Veterans and residents unite for annual memorial walk in Dowerglen

Over 100 people attended the Dickie Fritz Shellhole Annual Memorial Walk 2026.

The walk, which participants completed by walking 12 laps around the complex, took place on May 4 at the MOTH Cottages complex in Dowerglen.

Old Bill of the Dickie Fritz Shellhole, Gary Longshaw said, they walked in remembrance of all those who had gone before them and had influenced their lives.

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Recalling the history, Longshaw said the Dickie Fritz Shellhole began in 1955, so it has been around a long time.

The memorial walk’s been going on for at least 20 years.

The Old Bill said they also did the walk to raise funds for the complex, which houses veterans and veterans’ widows.

“So we never forget all of those who have gone before us in the military and service. We are all servicemen in the Memorable Order of Tin Hats (MOTH), and we look after the widows of servicemen and former servicemen who need help or are looking after. That’s what the walk is all about. We do it every year to raise funds for that,” explained Longshaw.

Other veterans’ organisations were participating in the potjiekos competition on the day.

“Longshaw explained, “The potjiekos, when it’s judged in the end, there is a winner, but all of the food made is sold at R50 a plate, also to raise funds. We are happy with whatever we can raise.”

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He went on to share the three ideals of the moth: true comradeship, mutual help, and sound memory.

The Old Bill said the event was mainly attended by members from other shellholes, as there are a variety of shellholes in the Eastrand.

Longshaw added that the memorial walk is open to the public, and people can even register their pet to walk. Participants each received a shiny medal after completing the walk.