Vol 13 | 2016 Edition
FOUNDERS 95th Anniversary Weekend 3 & 4 June 2016
The gift of sight Dr Jonathan Pons JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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2 | Vol 13 | 2016 CONTENTS
In the News 6 Alumni Feature & Cover: The Gift of Sight Dr Jonathan Pons (1980) is a remarkable Opthalmologist who heads up a rural eye hospital in Swaziland. As guest speaker at Kearsney’s 2015 Speech Day he told the boys to follow their dreams after school. “Measure your day not by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds you sow,” he said.
8 Other Notable Alumni Medical Outreach Business and Awards Local and International Sportsmen
95th Anniversary and Centenary Planning 19 Ambassadors 20 Centenary Book 22 USA KCOBs and US Choir Tour Connecting the Kearsney community – Old Boys, Staff, Parents, Pupils & Friends In pursuit of excellence The Kearsney College Old Boy magazine is 24 School News 2015: Achievements published annually and features news taken 26 From the Headmaster’s Desk from the monthly Greyhound eNews. 28 Partners
Vol 13 | 2016 Edition Reunions & Generations 30 Reunions & Faces in Places EDITOR 33 Survivor Times Joy Mills-Hackmann +27(0)83 662 0838 [email protected] Farewells 34 In Memory & Tributes KCOB OFFICE Kerry McMaster 36 Dates to Diarise +27(0)31 – 765 9628/50 [email protected]
GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUT Branch Convenors Pam Benporath [email protected] National International CONTRIBUTORS (unless stated) Joy Mills-Hackmann CAPE TOWN: AUSTRALIA: Sue Miles of Working Words cc Euvrard Loubser | 082 8948257 Richard Bridel | Tel: +61 2 405100261 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DOLPHIN COAST: MAURITIUS: Changed your email or address? Tim Johnson | 082 4246202 Raymond Hein | +230 542 12265 Tell us: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] DURBAN: MIDDLE EAST: Cameron Buys | 074 588 8755 Sergey Kokarev | Cell: : +971 56 6960311 [email protected] [email protected] GAUTENG: NEW ZEALAND: Steve Meyer | 082 773 0101 Mark Berge | Tel: (04) 385 0587 The material in this magazine may be [email protected] [email protected] reproduced with the written permission of PIETERMARITZBURG: SINGAPORE: the Editor. Vacant Kendal Robinson | 00 65 9667 0312 SOUTH COAST: [email protected] COVER IMAGE Walter Robinson | 071 329 3625 SWAZILAND: Dr Jonathan Pons (1980) is a remarkable [email protected] Jody Foss | +268 404 0976 Opthalmologist who heads up a rural eye ZULULAND: [email protected] hospital in Swaziland. Tim Beningfield l 082 578 9932 UK LONDON: www.kearsney.com [email protected] John Roussot | +44 7818 526 559 [email protected] KCweb This symbol indicates that more USA: information on this topic is available Grant du Plooy | 091 510 315 0565 online. [email protected]
Greyhound News | 3 KCOB EXECUTIVE From the KCOB President’s desk Kearsney College What are the main outcomes of the led by a Campaign team to be appointed Kearsney Boy of the 2020s review? by the Kearsney Trustees. Work has already celebrates its 95th commenced to grow the endowed fund with Enormous progress has been made on an invitation to every year group to start anniversary this year so many fronts under the leadership of a Class Fund or contribute to an existing headmaster Elwyn van den Aardweg and Special Fund. We urge you all to become and KCOB President the process has endorsed that Kearsney Founders of the Second Century! With the is on the right track. This legacy needs to passion of the Kearsney community behind Lawrence Polkinghorne be maintained and grown; and we need to us, I am confident we will reach our targets focus on capital projects to improve the and objectives to ensure we remain a top (Gillingham 1990) and his teaching and boarding facilities, to expand school in the country. Executive are focused on the outstanding academics and world- class education offered. The majority of What keeps you inspired to continue in the exciting run up to the classrooms in the original classroom block this voluntary role as KCOB President? were built to accommodate about 15 boys 2021 Kearsney Centenary. in a 41m² class. Today’s ideal classroom, to Dare I say it runs in my blood! It’s an comfortably accommodate 25 boys and honour to serve our fellow Old Boys and facilitate modern teaching methodologies, serve the school in any way that can add A Centenary is a massively significant event requires that classrooms are extended value. I did my first stint in the early 90s in the life of any organisation. How is the to 72m². Eight additional classrooms are under Lauron Buys (Gillingham 1970) as KCOB Executive preparing for Kearsney required and, with the introduction of president (we actually started the Whippet College’s Centenary in five years’ time? Mandarin as a new subject, a further four. movement then) and it’s really rewarding to The endowed fund must be grown to enable see the Whippets alive and well today, 25 It is indeed a very exciting time! I’ve been the awarding of bursaries and scholarships years later! privileged to be elected to represent the to support excellence and access to talented Old Boys on the Board of Governors boys from all backgrounds (including the Kyle Connolly (Gillingham 2004) spoke and the Centenary Committee. It’s quite sons of Old Boys), many of whom could to the Matric lads at the induction session something to be part of a process to not otherwise afford the experience of of the Class of 2015 about the honour, strategically examine what is required to Kearsney. tradition and responsibility of being a KCOB. educate the Kearsney Boy of the 2020s. One Kyle will look to strengthen the Whippets thing is clear: the strong traditions, honour How are bursaries and capital projects and Hounds portfolio going forward. To code, passion and pride of Kearsney boys funded? acknowledge the Class of 2015 being the throughout time remains the foundation on first year group to start a class fund while which we have been and will be educated. As much as is feasible is committed through at school, Kyle’s security firm Ensure (which the school budget but we also continually provides security detail at various Matric With the 2021 Centenary around the source alternative funding. The Kearsney Rage events) sponsored VIP tickets for the corner, Management has been researching Trustees, Board of Governors and Old boys for one of the main events. international trends, consulting experts Boys will launch a Centenary Campaign and and endeavouring to forecast and plan to Appeal as part of the 2016 Kearsney 95th My thanks to KCOB Branch Convenors for ensure Kearsney remains at the pinnacle of Anniversary celebrations. This campaign will record attendance at many annual events - global education futures. This has involved be driven by the Kearsney Foundation and support at local branch level is deeply valued: every aspect of the running of the College and has included most staff to ensure ‘buy in’ and support.
The new academic block will be known as the Centenary Building. Opportunities for naming rights have been approved by the Board. These include overall naming, naming of a multi-purpose exhibition centre, two new quads, 12 new classrooms and benches in the quad.
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• The USA-KCOB ambition to raise • Old Boys who return to the Hill to inspire • Lastly my thanks to Kearsney’s Headmaster US$600,000 towards Centenary Bursaries current students: From Jono Pons who and his staff. The positive relationship will hopefully prove a massive inspiration graces our cover, to others we feature in and the incredible successes achieved all (and challenge) to other branches. this edition, and those who inspire a love make it exceptionally easy to remain truly of knowledge, adventure and care for the proud Old Boys. • The amazing energy coming from year planet and humanity. groups attending reunions and starting Class Funds. At the 2015 AGM I presented the KCOB President’s Award to the Class The first wing of the Centenary Building will be opened in 2016. If you would like to be a lead donor, of 1974 for starting a Class Fund and speak to the Kearsney Foundation prior to the launch at the Founders Black-Tie Dinner in June 2016. raising almost double the amount they wanted to raise in their first year. Now the Class of 2015 has impressed - we share more about these young men in this edition.
2015 Class Convenors (from left to right): 2015 Head of School Robbie Polkinghorne (lead convenor), James Tedder (Durban), Kyle Connolly (Exec Whippet & Hound lead convenor), Geoff Sibbald (Western Cape) and Siya Kheswa (Johannesburg).
Greyhound News | 5 NOTABLE ALUMNI DR JONATHAN PONS The Gift of Sight
For those who understand the burden of blindness, Jonathan Pons (Finningley 1980) provides a gift of incomparable worth. The gift of sight.
Working primarily in rural Swaziland, Committed to rural health, Jonathan has Jonathan’s wife Helen is involved in Jonathan performs more than 600 cataract worked in various mission hospitals in community projects in the Lebombo and 400 other eye surgeries each year; whilst KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) since 1986 and Mountains, whilst also managing the farm also training medical students and doctors now, as an Ophthalmologist, he heads the and their bed and breakfast establishment. in rural health and eye care. World Health progressive Good Shepherd Hospital Eye Parent to sons Timothy (KCOB 2012) and Organisation figures say there are at least Care Project. The future looks bright for Daniel (KCOB 2014) and daughters Ruth 5 000 people blind from cataracts and this clinic which is well placed to meet the and Emma, Jonathan’s mother worked all 25 000 with severe visual impairments in increasing demand for eye health, especially her life in rural medicine. “So there’s Nature the country where, for many years, Jonathan in a poor country besieged by twin HIV and and Nurture already!” he says. was the only eye specialist. tuberculosis catastrophes.
