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Acknowledgements Cover pictures: David Hooper Frontispiece: P. J. Reece Again our photographs are from a wide variety of sources. Official groups are by Photo Hein. We are indebted also to Derek Cibbs, R, Fitzpatrick, J. L. Hall, R. Henry,). Find Holmes, B. Livsey, P. E. Metcalf, P. J. Reece, M.Schiller, N. Smith and J. league for prints used in this issue. All line drawings are by Philip Matley and Gary Bax. Printed by Colorgraphic Designed by Beatty's Graphic Service. Editor: R. Lamplough Old Boys' Section: D. Beatty
KEARSNEY CHRONICLE 1972 KEARSNEY COLLEGE,BOTHA'S HILL NATAL,SOUTH AFRICA APRIL,1973
PREFECTS 1972 Back: R, Cardiga, M. Foxcroft, D. Keatley, A. Webber, R. Kraus, J. Pretorius, R. Rielly (FHouse Prefects). Centre: A. Lloyd, P. Currie, G. Pilkington, D. Mutch, P. Liebetrau(House Prefects). Seated: C. Calverley, E. von Glehn, The Headmaster, G. Russell, C. Scorgie(School Prefects). iS ■afi Vv mm Staff 1972 Back: C-E. Jeannot, G. Giles, C. Barbour, T. Allen, J. de Beer, M. Mossom, E. Beresford, M. Nicholson, C. DIedericks, C. Broster, P. Tennant. Centre: M. Myhill, L. Kassier, R. Townshend, R. Irons, A. Thiselton, R. Brown, L. Zaayman, J. Hall, B. Williams, P. Reece, Mrs. M. Hope, K. Balcomb, Mrs. Y. Dibb, R. Lamplough, A. Bromley-Gans. Seated: J. Faber, D. Alletson, R. Blamey, P. Metcalf, Rev. M. Martin, J. H. Hopkins (headmaster), J. Storm, D. Lewis-Williams, K. Fish, ). Harper. The Sixth Form 1972 Hilit! clTlZtnul <SsSsjh Di>_ i«e winiiiiiii 'H3 Em s KFAR.SNtY CHRONfCI.L
coiu-ecc 4^ "How do wc keep our balanee?" asks Tevye, the irrepressible dairyman of Anatevka."That EDITORIAL I can tell you in one word-Tradition!" And he goes on to explain,"Because of our traditions we have kept our balance for many, many years." At schools like Kearsney and indeed in South Africa as a whole we set a great deal of store by tradition. Perhaps the reason is that we share Tevye's view; that we hold what might be called the conventional idea oftradition. We value traditions because we believe thatthey make for continuity and stability. Regiments whose histories go back to Bunker Hill or Waterloo, or, as with the Natal Carbineers, to the Bushmen campaigns of the 1850's, are said to have greater tenacity in battle. Some boys enter Eton even now in the knowledge that their ancestors right back to the fifteenth century have trodden that path before them,so that in a sense they arc not really 'new boys' at all. Others whose history does not go back so far never theless soon learn to do and to say what has been done and said by their predecessors for centuries, so that they are linked to the distant past by a process of adoption, as it were. It is somehow satisfying to men to know that their lives are firmly rooted in the past. There is some thing even more satisfying in the belief that future generations will continue on the same lines. Perhaps in this way we appease our craving for immortality. There is a danger,however,that a professed love for tradition may be nothing more than a cloak for irrational conservatism. Certainly we are enjoined in Scripture not to remove the ancient landmarks which the fathers have set. But we can preserve those landmarks for no other reason than a stubborn conviction that 'the old is better'. We can wave the flag of tradition in fear at the implications of change simply because it is change. Piet Retief and his fellows were in many ways seventeenth century folk on whom the nineteenth century had burst with a rush. It is significant that the theme underlying all the grievances of the Voortrekkers was that the age-old traditions of the eastern frontier had been overturned. Tradition can perpetuate inefficiency and disorder, particularly if the tradition is an old one. The system known as the ancien regime in Europe served its purpose admirably in the Middle Ages but by the eighteenth century it was outworn and positively cumbersome. The custom of purchasing commissions in the British Army ensured that officers were men with a stake in the country and prevented the rise of penniless adventurers who might benefit from creating disturbances. It was, furthermore, an army organised in this way that defeated Napoleon.But this system led also to the incredible blunders of the Crimean War.The failure to adapt to new conditions of warfare brought Britain to defeat both in America and in South Africa. The same fundamental fault lay at the root of the exceptionally high loss of life in the Eirst World War. There is, however, a greater danger still. Tradition, as Churchill once observed in connection with the Royal Navy,can enshrine not only inefficiency but vice and inhumanity as well. Slavery was an institution of respectable antiquity in many parts of the world two hundred years ago, yet there can be few,even of the most conservative, who would defend it today. The worship of Baalim became a tradition of ancient Israel and brought upon that nation a series of severe judgements to teach them the error of their ways. We must be on our guard, therefore, when men talk of traditions and our traditional way of life. We must be prepared to take a long,hard look at our own traditions,whether local or national. We must be willing to put them to the test. It has been said that 'tradition grows ever more venerable' and herein lies the greatest difficulty. We have to steer between the rock of accepting a tradition simply because it is old and the whirlpool of modern iconoclasm which rejects outright for precisely the same reason. We have, above all, to be honest with ourselves. The test may not be one of convenience, but of justice, compassion and truth. If our traditions prolong human suffering; if they tend to preserve injustices; if they teach us and others to believe a lie, then the sooner we are shut of them the better for everyone. One of the most terrible charges to be levelled at man was laid against the Pharisees two thousand years ago."Ye have made the commandmentofGod ofnone effect by your tradition." If this is true of us we are indeed of all men most miserable. Rather than be overwhelmed by the fear thatnew wine will break our old bottles,let us have the courage to examine ourselves and to choose a more excellent way. (imoMci i
