EDITOR'S LETTER
LIST OF PROJECTS
10
EDELWEISS TOUR 2024
03 04 08 05
TABLER INTERVIEW RAIDS!
12
PROJECT REPORTS
17
MARCH CON REPORT
18
LETTER EDITOR'S
Dear Readers,
Welcome to this edition of SCAN Magazine, a glimpse into Natal South Coast Area's Round Table activities and projects It’s been an inspiring few months, filled with great initiatives that reflect our commitment to community service and fellowship
From the successful music festivals Splashy Fen and Oppikus, to familiar favorite projects like Gin & Bowls and the Comrades Marathon, to mention only a few of our area’s inspiring local projects
We also saw a great response across the board towards disasters and other emergency fundraisers, showing just how dynamic our area's ability to react to communities and people in need really is
Our members have gone above and beyond by traveling and strengthening the bonds within our communities and showcasing the true spirit of Round Table with some epic raids
Also notable have been our efforts in supporting men's mental health. It's heartening to see so many members and community partners coming together to support this endeavor.
SCAN is a great way for us to showcase all the hard work that is going on in our area, and this issue is an attempt to bring SCAN back to the frontlines. We would greatly appreciate any feedback that will help us achieve this
As we look ahead, let's continue to channel our energy into making impactful changes and inspiring others to join us.
Your participation and support are what make our projects successful and our communities a better place to live
Yours in Table,
Brett Watson
SCAN EDITOR
LIST OF PROJECTS
TO DATE
KOKSTAD 35
MIKE PEEL FUNDRAISER
MARGATE
46
OPPIKUS PG15
BLOOD DRIVE
DONATION TO PIKKIE
EASTER EGG DRIVE
FLOOD RELIEF - SPUD DONATION
MEGAN DU PLESSIS PAR 3 GOLF DAY
PIKKIE MAINTENANCE
RAMSGATE WATER RELIEF
SUID NATAL GOLF DAY
WESTVILLE 189
COMRADES MARATHON
POTJIE COMPETITION
EASTER EGG HAMPER 2024
GIN AND BOWLS APRIL 2024 PG12
KLOOF 190
COMRADES
CUMIC PARK COOKOUT
KJP COOKOUT
PMB CARS IN THE PARK
PMB ROYAL SHOW
REVAMP THULOTHANDO
THULOTHANDO FOOD DELIVERY
CUMEC EASTER COOKOUT 23/04
GEORGE BUILDING
PAWS @ CUMIC
UNCLE JUMBO'S BIRTHDAY PARTY
KEARSNEY HOCKEY COOKOUT PG13
SANI 152
BALL IN THE BERG ICE LOLLIES
DOG FOOD DONATION - GCAW
DRAK CHALLENGE
FRIEND OF HILTON 242 - CANCER
GEORGE BUILDING COLLAPSE
HELP A SISTER
PETE HUXHAM GENTLEMAN RIDE
PEVENSEY RESIDENTS ACCOMM
PUMPKIN COMP
ROTARY TREASURE HUNT
SEWING MACHINES
SPLASHY FEN ICE SALES PG14
UEMS UNIFORMS
WILDLIFE ACT RHINO PEAK CHALLENGE
PEVENCY TO TALA
2024 TOUR OF EDELWEISS
BY KEVIN FRASER
On Friday the 17th of May Kim and I set off from Durban Airport to Austria for the famous Edelweiss tour. We flew with Guy & Cara Hankinson (DBN 2) and arrived in Vienna the following morning and were met by our friend Bertl, from Beach, Bush & Berg RTIWM pretour.
He loaded us, and our luggage, and dropped us with another BBB friend, Nikias, who took us and the other internationals around the Austrian parliament for a guided tour, in the meantime our bags were dropped at our respective hosts for our time in Vienna – Home hosting is a key part of the tour.
After the parliament tour is was time for a few beers at the bar on the parliament rooftop, before rushing off to see the famous Lippazeners. Later that afternoon we met at the home of Lukas Pritz (Austrian past president and convenor of the Edelweiss Tour) for the official start of the tour, we enjoyed some beers and wine while getting to know some of the local Tablers and fellow internationals on tour.
That evening we went for dinner at a beer garden in the city, delicious food, excellent company and enough schnapps to lose your sense of balance; this was followed by a few more festive hours in one of the oldest amusement parks in the world.