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“When considering careers whilst at Being the only Ophthalmologist, the clinic “This developing nation has the will, but little Kearsney, I was drawn to Medicine as I soon became very busy with Jonathan ability, to develop its services to the rural could see the huge unmet need in South performing up to 30 cataract surgeries and impoverished communities outside of Africa. Whilst at med school, this was on some days. And so training became a Maputo. Already our eye service is enabling refined further as it became clear that the priority. Mozambiquans to seek help at Good need was greatest in rural areas. Thus I set Shepherd, since the hospital is only 120km about gathering rural skills like anaesthetics, In 2002 the eye ward opened, the clinic from Maputo. Participating in cataract general surgery, plastic surgery, obstetrics, moved to larger premises and a small surgical missions to remote Mozambique administration and aviation! operating theatre developed - all in a communities will certainly be part of my building designed and built to be a maternity next five year plan. That, and becoming “I moved my family north to practice as a wing! Two years later Jonathan moved into a fluent in Portugese.” rural doctor at KZN’s Bethesda Hospital, new theatre block adjacent to the ward; and where I became the medical superintendent. the clinic relocated to larger rooms, where Jonathan is equally passionate about There, I stumbled upon the blind people it remains today. providing encouragement and training. of Maputoland (UMkhanyakude district) Some of his former trainees are now and, with encouragement from a mentor, “Budget restraints and the financial crisis in working in Cameroon, Madagascar, the decided to train in Ophthalmology. Swaziland allow us only two eye-care nurses Eastern Cape and Cape Town. and three general nurses. Out of necessity “Having set up an Ophthalmology unit we’ve had to improve efficiency, thus we run “There are inadequate numbers of there and satellite eye units at neighbouring a dual theatre with the microscope between Ophthalmologists trained for public health. hospitals in that district, my attention was two beds. This way, we perform surgery on The set of skills required are difficult to drawn north again. Neighbouring Swaziland two patients at a time. It has almost tripled attain, yet we have the conditions to provide had no eye services whatsoever. The our productivity,” he says. that training. I really love inspiring young Good Shepherd Hospital welcomed me doctors to look for unusual solutions to to commence an eye service through the The eye clinic has a policy of helping provide health to whole populations. And mission organisation CBM, which provided everyone visiting the department on the we’ve proved that it can be done. the means.” same day. “Many doctors, mostly South Africans, join Jonathan established the clinic in 1998 “The cost for surgery is R600, but we don’t me for six month attachments and earn the in a side room with minimal equipment. turn anyone away, either for lack of money Diploma in Ophthalmology. Two are already Cataract surgery was done in the hospital’s or if we are already very busy. We have planning to come in 2016. Then there are minor theatre and, since there were no three clinic days and two operating days the 40 or more medical students who come beds allocated for eye patients, they slept on a week and, as a rule, we have no waiting annually from places like Kuala Lumpur, floor-beds. lists and arrange sponsorship for surgery as Liege, Edinburgh and Stellenbosch. They needed,” he says. spend about a month with me and I see it He realised cataract blindness in Swaziland as an amazing opportunity to educate them was common, yet those afflicted were Now, with the levels of cataract blindness in in rural health. I believe this calling to train unaware of, or unable to access, the new Mozambique being so enormous, Jonathan and hopefully inspire other medics won’t go service. A strong community outreach sees the north calling again! away, but will only grow. programme was the only solution. “Just as I was inspired, it’s a joy for me and my family to take in school-aged youngsters and let them in turn be inspired by what they see here in Swaziland. Many Kearsney boys have had that opportunity and I hope many more will follow. Some are already qualified as doctors or still studying.
“So it’s with great expectation that I’m waiting for their stories to come out, then I can put away my Surgeon’s knives!”
The Pons family. (L to R) Ruth, Daniel (KCOB 2014), Emma, Timothy (KCOB 2012) with parents Jonathan and Helen.
Greyhound News | 7 NOTABLE ALUMNI MEDICAL
Throughout the decades Across these pages we celebrate some “Yet I still get real enjoyment and satisfaction younger medical brains; as well as others from helping individual people who are sick many Kearsney boys reaching out to help ensure the survival of and in pain to get through an operation that communities and wildlife, from assisting with has the potential to drastically improve their have pursued careers in education in a rural village deep into Africa, lives.” to helping fight the plight of the world’s medicine, be it traditional dwindling rhino population. He said the choice to specialise in Anaesthesia resulted from a journey through several general practice, different specialties. He liked the concept Developing human that he provided care to one patient at a community medicine, time and could focus completely on that specialisations or in potential patient. medical research. Dr Rowan Duys (Gillingham 1997), a “Many other specialties require doctors to specialist Anaesthetist at Groote Schuur look after patients in a clinic, theatre, ward Hospital in Cape Town, says he is passionate and home environment simultaneously... In the 2013 edition of the Greyhound about investing in the future of this country this is very difficult. The operating theatre News we featured Dr Halley Stott (Old by developing its human potential. is also one of the best-resourced areas Kearsney 1927) who founded The Valley of any hospital in terms of personnel and Trust more than 60 years ago. A remarkable “Part of my role is developing the equipment. In our current healthcare socio-medical project for the promotion of educational output of the UCT Department environment it’s important for me to feel health, it combined practical approaches of Anaesthesia. This is a new area for me, like I’m working in an area where we don’t to nutrition and medical care. Also in that and working towards programmes and compromise on care because of a failing edition, renowned neuroscientist Professor solutions that we hope will train-up large system. Anaesthesia allows me to throw Henry Markram (Gillingham 1980) spoke numbers of healthcare workers, across extensive resources at improving the quality about the billion euro Human Brain Project a large area of the country and perhaps of care of one patient at a time.” which he heads at the Swiss Federal Institute beyond, is challenging me creatively in a very for Technology in Lausanne. exciting way,” Rowan says.
All specialists at Groote Schuur, these Kearsney Old Boys happened to walk down the same theatre corridor at the same time. From left: specialist anaesthetists Guy Picken (Pembroke 1996), Brendan Currin (Gillingham 1996), Rowan Duys (Gillingham 1997) and general surgeon Ant Sander (Pembroke 1996).
8 | Vol 13 | 2016 NOTABLE ALUMNI Doctors OUTREACH in the making At the 2015 KCOB AGM Five 2015 Kearsney Matriculants are currently in their first year of studying it was agreed to register medicine. Ruari Baker (Pembroke 2015; son of Andrew 1979) is at Stellenbosch the Kearsney College Old University; Matt Butler (Finningley 2015) and Ross Cairns (Pembroke 2015) at Wits; Boys Network as a Public whilst Matthew Carlson (Sheffield 2015) Benefit Organisation. and Garrett Stevens (Sheffield 2015) are both at Pretoria University. Whilst the primary reason for the Network remains to ensure the future of our alma mata Kearsney College, the KCOB Executive will look to get involved together in an outreach initiative. This will coincide with the Kearsney Community Cares Dr Glen Hagemann (Finningley 1982) weekend from 22-26 February 2016. Sharksmart
In 2001 Dr Glen Hagemann (Finningley A Marathon Comrades 1982) founded ‘Sharksmart’, the Sharks’ Peter Grunow (Finningley 2005) is aiming Injury Prevention and Performance to raise R50 000 by participating in the Programme, a community programme for Unogwaja Challenge - cycling from Cape schools which focusses on preventing sports Town to Pietermaritzburg in the 10 days injuries and positively influencing the ethos preceding the Comrades Marathon and of school sport in KwaZulu-Natal. Glen is a on the 11th day running the 90km race to past president of the South African Sports Durban. The purpose is to raise funds for Medicine Association. several charities, the main one being the Unogwaja Light Fund. “As an active person myself, combining a personal interest with a professional one was logical,” he says. “I’m passionate about general health and wellness, and influencing others to lead healthy lives.”
Based at the Sharks Medical Centre at Kings Park Stadium in Durban, Glen believes living healthier lifestyles, taking less medication, better understanding the role of the gut microbiome and genetics are the future when it comes to medicine.
His experience with sports medicine has allowed him the opportunity to work and travel in different parts of the world, including the United Kingdom, Europe, New Zealand, Nepal and America.
A current parent of Kyle (2016), Glen continues to give generously of his time and medical expertise on match days during rugby season as well as at the Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival.
Peter Grunow (Finningley 2005)
Greyhound News | 9 NOTABLE ALUMNI Running for Rhinos
Team Canyon Creepers’ Theo York (Finningley 2009) and Ryan Cloete (Pembroke 2009) ran the 73km Kruger2Canyon Trail Run Challenge as part of the Old Mutual Wild Series during October. The two-day stage race consisted of 28km of trail on the first day through a Big 5 Reserve neighbouring the Kruger Park, followed by 45km of mountain trails through and over the Blyde River Canyon on day two.
With the world rhino population having fallen by more than 90% in the past 30 years, the avid wildlife, bush and trail running enthusiasts decided to use the race as an opportunity to make a difference by raising funds for the Adopt a Rhino Programme, headed by the Wildlands Conservation Trust through the More Than Yourself platform of Old Mutual. Team Canyon Creepers’ Theo York (left) and Ryan Cloete running to raise funds for rhinos Through this initiative they hope to reach All donations are allocated to Team Canyon technologies on the rhino or providing their goal of R25 000 required for the Creepers’ specific rhino programme, to aerial surveillance. Donations can be made adoption programme – and at the time of improve security measures with more directly on http://morethanyourself.co.za/ going to press were at R19 000. field rangers, employing GPS tracking fundraiser/theodore-york
Marathon des Sables
Dubbed the toughest foot race on earth, See http://www.orphanaid.co.za/about-us Greg Edwards (Gillingham 1987), on the Greg placed 348th out of the 1300 who for further information. left below, participated in the six-day started the event which crossed the 254km Marathon des Sables to raise money Sahara Desert in southern Morocco, in for OrphanAid, a non-profit organisation temperatures of 40º C. operating in the Valley of 1000 Hills.
10 | Vol 13 | 2016 NOTABLE ALUMNI Malawi Missions
During 2014 Chris Smith (Pembroke to renovate the Sani School in Nhkotakota “Malawi Missions is going to be an annual 2010) and a group of friends visited Malawi Bay, a school of 900 children with only six expedition. The school desperately where they were shocked by the poverty, teachers. needs more teachers and the best way yet amazed by the positive, happy Malawian to encourage teachers to move to Sani people. A year later, in November 2015, They refurbished classrooms (painting walls, School is to provide them with good Chris and his team returned for two weeks adding chalk boards and locks to the doors accommodation. So we plan to raise funds for security), constructed a soccer field and to build staff houses,” Chris says. provided the school with soccer balls, started a library by building In 2016 Malawi Missions is also going to help shelves and donating books to the the greater community. As some members library, provided stationery for the of the team are veterinary students, they are school and distributed Bibles to the looking at designing a programme to help community. farmers in the area.
“It took us longer than we expected “It was an incredibly humbling experience to paint the classrooms as there that definitely left us feeling like these was lots of cleaning to do before people had changed our lives in more ways painting could start – like removing than they will ever know.” termite mounds from the corners and wasps nests from the rafters. Chris (pictured left) can be contacted on: We completely revamped and [email protected] decorated two classrooms and the main office, repainted blackboards in the other four classrooms and fixed desks.
Let us know about your outreach efforts and/or hash tag #KCOBsCare Taking a breather: the Malawi Missions team
Greyhound News | 11 NOTABLE ALUMNI BUSINESS AND AWARDS
Ad break Jason’s team taps into M&C Saatchi Abel’s Jason Cumming (Gillingham 1992) was Cape Town and Johannesburg resources. appointed managing director of M&C M&C Saatchi Africa is driven from the M&C Saatchi Africa at the beginning of 2015. Saatchi Abel office in Cape Town. He is optimistic about growth on the Jason and his brothers, Dylan (1994) and continent but says agencies need to rethink Robby (1997), hail from the family coffee how they enter these markets. Much of business Beaver Creek at Izingolweni Road Africa skipped past desktop computing in near Port Edward. favour of mobile technology. He believes the continent can again leap-frog traditional agency models in favour of more flexible and innovative ones.