SCHOOL NOTES W.Storm n' ir # V ■Vv m m afeA ' m IHi ...... . .. The school was saddened early in the second term to learn of the illness of Mr. R. J. Crawford, the Vice-Principal. We are happy to report, however, that Mr. Crawford has been able to return to his home in Botha's Hill and that he is determined to resume his duties during the course of 1973. It was with sorrow also that we heard of the deaths of two faithful friends and loyal servants of the College over many years,Mr. W. H. Gersback, a member of the Board of Governors, and Patrick Mnyandu, who had been employed in Finningley since 1939 and who had come here from the North Coast. We remember their respective families in their bereavement. This year we were joined by the Rev. Milton Martin and his family. Mr. Martin took up the appointment of College Chaplain. Additions to the teaching staff wereMr. T. Allen,Mr. A. Bromley-Gans, Mr. C. Broster and Mr. R. Brown. Sister M. Shuttleworth was appointed to the Sanatorium staff. Miss S. Mills to the Administrative staff and Mrs. R. Crane as matron of Finningley House. The most junior section of our population has been enlarged by the arrival of two lusty young males, sons of the Kassiers and the de Beers respectively. Two of our bachelor masters, furthermore, were married during the Christmas holidays and by the time these notes appear in print Mrs. Myhill and Mrs. Bromley-Gans should be established at Kearsney. We welcome all thesenew members of our community and wish them a rewarding and happy association with the College. To the parents of the baby sons and to the bridegrooms we would add our congratulations. Congratulations also to Mr. J. W. Storm, who has been appointed acting Vice-Principal in Mr. Crawford's absence; to Mr. R. Townshend on graduating B.A.; to Mr. D. Lewis-Williams on being invited to deliver a paper in Italy at an international symposium on prehistoric religion, and to Mr. G. Giles on his selection to represent Natal at rugby once again and on his appoint ment as vice-captain of the team in April. There are, as usual, many boys to be commended. J. Alcock went to Heidelberg as a member of theSouth African swimming team in the International Paraplegic Games. C. Dibb came second in the South African Sprog Championships. M. Halliday and J-M. Baverey playedNatal Schools rugby. Halliday, too, captained the Natal Junior Athletics team, of which R. Hopkins was a member. A. Reid and I. McClure played Natal Schools water polo. P. Nieuwoudt represented Natal in the inter-school Chess Championships in December. L. Bailes (whose name, incidentally, was hopelessly garbled in our last issue) led the Kearsney Show Jumping team to victory at Shongweni and is believed to have established a South African record in the process. G. Pilkington won a Rotary Exchange Scholarship to America for 1973. G. Pickles was awarded his Private Pilot's licence. B. Hancock completed the Comrades Marathon in nine hours forty minutes and five of our lifesavers qualified as examiners. Kearsney teams won the Senior and Junior trophies in the Natal Inter-school SailingChampion ships and the Durban seven-a-side rugby tournament. Particular congratulations to Martin Wood who left Finningley at the end of the year. One day during the Christmas holiday period he saved the lives of three teenaged boys in two single-handed rescue operations. During the year the new Careers and Administration block was opened by Mr. C. R. Saunders of Hulett's and the Careers counsellors were able to move out of their dungeon behind the Henderson Hall and spread their apparatus with ill-concealed glee. Regularly each week seven of our masters have been seen travelling to Pietermaritzburg for B.Ed, lectures. The class they belong to totals eleven. It is reliably reported that the Kearsney men approached the University authorities with an offer to transfer the course to the Botha's Hill campus but that their generous proposal had regretfully to be declined. It is always sad at this time of the year to'bid farewell to good friends. From the teaching staff we shall miss Mr. C. Barbour, Mr. I. Gibson, Mr. R. Whiteford andMrs. E. Whiteford. In addition we have lost the services of Mrs. Erandsen and Mrs. Higham, house matrons, and Mrs. Fourie of the catering department. To them all we extend our best wishes for the future. Stop Press: Late Final. Gongratulations to the German Department on 100% A's in the recent N.S.C. examinations. 6 KK.^RSNt^ C:HRt)NK;i.l
SPEECH DAY Headmaster's Report NUMBERS. The school enrolment of 49S, made up of 44! Boarders and 57 Day Boys, reflects an increase of one Boarder and one Day Boy on our 1971 numbers. CHAPLAIN. We extend a very sincere welcome to the Rev. and Mrs. Milton Martin and their two boys who have recently returned to the Republic from Scotland. Mr. Martin has undertaken his duties with keenness and enthusiasm. I am sure Staff and boys have been impressed by his friendliness and Mrs. Martin's grace and charm. Their two sons attend Kearsney as Day Boys and we hope they too will enjoy a happy and successful time with us. STAFF. We welcome the following new members of Staff: Mr, C. C. Broster, B.A., who joins the English Depart ment; Mr. A. Bromley-Gans, N.A.T., who takes over the Art Department; Mr.Tim Allen, T.T.H.D.,an Old Boy,to teach English and History; and Mr. S. Brown, who is a member of the Mathematics Department. We congratulate Mr.R.Townshend on achieving his B.A. degree as the result of the examinations he wrote in November last. Heartiest congratulations also to Mr. Garth Giles on his selection for the Natal Rugby Team again this season. I am very sorry to report that Mr. R. Whiteford, who has rendered sterling service in the Mathematics Department for the last twelve years, resigned at the end of the first quarter in order to take up an appointment incommercial aviation. Mr. Whiteford's departure is a great loss to Kearsney and to the teaching profession as a whole. The whole school suffereda severe shock soon after the beginning ofthe second quarter when Mr.R.J. Crawford,our Vice-Prmcipal, suffered a severe cerebral haemorrhage, as a result of which he was confined to the Intensive Care Unit of St. Augustine's Hospital for three weeks. I am pleased to say that the prayers of Staff and boys, conducted daily under the leadership