TRUNK TALES
4th Edition ‘24/’25
February 2025
Blood Drive
Steak Evening
39th AGM @ 252
Induction Dinners
What the Vice said before they were Chairmen 5 6 7 8 19
DATES TO REMEMBER
Northern Cape Area AGM
STNOFS Area AGM
Mpumalanga Area AGM
Border Area AGM
Eastern Province Area AGM
South Cape Area AGM
Natal Nortth Coat Area AGM
Bosveld Area AGM
Natal South Coast Area AGM
1st Executives’
1st ASSCO Meeting
Ladies Circle SA AGM
Border Area CVC 1
Bosveld Area WinterCon
Western Province Area June Conference
Namibia Area Mannekamp
South Cape Area WinterCon
Free State Area WinterCon
Eastern Province Area WinterCon
Mpumalanga WinterCon
KZN Tri-Area
2nd Executives’ Meeting
2nd ASSCO Meeting
RTI World Meeting
41ers AGM
Border Area Mid-Year
Eastern Province Area CVC
Central Tri-Area
BMG
3rd Executives’ Meeting
Namibia Area Family Weekend
WP & South Cape Bi-Area
NNCA October Conference
3rd ASSCO Meeting
Border CVC 2
Eastern Province Area SpringCon
BE PART OF THE PUZZLE
Blood Drive
Round Table Jeffreys Bay / Humansdorp 252 are thrilled to announce the success of our recent Blood Drive, where 25 generous donors came forward to give the gift of life Your contributions will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.
Aheartfelt thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and helped organize this event Your kindness and dedication truly made it possible. Together, we are making a positive impact!
Pierre Botha
Steak Evening
The Kirkwood Round Table hosted its highly anticipated Annual Steak Evening This year’s event was an outstanding success, with over 240 steaks sold, drawing a fantastic crowd and creating an unforgettable evening of food, fun and community There was entertainment for the whole family with boerewors rolls being braaied for the little ones.
The event kicked off with guests enjoying their perfectly braaied steaks The barmen were on point with their service. All the guests reciprocated with excellent support of the bar.
As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere remained lively, with guests enjoying great conversation and entertainment The event went on well into the night, reflecting the strong community spirit and enthusiasm of all who attended
The Kirkwood Round Table would like to extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported the event Without your involvement, the success of this annual gathering would not have been possible. We look for d t th f t ti t t !
Murray Middleton
39th AGM @ 252
Asthecalendarturnsto2025,RoundTableJeffreysBay/Humansdorp252hadour39thAGMon8 January2025.
Ourcommunitystandsatthethresholdofapromisingyear,markedbyourne members.Thistransitionsignifiesnotonlyachangeinleadershipbutalsoan WewouldliketocongratulateShawnVosloowithhiselectionasChairman. WelookforwardtoseeingyoustriveonyourjourneyasChairmanand accomplishwhatyousetoutfor2025.
OurViceChairmanisnoneotherDavidHiggs,congratulationsonyour appointment Thiswillbeagoodyeartolearnandgrowintoafuture chairmanof252.
Therestoftheelectedcommitteeisasfollows:
P.R.O:PierreBotha
Secretary:PjdeBeer
Treasurer:GertStrydom
AnAGMisnotcompletewithoutthespecialawards
Recognizingourpartnerswhosupportus,MelissaVanRensburgwalked awaywiththeprestigiousTableLadyoftheYearaward AttendanceTrophywasawardedtoWayneStevenson. Youhadaremarkableyearin2024!
