Wide-brimmed and cheeky party hats marked the 27th celebration of the Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club on September 25.

Founded in 1998 as an exclusive club for the city’s women, the Garlands has evolved into a monthly gathering where ladies enjoy friendship, fellowship, and a shared love of good company.

“There used to be a waiting list, just to get on the waiting list,” laughed founding member Rhoda Toker.

“Becoming a Garlands member was highly sought after – it became somewhat of a unicorn on Benoni’s social calendar.”

Over the years, the sophisticated fanfare of the club has given way to a more informal gathering, focusing less on status and more on building genuine connections among members.

Taking the podium with her signature sassy style, Margie Kostelac announced she will continue as club president.

“It is an honour to ensure that our members, friends, and guests enjoy a delicious meal and vibrant company each month,” she said.

“In the past, women would almost bludgeon each other with their handbags to attend a meeting and would beg, borrow, or steal to become a member,” she added, tongue-in-cheek.

“Oh, how things have changed. The Garlands’ door is always open to welcome more friends, with the emphasis shifting to having tables filled with giggling gals rather than growing membership.”

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Peter’s Tales
As the lone male among the attendees, Peter James-Smith toasted the celebration, sharing tales from his distinguished career at the BBC World Service and the SABC.

After studying theology, the Englishman began his career as a BBC reporter based in the Free State, Northern Cape, and Lesotho.

“Where better to post a man who can only express himself in the Queen’s language than in the heart of the Afrikaans ‘boere’ community,” he joked.

He recounted reporting on sheep-shearing contests and young farmers’ challenges in finding suitable brides, humorously noting that his coverage arguably inspired the TV show Boer soek ‘n vrou.

At the SABC, Peter found himself in the company of politicians, freedom fighters, and reformers shaping South Africa’s future.

Outside journalism, he stayed active as a Scout leader and in accordance with the Rotary Club’s five pillars of service.

“My career spanned several decades, taking me from Khatu to Kensington. I’ve sat with policymakers and bright-eyed children climbing the ranks of the Scout movement. It may not have been glamorous, but it exposed me to the unsung newsmakers of this glorious country,” he reflected.

The Garlands will meet again on October 25 at the Katse Room, Ebotse, featuring guest speaker Warrick Brown.

For more information, email club president Margie Kostelac at margie.h@mweb.co.za

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