The world is his oyster For Mzwandile Hector Mnyayiza (Sheffield Raised in Hammarsdale, Hector was (Sheffield 2001), offered Hector the life- 2004) life in the kitchen has produced awarded a rugby scholarship to Kearsney. In changing opportunity of studying at the some appetising rewards: runner-up in the 2004 he played for the 1st XV under captain International Hotel School in Durban and Chaîne de Rotisseurs Young Chef of the Year Brad Barritt (Pembroke 2004), also played doing his in-service training at the Royal Hotel. Competition in 2008, finalist in the Unilever for the 1st basketball team and was selected Chef of the Year Awards in 2014, executive for the KZN U19 Academy Invitation XV. Hector seized the opportunities offered and chef at Sibaya Casino and Entertainment has never looked back. Kingdom’s esteemed Aqua Restaurant, north A break into the culinary world put paid to of Durban, and most recently appointment his ambitions of joining the Sharks Rugby as the executive chef at the State Theatre Academy and of playing professional rugby. in Pretoria. Russell Stevens, father of Matt Stevens
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Nick knighted
Captain Nicholas Sloane (Pembroke 1978) In the last edition we featured Captain Vol 12 | February 2015 received two awards in 2015: the Cavaliere Sloane who led the recovery of cruise liner del Lavoro della Repubblica Italiana, an Costa Concordia from its site of stranding Italian order of Knighthood, and The near the Italian island of Giglio. It was one Deutscher Meerespreis 2015, the German of the longest, most complicated and Ocean Award, presented by the GEOMAR most expensive undertakings of its kind Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel in history. Led by Nick, a team of more and the Deutsche Bank AG. than 500 salvage workers operated on site for more than 30 months. The successful Early this year he joined Florida-based completion of this operation prevented an salvors Resolve Marine Group as a director, environmental catastrophe in the affected where his professionalism, innovation and part of the Mediterranean. Captain stellar work ethic will assist in growing the Nick Sloane Nothing is business globally. These latest two awards honoured his FOUNDERS WEEKEND extraordinary accomplishment. impossible 19 & 20 June 2015
Greyhound News | 13 NOTABLE ALUMNI Peer motivation Cast in stone
Two KCOBs who are excelling in their tertiary studies recently David Lewis-Williams (Staff 1963- returned from Oxford and Harvard Universities to share and 1978) has been awarded The Order of inspire Kearsney boys. the Baobab (Gold) by the President of South Africa. David is a world Dux Alex von Klemperer (Finningley 2006) was awarded a authority on South Africa’s rock art prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to Oxford University where he is heritage and has written numerous doing a one-year Masters course in Neuroscience, to be followed works, several of which have been by a three-year DPhil. He plans to study neurological diseases translated into French, Spanish, Italian, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, epilepsy and Parkinson’s, and Czech and Japanese. is also interested in studying the overlap between HIV/Aids and tuberculosis. His best-selling book, The Mind in the Cave: Consciousness and the Origins of Art, deals with the Upper Palaeolithic cave paintings in Oxford will not be unfamiliar to Alex, as he spent a one-month France. He has also done research on Neolithic tombs in Turkey, student elective there in 2011, studying clinical neurology. A medical Brittany, Malta, Wales and Ireland. graduate from the University of Cape Town, he completed his internship at Chris Hani-Baragwanath Hospital in Soweto.
Greg Royston (Finningley 2013), who placed in SA’s top five percent in the 2013 IEB matriculation examinations and was Dux Proximate, took time to return to Kearsney during his summer break from Harvard University. A SA Schools golfer who also played golf for the KZN Men’s team whilst at school, he was accepted directly from Kearsney to Harvard University. Over his four years as an undergraduate, Greg will study 32 courses, majoring in Applied Mathematics and Economics, as well as play golf for the university.
Inspiring Old Boys Alex von Klemperer (below) and Greg Royston (right)
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REMARKABLE SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS
Athletics against the odds
Despite the fact Mpumelelo (Mpumi) Mhlongo (Finningley 2012) was born with a handicap which affects the function of one of his legs, he has achieved amazing successes on the athletic track.
At the 2015 National Championships for the Physically Disabled, Mpumi became the South African T44 champion in the 100m, 200m, long jump and high jump categories - breaking the All African records for the latter two. This qualifies him for the IPC World Championships in all four events.
He was named 2015 Sports Person of the Year at the University of Cape Town where he is studying Chemical Engineering.
Double Trouble
Daniel and Jean-Luc du Preez (Sheffield 2013) were selected to the 28-man Junior Springbok squad for the two-match series against Argentina U20 during May; in preparation for the 2015 U20 Rugby World Championships in Italy during June last year.
The twin brothers, who graced the cover of the Sharks magazine in October 2015, spoke highly of the College and credited Barend Steyn, their 1st XV coach, as having played a key role in their development and success.
They are now playing for the Sharks, whilst older brother Robert du Preez (2011) has chosen to run out for Western Province.
Robert du Preez senior, father of the three talented players, is a former Springbok scrumhalf and has joined the Cell C Sharks’ coaching team. He will be an assistant coach during the Super Rugby season and will then take over as coach for the Currie Cup. Last season he won the Currie Cup first division trophy with the Leopards. Twin TowersDu Preez double act We get up close and personal with the OCTOBER 2015 R19.90
Other countries R17.46 (excl TAX) 10038
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Greyhound News | 15 NOTABLE ALUMNI International sports representatives
1st represented Final year 1st represented Final year 1953 Harry Walker Rugby SA Gillingham 1945 2000 Etienne Fynn Rugby SA Pembroke 1989 1954 John Ayres Surf lifesaving SA Gillingham 1946 2000 Demetrious Stamatis Game fishing SA Finningley 1987 1956 Peter Bowman Surf lifesaving SA Finningley 1953 2000 Diccon Robinson Fishing Swaziland Finningley 1967 1960 Ralph Hulett Deep sea fishing SA Old Kearsney 1935 2000 Kyle Staats Rugby Holland Finningley 1996 1964 Trevor Rawlins Hockey SA Pembroke 1965 2001 John Antoni Rugby Italy Pembroke 1994 1964 John Lowe Hockey SA Old Kearsney 1924 2001 Trevor Halstead Rugby SA Pembroke 1994 1965 John Lacey Rugby Rhodesia Finningley 1960 2004 Barry Cole Clay target shooting SA Finningley 1984 1965 Michael Miller Polo SA Gillingham 1955 2004 Wayne Madsen Hockey SA Gillingham 2001 1968 Errol Todd Basketball SA Gillingham 1956 2004 Matt Stevens Rugby England Sheffield 2001 1969 Christopher Lee Swimming (capt) SA Gillingham 1965 2004 Myles Fawcett Rugby Swaziland Finningley 1991 1969 Mervyn Thomson Game fishing SA Gillingham 1954 2004 Jody Foss Rugby Swaziland Finningley 1988 1972 Clifford Bryden Polo SA Pembroke 1960 2004 Duncan Mckenzie Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1999 1973 John Alcock Paraplegic swimming SA Pembroke 1973 2004 Patrick Ward Rugby Swaziland Finningley 1986 1973 Shawn Atlas Spear fishing SA Pembroke 1967 2004 Barry Takis Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1993 1973 Clive Cooke Go-karting SA Gillingham 1973 2004 David Takis Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1995 1973 Terry Martin Table tennis SA Pembroke 1968 2004 Derrick Takis Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1998 1975 Martin Jollands Water polo SA Finningley 1971 2004 Michael Takis Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 2000 1976 Ian Holding Squash SA Unknown 1975 2004 Daryll Mckenzie Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1999 1977 William Badsey Power boat racing SA Finningley 1957 2004 Stuart Hulley Rugby Swaziland Pembroke 1987 1977 Maurice Paterson Modern penthalon SA Gillingham 1970 2004 Lewis Martin Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1997 1978 Michael Halliday Rugby USA Pembroke 1972 2005 Stephen Martin Rugby Swaziland Gillingham 1999 1978 James von Sorgenfrei Pistol shooting SA Pembroke 1971 2005 David Hewan Golf SA Sheffield 2000 1979 Geremy Cliff Underwater hockey SA Finningley 1971 2005 John Francois Viljoen Rugby USA Finningley 1999 1980 Nigel Plen Ten pin bowling SA Finningley 1961 2006 Michael Botha Indoor hockey SA Sheffield 2000 1982 Dale Osborne Polo SA Pembroke 1968 2006 Troyden Prinsloo Long distance swimming SA Sheffield 2004 1982 Barry Smith Cricket umpire SA Pembroke 1970 2006 Matthew Swemmer Canoe water polo SA Gillingham 2005 1984 Luke Bailes Polo SA Pembroke 1973 2007 Piers Morgan X-country mountain biking SA Pembroke 1993 1984 Mush Nichols Game fishing SA Gillingham 1965 2008 Max Nightingale Rugby Tanzania Pembroke 195 1985 Brian Hart Deep sea fishing (capt) SA Gillingham 1964 2009 James Reid Mountain Biking RSA Sheffield 2010 1985 Paul Logan Hockey SA Finningley 1982 2011 Bradley Mallett Polo SA Gillingham 2007 1985 Adrian Pilling Precision fly fishing SA & GB Gillingham 1977 2011 Bradley Barritt Rugby England Pembroke 2004 1986 Gary Weddell Inflatable boat racing (C) SA Gillingham 1971 2012 Lloyd Madsen Hockey SA Gillingham 2004 1987 Arthur Mandy Polo SA Gillingham 1980 2012 Julian Lewis Water polo SA Gillingham 2013 1989 Jody Foss Squash Swaziland Finningley 1988 2014 Myles Brown Swimming SA Pembroke 2010 1990 Clark Rattray Polo SA Gillingham 1978 2014 Kyle Abbott Cricket SA Sheffield 2005 1990 Murray Rattray Polo SA Gillingham 1980 2016 Nqobile ‘Bili’ Ntuli Hockey SA Sheffield 2014 1991 Andrew Hudson Cricket SA Finningley 1982 1993 Greg Pilling Hockey SA Gillingham 1981 1993 Stefan Luth Water skiing SA Finningley 1997 1994 Justin King Hockey SA Pembroke 1993 1994 Peter van der Schyff Water polo SA Pembroke 1985 1995 Matthew Gibb Surf lifesaving SA Finningley 1993 1995 Mark Jollands Swimming SA Finningley 1995 1995 Francis Mandy Polo SA Gillingham 1982 1996 Wayne d’Elboux Water polo SA Pembroke 1991 1996 Dino Scribante Water skiing SA Gillingham 1993 1997 Gary Weddell Jet skiing SA Gillingham 1971 1998 Bevan Manson Water polo SA Pembroke 1995 1998 Richard van der Schyff Water polo SA Pembroke 1988 1999 Kevin Dalzell Rugby USA Unknown 1991 1999 Stewart Hewitt Jet skiing SA Gillingham 1977
Henry (Harry) Newton Walker (1938-1945), known as ‘Newton’ or ‘Skrik’, was Kearsney’s first rugby Springbok, from 1953 to 1956. His father Alf had also been a Springbok. Pictured is Newton playing in the Old Crocks 1969 game with Gordon Schachat (Finningley 1969) as Captain of KC 1st XV.
