FLIPPING BOOK CHRONICLE 2024

BRANCH REPORTS

BOTSWANA Written by Brendan Garcin (Founders, 1995)

CAPE TOWN Written by Kyle Dutton (Mackenzie, 2004)

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proved to be a memorable year for the OMs of Botswana, marked by a series of successful events and noticeable growth in our ranks. The year was filled with camaraderie, competition and celebration, strengthening the bond among alumni and their connection to the region. The year kicked off with the first official OM gathering in Maun, hosted by Dorian Hoy (Founders, 1985) on 8 February. The event was attended by Richard Uren (Baines, 1994), Mathew Johnston (Baines, 1999) and Gareth Peake (Baines, 2006). It was a resounding success, and the turnout highlighted the strong desire for further gatherings in Maun. The following day, Friday 9 February, the OMs of Botswana entered a team into the inaugural Independent Schools Golf Day at the Gaborone Golf Club. Displaying resilience and skill, the OM team triumphed and took home victory, marking a proud achievement for the group. This event showcased the competitive spirit of the OMs while strengthening their sense of unity. Later that day, the Botswana affiliate hosted the Rector, Antony Clark, and the Head of Marketing and Admissions, Murray Witherspoon, at Thornhill Primary School for a meet-and greet with prospective, current and past parents. The event was another resounding success, with a noticeable sense of pride and connection among the attendees. Of particular note was the presence of Leruri Sealetsa (West, 2019), who had not previously been involved with the Botswana affiliate but was eager to reconnect and contribute to the Old Boys’ Club. On Saturday 10 February, the first official OM golf day took place at the Phakalane Golf Estate. The event was attended by the following: • Dave Denbury (Farfield, 2001) • Chris Manger (West, 2005) • Akash Patel (East, 2010) • Myles Denton (Tatham, 2003) • Murray Witherspoon (East, 1993) • Mark Ross (East, 2005) • Mudiwa Mwayi (West, 2009) Although golf was the focus of the day, the real highlight was the exchange of stories and the bonding between OMs late into the evening. The Botswana OM affiliate continues to grow, with four new members joining the ranks this year. The expansion of the organisation demonstrates the ongoing interest in fostering connections among OMs in the region. Plans are already in motion for another golf day next year, as well as the defence of the trophy won at the inaugural Independent Schools Golf Day. Looking ahead, the affiliate remains committed to welcoming new OMs and their families to Botswana, whether they are passing through or relocating permanently.

he year got off to a grand start in the fair Cape when the first-year students, last year’s matrics, were hosted at two separate events at UCT and Stellenbosch. The idea was to introduce them to the Old Boys’ network and give them some background as to how we can offer support if required. It was fantastic to note how many new OMs are currently based down here. Each month we endeavoured to host casual after-work drinks at either Forester’s Arms or the Western Province Cricket Club. These were fairly well attended, although the sharp winter did hamper this somewhat. These will continue as we wind down to year-end. Steve Peel from Shackelton’s Brewing Company kindly hosted a number of OMs and old Hiltonians at his pub for Hilton v Michaelhouse screenings. The support was fantastic, and it offered a chance for Old Boys to connect around the famous rivalry and relive fond memories. The final event of the year was the annual dinner and AGM hosted once again at Simon’s at Groot Constantia. With 90 OMs in attendance, and Ron regaling us with stories of his travels, the evening provided some great entertainment. School songs were sung, and war cries were performed as the evening wore on, with many staying until the very end. The Rector, Ron and Charles Phillips ventured out to the Winelands the following day to host a small number of senior OMs and their partners in what was once again a very pleasant day out. With more events in the pipeline, the year can finish strong. We plan for more engagements in 2025 and look forward to welcoming a new batch of OMs in the near future. Thanks to all who assisted, including the local committee, Ron, Murray and their respective teams. Without their continued support, this job would be much more difficult.

DURBAN Written by Nicholas Tatham (Farfield, 2007)

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he Durban branch of the Michaelhouse Old Boys’ Club enjoyed another successful year, and it went by in an absolute flash. The members of our branch continue to be incredibly supportive of the events that we host, and have been vital in us maintaining a healthy financial position, which has seen the branch continue to play a significant role in financial support for boys at Michaelhouse. 2024 saw us host two significant events, our annual formal dinner and the ever-popular golf day, which took place towards the end of November.

With the support of an incredible committee led by Scott Rogers

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