The following morning we went on a walking tour of Vienna with virtual headsets, an amazing experience. St Stephens cathedral was next and we were treated to a special tour of this iconic church that is generally not open to the public; from the catacombs under the church that hold the remains of 11000 people to the rooftop where we enjoyed some wine made by a local Tabler; it was a memorable experience.
That evening we went up to a vineyard overlooking the city and the platters of food and bottles of wine just kept coming…
In the morning our bus for the week arrived and we made our way to our next town – Leoben The bus driver, Siegi (pronounced Ziggy), has been doing this tour for a few decades –what a legend!! Leoben is a smallish town in the country and we stopped at the farm of a local
Tabler and we climbed onto a few bakkies and headed up into the mountain to an Austrian café for more delicious platters and drinks, from there we walked off to the mountain cabin that we would be our home for the night, 8kms later and with a few drinks breaks we arrived at a beautiful cabin owned by the Hafellner family
We were welcomed by Tablers, 41ers and their families and the party started again!! The effort they went through was incredible – a big tent for socialising and a wood fired hot tub had been specially set up for us! The fellowship that night was exceptional and at about “quarter to the hour” I called it a night
At “quarter past” it was time to wake up and some weary bodies made their way back down the hill to continue on to Leibnitz where we tasted the world famous pumpkin seed oils and then lunch and wine tasting at the vineyard of a Tabler, it wasn’t long and the Edelweiss group was back on top form.
The music and wine on the bus kept us very entertained as we moved on to our next stop, the city of Graz.
We arrived and got straight off the bus and were met by the Tablers from Graz 8 and 21 for a walking tour of the city, some fresh air and a leg stretch was much needed –hydration included We then made our way to our home host for the night to freshen up for dinner that was held at the “home” restaurant of Graz 8; for more good food, wine, beer, schnapps and fellowship.
In the morning we made our way to one of the oldest cities in Austria –Steyr and that afternoon on to Gmunden for a boat cruise on the lake and a barbeque at the home of a prominent family in the city. Enjoying more good food and wine in the company of some great people was a most memorable evening.
Thursday morning it was off to Salzburg for a walking tour of the “Old Town”, the birthplace of Mozart. Some more unbelievable history and stunning architecture and a traditional wiener schnitzel for lunch before we made our way to Zell am See, a beautiful town on a lake and a popular skiing destination.
We were treated to a stay in the hotel of a 41er. That evening we went to meet with the Zell am See 28 Tablers at their clubhouse - in a massive old farmhouse that had been converted into a wedding venue and restaurant, complete with a tiny chapel inside.
Friday was the final morning of the Edelweiss Tour and the bus took us high into the Austrian Alps up Grossglockner Pass where we got see some unbelievable scenery and even walked in small snow storm. As we made our way to Spittal for the AGM we felt a little sad that the tour was coming to an end but then we realised we still had a couple days of epic Tabling left.
They tried a new concept with the gala dinner on the Friday night and the internationals were very well looked after. A good party with old and new friends followed that evening. The following morning was a slow start and being a part of the Austrian AGM was an awesome experience.
The closing party on Saturday night was one of the highlights of the week, more good food, wine and goodbye’s to some people that truly are now friends for life. I cannot speak highly enough about the Austrian Tablers, their families, and the effort they put in for this tour, every little detail was taken care of and they were proud to show us the very best their country has to offer. I am not surprised that it is considered the BEST pre tour out there – maybe one day I’ll do it again!!
INTERVIEW WITH SHAUN WULF
Shaun’s music fuses South African roots with modern country, and invites listeners on a musical journey of storytelling and infectious energy. We managed to ask him a few questions about his music, and his round table career:
Can you tell us a bit about your musical background and how you got started in music?
Have you ever performed at any Round Table events or used your musical talents to support the organization’s activities?
Yes, Oppi Kus Musiekfees is a highlight for me & 2024 was my 3rd year performing at the festival, then I also assist with various other project like fundraisers & golf days.
How do you balance your musical career with your commitments to Round Table?
My Family supports my musical career & Round Table commitments. Planning is key, but it is in my nature to prioritize My Family.
It all started when I was 17, with a few friends who wanted to start a band, but needed a singer. So, I nominated myself Since our first rehearsal I knew this was going to be my life I have played in many different projects, at many festivals & events over the years & finally decided to focus on a solo career.
What genres of music do you most enjoy performing, and why?
I hope you are ready as it’s a mouth full, Modern Country Pop/Rock.
What has been your most memorable performance or musical experience to date?
I would say performing at Splashy Fen & Oppi Kus Musiekfees this year.