16 | Vol 13 | 2016 NOTABLE ALUMNI Hudders bows out
After five years at the helm of South African cricket, Andrew Hudson (Finningley 1982) stepped down as Convenor of Selectors during 2015. The right-hand bat, right-arm medium bowler had previously represented South Africa as opening batsman over many years.
He says having been in the system for five years was a real privilege and honour. “To be No 1 in Test cricket for a large part of my tenure and No 1 in all three formats during Gary Kirsten’s time was very special. The away Test wins against Australia and England were without doubt absolute highlights.”
Reflecting on his cricket-playing days at the College, Andrew’s stand- out moment was taking 5-16 as Kearsney’s 1st X1 opening bowler against Westville. Andrew Hudson (Finningley 1982). “I was the 1st team opening bowler who batted at number 8 in Grade 11; and went on to make KZN Schools that year. It was 1st team coach Mike Griffiths (staff 1981-2004 ) who introduced me to the opening batsman role during Matric. Mike was a great coach, a little unorthodox at times, but he believed in me and I responded to his coaching style.”
Andrew has one son at Kearsney: David (Finningley 2018), as well as Graham (Finningley 2015), and Simon (Finningley 2012). He is currently completing his MBA through Henley Business School (Reading University) and, now that he’s out of professional cricket, is fully engrossed at FirstRand where he has been for 12 years – initially at RMB Private Bank and now FNB Business.
About Abbott
In his short international cricketing career to date, Kyle Abbott (Sheffield 2005) has shown an ability to bowl with good pace and swing, as well as a knack for hitting the ball a long way. Many believe he was unlucky not to have been selected for South Africa’s semi-final at the 2015 Cricket World Cup. Kyle Abbott (Sheffield 2005) left. Photograph courtesy The Witness The right-arm fast-medium bowler was named as the replacement for the injured Jacques Kallis in the South African national cricket team for the third Test against Pakistan in February 2013. He took seven wickets on debut in the 3rd Test against Pakistan in February 2013, where he was adjudged man of the match as well. These were the ninth best figures of all time for a debutant in Test cricket.
Last year Kyle was bought by the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL8 auction. He was also included in the KwaZulu-Natal Inland squad for the 2015 Africa T20 Cup and played in the 2015/16 England tour to South Africa.
Swimming feat
Myles Brown (Pembroke 2010) has had great success in the water during the past year. His outstanding form saw him break the South African 800m freestyle record set in 2009 by another Kearsney Old Boy, Troy Prinsloo (Sheffield 2004). Myles also broke Ryk Neethling’s 400m freestyle record, which had stood for 16 years, at the SA Aquatic Myles Brown (Pembroke 2010). Championships.
Greyhound News | 17 GENERATION Whippets set the pace
Welcome Class of 2015. The first Class Fund started in the Matric Year.
As the Class of 2015 we wanted to give a both boys and parents, to keep in contact against xenophobia, our involvement in the gift to Kearsney to show our appreciation for with one another and, most importantly, Rhino Shout-Out Challenge, which raised the opportunities that the school had given it provides a way for the Class of 2015 to awareness about rhino poaching in South to us. After some discussion it was 100% create and build a legacy. It is our goal to give Africa, and many other contributions. unanimously agreed that an appropriate gift others the same life-changing experience would be to start a Class of 2015 Bursary which each of us has had at Kearsney. There have been countless memories Fund. that were made this year and the sound of The Class of 2015 is delighted to be the first Darian Blair’s David Attenborough accent Each boy from of the Class of 2015 made Matric group that has ever started a Class only starts the flood of nostalgia. We hope a voluntary contribution of R200 or more Fund whilst still at school and we hope that that this fund can be a suitable legacy for in our Matric year. We were delighted by this will inspire future generations to do the the Class of 2015 and will start a trend for the positive and encouraging response same. future Matric classes. by the 2015 Parents, some of whom also contributed. By November 2015 we had Highlights from our 2015 year … A year to Compiled by the 2015 Head and Deputy raised R33 300. remember! Head of School - Robbie Polkinghorne and Jabulani Nyathi. These funds are ring-fenced and invested in Our focus during 2015 was on serving the Kearsney Development Fund. The plan others and on helping the community. We Carpe Diem! is to add to this capital over the years and expressed this through our Blanket Donation to see the investment grow over time and Drive, where we supported those affected exist beyond our lifetimes. We feel this Fund by the xenophobic attacks, our collaboration will be an excellent way for the year of 2015, with local musicians in a song standing up Class of 2015
18 | Vol 13 | | 2016 2016 AMBASSADORSNETWORKING A Centenary focus for the Kearsney Ambassadors
The Kearsney community KEARSNEY extends beyond Old Boys. COLLEGE 1921 to 2021 As current parents you witness your young son become a gentleman and adult and know the incredible value of his outstanding education. Kearsney not only changes and enhances the lives of our sons, but as current parents it fills our weekends and lives with friends.
Once you join Kearsney you are always regarded as part of the Kearsney community and we invite past parents, grandparents, guardians and family to stay connected.
Please remain in touch in the exciting run-up to the Centenary in 2021. We invite volunteers who are willing to rally parents of their son’s year to contact Kerry on [email protected] or Gary Butler, chairman of the Kearsney Gary Butler (left) and Mark Conway are driving the Ambassadors Forum. Ambassadors, on [email protected] or 0833912425.
MEMBERSHIP INVITATION PORTAL We welcome parents, grandparents, guardians and Kearsney friends Old Boy Portal to the alumni database: to sign-up as KCOB Associate Members. Access to the Kearsney database via our old Grade 12 parents receive automatic membership portal enables you to view and update your personal details online, view your Kearsney Sign-up on-line history and your giving history. Last year On the Old Boys page on www.kearsney.com we issued login credentials for the Old Boy Only criteria: specify your link/ relationship to a Kearsney Boy or Cause portal. You can change your password by clicking on the “change password” button Membership is FREE on the portal login screen. You will be prompted about the required procedure Aims of Membership when changing the password. To THANK parents for choosing Kearsney To keep our Kearsney community INFORMED through Should you need reminding of your the monthly Greyhound eNewsletter credentials, please contact Kerry McMaster To INVITE members to various events and fixtures at Kearsney on [email protected]. You can find a and at KCOB Branch level link to the Old Boys portal on our website www.kearsney.com on Old Boys > Update Please help us find past parents to register them as members. your details.
Greyhound News | 19 CENTENARY
In 2021 Kearsney College continued his studies through the University ever that the Honoris Crux Gold had been of South Africa. He subsequently served in awarded and the only time it was awarded will celebrate its centenary the South African Navy as a diver. to a member of the South African Navy. He also received numerous other awards and, to mark this milestone, In August 1991 Able Seaman Whiley of the including a Special Award for Outstanding SAS Scorpion was among the South African Commitment and Human Endeavour from a new history of the school Navy and South African Air Force personnel the University of Natal, and a Special Award who launched a seven-hour mission to for International Countenance from the will be published. rescue the passengers and crew of the MTS Afrikaans Businessman’s Society. Oceanos which had come to grief during a storm off the Eastern Cape’s Wild Coast. TWO GEMS OF HULETT HISTORY During 2014, retired teacher Dave COME TO LIGHT Goldhawk (Kearsney staff 1984-2013) According to Brigadier General Dick Lord: was commissioned to research and write “The Oceanos sailed from East London at It goes without saying that if Sir Liege Hulett the first draft of the first 94 years of the 15h30 on 3 August 1991 despite a 40 knot had not settled in South Africa there would College’s history by the end of February wind and a surge (wave height) of 12 metres. be no Kearsney College. 2016. The ship was not in a very good state of repair and was not a new vessel. In fact, she For a young man who had just completed The intention is to produce a readable and should never have been allowed to sail. his education, there were few prospects in accessible coffee-table style book including the depressed economic conditions which abundant illustrations. The facts and “At about 21h40, the starboard hull plating followed the end of the Crimean War in narrative of Kearsney will form the core of had been badly damaged and water 1856. After failing to secure employment the book but it will also include anecdotes started pouring into the ship, specifically in the civil service, Sir Liege responded to and non-official photographs which will the generator room, causing a general an advertisement in the Dover Mail placed resonate with Old Boys who were at power failure. The watertight doors were by William Henry Burgess, a dispensing Kearsney during a particular era. ineffective because the ventilator pipes had chemist with premises in Durban and been removed during repairs which had Pietermaritzburg, and one of Natal’s first Visual material is less than scarce for never been completed. A Mayday signal was photographers. As a result, he successfully the early years of the school’s existence broadcast and, late that night, the passengers secured the advertised position in Durban and overabundant in today’s world with were taken on deck where they remained in which carried a salary of £30 per annum every smartphone equipped to take high the freezing wind.” all found. After a voyage of 114 days, resolution photographs. financed through a loan of £25 from his While helicopters lifted passengers from uncle, George Flashman, a renowned Dover “While I have managed to gather some the deck of the ship and merchant vessels furniture maker, he arrived in the prospering interesting anecdotes about boarding rescued the few who had made it into life colony of Natal aboard the Lady Shelbourne school life from older alumni, I am hoping boats, naval divers were dispatched amidst in May 1857. that more will be forthcoming from more very dangerous conditions to search for recent Old Boys, especially from the Silcock, people who might have been trapped in the Roberts and Van den Aardweg years,” Dave Almost 60 years later, during the winter ship, which was to list and eventually sink by says. holidays in 2015, the South African National mid-afternoon on 4 August. Quilt Festival was held at Kearsney College. HEROIC DEEDS AT SEA One of the local quilting guilds had been The rescue operation was a complete tasked with producing a Kearsney quilt and Observant visitors to the Kearsney College success. The aircrews of the Puma Dave Goldhawk was approached by a past Chapel will notice framed medals affixed to helicopters were all awarded the Air parent with a request for a portrait of Sir the northern wall of the nave. One of these Force Cross and the navy divers were also Liege to be included in a panel of the quilt. commemorates the heroic bravery of Paul decorated. He delved in the storeroom of the archives Whiley (Gillingham 1985), who was a pupil in the hope of finding a photograph depicting at Kearsney from 1982 to 1985. For his exceptionally courageous actions, the founder in a less stern manner than most Paul Whiley received what was then of the portraits do and found just what he After matriculating, Paul continued his South Africa’s highest military decoration was looking for. After scanning it, Dave was education at the University of Natal in for ‘outstanding acts of bravery while in replacing it in its battered container when he Durban where he read English and Law and extreme danger’. It was only the sixth time noticed a small, scruffy envelope addressed
20 | Vol 13 | 2016 Greyhound News | 4 CENTENARY
By 1808, Hulett’s grandparents, In an inconspicuous folder in the box made James and Hanna, had settled available by Kerrie Carmody, the original list in Gillingham, Kent where the of rules, drawn up generations ago by one former was Headmaster of of her ancestors, was discovered. Gillingham House School. His son, also James Liege BOTHA’S HILL OUR HOMELAND Hulett, was educated at that school before commencing Towards the end of his headmastership, his studies at the University Stanley Osler penned a poem which he of Cambridge in June called “A Kearsney Song” with the subtitle 1829. There he read “L’Envoi [send-off] to Sixth Formers”. The medicine and obtained poem was received with a certain amount of his doctorate at Queen’s disparagement by a few of Osler’s detractors College. Surprisingly, in the staffroom. In 1961, however, it was when he returned to set to music by Kearsney’s then Director his home town, he of Music and highly talented organist, John eschewed the medical Harper, and sung at Speech Day. profession in favour of teaching and took over After finding a copy of Osler’s poem and his father’s school. In subsequently Harper’s musical score, 1836 he married Mary David Goldhawk passed these on to the Georgina Flashman then Director of Music, Bernard Krüger. from her brother Impressed with John Harper’s melody, he George’s home in nearby Dover. modified it, reworking the harmonies to suit more modern tastes. He used and slightly to “Mr James L Hulett, Junr”. Inside it he After James’ death, James Liege moved to adapted the first two and last two stanzas found the original letter, penned by George Sheffield where Sir Liege was born on 17 May of Osler’s original eight stanza poem to Flashman, which had accompanied the £25 1838. For reasons unknown, our founder’s produce a stirring anthem, “Botha’s Hill our loan to his nephew! father soon returned to Gillingham and Homeland”. re-opened Gillingham House School. The The second gem came to light when he school operated according to a lengthy list The anthem was officially sung for the first sifted through a box of photographs and of rules of which there are a few indistinct, time at the 2015 Speech Day. documents made available by Mrs Kerrie black and white photocopies in the College Carmody, a current parent and direct archives. And so, a poem written by the College’s descendant of Sir Liege. third Headmaster over half a century ago, has inspired what will become a new Kearsney College tradition.