of our Chaplain, have been answered and Mr. Crawford is out of danger and is making steady progress. We look forward to his complete recovery and return to us in due course. Mr. R. J. Crawford. Mrs. Hope returned at the beginning of the .second term to take over Mr. Balcomb's work while he was on long leave, and remained to take over Mr. Gibson's commitments for the Third and Fourth Quarters. The Careers and Counselling department has suffered a severe set-back with the resignation of Mr. 1. Gibson who left at the end of June to take up an appointment as Assistant Student Adviser at the University of Natal, Durban. SYMPOSIUM IN ITALY. Mr. D. Lewis-Williams has been invited to attend an International Symposium on pre historic religion to be held at Valcamonica, Italy, from 16th September to 8th October, 1972. Mr. Lewis-Williams will be reading a paper entitled "The Religious Aspects of the Natal Drakensberg Rock Paintings". The Human Sciences Research Ciouncil has awarded a grant to enable him to attend the Symposium. We congratulate Mr. Lewis-Williams on this invitation and wish him a happy and successful visit overseas. Mr. R. Lamplough will be acting as Housemaster during his absence. ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF. We welcome Miss Sarah Mills who joined us in January as Receptionist and Bursar's Secretary. DOMESTIC STAFF. Mrs. J. Frandsen relinquished her post as Matron of Finningley at the end of the Second Quarter and her place was taken by Mrs. R. Crane, who acred temporarily as Matron of Gillingham during the Second Quarter of this year. We welcome Mrs. M. J. Shuttleworth who has been appointed as Relief Sister at the Sanatorium. AFRICAN STAFF. I am very sorry indeed to record the death in June of Patrick Mnyandu who served the College for a period of 42 years. Joining the domestic staff at the old school, he mo\ed to Botha's Hill in 19,^9 when he served under fi ve successive m i Housemasters in Finningley House, in addition to being a loyal and faithful servant, he Was a leading member of the Botha's Hill African Methodist Church -- which he served with distinction over a long period. As a mark of their affection the boys collected R105 for the family - of this amount Finningley contributed R79, an average of almost 80 cents per boy. To Patrick's widow and her family we extend our sincere sympathy in their great loss. PREFECTS' INDUCTION. At the usual impressive ceremony in the Chapel on Friday,4th February,the following Prefects were inducted: B. E. von Glehn (Head Boy); G. A. B. Russell (Deputy); A. j. Bissett; G. J. C.alverley; R. F. C. A. Cardiga; D. M. Keatley; R. P. Kraus; P. J. Liebetrau; A. D. Lloyd; H. P. Moore; D. R. Mutch;G. E. Pilkington; J. L. Pretorius; R. A. Reilly; C. T. Scorgie; N. C. Waller; A. R. Webber. EXAMINATION RESULTS. Our results in the Natal Senior Certificate examination were again most gratifying, with Johann Nel gaining six 'A's' and one 'B' and Anthony Smith fi ve 'A's' and two 'B's', with an 'A' aggregate in each case. Of the 74 entries on the Advanced level, there were 28 Merit passes and a total of 60 boys gained University Matric passes. There were .31 'A' and 5.3 'B' symbols. Other outstanding achievements were: G. Cdiff 1 'A', 4'B's' and a *B' aggregate M.Jollands ....3'A's', 2 *B's' and a 'B'aggregate B. Maister 4'A's', 1 'B' and a 'B' aggregate B. Robinson.... 1 'A', 2'B's' and a 'B'aggregate D. Tessel 1 'A', 3'B's' and a 'B'aggregate There were three failures on the 'A' level and,of the 12 entries on the Ordinary level, 9 passed the Natal Senior Certificate. TAALBOND EXAMINATION RESULTS. 80 boys passed the Afrikaans examinations: 24 Hoer Taaieksamen 36 Laer 1 aaleksamen 20 Voorbereidende Taaleksamen This year we have entered 223 candidates. MATHEMATICS OLYMPIAD. Heartiest congratula tions to Johann Nel and Anthony Smith who were placed in the first ten of the Mathematics Olvmpiad. DIFFERENTIATED EDUCATION.Through the Head master, the Board is keeping in close touch with Dr. G. S. Hosking, Deputy Director (Planning) of the Natal Education Department and his Staff,so as to have the best advice possible on all aspects of the new system of Differentiated Education which is to be implemented in 1973. Over a period of years Kearsney has built up a reputation for being in the forefront of educational thought and develop ment. I am pleased to assure parents. Old Boys and friends that the Board of Governors is fully alive to the challenge of the new system, and will continue to do its utmost to keep Kearsney well to the fore offuture developments in high schr)ol education. THE CAREERS AND ADMINISTRA I ION BLOCK. 'A
Thanks to generous donations from the Hulctt's Sugar Cor poration Ltd., and the Natal Kducation DcpartniLMit, this block was completed in time for the begmning of the first term. The additional office accommodation is proving a boon to the administrative staff who for so long suffered the in convenience of cramped working conditions. & emit<5« Durban Corporation and the entrance is now floodlit. Apart from enhancing greatly the appearance of the gates at night, it is now much easier for visitors to find their way, especiallv in misty weather. CADET BAND. After a year of inactivity following the re-organisatioM of the system of cadet training, our Band was resuscitated this year. Although young and inexperienced,they gave a good account of themselves when invited to pur on a demonstration at the St. Mary's Kete. The Band will also be on parade on Founders Dav and on Remem brance Sunda\. We are grateful to Mr.Zaayman and the whole Band for the time and effort they have put into their training this year. FORD VAN. During the second term the College acquired a new Ford light van with an all-weather canopy in place of the old Ford F2.50 model which had given yeoman service for many years. The van is one of the most useful of the school vehicles, being used to transport single teams and smaller groups of boys to and from their fixtures at other schools. Guidance Team in action. HOBBIES BLOCK. The Old Boys' appeal for funds in this connection has raised R I 40(J which is below their original target. I am hoping that the Board will be able to see its way to finance this project on the understanding that the Old Boys raise the balance over a period of time. The Old Boys have agreed to make the R140b available should the Board decide to proceed. FEES. It was with great reluctance that the Board was forced to increase fees as from Ist April, 1972, in order to meet rising costs in every department of school adminis tration. Despite this increase, Kearsney fees remain well below most ofthe other private schools ofcomparable size and status, although our academic standards are as high and we provide similar amenities. AFRICAN STAFF WAGES.For some time the Board has been concerned about the wages paid to our African Staff. Following a careful study of our wage structure in relation to current costs, the Board has instituted substantial increases in the basic wages of both African and Indian staff. These scales will be reviewed at regular intervals inorder to ensure that wages paid bear a realistic relation to the cost of living index. 