How has being a member of Round Table influenced or inspired your music?
The feeling I get helping our community is a priceless feeling that inspires me to be a better person Musically it has led to some great ideas that you’ll hear very soon
Are there any musicians or bands that have particularly influenced your musical style?
Zac Brown Band – I just love them
What role do you believe music plays in bringing communities together, and how have you seen this in your work with Round Table?
Music is a universal language that speaks to the soul. Music always made any Round Table project I attended just so much more special, even the fellowship has gees
What advice would you give to other Round Table members who might want to pursue a career or hobby in music?
Don’t stop! Work hard but remember to enjoy yourself
Can you share any upcoming projects or performances you're excited about, and how can our readers support you in your musical journey?
Tri – Area! We are gonna have a jol there! Yeah you can support my musical journey by sharing my music with friends & family. My music is available on all streaming platforms, so add it to a playlist & Share, Share, Share Thank you! Slukkies!
The feeling I get helping our community is a priceless feeling that inspires me to be a better person
RAIDS!
and 2 guests) in one of the biggest raids in recent years
Being joined by Westville189, Durban2 and PMB12, it's safe to say the Ballito221 clubhouse was cleaned out of raidable items!
The gees was strong kicking off with a quick Kloof190 social meeting, which in truth was more of a makeshift gathering of bantering tablers under the trees.
Filling in for his chair, and staring down his first chaired meeting, Ballito221's VC got off to a late start. Despite his obvious trial by fire, this earned him a red, skull-bottled chilly concoction of a straff but who could blame him having to round up so many excited tablers
Despite the packed mass of men in front of him and not having decorum on account of some travelling members, it was a great meeting with much banter, and laughs all round.
more gees and great food, matched only by the good conversation and new friendships made.
All in all, it was a great evening showcasing the growing Tabler Gees in KZN and the value of inter-area tabling at its best. Well done and great effort guys! To gees and family!
RAIDS!
Westville189 attended the Sani152 Tennis Tournament!
Hosted by the fabulous ladies of the Sani152 Club and was nothing short of spectacular.
We arrived early in the crisp morning air, greeted by a brisk -8 degrees Celsius But the cold didn’t dampen our spirits; instead, it set the perfect stage for a day filled with warmth and camaraderie. The theme, "Wimblegin," was a delightful twist on Wimbledon, infused with the refreshing zest of bottomless Gin and Tonic from That Brewing Co A match made in heaven, right? Sixteen enthusiastic teams from the area came together, ready to battle it out on the courts. The energy was palpable, with each team bringing their A-game, vying for glory And let me tell you, the competition was fierce! Amidst the rallying and cheering, our very own Westville189 team stood out for their unmatched spirit and enthusiasm. We didn’t just play tennis; we brought the fun and the energy that lit up the entire tournament Our team’s lively presence and positive vibes won us the prestigious "Best Spirited Team" award. The prize? A fantastic trip up Sani Pass, which promises to be an adventure of a lifetime!
The Sani152 community truly came out in full support, turning the event into a festive celebration. Families, friends, and supporters gathered, creating a lively and joyous atmosphere. It was a weekend filled with laughter, friendly competition, and unforgettable memories. The Sani152 Tennis Tournament was a testament to the power of community and the joy of sports. It wasn’t just about winning matches; it was about coming together, having fun, and making lasting connections. Our participation and recognition as the best-spirited team have undoubtedly strengthened our bond with the Sani152 community.
We’re already looking forward to next year’s tournament and the many opportunities it brings to further showcase our club’s spirit and sportsmanship. Here's to more fun, more tennis, and more community engagement!
11 SCAN MAGAZINE
WESTVILLE 189 GIN & BOWLS
Round Table Westville 189 successfully hosted its 3rd Gin and Bowls charity event on the 20th of April 2024.
A total of 18 teams enthusiastically competed across two greens, creating an atmosphere charged with friendly competition and community spirit. Participants, ranging from seasoned bowlers to first-timers, contributed to the event's lively ambiance.
Live music added an extra layer of excitement, with performances by the talented Belle and the Bee captivating the audience throughout the day. Their melodious tunes resonated with the festive mood of the event, keeping spirits high.
The event catered to culinary pleasures as well, offering a Gin stand for refreshing beverages and bacon and egg rolls for a hearty breakfast. As lunchtime rolled around, attendees indulged in delicious burgers, satisfying appetites, and enhancing the overall event experience.