Kearsney Director of Music John ‘Meatball’ Harper with a pupil. John Harper was Director of Music from 1960 to the end of the second term 1989.
GreyhoundGreyhound News News | 21| 21 TRADITIONS NEW & OLD
KEARSNEY COLLEGE TRUST KearsneyAll individual College and corporate Trust gifts are tax deductible. Public Benefit Organisation Public80-11-13-2570 Benefit Organisation: 80-11-13-2570 Marking the 95th Anniversary Non-ProfitKearsney Organisation:Development Fund: To mark Kearsney’s 024-882-NPOKCOB Sons of Old Boys Fund Public Benefit Organisation special 95th anniversary Auditors: 93-00-00-028 the College will stage BDO South Africa B-BBEE Certified: and brand events which DRG Siyaya B-BBEE Service will undoubtedly create Standard Bank commemorates Kearsney’s 95th Anniversary Kearsney College Trust: wonderful memories for Standard Bank | Hillcrest Branch 045726 Special thanks to Standard Bank which has Account: 05 203 1276 current boys, staff and all sponsored commemorative 95th T-shirts for all the Kearsney boys in their house ENQUIRIES who participate. colours and grey shirts for Kearsney staff to wear at inter-house and special events Foundation Director: Commemoration events will be advertised during 2016. Standard Bank has been Joy Mills-Hackmann on www.kearsney.com and in eNews Kearsney’s bank for over 30 years and has [email protected] with the first being the 95th Anniversary been a valued headline sponsor of the [email protected] Challenge on 10 February. This was the Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival since 2012. Mobile: +27 83 662 0838 reading of the New Testament over 16 Further excellent news: Standard Bank have Tel: +27 31 765 9600 hours, followed by Inter-house Cricket, confirmed that they will continue their www.kearsney.com Inter-house Plays, sport through the night headline sponsorship through to Kearsney’s and the Inter-house Gala the next day. Centenary in 2021. Kearsney’s new Director of Music, Marshell Lombard (left), wowed the audience with his Michael Buble rendition during a Kearsney College Choir and Orchestra supper theatre to welcome him. Bernard Krüger (right) and his wife Junine have taken positions at the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir School. Bernard Krüger joined Kearsney at the beginning of 2009.
22 | Vol 13 | 2016 TRADITIONS NEW & OLD
USA KCOBs join the drive to commemorate the Centenary
In the first year R700 000 was raised towards the 2021 goal of R7-million which will install five 25% bursaries in perpetuity by the Centenary. This is an amazing legacy of which our USA Old Boys can rightly be proud! The Kearsney Board, Trustees and KCOB Executive endorse this To mark the 95th Anniversary and support the campaign and thank Professor Michael Hall US bursary drive, the USA KCOB have new New Kearsney Choir (Gillingham 1953) for chairing and driving T-Shirts. From L-R: Kerry McMaster (KCOB the initiative which will inspire and change & Foundation Secretary), Joy Mills-Hackmann DVD & CD (Foundation Director) and Athena Fisher available at the Kit & Clothing lives of talented boys of the future. (Foundation Co-ordinator) sporting their USA- KCOB T-shirts. [email protected] Through Kearsney’s partnership with the or sign-up as a Friend of the General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) Kearsney Choir of the United Methodist Church (UMC) all gifts to Kearsney via the GBGM are fully tax and get a free copy deductible as per ruling of the IRS (Internal [email protected] Revenue Code section 501(c)(3).
USA-KCOB campaign chairman Michael Hall was recently on the Hill. The Headmaster showed him and his family the latest developments on campus. From left: daughters Cailey and Siobahn, grandson Finn, his wife Jill, Michael, Elwyn van den Aardweg and Michael’s daughter Janine.
Greyhound News | 23 SCHOOL NEWS 2015 at a Glance ACADEMIC KZN Coastal U16 B - Nicholas de Beer, OTHER SPORTS ACHIEVEMENTS Kyle Koenig, Kandarin Naidoo & Mathematics Keanan Naidoo Badminton SA Mathematics Foundation Olympiad: KZN Coastal U16 Warriors - SA U17 A - Brandon Nel Top 99 Juniors in SA - Carl Combrinck, Steven Conway, Liam Maguire & Robert Whitehouse Connor Ronquest Baseball KZN Coastal U14 A - Hayden de Kock, SA U18 - Cameron Lee ANNUAL ACADEMIC AWARDS David Hudson, Jordan Meikle & 37% of boys received Academic Colours Cameron Nel Bass Fishing KZN Coastal U14 B - Josh Barrett & or Honours Awards (aggregate over 75%) SA Junior team - Chase Kelly Chase Kelly 8 boys received Academic Honours Cum Chess Laude (aggregate over 86%) Rugby KZN U18 - James Hulett 12 boys were awarded Academic Honours SA U16 High Performance Camp - (aggregate of 80-85%) Dylan Richardson Lifesaving - Stillwater 21 boys were awarded Academic Colours KZN U18 Craven Week - Tristan Dixon & KZN Championships - Taine Buys James Tedder (aggregate of 75-79%) KZN U18 Academy Week - Lifesaving - Surf, Surfski Cameron Ritchie SA Nationals Junior Ironman - Taine Buys KZN U16 Grant Khomo Week - KZN Junior Male Surf Swim Championships SPORT Dylan Richardson - Taine Buys KZN U16 Invitational - Matt Heard & 62 Kearsney boys were selected to Wandile Linda Horse racing represent KZN and six to represent KZN Sevens - Cameron Ritchie SA Champion Workrider - Lyle Hewitson South Africa in various age groups across the sports codes. Soccer Judo KZN U19 - Sihle Skhosana SA U14 - Liam Breytenbach Basketball KZN U16 - Tseko Mphakathi SA U16 - Kuhle Bophela & KZN U15 - Kandrin Naidoo Polo (horse) Thomas Westermeyer KZN U14 - Mzu Phike & Warren Sadha SA Schools - Grant Louw KZN U18 (captain) - Mvelo Buthelezi KZN U16 - Kuhle Bophela & Squash Polocrosse Thomas Westermeyer KZN U19 A - Calix Gray Northern Natal - Lyle Hewitson KZN U19 B - Graham Hudson & Cricket Brenton Scott-Martin Sailing KZN Coastals: KZN U16 A - David Comrie SA at Optimist World Championships - U19A - James Tedder & Keean Rencken KZN U16 B - Matthew du Toit Calum Gaughran U17A - Luke de Vlieg, James Stamatis, KZN U14 A - Reid Stewart Matthew Lees & Brad Porteous Surfing U15A - Robert Koenig Tennis KZN - Rees Stiemens KZN U19 B - Brad Porteous & Mihir Singh Golf KZN U15 A - Kade Mindry KZN Mens U23 (captain) - Greg Mckay Water polo COMMUNITY SERVICE 2015 Hockey KZN U19A - Ryan Jackson SA U16 boys coach - Sihle Ntuli (1st X1 KZN U19B - Luke Croshaw, Jared Meyer & Kearsney has an extensive community coach) David Weaver (non-travelling reserve) service programme which affords each boy SA U17 Squad - Lyle Jarvel KZN U14A - Josh Muller & Oliver Kenny the opportunity to serve and contribute to SA U16 High Performance Squad - (non-travelling reserve) Luke de Vlieg & Jeremy Foord his community. The values instilled and the KZN Coastal U18 A - Ruari Baker, lessons learned by this service to others are Matthew Butler, Lyle Jarvel & Cameron timeless and their commitment and passion Rencken saw the boys dedicate 12 562 hours to KZN Coastal U18 B - Jayme Crouch, community service this year. Alex Di Marco, Matthew Lees, Simon Nortje & Blake Tyack KZN Coastal U18 Impis - Grant Oliver KZN Coastal U16 A - Cameron Baker, Luke de Vlieg & Jeremy Foord
24 | Vol 13 | 2016 SCHOOL NEWS Top KZN boys’ school …again A REMARKABLE EXAMPLE Kearsney College emerged Headmaster Elwyn van den Aardweg All-rounder Jabulani Nyathi – Kearsney’s said that whilst academics was Kearsney’s 2015 Dux, deputy-head prefect, head of as the top independent number one priority, a holistic education the prestigious choir and captain of cross was crucial and he was thrilled that the country – was the College’s top achiever boys’ school in KwaZulu- boys achieved such fantastic results whilst in the IEB examinations; attaining seven As, participating fully in the excellent sporting and placing in the top 5% of learners in Natal for the third time in and cultural programmes at the College. six or more subjects in South Africa, and in the country’s top 1% for Drama, Music four years, following the Top of Kearsney’s achievers and on the and Physical Sciences. He was Kearsney’s IEB Outstanding Achievement list was all- highest achiever in Afrikaans. release of the 2015 IEB rounder Jabulani Nyathi who scored seven National Senior Certificate As. James Hansen and Cameron Lee, who After finishing Grade 9 at Drakensberg also plays baseball for South Africa U18, Boys’ Choir School, Jabulani was offered a examination results. earned six distinctions each, and made it full scholarship through ISASA and Kearsney on to the IEB Commendable Achievement for his final three years at the College. This Having