1 am sure parents and friends will welcome this move on the part of the Board. LIBRARY. The library continues to play an important part in the academic life of the school and the Board may be interested in the following extract from "Libri Natales" - the official orga • of the Natal Provincial Library Service; ''Congraulations to Kearsney College, which celebrated its Golden Jubilee on the 4th and .5th September (1971). Our School Library Depot at Kearsney is one of the most flourish ing in the Province". OPERATION UPGRADE.It is most gratifying to be able to record a signiricant movein the field of adult literacy among our African servants. It is pleasing that the initiative has come from the boys themselves, under the guidance of the Chaplain. Sponsored by our Guild whose members are contributing generously towards the expenses, the organisers of Operation Upgrade have arranged for a tutor to rake classes on two even ings a week in our African Staff dining/recreation hall. So far 16 Africans have been enrolled, 11 for classes in Zulu, and 5 in English. It is anticipated that as these classes become increasingly popular it may be necessary to recruit a second tutor. The boys are to be commended most heartily on this signi ficant ventun? into communitv service. FOUNDERS ENTRANCE.At long last negotiations for an electricity connection have been concluded with the SCHOOL POPULATION Denominations Methodist 197 Anglican 198 Roman Catholic 36 Congregationalist 2 Christian Scientist 5 Domicile by Provinces Natal 395 Transvaal 54 O.F.S 4 Cape 5 East Griqualand 5 Presbyterian 26 Dutch Reformed 5 Jewish 15 Quaker Others 16 Lesotho, Botswana .... 1 Swaziland 7 South-West Africa - Rhodesia 2 Zambia 13 Other areas 11 It is gratifying to record that there are now 52 sons of Old Boys in the school. SPORT.The following Committees have been appointed for 1972; Cricket: M.Foxcroft(Captain),W.van Zyl(Vice-Captain), Rugby: E. von Glehn (Captain). Swimming: R. P. Kraus (Captain), A. Goldman, C. M. Chisholm,J. L. Pretorius. Hockey: G. Calvcrlcy (Captain), M.Foxcroft (Vice-Captain), P. Liebetrau, H. Moore. Shooting: T. J. Staples (Captain), M. F. Gillespie (Vice-Cap tain). Squash: D. G. Dyer (Captain), J. H. Wickins (Vice-C(aprain). Tennis: E. Coll (Captain), P. Engelbrecht. Athletics: G. E. Pilkington (Captain), N. G. Waller, G. A. B. Russell, M. R. Halliday. Cross Country: G. A. B. Russell (Captain). CREDITS:Two Bo\ s, Michael Bester and Justin Immelman, were selected to represent Natal Schools at Nuffield Week. C. Dibb was placed second in the South African Sprog (Championships held at the Cape in January. He is the current Natal Dabchick Champion, and builhtis own boat. Two of our boys, M. Halliday in the ii. 19 group and R. Hopkins in the u. 17, were selected to represent Natal at the South African Junior Athletic Championships at Standerton at Easter. Despite extremely high standards and tremendous competition, both boys gave an excellent account of them selves. Congratulations are extended to the following: 1. M. Halliday and J.-M. Baverey on being selected for the Natal Schools Rugby team to play in Craven VX'eek. 2. The Kearsney Seven-a-side Rugby Team who won the Dave Williams tournament during July, defeating Dirkie Uys,Campbell High School, D.H.S.,(ilenwood and Mans field. Kearsney also reached the Quarter Finals in both the U.I4 and u.l5 sections. 3. The Kearsney team, comprising Luke Bailes (CCaptain), S. du Toit and B. Latimer, won South Africa's first InterSchool Show Jumping C.hampionship at Shongweni in J"l> ■ Luke Bailes was also awarded the Victor Ludorum and the Junior Grand Prix Trophy. He is believed to be the first junior rider to clear four rounds, a total of 50 jumps, in a team event. 4. The Kearsney "A" and "B" teams who were placed Ist and 2iid respectively in the Natal Inter-Schools Sailing Championships. The Kearsney teams won both the Senior and the Junior Trophies. 5. J. Alcock (aged 16) who,according to a recent press report, was placed 2nd in the Final of the 3 x 50 metre medley swimming event for men, C.lass 6, at the International Paraplegic Games in Heidelberg. No further details are available. KEARSNKY CHRONICI I
6. B. B. Hnncock, who competed in the Comrades Marathon and had the distinction oF completing the course in the excellent time of 9 hours and 40 minutes. SCHOOL ACTIVITIES. The following have been some of the highlights of 1972: The Annual Swimming Gala in which Mrs. Boraine hon oured us hy presenting the prizes; The Triangular Swimming Gala held at Hilton,where our swimmers gave a good account of themselves; The visit of the Band of the Royal Carbineers; The Triangular Regatta, where the Kearsney team did very well; The Dramatic Society production of"ARMS AND THE MAN"on which Mr. Lewis-Williams is again to be congratu lated. We are grateful to Mrs. Tennant for coming in at short notice to take the part of"Raina"when Mrs. Gill Williams was unfortunately taken ill. The Guild Service which was conducted entirely by the boys, including the playing of the organ; An illustrated talk by Col. B. A. Fargus, O.B.E., Military Attache to the British Embassy in Pretoria,on the Royal Scots Regiment with which the College has an association; A concert of Folk Music presented by Peter Scott; The visit of the 1st XV, the Tennis Team and the u.l5 Rugby XV to St. Stithians; The Broadcast Service on June 1 Ith which was the subject of favourable comment by many parents and friends of the school; The extensive Hockey Tour of Rhodesia during July; The official visit of the President of Conference,the Rev. Dr. A. L. Boraine, accompanied by the Hon. Mr. Justice J. P. Fksteen, Chairman of the Kingswood Council, Mr. J. B. Gardener, Headmaster, and the Rev. H. Kirkby, Chaplain of Kingswood,on Sunday, l.