Pierre Botha
Induction Dinners
OnthewarmsummereveningofSaturday25thJanuary2025,thethreelower AlbanyTablesoftheEasternCapeconvenedattheBelmontGolfClubin Makhandatobragandreflectonthepreviousyear
JoinedbyTablinglegendssuchasRoundTableSouthernAfricaPast-Presidents AlanMilanandFabrizioAltichiero,EasternProvinceAreaChairmanJacquesvan Wyk,andEasternProvinceAreaVice-chairmanDaneelMeiring,thedinnerwasa festive,albeitsauna-like,affair Intotal,55Tablers,41ers,andpartnersattended theblack-tiedinner;however,thenight'sstandoutsweretheladies,allas gorgeousasever
TheeveningproceedingssawtheoutgoingchairmanoftherespectiveTables,Grant"Puffy"Gordon, JacquesvanWyk,andNicoVonWielligh,reportbackonthegood,thebad,andtheuglyoftheiryear beforepassingonthereignstothenewchairmantousherintheirrespectivecouncilsforthe2025/2026 Tablingcalendar
OutgoingchairmanGrant"Puffy"GordonwalkedawaywithTableroftheYearandProjectoftheYear.At thesametime,incomingvice-chairmanCraigFouriewashandedthelessthanhonorable"Mullet"award forGrahamstown11
TothesoutheastatPortAlfred177,NicoVonWiellighpickedupthehighesthonours.Aspecialthankyouto himforbearingtheweightofthegongatmoment'snoticeasinterimchair! Justdownthecost,BenKroontookhometheDaveyMalan"stirrer"Spoonforhisquestionableantics duringtheyearatAlex/Kenton210 JacquesvanWykshowedincredibleTablingspirit,beingnamedTabler oftheYearforA/K210,onceagainshowcasinghisloveforTablinglocallyandregionally!
Unfortunately,thenightalsosawRTSAsayinggoodbyetotwo41ers,Tafadzwa"Dudu"Nyakotyofrom Grahamstown11andChrisOvensfromAlex/Kenton210.Wethankyou,gentlemen,foryourservice,jokes, hardwork,andfriendship Enjoyyour"freetime,"andpleasedon'tbestrangers!
OnbehalfofGrahamstown11,wethankeveryonewhoattendedtheeveningandthelovelystaffatthe BelmontGolfClubforhostingandservingus.
AspecialmentiontoKirkwood78andCradock37formakingthetrip Itwasagreateveningandaperfect waytocapoffthe2024/2025year.
ToFellowship,ToRTSA,ToRoundTable.
Elrico de Bruyn
Incoming Table Councils
Vice-chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
PRO:
IRO:
CraigFourie
ElricodeBruyn
GrantGordon
StuartTarr
CraigFourie ndricks
Vice-chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
GrantKew
NicovonWielligh
GrantKew
Vice-chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
PRO:
IRO:
BenKroon
MurrayWilmot
MurrayFoster
AaronSoutthey
JacquesdeWit
eason on the 22nd of February at the beautiful Victoria Manor in Cradock.
Cradock 37, Kirkwood 78 and Adelaide 194 had a great evening where the past Chairmen could showcase the achievements of our Tables.
The Victoria Manor with its beautiful setting and rich history was fitting venue for Round Table, and our rich history and great traditions complemented each other for the night. Although the loadshedding tried to put a damper on our night, the break fromlights and the welcome aroma fromthe candles put an appropriate ambience and spirit in the evening. The food tasted better and everyone had their fill!
Paul Maré made the night run smoothly as Master of Ceremonies and after due protocol was observed with the Aims and Objectives read by Kirkwood 78 and Adelaide 194, Cradock 37 kicked of the night with John “Mondy Celeb” Tom reporting his year as Chairman for 2024/2025 John highlighted the great growth we had as a table and the hurdles we overcame with teamwork and dedication. With that said the well-deserved tabler of the year for Cradock 37 was won by Rubin Schoeman Thank you, Rubin, for your hard work and dedication to Table!
Next up was Kirkwood 78 Chairman Regardt van der Merwe. He was so full of confidence in their achievements he did not even bother using the microphone. He proceeded to highlight Kirkwood 78's contributions to their community and their remarkable attendance of various meetings, conferences and events across the EPArea
He then proceeded to hand out 78's awards: Tabler of the Year - Estiaan Ferreira; Newcomer of the Year - Hein Joubert; Lady of the Year - Let-Marie Killian; Attendance Trophy - AMSwart
Adelaide 194 then took to the podium. Their outgoing Chairman Richard Laubscher not being able to attend the evening, incoming Chairman Stephan Lombard took to the podiumto present Richard’s prepared speech
Richard’s speech referenced the challenges faced & overcome by 194, highlighted their continuous community support and acknowledged tthhe personal growth achieved during his tenure as Chairman Aspecial word of thanks was included for outgoing 41er Nico Schneider for his contribution to Round Table and Adelaide194 in particular.