three candidates in the country’s list. Others to achieve six distinctions were year he is studying chemical engineering at Outstanding & Commendable Achievement Ru Baker (son of Andrew, 1979), Tyrone UCT, which he plans to follow with studies lists (which encompasses the country’s Beunk Burgess, Ross Cairns, Sean Healy, as a chartered financial analyst. top 134 candidates or top 1.2% of all Brandon Hughes, Jordan Ross-Elliott and IEB pupils) was more than any other Geoffrey Sibbald. At the end of last year Jabulani was Independent boys’ school in the province. awarded the prestigious Allan Gray Orbis Ten boys received five distinctions each: Fellowship which provides a full scholarship Kearsney’s excellence in Mathematics and provincial sportsmen Matt Butler (hockey) for undergraduate studies, including tuition, Physical Sciences was reaffirmed, with and Tristan Dixon (rugby), as well as Ross text books, accommodation and a stipend an outstanding 45% of those who wrote Conway, Lyle Hewitson, Nicholas Hoare, for living expenses. Mathematics and 32% of those who wrote James Hulett (son of Gary 1980; grandson Physical Sciences achieving a distinction. This of Bruce 'Fago' 1956; great grandson of Kearsney is one of a hundred Allan Gray is the fifth consecutive year that Kearsney George 1926), Evan Knight, Tristan Muller, Circle of Excellence schools and has three has achieved double the IEB distinction rates Simon Nortje and Justin Wilkes. previous recipients: Blaise Dobson (2006 in these crucial subjects. Sheffield), Dom Koenig (2011 Finningley) and Phakamani Zulu (2011 Pembroke). The 113 Kearsney boys who wrote Matric achieved an impressive 226 distinctions Candidates are selected for their between them – an average of two exceptional intelligence, particularly in distinctions each. The school had a 100% Mathematics, superb communication skills pass rate with almost 97% receiving a and innate ability to ‘think out of the box’. university exemption pass rate. Once formal education is complete, the Foundation encourages work experience that compliments personal passion, Celebrating 40 distinctions between them: Matt Butler, Jordan Ross-Elliott, Tristan Dixon, purpose and skills development. It believes James Hansen, Ross Cairns, Sean Healy and Cameron Lee. that high impact entrepreneurial leaders will dramatically contribute to positive economic, social and political change in the country. Below: Kearsney head prefect 2015, Robbie Polkinghorne (3As) (son of David 1981), Cameron Lee (6As) and a top SA achiever Jabulani Nyathi (7As).
Greyhound News | 25 SCHOOL NEWS From The Headmaster’s Desk 2016 will provide the total renovation of Gillingham in line Mathematics of almost 50% and for Science with the improvements to Pembroke. of 34% to 44% over the same period - opportunity for reflection, During 2017 Finningley will undergo a consistently almost double the IEB average similar upgrade. distinction rate for Mathematics and triple celebration and preparation for Science. The standby reservoir is now fully in the lead up to Kearsney’s operational and has three days’ water Consistent with the College’s global outlook, supply. Construction of a facility for the Kearsney is adding to the international Centenary in 2021. storage of canoes with space for minor offering in the Grade 8/9 Elective programme repairs will commence early this year; whilst with isiZulu, French, German, Mandarin, Much progress has been the renovation and upgrading of existing Latin, Italian, Hindi, Spanish and Portuguese. made in preparation academic staff housing is on-going. In 2014 Mandarin was introduced as an examinable curriculum subject, taken for the Centenary and Work has also commenced on the enclosure through to Matric. This year sees the first of the open verandah of ‘Heritage House’ at Grade 10 Mandarin class taking the language the majority of the 95th the Mason Astro. A joint venture between as a full intra-mural subject for Matric. the Kearsney Striders Running Club, the Anniversary events will be Old Boys Hockey Club and the College, KEARSNEY EASTER RUGBY FESTIVAL organised as ‘trial runs’ for the project will provide a venue protected from the elements to be used by the larger The 2016 Kearsney Easter Rugby Festival our Centenary. Kearsney community involved in sport in promises to again thrill crowds with fast- the Astro precinct. paced running rugby from Dale College, EG Jansen, Glenwood, Hoërskool Framesby, A Centenary Planning Committee meets Kearsney must be the only construction site Hoërskool Noord-Kaap, HTS Middelburg, termly to co-ordinate preparations to mark in the world that has a school attached to Kearsney College, Maritzburg College, the College’s 100 years; and a Centenary it! These are exciting times as we continue SACS and Selborne College. Publication Editorial Committee is in place to prepare Kearsney for the celebration of to oversee the writing of the history of the its Centenary; and provide the boys and The festival has grown into one of the College by retired Kearsney teacher Dave parents with the facilities befitting a top premier festivals of its kind in South Africa, Goldhawk. independent boys’ school. attracting powerhouse rugby schools from around the country. The support of CAPITAL PROJECTS 2016 ENROLMENTS Standard Bank as headline sponsor, together with first-tier sponsors The Sharks and The Centenary Centre (over the road The total school enrolment for 2016 Nashua Durban, makes it possible to put on from the dining halls), comprising a large remains very healthy. The Grade 8 group this world-class event. ground floor teaching/exhibition venue and will consist of 132 boys - 24 of these boys four large classrooms on the first floor, was are sons or grandsons of Old Boys. CRAVEN WEEK AND ACADEMY WEEK opened at the start of the 2016 academic year. It includes the ‘Bell Quad’, which will be ACADEMIC PROGRAMMES OF Kearsney is excited to be hosting Craven home to the HMS Suffolk ship’s bell, which EXCELLENCE Week and the U18 Academy Week in July the Matrics traditionally ring after writing 2016. This is the first time in history that their final examination. The second phase of The College has introduced an English the two provincial rugby tournaments will the Centenary Centre (to be built towards Excellence Programme to add to the take place concurrently at the same venue. Pembroke) is scheduled for 2018/19 and Mathematics and Science Excellence There will be 44 teams involved, with over will add eight large classrooms. Programme. A number of strategic initiatives 1 100 players and coaching staff, making will be rolled out with the objective of it arguably the biggest schoolboy inter- The six-year Heat Pump project, which reaching the same levels of excellence in provincial tournament in the world. involves the installation of heat pumps in English and literacy-based subjects. all the boarding houses, swimming pool and laundry, will be concluded with the Given the importance of Maths and Science TOURS installation of the last heat pumps in Sheffield to university entrance, career options and in 2016. This energy-efficient method of South Africa’s economic development, the During the Easter holiday the History and heating water, which also provides sufficient College took the strategic decision almost Visual Art departments will visit historical hot water for all boys, has proved to be a 10 years ago to establish a Maths and sites and world-renowned art galleries in valuable and timely improvement. Science Excellence Programme. Kearsney’s Italy and Germany. impressive Mathematics and Science results The renovation of Haley South Wing was in the IEB examinations (page 25) bear Later in the year a water polo squad will completed timeously for the 2016 intake of testimony to the programme’s effectiveness, tour Croatia, ranked one of the world’s top Grade 8s. Builders have already commenced with a distinction rate in recent years for water polo nations.
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The Centenary Centre commenced construction during 2015,
At the start of 2016 the four large mathematics classrooms on the first floor were complete and ready for use.
Headmaster Elwyn van den Aardweg with the three Verbaan Construction brothers Warren (Finningley 1997), Daniel (1993) and Grant (1994).
Greyhound News | 27 FOUNDATION NEWS PARTNERS: SIR LIEGE AWARD
Top Class Fund
A private hand-over of the Sir Liege Hulett Award was presented to the Rohwer family and Class of 2007 for the 2007 Memorial Fund.