^th August. PARTH (presented by the Headmaster) With our Jubilee year behind us and as we begin to look for ward to the next major objective, namely our Centenary, the realisation comes that long before that is reached, within less than 30 years in fact, we shall have come to the turn of the century. A.D. 2001. This prospect, exciting though it may be, coupled with the realisation that the fund ofhuman knowledge is doubling itself every five years and that with the passage of time the tempo is likely to increase, 1 am filled with a growing concern that human relations are in no way keeping pace with this vast surge forward in technological advancement.Human nature is falling behind in this ever-accelerating race to such an extent that one is appalled at man's inhumanity to his fellow as it manifests itself in a growing lack of tolerance and under standing on almost every level of human relationship. INTOLERANCE.On the plane of international politics there is an ever-increasing refusal to see the other man's point of view or even to understand his way of life. Examples of this attitude are daily before us in the Middle East, the Far East, the African continent and in Northern Ireland where, though it may be, almost inhuman cruelties are being com mitted in the very name of religion. Even the sphere of inter national sport has now become the arena for callous and cold blooded murder.In the meantime,suspended above this com plexity of political disagreement like the Sword of Damocles is the constant threat of nuclear war. NEED FOR TOLERANCE.Coming nearer home to our own country, if ever there were a need for tolerance it is now. So much of our thought and policy is clouded by the traditional prejudices which have bedevilled our land for generations. In our frantic determination to preserve group supremacy, we blind ourselves to the fundamental principles of human relations. Unless these problems are faced now with courage, vision and in a spirit of mutual understanding, they will increase in magnitude until they surely and relentlessly overwhelm us. There is an urgent need for a greater spirit of co-operation on all levels and among all sections of our community. It is only with the removal of mistrust and sus picion and the substitution of goodwill and mutual under standing that people will be able to attain to a position of security where personal liberty and justice are the unalienable right of every individual. SELF-EXAMINATION.We may well ask ourselves what contribution can we as mere individuals make in a close com munity such as our school. And here we must ask the question: are we not ourselves in danger of being generous inthought towards those of our number we like, at the same time being critical of those who do not share our views or interests. So often we seek to embarrass or belittle others simply because they do not see eye to eye with us,and in this way we are con forming to the general pattern in the wider field of human re lationships. If we choose to be critical,then let us be quite sure that we ourselves are completely in the right. Unless we can be quite sure of this, and no person is infallible, we dare not point the finger of accusation at others, who may well be more correct than ourselves. Close personal introspection can at times be an uncomfortable and unwelcome experience. If we do nor make a conscientious effort to check this sense of prejudice, then we are in grave danger of carrying it with us into the world at large an ineradicable cancer in our souls. COMPASSION- As individuals in our small community, we may not be able to control the destinies of nations but with a great spirit of tolerancaend understanding, we can make our school and our community a happier place for all concerned. The spontaneous response on the part of you boys to take an active part m fostering adult literacy among our African staff as part of Operation Upgrade, I regard as a most encouraging and heart-warming expression of the good will to which 1 am referring. It indicates a growing realisation of the needs of others and a will to do something positive towards improving the lot of those less fortunate than ourselves. In commending you for your initiative and enterprise,I see in this sort of service the beginnings ofsomething far bigger and more comprehensive: an awareness which is being shared by similar groups of young people throughout our land. In the hands of our-young people will rest our future destiny and 1 see in their growing response the prospect of our future salvation. THE FUTURE.When I consider that at the present time over half the white population in this country is below the age of 25, 1 am filled with the hope that, given the right direction in their early years,and inspired by high ideals and a spirit of tolerance, our young people will build a land where freedom from want and fear are the basic rights of every citi zen. My message to the boys is as follows: at Kearsney you are sharers in a great tradition and because of this the more serious is your responsibility.The challenge is to strive to make your school a worthier and happier place by working for better human relationships with each other, and with those with whom you come into daily contact. If you practise this here you will be well equipped to carry thesame spirit into the world at large, but to achieve anything worthwhile demands positive effort. It is not sufficient merely to avoid evil, it is necessary deliberately to do good. Your motives must be prompted not by fear of vice but by love of excellence. The challenges will be great, but 1 believe with courage, deter mination and God's grace, victory is not beyond you and your generation. In conclusion, may I use again a short sentence from my message to the Sixth Form Leavers at the end of last year: Always remember,"It is better to light one small candle, than to sit and curse the dark". 5: KFARSNHY CHRONICLF.