Beyond the festivities, the core purpose of the event remained in focus. Funds raised from the event contributed significantly to charitable initiatives supported by Round Table Westville 189, showcasing the community's commitment to making a positive impact.
Round Table Westville 189's 3rd Gin and Bowls charity event proved to be a resounding success, blending sportsmanship, entertainment, and philanthropy seamlessly. The event not only brought people together for a day of fun but also underscored the power of community-driven initiatives in creating meaningful change
YiT
Matthew Hayes
KEARSNEY COOKOUT
May 26, 2024
The Kloof 190 Cookout at Kearsney was a resounding success, showcasing the collective efforts of dedicated volunteers who spent a total of 116 man hours preparing and serving delicious bacon and egg rolls and burgers to attendees.
In addition to providing a delightful culinary experience, the event served as a platform to raise awareness about Round Table's mission and community service initiatives.
Furthermore, it was aimed at driving four ball sales for our upcoming golf day, enhancing participation and support for this important event.
Through their hard work and commitment, the volunteers exemplified the spirit of service and camaraderie, leaving a positive impact on all who attended.
Kloof 190 extends its sincere appreciation to all volunteers for their invaluable contribution and looks forward to continued collaboration in future endeavours.
Yours in table,
Sebastian Lopes Pereira
Pipeliner,
Kloof Round Table 190
SANI 152 SPLASHY FEN FEST 2024
As Chairman of Sani Round Table 152, I'm excited to share some great news from our weekend at the Splashy Fen Music Festival Our team did an outstanding job selling ice, and I'm pleased to say we exceeded our sales targets! The festival atmosphere was fantastic, and we were blessed with beautiful weather, creating the perfect conditions for selling ice to cool down the festivalgoers I want to extend a huge thank you to the festival organizers for hosting such a wonderful event and for allowing us to be part of it
I also want to express my gratitude to everyone who contributed to the logistics – from loading and unloading the 27 tons of ice to selling it to thirsty music lovers. A total of 265 man-hours were worked. Your hard work and dedication were truly appreciated and made our success possible. I was most impressed with the support that came from the guests and pipeliners who really stepped in to help us out. A special shout out to Eric from Kokstad 35 for your diehard contribution. In addition to our ice sales, our Stache Sunday initiative was a big hit, raising awareness for men's mental health. It was inspiring to see so many people supporting such an important cause by wearing moustaches. Thank you to everyone who supported us at Splashy Fen –whether you purchased ice, participated in Stache Sunday, or helped spread the word about our efforts. Your support means the world to us and motivates us to continue making a positive impact in our community. Looking forward to more successful events together in the future!
Yours in table, Tian Keet Sani Round Table 152
MARGATE 46 OPPI KUS MUSIEKFEES
The Round Table Margate 46's Oppi Kus Musiekfees held on July 5th and 6th, 2024, proved to be a resounding success, leaving a significantly good impact on the local community and beyond. This annual event, dedicated to celebrating music, surpassed all expectations by reaching over 360,000 individuals through various platforms, attracting over 3,000 attendees over the course of two days & earning great profits for the aims & objectives of Round Table Margate 46
The festival's success can be attributed to meticulous planning and execution by Round Table Margate 46, alongside strong community support and enthusiastic participation from musicians and attendees alike
Held at Douglas Mitchell Sports grounds, Oppi Kus Musiekfees showcased a diverse lineup of musical talents spanning various genres, ensuring there was something for everyone. Beyond entertainment, the festival also served as a platform for local food vendors, and businesses to showcase their products & services, fostering economic growth and community spirit.
Furthermore, the event contributed to promoting tourism in the region, drawing visitors from neighbouring towns and cities Overall, Oppi Kus Musiekfees not only entertained and delighted thousands but also strengthened community bonds, supported local economy, and enhanced the cultural fabric of Margate and its surroundings
As a flagship project of Round Table Margate 46, it exemplifies the organisation's commitment to making a positive and lasting impact through vibrant cultural initiatives
KOKSTAD 35 MIKE PEEL
I am pleased to report on the success of our urgent call to action in support of our friend Mike Peel, who is bravely battling cancer. This project highlighted the incredible strength and compassion of our community as we came together to alleviate the financial burden on Mike and his family. Mike, who has already faced the challenge of retrenchment, needed crucial financial aid for travel, accommodation, and daily living expenses during his treatment. Recognizing the urgency of his situation, we, the Kokstad 35 Round Table and the EG Community, launched a campaign to provide the necessary support.