The award was presented on 24 July 2015 by Andrew Kenny, current parent and member of the Kearsney College Board of Governors who heads up the Finance Committee. He said: “The Board salutes those driving this initiative. Gentleman, you have experienced much grief and loss. Yet your endeavour inspires us to live with From left: Ant Fischer (Sheffield 2007), John Dand (Finningley 2007), Andrew Kenny (Board passion, celebrate those we love, embrace member), Manfred Rohwer, Brendan Massey (Pembroke 2007), Craig Shuker (Finningley 2007) life and make the world a better place. with Foundation Director Joy Mills-Hackmann Thank you for Seizing the Day! Carpe Diem!” Creating a Legacy
from as little as R250 a month or as an The KCOB Executive plays an active role Kearsney Sons of Old Boys annual gift, which is ideal for those who are in managing the invested funds, in selecting not living in South Africa. the recipients with input from the Kearsney Bursary Fund. Headmaster and Marketing Team, and It is really quick, easy and safe to pledge closely follows the performance of the At the last Founders dinner, President online: recipients. Lawrence Polkinghorne said: “It is a privilege Step 1: Provide your personal details to have attended a school such as Kearsney (required to get your RSA tax certificate) At least once or twice a year representatives where many men develop friendships of the KCOB Exec interview each recipient Step 2: Select the cause “Sons of Old Boys and opportunities that last a lifetime. The and look at inspiring and offering support Bursary Fund” difference between a good and great school where required. is the strength of the involvement by Old Step 3: Provide your gift amount and bank Boys and the community. I call on all Old details under ‘A’ for regular gifts. The ten 2015 recipients turned out impressive Boys to join me in both service and positive Annual gift: Those who do not have a performances. They attended their annual promotion of Kearsney College.” South African bank account are asked to progress interview on 22 September with give annually. KCOB Exec reps and thereafter enjoyed This bursary assists the sons and grandsons lunch together. of Old Boys who may not have the means Or you can do an EFT into the to continue their family ties with Kearsney. Kearsney College Trust bank account | To contribute to this bursary and provide Standard Bank | Hillcrest 045726 | the next generation of Kearsney boys with Account: 05 203 1276 | EFT Reference: the same life changing experience that each The word Donor + your surname. of us has had at Kearsney, please support our Kearsney Sons of Old Boys Bursary Fund. Gifts can be given as a monthly donation
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of over 900 young South Africans over the “We are confident that the scholars we last 16 years. It is known for identifying place at Kearsney will have the opportunity academically distinguished scholars who to explore and develop to their full demonstrate a financial need and placing potential. We know they will be supported them at some of South Africa’s most and allowed to flourish into the best they prestigious high schools. Kearsney is can be,” said Jenny Ketley, SSP’s Executive Leading new Partnership delighted to work closely with SSP in the Director. future. Kearsney is delighted to announce a new partnership with Student Sponsorship The programme is selective when choosing Programme (SSP) which is part-funding partner schools. The mission is developing two Grade 8 students who joined Kearsney leaders who will be committed to creating in 2016. the society envisioned in the South African Constitution; a non-racist, non-sexist, Kearsney is SSP’s first partner school democratic, united and prosperous South in KwaZulu-Natal. The programme has Africa. Kearsney College is a perfect fit with assisted in raising funding for the education SSP’s mission and values.
2015 Sons of Old Boys: Chase Dunnett (Finningley G12), KCOB Exec Tim Johnson (Gillingham 1999), Blake Litster (Pembroke G12), Matthew Whitfield (Pembroke G11), KCOB President Lawrence Polkinghorne (Gillingham 1990), Greg van Noordwyk (Pembroke G11), Ntinga Tshabalala (Pembroke G10) and Tod Barker (Finningley G10). Not pictured: Cameron Nel (Pembroke G8), Kyle Potter (Finningley G8), Taine Muirhead (Gillingham G9) and James Tedder (Finningley G12).
Greyhound News | 29 FACES IN PLACES GAUTENG KEARSNEY
The first Gauteng Cocktail party was held on 4th February at Garth and Kathy van Strong traditions: Proudly wearing the Kearsney/ Rensburg’s home in Midrand. Front: Rob Lloyd (Gillingham 1986), Mphula Sekhantso Maritzburg College floating jerseys are AJ Keith (Finningley 2006), Garth van Rensburg (Finningley 1976), Dion Arde (Pemboke 1990), and Warren Hendrie (Pembroke 1982), along with Josh Arde (Pembroke 2014), Keith Temlett (Finningley 1977). Back: Carl van Loggerenberg Warren’s Great Dane Grace. (Past Staff), Brett van Rensburg (Finningley 2006), Keith Ballard (Gillingham 1972), Michael Kellaway (Pembroke 1989), Ronnie van Loo (Finningley 1978), Steve Meyer (Pembroke 2002) and Paul Adams (Gillingham 1973). SWAZILAND
The Swaziland Old Boys Day on 22 May at the home of Jody Foss (Finningley 1988) in the heart of Swaziland. Guy Fawcett (unknown1987), Steve Martin (Finningley 1999), Diccon Robinson (Finningley 1966), Anthony Geldard (Finningley 1987), Myles Fawcett (unknown 1991), Stuart Hulley (Pembroke 1987), Jody Foss. Front: Matt Sprague (Pembroke 2008).
ZULULAND Record attendance at the Zululand Dinner on 13 August was enjoyed by 49 people and included Old Boys, Current and Past Parents from the area. From Left: Coreen Reeves, Michelle McHugh, Shaun McHugh and Gareth Reeves (Finningley 1967).
30 | Vol 13 | 2016 FACES IN PLACES DURBAN DURBAN
The Durban Networking Breakfast was held on 4 June at Republic Restaurant in Durban North. Crazy Hat Golf Day grows the Class of Guest Speaker Dave Goldhawk gave his presentation on the Kearsney Centenary History Project. 2007 Memorial Fund. Thank you to all the There were approximately 40 Old Boys in attendance who left Kearsney from five to sixty-five participants and our valued sponsors. The years ago. More than half of them were drawn from the Class of 2007. Dave extended a special photographs from the day and full story welcome to Esmonde Dowse who was a prefect in Gillingham House in 1950: the year the are on the website. cricket pavilion was opened and in which Mrs Katie Polkinghorne laid the foundation stone of the From left: Des Mcdonald, Rod Trotter, Chapel. The Korean War had just begun and Kearsney added the name of Alan Chandler Taylor - Anthony Irons and Mally Kidd. killed north of Seoul - to the Roll of Honour. DOLPHIN COAST
Prize giving hosted by Branch Chairman Tim Johnson (Gillingham ‘99). From Left: Brad Allen The Dolphin Coast branch Golf Day on 6 August at Simbithi Club rolled into a festive dinner (Finningley 1996), Rory Anderson and Dion Joubert. after the prize giving. The event kick-started the branch’s fundraising efforts to fund the beautiful stone arch planned for the new Centenary Academic block. KEARSNEY Left: A pre-wedding visit by the groom, Durban Branch Chair Cameron Buys (centre), (Gillingham 2006), JP Robert (left), (Sheffield 2006) and Angelo van Dyk (Head of School, Sheffield 2006). Boys from the Class of 2007: From left: Brendan Massey (Pembroke), John Dand (Finningley), Craig Shuker (Finningley).
Greyhound News | 31 FACES IN PLACES
CAPE TOWN
The Cape Town Annual dinner was held at The Bay Sports Club on 19 August. It was a great turn out and well supported by the Whippets with the Class of 2012 taking attendance honours. Great effort guys!
SOUTH COAST
The South Coast Branch is back! Branch Chairman Walter Robertson ensured a fantastic dinner on 26 August. It was wonderful to see the resurgence of this branch which last met in 2012. Above, from left: Douglas Kjonstad (Gillingham 1945), Joyce (Douglas’ sister) and Jenny Rawlins. Above right: Mike Reid-Robertson (Finningley 2003) and Sahil Sewpersad (Finningley 2000) will help drive the South Coast branch and enjoyed catching up with their retired master Dave Goldhawk.
OLD CRICKS AT KEARSNEY The annual game was played on 20 November. Standing from left: Craig Kirsten (2012) KC 1st XI; Richard Pentecost (2010) KZN U19; Matt Needham (2003) KC 1st XI; Greg Fotheringham (2003) KZN Amateur, Durham 2nd XI, Sussex 2nd XI; Ricardo Gouveia (2007) SA Schools; Andrew Perkins (2001); Seated from Left: Kyle Connolly (2004) KC 1st XI; Sven Hagemann (2006); Byron Parton (1997) KC 1st XI; Tristan Tedder (2014) KC 1st XI; Stefan Harris (2014) KC 1st XI. Seated at the bottom Jordan Gregory (2013) KC 1st XI. Not Photographed: Benji Hector (C) (1997) Natal Schools Captain and Senior Provincial player. The game was eventually abandoned due to rain.