Dr. SUDBURY'S THREE'LV GUEST SPEAKER SPEECH DAY 1972 (We learned with deep regret while these pages were being printed of Dr. Sudbury's death. To his family we extend our sincere sympathy. Ed.) tesf Mr. Chairman, Mr. Headmaster and staff, Distinguished Guests and Boys of Kcarsney,it is with a sense of real privilege that I address you today. Through many years now,my wife and I have had the privilege of attending many of your excellent functions with great enjoyment.If I were not speaking today 1 would be enjoying this one too! It has been my privilege for a good many years to be the chairman of the Executive Committee of this college, and having listened to this excellent report of Mr. Hopkins, 1 am indeed proud and happy to congratulate the headmaster and the staff upon an other successful year. May 1 congratulate also those who will be receiving awards for their many achievements, and per haps commiserate with those whose achievements have not been marked by prizes or distinctions. There was an occasion at one speech day when two fathers were discussing their sons. The one asked "What is your boy going to be when he gets through matric?":to which the other dolefully replied,"It looks as if he is going to be an old man." But let me say for vour cpmfort that even old men have their uses, and 1 can onfy conclude thathat is possibly why I am here today. "FUTURE SHOCK". Dr. Alvin Toffler in a widely read recent book has stated that our whole civilisation is suffering from "Future Shock". The future is rushing upon us before we have had time to deal with the present. Change is so des perately rapid that personality is crumbling under the shock of the future. "Faster" is the cry in a generation that appears to be no longer able to take it. This school is not exempt from what I might call a "shocking" future. Under the new depart mental plans for Differential Education it would appear that the traditional three 'Rs' of education will become instead 'Cs'- Culture, Craftsmanship and Citizenship. Yet 1 believe that all the new planning and the astronomical sums involved, will be of little ultimate value to our land unless there is a new deal for African Education as well. The students of our land may not always appreciate the great necessity of the main tenance of law and order in an emotionally charged com munity, but they are perfectly right when they campaign for a new deal in African Education. LABOUR.However, whatever changes have to be faced, there are many things in our immediate circle of concern which cannot be eradicated or discarded. For instance, we cannot escape the labour of learning. There will still be"prep" and classes and swotting for exams. With all our modern aids and amenities work will still have to be done, both in the schools and in society atlarge. It may be true that a little know ledge is a dangerous thing. It is also true that it is a very precious thing,and you who are at this school have a priceless and privileged opportunity. In these days of change there are those who decry examinations, but a favourable school certificate for the modest applicant for a job, can be a veritable godsend. In an exam you stand upon your own feet, you are recognised as a person,and successful accomplishment of any exam can give a sense of self-reliance and confidence. I doubt if it is possible to have knowledge without tears or at any rate without effort and labour. It was Edison who said "I bever did anything worthwhile by accident, nor did any of my inventions come by accident, they came by work." So despite all change 1 do not believe that change will bring ease or a lotus-eating existence. It will continue to demand the very best we can give to our school, our civilisation, our world. LANGUAGE. Speech days arc occasions when the speaker is able to exercise his hobby horse, so to speak, and from saying this word of labour I move on to a word about language. Changes in language mirror changes in the way of life of a society, and I imagine that language laboratories are very necessary in these days. Some twelve years ago for instance I first heard the word "groovy". In a sermon 1 mentioned that I did not know what it meant. Afterwards six teenagers were at the vestry door to enlighten me, but as they all had different interpretations I made no progress. Later 1 heard a girl with the love-light in her eyes referring to her boy friend as "groovy". Now this really startled me, because by that time 1 had definitely,and as I thoughttriumph antly, discovered that "groovy" is something you suck out of a tin through a straw. Well, it all indicates change. At the other end of the scale (so to speak) there is the ecumenical jargon. Once I could walk down a street and meet someone, now it is called an "encounter". If 1 speak to him, it is a "dialogue": if I discuss with him it is a "confrontation". If a group get together with no idea either of working or of buying and selling, but only to talk, they call it a "workshop",and when I try to assess it all, that is "evaluation". These changes seem to confuse rather than improve. The Bible says "Let your yes be yes and your no be no". There is infinite value in learning to use the exact word and the right word. It makes for clear thinking and orderly living, and it can do so without eliminating the imaginative faculty. Who was it said ofanother that"he needs to take some feathers out of the wings of his imagination and stick them in the tail of his judgement"? But whether words are imagina tive or judgemental the right word,the exact word, is one of the great needs in an age of misinterpretations and misunder standings. We certainly need many kinds of language labora tories today. LOYALTY. So labour first, then language, and finally loyalty. Mr. Hopkins has spoken of tolerance and under standing and I would add this- word "loyalty" as one of the pre-eminent needs of human personality today. We are proud of Kearsney: We belong to Kearsney: we believe in Kearsney: and because of these things we are loyal to Kearsney. I wish that in all spheres of life the same loyalty could be found. Many institutions and organisations suffer today from a lack of loyalty. I think, in my own sphere as an example,of those who under the guise of honesty apparently forget to be loyal to the church which has been their spiritual home and to which they owe almost everything. In some circles the public castigation of the church has become an ecclesiastical sport. I simply mention this as an illustration, but in many areas of life, the lack of loyalty is widespread today. How some folk love to "knock" the establishment whether it be church, state or family. Yet these are the stable things in our civilised life. One,of course, forgives