They then proceeded to hand out their Tabler of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and Zoolander awards
Nico Schneider was recognised as Tabler of the Year and Ben du Preez claimed both the Newcomer of the Year and Zoolander awards.
Congratulations to each Table and good luck to their new counsels!
Thank you to Alex Kenton 210 for also joining our special night
Thank you to all the great toast makers for each heartfelt word and inspirational quote.
Johan van der Vyver and Stephan Lombard read the Round Table Aims and Objectives, Alheit du Toit made the toast to the Ladies, AMSwart did the toast to the Country, Nico Schneider said Grace, Rubin Schoeman made the toast to the 41érs and Simon Ward gave their response. The final toast to ARTSAand RTI was done by Daneel Meiring, thank you Alan for the great speech.
Lastly, thank you to the ladies of Cradock 37, who gave the venue a special flair with all the décor and beautiful flowers.
Thank you to everyone for taking time fromfamily or busy schedules to join us and make impactful change wherever you go in life
Adopt Adapt Improve.
Bernard Coetzer
Incoming Table Councils
Vice-chairm
Secretary:
Treasurer:
PRO:
IRO
Clubhouse:
LadiesMan
Vice-chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
PRO:
Clubhouse: Ferreira JohannvanderV CarloBotes
PhilipTibshraeny
RegardtvanderM DaneelMeiring
Chairman: Vice-chairman:
Secretary:
Treasurer:
PRO:
StephanLombard BenduPreez
BenduPreez
StephanLombard RichardLaubscher
Round Table Algoa 108 was the nominated Table to host the upcoming Induction Dinner for 2024/2025 for Algoa 108, Zwartkops 195, PE West 142 &Jeffrey’s Bay/Humansdorp 252
Being quite a young table &a first for most of our members, we had quite a lot of planning to do &advice to seek Luckily we are still quite close with majority of our 41ers, so their advice would most definitely come in handy
We chose to host the event at the Scouts Hall in Walmer Port Elizabeth as we could not fit the amount of Tablers into our clubhouse&we are wanting to focus on our connection between Round Table &the Scouts
The evening started off with all the Tablers &partners arriving looking ever-so-snazzy. We had managed to organize someone to come &take some proper photos of all of our guests on the red carpet before we all got seated &got the showon the road
After our MCWayne Stevenson welcomed everybody to this prestige event, we jumped straight into the newly elected councils &prizes given out by each Table before we enjoyed a 3-course meal
1st off was us as Round Table Algoa 108: Awards for the year of 2024:
-Tabler of the year: Sheldon De Ridd D f h C F l er -Wooden Spoon: Mark Ward n
e Ridder
- IRO/ PRO: Craig Falconer
2nd to go was PE West 142: Newly elected council: Dewald Niemand will be running all port folios.
3rd up was Zwartkops 195: Newly elected council:
-Chairman: Carl Olivier
-Secretary: Stefan Van Der Merwe
-IRO/PRO: David Allan
-Vice Chairman
-Treasurer: Jona
Then last, but not least it was J-Bay/Humansdorp 252’s turn:
Newly elected council:
-Chairman: Shawn Vosloo
-Vice Chairman: David Higgs
-Treasurer: Gert Strydom
-Secretary: PJ De Beer
-IRO/PRO: Pierre Botha
I would like to wish every single portfolio holder, member, pipeliner &Chairman the best of luck for the up-coming year & thank you to all for joining us on this magnificent evening
Shane Tait
What the Vice said before What the Vice said before he became the Chairman he became the Chairman
Wium Hagen - Cradock 37
At the end of the year, we often find ourselves gazin the braai fire, reflecting on what has been and dream what could or should be It’s also a time to look back ourselves where we could have done better or wha might have said or done differently. When it comes to Round Table, it’s not yet my turn t year-in-reviewreport, but I do have the privilege of vision a year imagined.
