’ Chapel Service, AGM, Lunch and Winter Sports Programme (MHS vs Northwood).

Then on Sunday, 25 and Monday, 26 April we are planning to hold a full programme of family events which most likely will include activities such as mountain biking, a trail run, golf, touch rugby, etc.

To watch the Old Boys’ Weekend and Super Gaudy video see link below: • https://www.michaelhouse.org/event/2021-old-boys-super-gaudy-weekend/

Accommodation: Should you be requiring accommodation, we suggest you look at the following websites: • https://midlandsmeander.co.za/cat/accommodation/ • https://www.nottiesbreakaways.co.za/ • https://www.booking.com/ • https://www.airbnb.co.za/

Marriages David Smedley (Mackenzie, 2004) to Amy Clara Walker at St Nicholas Church, Bristol on 11.07.2020.

25 Engagements Julian Pearce (Tatham, 2004) to Roxy Green

Arrivals / Births Rafael Oliver McCarthy to Daniel McCarthy (West, 2008) and Angela on 15.10. 2020

Departures • Trevor Dunstan (03.07.1942 – 01.02.2020) Tatham, 1959 • John Drummond (01.12.1946 – 05.05.2020) Tatham, 1961 • Michael Fleming (19.09.1938 – 04.04.2020) Tatham, 1995 • Craig Lyle (13.11.1957 – 22.05.2020) East, 1975 • Robin Hamilton (08.07.1937 – 28.05.2020) East, 1954 • Andrew Steiner (07.02.1993 – 03.06.2020) Farfield, 2010 • Rob Dickson – Counsellor / (06.10.1946 – 13.07.2020) Deputy Rector: 1996 – 2000 • Paddy Starling (08.10.1940 – 13.07.2020) Pascoe, 1958 • Johnathan Carr (22.01.1955 – 02.08.2020) Pascoe, 1972 • John Raimondo (27.09.1943 – 14.08.2020) East, 1960 • George Martin (31.12.1934 – 13.09.2020) Pascoe, 1951 • Robin Stubbs (12.07.1941 – 25.09.2020) Founders, 1958 • Thomas ‘David’ Stainton (27.09.1935 – 28.09.2020) Founders, 1952 • George Whitsitt (08.05.1946 – 09.10.2020) Pascoe, 1963 • Alan McKerron (07.09.1936 – 13.10.2020) West, 1953 • David Leslie (19.05.1940 – 18.10.2020) Founders, 1958 • Michael Williams OBE (10.04.1931 – 2020) West, 1948

Staff Retirement Rita Bhugwandeen: Cashier (1983 – 2020)

Rita’s earliest recollections are of her grandparents living at Michaelhouse. Her grandmother, Soodhaye, was the sister of Shakila Moola’s (Receptionist) grandfather. Soodhaye took in private laundry for academic staff and her grandfather worked in the laundry. Together they had five children, four girls and a boy. Their son, Benjamin Rhampal was an outstanding cricketer and managed the school book room.

26 Rita’s mother, Rajkallie married Premraj, who joined Michaelhouse as a driver and then later worked as the kitchen store manager. Rajkallie and Premraj had three children, Rita, Shy and the late Meera.

Rita grew up in the house currently occupied by Shakila and her family, which at that time was also occupied by Benjy Rhamal and his family.

After completing her primary school studies at Nottingham Road Primary, Rita studied commercial courses through correspondence. As a young girl, Rita and her sisters assisted her mum with the private laundry. One of their tasks was to deliver the clean, ironed washing to the owners. On one occasion, while delivering, she was given a box of over-ripe and mouldy lemons by the teacher’s wife. In response, the lemons were unceremoniously dumped in the driveway of the house as the girls departed. The trouble they met at home was memorable!

Rita followed her sister, Shy, to the bursary in 1982, starting first as a part-time clerk in the Bursary archives and later as cashier.

