Memories live on among classmates… 50 years later

The sounds of yesteryear filled the halls and sports fields of Estcourt High School (EHS) on July 22 as a group of ex-students from the ‘Class of 1973’ visited the school for their 50th reunion.

They interacted informally with some current matric learners and did the ‘EHS sport war cry’ together as one. A special moment was when 1973 deputy head girl Allison Barnes and current deputy head girl Aphiwe Khanyile found each other, 50 years apart!

Of the 100 pupils from the 1973 class, 20 are deceased and 10 live outside of SA (two of those flew here specifically to attend). Of those still alive and able, more than half the class was present.

 “It was a truly remarkable statement and recognition of an exceptional school and its ability to build strong friendships,” said one of the organisers, Mike Boon.

A commemorative tree was planted at the school, in memory of friends.

“The class of ‘73 produced people who we can be truly proud of, just as they are proud of their Alma Mater, EHS,” added Boon. Two won their place to represent our country as Springboks; one in judo and the other in sports shooting. One learner was a major facilitator in the amalgamation of the armed forces in 1993/4. One is a well-known TV personality and conservationist, while another became a professor of Paediatric Cardiology. Yet another won the Sword of Honour when graduating from the Military Leadership School. One developed the largest piggery in SA and has set the standard for pig farming in the world. Many rose above their humble beginnings to develop significant businesses, and become nurses or teachers. Several became agronomists and farmers. “There are engineers and project managers of huge projects. All are immensely proud to have attended Estcourt High School,” Boon concluded.

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