Imagination is shaped by past experiences and futu aspirations, and for that, I amgrateful John has bee outstanding chairman for Cradock 37, and I truly be has the potential to become a remarkable leader in Area and even RTSA. My hope is that he not only en himself stepping into those roles but also takes the leap to make it happen!
Personally, I tend to dive headfirst into challenges, figuring things out as I go. However, John has taught me to pause, step back, and consider alternative perspectives. It’s a lesson I hope to incorporate into my daily approach Thank you, John, for an incredible year!
At the start of 2024, it became clear that Cradock 37 had lost some connection with our community. While we were going through the motions, our visibility wasn’t what it should have been. We made it a priority to change that, and I’mproud to say we succeeded!
In addition to rebuilding our presence in the community, we recognized the need to growour membership and strengthen the bonds within our Table family. #FamilyVibes Looking ahead to 2025/2026, I want to make this my focus. We already have an incredible group of men, but nowit’s time to become a true family. Fromthat foundation, greatness will emerge. Projects will no longer just be about service they’ll become the perfect excuse to spend time together and enjoy ourselves This camaraderie will fuel our energy, strengthen our commitment, and generate the funds we need to serve Cradock and support those who need us most.
My vision for 2025/2026 is a stronger, happier Cradock 37 family, full of renewed enthusiasm, dedication, and joy Fromthis unity, a vibrant and thriving Table will grow!
Yours in Table
WiumHagen
Cradock 37
Vice Chairman 2024/2025
Estiaan Ferreira - Kirkwood 78
As I reflect on my year as Vice Chairman of Round Table Kirkwood 78 I amfilled with a sense of gratitude and growth Serving in this capacity has not only been an incredibly rewarding experience but has also offered countless lessons on leadership, time management and the power of collaboration
One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of time management. As Vice Chairman, I had to juggle multiple responsibilities, fromsupporting our chairman in meetings to helping organize community events It became evident early on that if I didn’t carefully plan my time, it would be easy to become overwhelmed I learned to break down tasks into manageable pieces, setting clear deadlines for each to ensure progress. By creating timelines for projects and sticking to them, I was able to stay organized and maintain momentum Having clear, realistic goals also helped me manage my commitments outside of Round Table, ensuring I mainta
Another lesson that deeply resonated with me during my time as Vic listening – truly listening – to fellowtablers Everyone who joins Round Table has a different background, different expectations, and different motivations for being there, it’s crucial that we understand and appreciate these unique perspectives. By actively listening to my fellowtablers, I learned that, while our personal reasons for joining Round Table may differ, we all share the same overarching goal: to make a positive, #IMPACTFULCHANGE in our community and in the lives of others
The diversity of thought is one of the greatest strengths of Round Table. I found that the richness of our discussions and decision-making processes grewwhen we made a conscious effort to encourage and respect different viewpoints Some tablers were focused on strengthening our local community, while others were passionate about making a broader impact Regardless of the direction, we all shared a common goal – to create meaningful change Understanding that “Table” means something different to each person helped me be more open to different ideas and solutions.
This also taught me that, I should never assume my vision for the future of the organization is the same as everyone else’s I learned to balance my perspective with those of others, ensuring that each voice was heard, and together we shaped a collective vision that aligned with our shared purpose. Throughout the year, I witnessed firsthand the powerful impact we can have when we work together with a common purpose Whether it was organizing fundraising events, supporting local causes, or providing opportunities for personal growth, Round Table Kirkwood 78 demonstrated that small actions, when combined, create ripples of impactful change
The most rewarding aspect of my time as Vice Chairman has been seeing howour efforts have touched lives in the community Through our events and initiatives, we made a difference – not just by contributing funds or time, but by empowering others to get involved and make a difference themselves This sense of shared responsibility and community spirit is what makes Round Table so special
As incoming Chairman of Kirkwood 78, my goals for the year are to continue building upon the strong foundation the organization has maintained for over 60years I amcommitted to spreading #IMPACTFULCHANGE, particularly in the lives of those who need it most and working to create lasting positive effects in our community. Additionally, I aimto inspire and influence the younger generation,
helpingthemseethegoodintheworldandempoweringthemto bethechangethatensuresabetterfutureforall.Icarrywithme thelessonsI’velearnedandtherelationshipsI’vebuilt Iamproud tobeapartofsuchanawesomegroupofyoungmenandofwhat weaccomplishedtogetherandlookforwardtoseeingthe continuedsuccessandgrowthofRoundTableKirkwood78inthe yearstocome.