Rita has worked with six Rectors, from Neil Jardine to Antony Clark and recalls working with Val Tarr, the Accountant, Yvonne Thompson, the Bursar and Mabel Wellbeloved, the fearsome Book Keeper. She has seen many years of building growth and development at Michaelhouse.

Rita sees Michaelhouse as her home. She was born here and lived here with many relatives including her uncle Nathan, an icon in the Science Department and cousin Ronnie a metalworker and her nephews, Tariq and Rakesh, who attended Michaelhouse.

Retirement will be her first significant departure from the campus, but she is looking forward to establishing her new home in Howick.

Staff Farewell Sally Berriman-Evans: Rector’s PA (1997 – 2020)

Sally joined Michaelhouse in December 1997 as Personal Assistant to Dudley Forde and during her time here has managed the bustle and intricacies of the Rector’s Reception as well as the working lives of five Rectors.

Parents and Rector’s visitors, staff and boys were always met with a warm smile and, a friendly, efficient welcome in the Rector’s Reception, regardless of the issues and being dealt with behind the Rector’s door. Over the years, Sally has provided wise counsel and wonderful support to distressed mums who were struggling with the separation from their boys. She also became a surrogate mother to many boys, relaying messages and parcels and even allowing some to hide their tuck in cupboards in the Rector’s reception.

The Rector’s PA is also the gatekeeper to his office. So effective was Sally that on one occasion a member of staff overheard a person in Nottingham Road complaining that they couldn’t get an appointment to

27 see the Rector as the “two wolverines in the office (Sally and Kathy) were too hard to get past!”

Sally is a passionate and loyal supporter of Michaelhouse. During her time here she has been the diligent keeper of the peace, frequently easing issues before they arrived on the Rector’s desk and, of course, being an unassailable keeper of confidential secrets regarding staff and boys.

Sally is a deeply compassionate, courageous, kind and loyal person who will always go the extra mile to assist someone or make them feel exceptional. Birthdays and special occasions were always remembered and marked with a surprise tea or gathering. Her sense of humour ensured that a few Rectors did not escape April Fools’ Day. Guy Pearson will recall waiting to interview Mr and Mrs Duck and their son, Don, whose flight from America was delayed until a bevy of secretaries, led by Sally, burst through his door quacking loudly!

Sally is proud that her two boys attended Michaelhouse. She will miss being part of the Michaelhouse family, the gala days and special occasions. We will miss her and wish her everything of the best for her move to England where she and Clint will begin the next chapter in their lives.

New Additions to the Heritage Centre The School Prayer is now prominently mounted in the foyer of the Heritage Centre and a magnificent portrait of Mike Rosholt now graces the display area. Mike’s CV, even his abridged form, is an inspiration for us all.

AANON MICHAEL (“MIKE”) ROSHOLT CURRICULUM VITAE

1920 – 2018

EDUCATION PTS Preparatory School, Johannesburg 1928 - 1934 Michaelhouse 1935 - 1937 Education Interrupted by the War – Lieutenant, Artillery, Western Desert / POW 1942 - 1945 (continued studying towards CA while a prisoner)

28 Chartered Accountant (top student in South Africa in final examinations 1945)

MICHAELHOUSE

Michaelhouse Trust – 1957 - 1997, Chairman from 1986 Governor 1963 - 1983 Michaelhouse Development Trust – Chairman 1972 - 1979 Elected Fellow Associate 1979 St Michael Award 2001

CAREER

Goldby Panchaud & Webber Chartered Accountants – Senior Partner Barlow Rand Group – Executive Director 1963, Managing Director 1968, Vice Chairman 1972, Chairman 1979 - 1990 Directorships – (Inter Alia) SA Breweries, Standard Bank (Deputy Chairman), Old Mutual, ASA Ltd Sunday Times – Businessman of the Year 1977 Harvard Business School Club of SA – Business Statesman of the Year 1984