Through a combination of generous donations and widespread sharing of Mike's story, we were able to raise significant funds to help cover his expenses. The response from the community was overwhelming, with contributions coming in from both individuals and businesses
This collective effort has made a meaningful difference in Mike's journey toward recovery.
The project was a testament to the power of community and the impact we can make when we unite for a common cause. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributed, whether through financial support or by spreading the word Your compassion and generosity have provided much-needed relief to Mike and his family during this difficult time
This project also underscored the importance of our Round Table mission: to serve our community and support those in need Moving forward, we will continue to uphold these values and look for ways to make a positive difference in the lives of others
Thank you once again for your incredible support
Sincerely,
Cois VD Merwe Chairman, Kokstad 35 Round Table
CONFERENCE REPORT MARCH CON
BY JOSHUA-JADE BRIGGS
As this was my first conference at Round Table, I was excited and nervous to see how it would all go down. I can safely say that it went above and beyond all expectations. The first night was full of gees and I made memories that will stick for my lifetime. I do wish that we had a bit of an event to break the ice between the tables, like a competition between the tables or any sort of icebreaker, as I didn't get the opportunity to meet some tablets as some people kept to their own tables, but that is also very natural and can't be forced.
I was taken back by the amount of support and brotherhood there is between the different tables, and I felt very welcomed, and I really enjoyed that even though the likes of Kevin, who was Area Vice Chairman, took time to come chat with me, and although he is far superior in terms of rank in the table, he was able to come down to my level and chat with me, which made me feel very comfortable.
The meeting was amazing. The blend between formality and fun was definitely there in abundance, and I loved the race that everyone had, to second any motion to be mentioned in the minutes. The sergeant was a fascinating role for me. I had heard a few horror stories, and he definitely lived up to the expectations.
I think the meeting as a whole was run very well, and I tip my hat to Shane as Chair. I do think that the peanut gallery needed to be a bit more spaced out, as I did struggle to see someone sitting right in front of me, but that is a very minor aspect. I thought the axing was a privilege for me to witness. I really appreciated the warm welcome when accepting my pipelinership, and I felt overjoyed and honored to receive my first pin.
TO Strand was a very nice accommodation, and it was very affordable. I do believe they were underprepared and understaffed for the event, but the rooms were very nice. I think that the hall needs a bit of paint to cover the marks where they have been doing some work. I am not sure if that is in progress, but it would be nice to see us maybe do some work there by helping out if we are going to use them on a regular basis.
I had an amazing weekend and made a lot of memories. I think the meeting was a success. The prizegiving was awesome, and it was very nice to see my mentor, Matt Hayes, get elected as Area Vice Chair. I am very excited for the next conference and can't wait to see everyone again. I am also relieved that Duppie is no longer a sergeant.
17 SCAN MAGAZINE
Q&A WITH THE CHAIRMAN
NSCA CHAIRMAN
Kevin Fraser
Can you share a memorable experience or project from your time with the Round Table that had a significant impact on you or the community?
Projects: The Michelle Pitman Fund showed me what can happen when we pull together and work towards a common goal; a life was saved and potentially more as a result of the fund that was created.
Personal: The Austrian Edelweiss tour was something on another level!
Being part of the RTI World Meeting convening team was also a life-changing experience – I learned new skills and made friends for life.
As Chairman, what are your top priorities for the Natal South Coast Area this year, and how do you plan to achieve them?
I want the guys to have fun, enjoy each other’s company, and create impactful change. The rest will fall into place. It’s much more rewarding working as a team, and at the same time, we can inspire others to join us. #strongertogether
How do you balance your professional life, personal life, and your responsibilities with the Round Table? Any tips for other members?
Not very well most of the time; I often overcommit and have to juggle too many balls. Sometimes you just have to say, "No, I can’t."
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the Round Table in the coming years, and how can members contribute to the organization's success?
Keeping Tablers motivated and not overwhelmed with more responsibilities than they can handle. Round Table is relevant because our country needs organizations like us to function; Table allows us to contribute, and at the same time, we have a lot of fun and importantly, we learn and grow as individuals.
What 3 things should every Tabler experience in their Table career?
Really get involved – convene a project, hold a portfolio, visit other Tables and you will have the complete Table experience (you will be better for it – believe me).
Get your family involved – it’s much more enjoyable to have the experience with them and have their support.
Take every opportunity you get – you may never get them in your life again.
Table allows us to contribute, and at the same time, we have a lot of fun and importantly, we learn and grow as individuals.