the youngsters. They get over it when they grow up. One is more troubled however by the Peter Pans who won't grow up and claim to represent youth. BEST GENERATION YET. Actually I believe that the teenage generation is the best our civilisation has ever seen. There is truth in the story of the boy saying."Dad,who made Grandfather?" The answer he received was "God". "Dad, who made you?" Again the answer"God"."Dad,who made me?" Once more the answer "God". "Then, Dad, God seems to be improving all the time." Enthusiastic youth, I believe, still has to learn the truth of John Masefield's words "To get the whole world out of bed, And washed and warmed and dressed and fed To work and back again to bed, believe me, Saul, Costs worlds of pain. It is not easy." and everyone's help is needed, whatever our age group. This is no time either for generation gaps, race gaps, or any other kinds of gap: it is a time for co-operation. Too often there is quite unecessary antagonism, like the girl going to her first date. When she reached the gate leaving the house, her father called out "Have a good time, dear!" To which she replied, "Now,Daddy, don't you be telling me what to do!" So good and bad changes have crowded into life, but there are some deep things of the spirit which do not change. Justice for all people; reconciliation of nations; honour and integrity; compassion and love; loyalty and faithfulness. Some of you are here for the last time as scholars, going out into a world of university, industry, commerce, church, politics. If some enter the political field may I drop this little seed of though regarding the franchise-that consideration be given to a multiple vote system, whereby every adult in the land hasone vote,butthat extra votes be given,for educational attainment, financial standing, community service and so on. It could be a useful interim plan in an interim age. But what ever your sphere, don't throw away your ideals. It is in this new sphere where the ideals of life need to be practised. ISLANDS OF HEALING.Some years ago,a wise leader visited this country and left in my mind a simple picture I want to pass on to you. He spoke of a large raw, red wound upon a man's arm.Under the regular attention ofthe physician a small white spot appeared,then other spots,then they joined and became little islands of healing - clean healthy tissue - until that raw, inflamed, red poisonous wound was healed. Today our world is presenting scenes of violence, hate barbarism and savagery. It is inflammation. It is evil. It is demonic action. I believe that you and I, all right thinking people, all Christian people, all people of goodwill, are called to this high calling of becoming "islands of healing" in a sore world; healthy living tissues in a sick society. So parti cularly to the sixth formers, but really to us all, may I say "Go forth with this wonderful heritage of Kearsney, to be islands of healing in an ailing world - clear-sighted ambas sadors for justice, for reconciliation and for God." 10 KKARSNKY CHRONICLE
Patrick Mnyandu came to the 'old' Kearsney in July 1930 to act as assistant to the dhobi. As he was only an umfaan of about 10 years of age, his presence was not particularly noticed at first, but as the years passed he became a more and more useful cog in the little Kearsney wheel. LOYALTY.He accompanied us on our move to Botha's Hill in 1939, and this was an indication of his interest and loyalty,for it must have been a severe break to leave his secluded home on the North Coast and try to settle in to the bleak and inhospitable climate of Botha's Hill, so far from parents and friends. He took over his duties in Finningley at once,cheerfully and loyally, and for 30 years was an indispensable servant of the House. I myself enjoyed his friendship and co-operation for over 12 years, and no-one could have wished for a more faith ful companion. After my departure from the Finningley scene, Patrick regularly visited my home for a chat,invariably ending up in the'do you remember?'ritual. His detailed, nostalgic memory for the happenings and personnel of the past showed how closely he had allied him self with the school's development- not just as a servant paid to do a job, but as an integral part, interested in every boy and every master,and above all in the well-being of the House to which he was attached. A delightful man, cheerful always, uncomplaining, philosophical. CHRISTIAN PHILOSOPHER. His home was, and is, a Christian home. Patrick's heart was in his Church, the Methodist church, figuratively and almost literally. His work for the little chapel out in the hills was an abiding passion. It was his chapel. He was steward, main tenance officer, local preacher. Though it meant miles of cross-country tramping,Patrick was there early every Sunday morning to see that all was in order, and usually took the service himself. He was a simple man ofGod.No fiery evangelist, but a Christian philosopher. Shortly before he went into hospital, at a time when he was apparently completely fit, he said to me "We've all got to go some time. When God wants us, He will call us." Neither he nor I knew how near that call was. In fact his death came as a most profound shock. Kearsney is not quite the same without Patrick around.My own home will not be quite the same without our annual Christmas gathering with Patrick and his family. He brought up his family as Christians, a fine group of young men and women,with his wife always at his side. His funeral, at his own little church,was a poignant affair. Grown men wept bitterly as they realised that their beloved leader was to be no longer with them,except in the spirit. He has left a fine memorial-the memory of a good man,simple, honourable and Christian. To his bereaved wife and family we all offer our profound sympathy,and we know that his eldest son, Joseph, will continue with his father's leadership. J.F.R. The College lost a good friend when Mr. W. H. Gersback died towards the end of last September.He and his wife had been living for thirty years or so at their home on the main road a little below the entrance to the College grounds and in his later years, particularly after he had retired from his business as a wool buyer, he became a familiar figure at many of the school rugby and cricket matches,while he and Mrs.Gersback were always to be seen at School funct ions such as Speech Days,concerts, plays and the annual Staff Children's Christmas Party. His interest in the College was profound,and he had its welfare ever in mind. For many years,and almost to the day of his death, he was a member of the Epworth-Kearsney Board of Governors, but until his retirement his business activities prevented his taking as full a part