SPORT

Cricket – Represented Transvaal 1945/6 Squash – Runner-up SA Championships 1948

SERVICE TO SOCIETY

African Children’s Feeding Scheme – Chairman Urban Foundation – Chairman National Business Initiative – Chairman Joint Education Trust – Founder and Chairman College of Medicine Foundation – Chairman Alexandra Community Education Centre – Chairman Independent Development Trust – Trustee South Africa Foundation – Trustee University of the Witwatersrand – Chancellor 1982 - 1996 Claude Leon Trust 1990 - 2014

AWARDS

Honorary Fellowship 1980 – College of Medicine of South Africa Honorary Doctor of Economics 1981 – University of Natal Honorary Doctor of Commerce 1994 – University Durban-Westville Honorary Doctor of Law 1996 – University of the Witwatersrand

29 From the Archives There can’t be many schools, anywhere, whose foundation funding pledges were confirmed from men incarcerated under siege!

Sue Pollock (daughter of Robbie Robinson and mother of Gavin Steiner) records the following interesting episode in her work, Memories of Michaelhouse, the First 100 Years:

On a bright day in January of 1900, Bishop Hamilton Baynes, Bishop of Natal, was watching operations around Spioenkop. (Was he ‘kuiering’ with Sir Redvers Buller at his camp on Mount Alice?). First Building, partly funded from besieged Ladysmith

As no official messages were going through, he took advantage of the heliograph to remind Captains F S Tatham and G F Tatham, who were besieged in Ladysmith, that, as Governors of the school, they were each responsible for 500 pounds sterling as their pledge towards the cost of the first buildings on Wilde Als Spruit in Balgowan.

“He, Captain F S Tatham, forgot the sufferings of the Siege and his own anxieties. He pondered over the cryptic message and winked his approval back to the Bishop. So was begun, in the midst of war, the construction of Michaelhouse, as it stands today at Balgowan.”

“The appointed architect and builder, Messrs Kent and Price, started designing and digging the foundations at Balgowan. Despite the outbreak of the Boer War and the delays which it caused, the building was completed in 1901.”

What a privilege then, for our C Block boys, whose Journey takes them past Spioenkop, Twin Peaks Vaalkrans, Swartkop, and Naval Gun Hill while some hike over Maconochie’s Koppies and Mount Alice, to find themselves within a stone’s throw of the spot from whence this communication took place.

C Block Journey at Maconochie’s Koppies with Spioenkop in the background

30 Michaelhouse Digital Archive Resource Around nine years ago, Michaelhouse and the Old Boys’ Club invested in setting up a digital archive for the plethora of archive material we have collected or that has been donated to the School and to the Club over the years. Michaelhouse were in fact, the very first school in the country to establish such a digital archive and were ahead of the curve.

To view this useful resource and to access a selection of the archive materials that have been scanned and uploaded to our digital archive, please visit https://archives.michaelhouse.org/

We highly recommend you watch the ‘Help’ video that we commissioned earlier this year in order to assist you in navigating around this site, conducting searches and creating personal collections, as well as how to order any images or documents, like the Chronicles.

To watch the ‘How To’ video, please visit https://archives.michaelhouse.org/help/

Other News Bits Speech Day Recording If you missed the event on 10 October, the recorded ceremony can be seen here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ugl1jkiN5U&feature=youtu.be

Jerusalema Dance Challenge Michaelhouse got on board with the #JerusalemaDanceChallenge worldwide viral phenomena and produced our very own version. Click on the Facebook link below to watch a superb collaboration between Michaelhouse staff and boys - both old and new. You might even be able to identify some Old Boy faces and their dance moves! https://www.facebook.com/215395668661735/posts/1471893513011938/

31 Customised Michaelhouse Woven Blankets Old Boys in the USA can now order a custom woven Michaelhouse blanket complete with their name and/or years at the school woven into the blanket.

The blankets are $94.50 and US$10.00 from every sale goes to the Michaelhouse Reserve, the wildlife sanctuary created on the school grounds.

