Weston Agricultural College’s annual “Old Boys’ Weekend” is a red-letter date on the school’s calendar, when men of all ages descend on the school and enjoy reminiscing about their youth. 2014 is of special significance, as the school is celebrating its centenary, consequently, celebrations for the weekend were planned well in advance and on a large scale.
For a brief few hours on the Friday morning, it looked as though nature could well be spoiling the event, when the school awoke to a light snowfall covering the campus. Nevertheless, like most brief snowfalls in the Midlands, the snow had melted by mid-morning and a weak sun was high in the sky.
By evening, the temperature was low, but this did not hamper the enthusiastic response of old boys who attended the cocktail party.
It was estimated that at least 350 men attended the event. They ranged from matriculants from 1939 to 2013, many who had travelled from abroad and distant parts of South Africa.
The numbers were swelled by partners of the old students, past and present staff members, friends and sponsors.
The venue for the event was the school’s spacious sheep shed, and the décor was very appropriate and brought back memories to many of the old boys about “life on the farm”, with sawdust covering the floor and bales of hay for seating.
Outside there were large bonfires to warm those queuing on arrival or the brave who enjoyed the chill evening, the warmth and ambiance of the flames and the bonding with old friends, many whom had not been seen since their schooldays.
During the event, an auction was held and several items were auctioned; two framed whistles used by Zum were sold for R17 000.
Saturday saw up to 1 000 Old Boys attending the many events, which included a memorial service, the association’s AGM and rugby. The highlight of the celebrations was the official opening at midday of the Centenary Pavilion by Derek Dickson.
The impressive new double-storey structure has a wrap-around viewing deck, providing a panoramic view of the sports’ fields.
The finale to the amazing weekend for old students was the Johnny Clegg concert on Saturday evening.
The charismatic entertainer delighted all those present, whether young or old. Though, there were many who recalled Mooi River’s low winter temperatures, few complained as they proudly united as a group of men sharing a unique heritage.
Tributes were paid to Butch Pike Chairman of the Old Boys’ Association and his committee for their support and to the school’s head of School Development Joe Sadowski for his untiring commitment to the centenary year celebrations and involvement in monitoring the building of the new pavilion. The principal of the school, Paul Tait received praise for his leadership of the school for the last 20 years.
The school was opened in August 1914, and a number of events are planned for later in the year.
To all who made the weekend memorable we thank and salute you.
We know that without the support of Butch Pike and his committee, Old Boys, parents, staff and boys, the weekend would not rank as the best ever.