Inclosing,myyearasViceChairmanofRoundTableKirkwood78 hasbeenanexperienceofgrowthandlearning,andonethatIwill treasureforyearstocome Ihavelearnedtomanagemytime moreeffectively,listenwithempathyandopenness,andembraceth strongerasagroup.
Mostimportantly,Ihavelearnedthat,whileeachofusmayhavedifferentreasonsforjoiningTable,weall shareaunifiedpurpose:tomakeanimpactfulchangeinourcommunityandinthelivesofothers.
Yoursintable,
EstiaanFerreira ViceChairman Kirkwood78
Dewald Niemand
- PE West 142
Round Table PE West 142 has had a very busy 2024/2025 table year with a upsets and changes. One of the biggest upsets was that the table year end with only one member. It is hard work trying to keep up to date with all the requirements on a weekly or monthly basis covering 6 portfolios
Despite the previous solo act, there remains hope of possible 2 to 3 people showing interest. We have had our strategic planning session and have ide the projects we will be doing this The core focusses this year with regards everything we do is MEMBERSHIPDrives
The following is some indications of what we will be doing or envisage doi
Engage with the Community: Host events and activities that address local needs and interests
Leverage social media: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share our club's activities, achievements, and upcoming events
Offer Value to Members: Ensure that our club provides value to its members through networking opportunities, personal development workshops, and social events. Happy members are more likely to invite others to join
Collaborate with Other Organizations: Partner with local businesses, schools, and other community organizations to co-host events and projects.
Promote Inclusivity: Make sure our club is welcoming to people fromdiverse backgrounds and interests
Highlight Success Stories: Share stories of howyour club has made a positive impact in the community
Provide Leadership Opportunities: Encourage members to take on leadership roles within the club and making sure that training and upskilling is at the heart of this.
Life is full of ups and downs, and sometimes it can feel like the challenges are never-ending But remember, every stormeventually runs out of rain Tough times don’t last forever, and we have the strength and resilience to get through whatever comes your way.
We hold on to hope, we lean on our support network and take things one step at a time Better days are ahead, and we will come out stronger on the other side Keep going, believe in yourself, and knowthat brighter days are just around the corner
Yours in Table,
Dewald Niemand Chairman
Round Table PE West 142
Stephan Lombard - Adelaide 194
With 194 being lowon members currently, this will be my second termas chairman in quite a short period of time So I mostly knowwhat to expect fromthe year that lies ahead
Having said that the year did throwa couple of curve balls at us which had to be navigated
Work commitments meant that sometimes it was quite difficult for us to get together as a table. Finding suitable dates for meetings/socials/projects became tricky as it had to fit into the schedules of members who work in Adelaide, Fort Beaufort, Grahamstown &Welkom
We also have the continuous issue of struggling for membership Running projects with a small number of tablers can be quite tough. Cradock 37 were kind enough to come and help us with our Winter Knights event, and I must say if it was not for their assistance, we would have struggled to pull the event off.
What we learned fromthe challenges faced is that effective and clear communication is very important when it comes to discussing table matters with members not necessarily being in the same room. Although having a physical meeting is better, sometimes we must embrace the technology available and make use of Teams/Google Meets/Zoomand have virtual meetings
Also, that if you feel like you might struggle to run a project due to being a small table, you should ask for assistance fromnearby tables. There will always be someone willing to help.
Going into the 2025/2026 year as chairman I amnot planning on changing too much
Our focus will be on stabilizing the club in terms of membership.
We do have a couple of pipeliners who we are hoping to induct soon and will also invite more guests with the hope that some of themwill be inducted during the year
We are also lucky enough to have two 41’ers in Nico &Barend who will be doing an honorary year, this will be of great value as they can share their knowledge with the younger tablers that have joined this past year We are looking at bringing in a newproject this year as well which will be quite exciting.