For more information, please visit https://customwovenblankets.com/michaelhouse-school-emblem-custom- woven-blanket-throw/

Paul Everitt’s example of his customised MHS woven blanket

Old Boys’ Club Communication Channels Connecting OMs and keeping you updated with Old Boys and School news is one of the main functions of the Old Boys’ Club.

In order to do this and to keep you abreast of events, we have a number of communication channels you can tap into…

• New updated Michaelhouse website If you haven’t already, please check out the new Michaelhouse website that the Marketing department has been working hard on this past year. Please refer to the Old Boys section or tab to update your details, read up on leading OMs, check out who your local branch chairman is, review the calendar of events and much much more.

• Newsletters, mailers and database Periodically we send out communications via our Old Boys Alumni database – in order to receive this, it

32 is imperative we have your most up-to-date contact details. In the months ahead, we are looking to send out an official mailer, whereby you can personally log into our system to update all your details – helping us to enhance our communications with our Old Boy community.

• Old Boys’ App To download Michaelhouse Old Boys’ app, please visit the App Store or Google Play Store.

• Facebook Michaelhouse Old Boys Club: https://www.facebook.com/MHSOldBoys

• LinkedIn Michaelhouse School (Official page) As per the LinkedIn mailer sent out to Old Boys on Monday, 9 November, over the next few days the current Michaelhouse ‘Company’ LinkedIn page will transition across to a ‘School’ LinkedIn page. Once the new page had been established, we will send out a further mailer with the URL / link so that you can updated your Linked profile accordingly and follow the Michaelhouse School LinkedIn page.

MHS Community – SA & Abroad (Group) https://www.linkedin.com/groups/111546/

UK Alumni Branches of Hilton, Michaelhouse & Bishops (Group) https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13912078/

This #OMOHODtogether LinkedIn Group is a joint Michaelhouse, Hilton and Bishops initiative that was launched in October 2020 to support and to offer assistance with employment and to provide a communication channel for Old Boys of the three schools who have settled in the UK and Europe.

Sean Lumley (UKOM branch chairman) shared the success of the group: I am delighted to update you that our initiative with Hilton and Bishops in the UK continues to grow. • We passed 400 members at 07:45am this morning (that’s roughly 20 new members a day since we started on 7 October). • We have had 35 posts offering help from a variety of sectors: insight, advice, mentoring, introductions, job vacancies and so on. Most have come from UK, as intended, but there are now also offers from the US, Belgium, Cyprus, Australia and SA.

33 • We know that help is getting to where it needs to be. I have spoken to quite a few who had posted in the group asking for help and they have been overwhelmed by the responses from fellow Old Boys. • We are now starting to focus on promoting Old Boys doing good business together and by the chatter in the group, I sense this is now starting to build a little momentum.

Using the LinkedIn platform was always going to have its limitations: not everyone is or wants to be on it. But for now, it is serving our aims.

Thank you Sean for being so proactive in driving this project and not only helping our OMs, but Old Boys from Hilton and Bishops during this stressful time.

• The Chronicle Each year a section within the Chronicle is dedicated to Old Boys’ Club news, events, OM news, obituaries, etc. On that note, please send a few lines to [email protected] before the end of November outlining your latest news, if you wish this to be included in the 2020 Chronicle.

To review the electronic version of the 2019 Chronicle, please see link below: https://user-qicjynd.cld.bz/The-Chronicle-2019

Until next time… 2021 and the 125th anniversary are rushing at us like a steam train and planning for a host of events, in whatever form they are permitted, is at an advanced stage. Please keep an eye on the communications which will soon come your way.

With 2020 all but done we wish you a blessed Christmas and healthy and a happier 2021.

Meanwhile, please let us know where you are, what you are up to and how we can make this newsletter even better.

When Christmas shopping starts before Easter is done!

 033 234 1167 |  [email protected] |  facebook.com/MHSOldBoys/