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Legacy & Survivors it is understandable why so many old boys are committed to preserving and nurturing KEARSNEY the ethos of Kearsney. LEGACY SOCIETY The Survivors are the The Kearsney Survivors - those of us who (Date Legacy was received) most active generation! departed Botha’s Hill 50 years ago or more- 1954 AH (Bertie) Smith recognise that educational excellence is not 1968 RH & Dorothy Matterson They held a Convenor funded by school fees alone. With this reality in mind, the Legacy Committee have 1973 Rutherford Hulett Think Tank Lunch on as their focus four core objectives: 1977 GM (Max) & Pat Oram 19 March 2015 in the •The College’s 2021 Centenary. The 1980 Les France support of all structures focused on Polkinghorne Room at this year and in particular on those who Stanley G & Annelie Osler departed Kearsney prior to 1971. 1983 Lady Usher the Greyhound and each • Inspiring giving and bequests. 1986 Ray L Hulett pledged to a plan of action. • Recognising benefactors - past & future. 1997 James Kingston • Nurturing the values of fellowship. 2001 David O Hall Gentlemen, your work is That Kearsney has an enviable reputation Christine Mason appreciated. of delivering useful young men into our 2005 JH (Jimmy) Hopkins wider society is an achievement of which Philip H Moore THE KEARSNEY FELLOWSHIP to be satisfied. In our evolving society this delivery is utterly critical and with focus the Heather Redgment A notable characteristic of many school Kearsney Survivors hope to make a small 2006 John W Gafney old boys is their enduring passion for their contribution. 2007 James H Charter alma mater. Memories of their school years - both good and bad - remain vivid Lorne Maclaine (Gillingham 1963) John E Farren and, above all, the vast majority of us are Pam Foster immensely grateful for those foundation Ian Ivan Ives years. Over the passing years, Kearsney’s Back: Ted Garner (Finningley 1956), Gavin Bester (Pembroke 1967), old boys have witnessed an evolution Dorothea (Thea) Reece Lorne Maclaine (Gillingham 1963), from a superb boarding school into an Harry Howlett (Finningley 1952) and 2010 William M Crook internationally respected and excellent Brian Stokoe (Finningley 1952) Keith C Comins educational institution. And the future Front: Guy Tomlinson (Gillingham 1965), promises even more. With this background, Ray Wicks (Finningley 1949) and 2013 Leslie Putterill Graeme Shuker (Finningley 1948)
Greyhound News | 33 IN MEMORIAM In Memory
We remember KCOB members who have died since the end of 2014, and notify you, with regret, of the following deaths. Neil Tomkin 1961 - 1964 (Unknown) December 2014 Alastair McEwan 1958 - 1962 (Pembroke) 16 January 2015 Brian Shagam 1943 - 1946 (Finningley) February Owen John Potto 1959 - 1964 (Unknown) February Qiniso ‘Quincy’ Jansen 2005 - 2007 (Pembroke) 01 February Donald Paterson 1963 - 1967 (Gillingham) 06 February Jelf Russell-Boulton 1945 - 1949 (Finningley) 18 March Lawrence Edis (Larry) Crampton 1974 - 1977 (Unknown) 09 April Anthony Robin Schruer 1951 - 1956 (Gillingham) 28 April Harold Groom 1944 - 1947 (Gillingham) 28 June Selwyn Evennett 1947 - 1952 (Gillingham) 10 July Roger Ramseyer 1950 - 1953 (Finningley) 13 July Dennis Beningfield 1941 - 1942 (Gillingham) 03 August Trevor Naylor 1964 - 1965 (Unknown) September Lindsay Sharp 1965 - 1970 (Unknown) 01 September William Rake 1964 - 1967 (Unknown) 08 September Chris Diedericks 1968 - 1993 (Past staff) 15 September Clive Home 1956 - 1959 (Pembroke) 01 October Roy Antrobus 1980 - 1982 (Pembroke) 01 October Tim Worthington 1945 - 1948 (Finningley) 02 October Chris ‘Spook’ Smyth 1969 - 1974 (Pembroke) 29 January 2016
KCweb Full listing and tributes on Old Boys | Trbutes. Please send death notices and tributes to [email protected] Tributes
CHRIS DIEDERICKS Chris taught Afrikaans at Kearsney for over 25 one of the few masters who won these boys’ (Kearsney Staff 1968-1993) years and was the legendary Housemaster of respect and admiration. He obviously never had Pembroke House from 1978 to 1987, a decade a great deal of a problem with discipline, but it during which he ensured that the House was incredible to see boys with no motivation dominated the tug o’ war. and ambition suddenly find new direction under Chris’ guidance. I’m sure there are a few He had a keen sense of humour and was a successful Kearsney Old Boys out there today walking treasury of jokes and humorous stories who can thank Chris Diedericks for setting which he enthusiastically shared with his pupils them on the right road.” and colleagues. A great practical joker, he often caught teachers off their guard by submitting Chris and his wife Marieta retired to Philippolis an examination script under the name of a where he continued teaching at the local school, boy who was absent from school on the day it soon proudly proclaiming that he was Head of was written. Needless to say, the answers were English and Sotho as well as of Afrikaans! often creative and sometimes risqué. After Marieta’s death he continued to live at Known to the boys as DD or Slomo, because Philippolis but also undertook some travelling, of his laboured manner of walking, Chris including a walking tour of Russia. More recently, kept an ear to the ground and was quick to he re-married and moved to Parys. Chris Diedericks joined the staff of Kearsney discover smokers and their new dens, and to College in the third term of 1968, having taught gain foreknowledge of parties which might Chris is survived by his widow Sue Blom, his previously in South West Africa (Namibia), encourage boys to bunk out. sons Ulrich, Stefan and Riaan and his daughter, Estcourt and Wartburg. Zelda. He will be fondly remembered and sorely On one occasion, such a “bunker” returned to missed by all who knew him at Kearsney. A man of formidable stature, he had earned his cube, worse for wear, in the early hours of a his provincial rugby colours as a forward in Sunday morning to find DD in his bed ready to Rus in vrede, ons dierbare DD. the South West African team. Keeping himself apprehend him! well-conditioned in the weights room, he played Dave Goldhawk (Kearsney Staff 1984-2013) for the Old Crocks against the Kearsney One- In a tribute paid to Chris when he retired at Stripe. the end of 1993, Dave Pearse (Class of 1974) mentioned that he “always had a soft spot for the ‘rebels’ in the school and over the years was
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HAROLD GROOM Estate at Amatikulu. On retirement he bought a moved back to RSA and worked at the George (Gillingham 1947) small farm in the Byrne Valley, near Richmond, KZN. hospital until late 2014.
Selwyn’s first wife, Sally, died tragically. He Donald will be remembered for his exceptionally remarried Mary. He has a daughter who lives in high standards of integrity, level of physical the Hillcrest area. fitness, and always had a word of wisdom to those around him. Dogs were very important to Selwyn and his Pointers were his pride. He hunted with them A special family man who provided his sons the in the Eastern Cape. great Kearsney education that he was also able to enjoy. It is of special interest that Richard Pat Marshall (Gillingham 1952) is now an Orthopaedic surgeon, Alastair an Anaesthetist and Christopher a Chemical Engineer. CLIVE HOME (Pembroke 1959) Our special condolences to Gillian and the whole Paterson family. My wife Lesley and Almost to the end, our fellow Old Boy Harold Clive Home from Umkomaas saved 17 people sons will always remember Donald with great Groom was a stalwart supporter of KCOBs when the ship The Produce sank off the Natal admiration and love. Donald will be sorely and especially the Kearsney Survivors. South Coast in 1974. His love of fishing kept missed. him close to the sea most of his life, where he He was an accomplished pilot with the SA Air and fellow fishermen carried out numerous Gavin Bester (Pembroke 1967) Force, had a very long and happy career at rescues when boats got into trouble in the area. Old Mutual and also served on the Cape Town A large potato bass which made its home at Chamber of Commerce. Aliwal Shoal was named in his honour. QINISO ‘QUINCY’ JANSEN (Pembroke 2007) Harold was enjoying his retirement in Somerset Having qualified at Rhodes University as a West and between him and his family, decided pharmacist, he only started working in the that instead of moving out of his home of profession after retiring from commercial fishing. so many years, that he would rather have a lift installed in the house for ease of access “He was a very smart man and an astute between the floors. academic. Although he was a qualified pharmacist, he loved the ocean and spent Unfortunately during the building operations, most of his life making a living as a commercial Harold’s breathing was severely affected by the fisherman. His knowledge of the ocean and his cement dust, and his health deteriorated rapidly ability as a skipper allowed him to brave the within a few weeks. He was eventually moved ocean when others would not dare. He would into a care centre, but the damage was done, never hesitate to go out and rescue people,” and he succumbed to this ailment during June, said his sister-in-law Laurette Moon. at the age of 85. Clive succumbed to cancer during October He was given an honourable send-off at Ysterplaat 2015. by his loving family, business and Air Force We remember Quincy with great fondness. His colleagues. Harold was a great man who will positive energy and love for life was contagious be remembered with love by all who knew him. DONALD PATERSON and he will always be remembered for his (Gillingham 1967) wonderful stage presence as a leading member Brian Groom (son) of Kearsney’s acclaimed choir. It is with great sadness that I convey the news that Dr Donald Paterson died Friday 6th From Kearsney he went on to study psychology SELWYN McLEOD EVENNETT February 2015. and worked at the Star Academy. Whilst (Gillingham 1952) studying he coached various sports at schools. Donald leaves his wife Gillian, Richard, Alastair Quincy was introduced to the Star Academy Selwyn McLeod Evennett passed away in July and Christopher all Kearsney Old Boys from through a friend and said that although it 2015. He attended Kearsney College from 1991 through to 2003. He also leaves his sister was a completely-by-chance introduction, his 1948-1952 and was in Gillingham house. He Jean (Perth), his two brothers Andrew (KCOB appointment there turned out to be the best and David Scott who had come to South Africa 1965) and Maurice (KCOB 1971). opportunity ever. He wrote into Kearsney Old from Canada became good friends through Boys to share his good fortune and said “I love their mothers, who played tennis together. Donald was a highly respected Gillingham the kids and getting to work with them on a prefect, fleet footed and always an exceptionally daily basis. What I love most about the job is Selwyn played tennis and cricket for Kearsney. fit loose forward for the 2nd rugby team. He that it is like being a kid again, while at the same He was a good batsman. Shortly after leaving excelled at swimming and water polo at Kearsney. time we are doing such an important job that school Selwyn went to work on a farm in the He went on to represent his province Transvaal changes lives. It’s very fulfilling.” Kokstad area, where he renewed contact with at water polo while at Wits medical school. Andrew MacKenzie, a classmate. After a short Sadly Quincy passed away aged 25, after a heart time he moved to Zululand and joind Huletts as He served as a Specialist Anaesthetist in attack following a 42km run. an Agricultural Estate Manager in the Kearsney/ Kimberley for most of his career, then moved Darnall area. Later, he moved to the Clifton onto Kings Lynn in the UK. Thereafter he Joy Mills-Hackmann (Foundation Director)
Greyhound News | 35 FOUNDERS WEEKEND 95th ANNIVERSARY Day 1 Thursday 24 March 3rd & 4th June 09h30 KZN U13 Provincial Development vs Umhlali Preparatory ‘41 ‘46 ‘51 ’56 ’61 ’66 10h45 Kearsney College vs Hoërskool Noord-Kaap ’71 ’76 ’81 ’86 ’91 ’96 ’01 ’06 ‘11 12h00 HTS Middelburg vs Selborne College 13h15 Glenwood High School vs Dr E G Jansen Seating is limited to 400 places. You are automatically 14h30 Maritzburg College vs Dale College seated with your year group or generation. Bookings 15h45 SACS vs Hoërskool Framesby close by Tuesday 10 May! ALL are welcome. Day 2 Saturday 26 March 08h30 KZN U13 Provincial Development vs Pelham 2016 is Kearsney’s 95th Anniversary. We encourage 09h30 Hoërskool Framesby vs Dale College all SIX and ONE Class groups to book early to avoid 10h45 Glenwood High School vs HTS Middelburg disappointment. A booking form is enclosed or go 12h00 Kearsney College vs SACS online to Old Boys on www.kearsney.com 13h15 Maritzburg College vs Selborne College 14h30 Dr E G Jansen vs Hoërskool Noord-Kaap A REFLECTION 17h05 Sharks vs Crusaders at Growthpoint Kings Park You’re never alone. Day 3 Monday 28 March God is with you. 09h30 KZN U13 Provincial Development vs Highbury He knows your name. 10h45 SACS vs Selborne College He numbers the hairs on your head. 12h00 Hoërskool Framesby vs Hoërskool Noord-Kaap He understands the cares in your heart. 13h15 Maritzburg College vs Dr E G Jansen Every morning, He’s by your side. 14h30 Glenwood High School vs Dale College Every night, He watches over you as you sleep. 15h45 Kearsney College vs HTS Middelburg There’s never a moment you’re not in His 17h00 Awarding of Sharks Academy Bursaries thoughts... Never a day you’re not in His care. You’re never on your own. He whispers to your heart, “You’re forever My own.” Just a little reminder... Love is with you today. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God. I John 4:16 NIV
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