At our 50th anniversary function last year it struck me howmuch our 41ers enjoyed table and appreciate what we are still doing for our community Think it will be good to try to involve themmore, especially now that we are going through a tough time. Asking themfor membership suggestions etc might help us identify suitable people.
With only 4 members going into the year some of us will have to wear multiple hats when it comes to my council:
YIT
Stephan Lombard
Incoming Chairman 2025/2026
Carl Olivier - Zwartkops 195
This will be the second year that I will be taking the reigns at Zwartkops 195 and I’mextremely excited for what we have planned this year
RT 195 went through a difficult rebuilding phase the last 4 years after we lost a strong core of members to the ranks of the 41’ers. We have however grown again to 6 members who are driven and excited to make an impactful change to the community
My council for the year will be as follow:
Vice-Chair: MattewEmery
Secretary: Stefan van der Merwe
Treasurer: Jonathan Beukes
PRO/ IRO: David Allan
Goals
I set the following goals to 195 for this year: Make Zwartkops 195 financially stable and strong, Continue to growTable (We want at least 10members by the end of the year), Further strengthening of our brotherhood and friendship, and Promote Round Table in the Gqeberha area
We will achieve this through proactive planning, use of technology, fellowship and the good old trusted method of “Talking Table” to people we meet during the year.
As mentioned, I’mexcited for the year, so watch this space!
YIT
Carl Olivier Zwartkops 195
Incoming Chairman 2025/2026
Joshua Burger - Alex/Kenton 210
My year as Vice has taught me a lot fromtable, I never even knewabout Well to be honest I still have a lot to learn as I have only been a part of the awesome young man’s organization for 2 years. And I’mplanning to see it right through to the end. #aanhouerswen
My year as being Vice has really opened my eyes with regards to what you as individual can accomplish and what you can accomplish as a team/table family.
The one thing I accomplished in the year that I amproud of is something small to others but big to me and that is public speaking I would never have been able to do it if I didn’t have good tablers being there for me and giving me key notes on howto make it easier for you as a individual Infront of howmany people. The other thing that comes to mind that we were able to do as a team/table family is Alex/kenton 210held all 3 induction dinners at one time at our AGM We did have a lot of assistance from, Mr Alan Malan, but still as a family we stood together and conquered the massive task and at the end of the weekend it was a massive success for us at Alex/Kenton 210 and for table in general
So, I have learned in my vice chairman year that there is no task too big for you and or your table to handle If you have the support and love fromyour friends and tablers you can conquer anything And that is what I’mtaking into my year as incoming Chairman. To be there for my fellowtablers and assist where I can and to encourage us as a team/family to stand together and make 2025 one of the best years to come
Word for the year is TEAMWORK.
My vision for the year as chairman is to reach out to the community a bit more and do projects where we can include the community or offer some fun activities for themto enjoy, to spend some quality and fun times together. We as a table have already spoken about some newupcoming projects for the year and I must say I’mexcited for the year to come. I don’t knowwhat to expect but whatever curve ball gets thrown my way, I’msure I’ll be able to handle it with the help of my tablers
Joshua Burger
Shawn Vosloo - Jeffreys B
As Vice Chairman of Round Table Jbay been a rewarding journey of growth an alongside our table members, I’ve learn communication, teamwork, and staying challenges. These experiences have eq confidence to take on the role of Chairm
Looking forward, my key goals for the c
Membership Growth: I will focus on meetings and come out and join ou our mission and will make an impac table easy".
TeamBuilding: Strengthening our t work more effectively and maintain Community Impact: Continuing to e will focus on executing existing pro 2025.
Sponsorship &Collaboration: Build ensure the long-termsuccess of our projects and initiatives for this year and the years ahead
Successful Project Execution: I’mcommitted to overseeing the successful completion of all our projects, with an emphasis on careful planning and follow-through
I’mexcited for what the future holds for our table at Jbay/Humansdorp 252 and amconfident that together, we’ll continue to make a meaningful impact in our community while growing as an organization
Shawn Vosloo
Vice-Chair 2024
Jbay/Humansdorp 252
