The 2025 Chronicle

whispers, hurried movements to focus binoculars, and the rapid clicking of cameras captured this breathtaking encoun ter. For the next half an hour, we stood in awe, savouring the rarity of the moment. Heading back to Balgowan, our hearts were full of excitement and satisfaction. This sighting was an extraordinary, possibly one-off encounter – one that will surely be remembered as a highlight in the history of the Michaelhouse Birding Society. Our group of twitchers was made up of Mr Jeffrey, Cullen Duffield, Harry Strachan, Ben Franz, Cameron Timcke, Matthew Godbold and Matthew Rees.

ed arrival of this single bird was a complete mystery, leaving birders both intrigued and eager to witness this remarkable occurrence. Arriving at our destination near the Umgeni River, just down stream of Albert Falls Dam, we spent over an hour meticu lously searching the dense riverine bush. With every rustle of leaves and flicker of movement, our excitement grew. As the daylight faded, our hopes of spotting this once-in-a-lifetime bird began to wane. Then, just in time, the White-throated Bee-eater finally made its grand appearance! The moment was electric – excited

The birding society searching for the White-throated Bee-eater

BACKYARD ADVENTURES

Written by Mr Ed Jeffrey

appreciation for their surroundings.

For the second year in a row, we returned to Mount Gilboa, a prominent peak in the KZN Midlands. All 125 D Block boys, split into two groups, camped overnight at the base of the mountain and then attempted to summit the peak early the following day. Accessible but demanding outings like this provide opportunities for boys to engage in activities that promote collaboration and leadership skills, and encour age them to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges with confidence. These experiences have not only brought some challenge and a sense of adventure but have also enabled new learning op portunities for our D and E Block boys. These “backyard adven tures” enable our boys to connect with the world around them – away from screens and distractions they can fully immerse themselves in the present moment, fostering mindfulness and

E BLOCK PADDLING PROFICIENCY Despite the third quarter being especially cold, with tempera tures often below 15ºC, the focus for this quarter was spent in House groups paddling and learning about water safety. Boys spent time on the Van der Westhuizen Dam learning how to recognise and use a kayak. They were instructed on correct entry and exit of the paddle blade, on maintaining strong, rhythmic paddle strokes, and on dealing with waves and turbulence. E BLOCK HIKE The E Block camp usually incorporates a two-day, out-and back hike to the summit of Inhlosane. The camp started as it had done in the past, with boys overnighting in the reserve for the first two nights while they participated in various House

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