in their deliberations as he would have wished. It was then that,from his position on the Execu tive, he devoted himself whole-heartedly to the many problems that beset the College since its rapid and phenomenal growth in the 1960's. Here his sound financial judgment,his practical common-sense and his grasp of realities were ofinestimable value to his colleagues on the Board and also to the Headmaster in the day-to-day administrative difficulties that frequently had to be faced. His wise advice and guidance in such matters will undoubtedly be sorely missed. With his wife,Mr.Gersback was a keen Methodist and for many years they were members of the Durban County Circuit Quarterly Meeting. When the College Chapel was taken out of the County Circuit they became members of the Botha's Hill Quarterly Meeting,and here also Mr. Gersback's qualities of judgment and leadership were as prominent as they were helpful. Yet in educational matters he was by no means a strict denominationalist for he realised that Kearsney could not exist on the support of Methodist families alone and he was always ready to encourage visits to the Chapel by ministers from other churches. In earlier years Mr. Gersback had been a member of the West Street Methodist Church Choir (it was there that he met his future wife) and his interest in singing remained with him to the end. At one time a solo singer himself, he last undertook this role when he contributed to the programme at the dedication of the newly-installed Chapel organ early in 1953. Will Gersback was a man ofgreat courage and determination. Never was this more clearly shown than in his very serious and prolonged illness of 1968,from which he emerged to con valescence only after a tremendous struggle of which a less resolute character would have been incapable.His recovery unfortunately was only partial,and his lastfew years,those in which he did his best work for Kearsney, were marked by increasing frailty. PATRICK MNYANDU m WILLIAM H. GERSBACK m■ Ki,*: V KhARSNtY CHRONICIK II
It became his great desire to settle in England near his married daughter, an only child, and to watch his grandchildren grow up. The Gersbacks accordingly sold their Botha's Hill home and in September moved to Durban preparatory to sailing to the United Kingdom a week later. Alas, greatly weakened by tbe effort and disturbance, Mr. Gersback collapsed and died the day after arriving at the hotel. At the funeral service moving and worthy tributes were paid by the Rev.Dr. Stanley Sudbury, a former Ghairman of the College Governors, and by the Rev. Cyril Wilkins, the then Chairman,and the large attendance indicated the esteem and affection in which our late friend was held by all who had known him in business, in church work and in personal friendships. A man of unswerving integrity and of great clear-mindedness;a faithful friend;a devoted husband and a devoted father;a sincere Christain-Will Gersback was an example to us all and his memory is precious to those who had the privilege of his friendship. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his wife and to his daughter. Doris Gersback bore her bereavement as bravely as her husband could have wished, and is now with her daughter in England while she prepares a home for herself nearby. May God grant her years of happiness and blessing. G.M.Gram Academic Awards AWARDS 1972 (Recipients of Honours have previously been awarded colours.) *lndicates re-award Honours: Form VI: S. J. Beningfield, R. P. Kraus, I. K. Webster. Form V; I. C. McClure, E. de la Rey Nel, R. G. Whittaker. Colours: Form VI: R. Fienberg, R. L'ctang*, P. Norman, C. Scorgie"^', R. Sinclair, W. van der Merwe*, T. Winkler. Form V: M. Henry, A. Immelman, A. Kruger, R. Mason, D. Ritten. Parkes Intcr-Housc Scholastic Trophy: Finningley House. Cultural Awards Honours: A. D, Lloyd. Colours: A. Goldman, R. Kraus", L. Lurie, P. Nieuwoudt, B. Sundberg. Hanle Trophy: A. D. Lloyd. Sutler-Gore Trophy: A. Goldman. Service Awards Headmaster's Prize: B. E. Von Glehn. Recognition of Service: C. A. Lane", D. A. Zeller. Edwin Henwood Trophy: G. A. B. Russell. Sports Awards f?gir ATHLETICS Honours: M. R. Halliday", R. W. H. Hopkins". Colours: B. McLuckie, G. Pilkington", B. Sundberg, W. van Zyl. CRICKET Colours: R. Kingston. HOCKEY Colours: R. Cardiga, B. Davy, C. Denness, M. Foxcroft, R, Gibb, P. Harvey, R. Jones, P. Liebetrau, H. Moore", R. Paul, M. Wootton. MUSKETRY Colours: M. Gillespie, M. Henry, M. Ogram. RUGBY Honours: J-M. Baverey, M.R. Halliday", B. E. von Glehn. Colours: R. Hopkins, D. Keatley, G. Pilkington, G. Russell, G. Spencer, W. van Zyl". SQUASH Colours: D. Dyer. SWIMMING Colours: G. Chisholm, M. Hudson, R. Kraus, 1. McClure, R. Wyatt,S. Roe. Special Colours: J. Alcock. WATER POLO Honours: 1. C. McClure, A. C. Reid. YACHTING Colours: C. Dibb, A. Kode. SPORTSMAN OF THE YEAR: M. R. Halliday. llKhARSNFS tlHRONICl.F Annual Prize-Giving 22nd September,1972 SIXTH FORM Patrick Moore Memorial Shield and Prize for Physical Science: R.Fienberg. Mathematics: S. J. Beningfield. Latin: W. van der Merwe. Ben Milner Prize for Biology: R. Fienberg. Afrikaans: C. Scorgie. William and Susan Jones Prize for English; W.van der Merwe. Hindson Memorial Prize for English Literature: R. S. Wills. Pottery Prize: A. de Wet. Perseverance and Progress Prize - Ordinary Level: M. P. Foxcroft. S. B. Theunissen Memorial Prize for Perseverance: G.Pickles and T. Winkler. History: N. W.Shepherd. Headmaster's Prize for ^Special Service': E. von Glehn. Order Prizes: Third on Year: 1. K. Webster. Second on Year: S. J. Beningfield. First on Year: R. P. Kraus. Academic Colours: R. Winkler,P. R. Norman,R.B. Sinclair, W.M.van der Merwe,C.T.Scorgie,R.Fienberg,R.L'Etang. Academic Honours: I. K. Webster, S. J. Beningfield, R. P. Kraus. Sports Honours: Rugby: M. Halliday, j-M. Baverey, B. E. von Glehn. Athletics: M. Halliday, R. W. H. Hopkins. Final Prize-Giving Friday, 1st December, 1972. CROSS COUNTRY Senior Inter-House: Pembroke (Q Russell) Junior Inter-House: Finningley. Junior Individual: H. M.S. Russell (Under 13 Inter-House& Under 13 Individual: Not awarded.) SHOOTING Inter-House: Derek Robbins Trophy: Gillingham (T. J. Staples). Senior Championship: Ken Trotter Shield: M. F. Gillespie. Ivan Bjorkman Cup (Highest Average during the Year); M.F. Gillespie. Junior Championship: Ernest Ashley Memorial Cup: R. E. Lundgren. SQUASH Carrington Trophy (For most improved player of the /ear): M.J. Corfe. Junior Championship: R.R. G. Barrow. Senior Championship: D.G. Dyer. Rodda Trophy (For annual matches played between School and Old Boys); Old Boys. TENNIS Junior Singles: H. R. Green. Junior Doubles: D. Pearse, S. du Toit.
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