Time to share
Full programme for term
With our mass reunion and several class reunions just around the corner, an exciting new quarter awaits us. Hope to see as many of you there as possible.
Welcome also to the new life and year members who recently joined us. The more of us there are, the stronger our alma mater becomes and the team spirit that is so essential to success.
In Memoriam
Regrettably, the Old Boys Union has bid farewell to several members who have passed away. Among them is Old Boy Stephen Johannes Marais (1974), an anti-apartheid activist, writer, translator, eco-socialist warrior, and gardener, who passed away at his home in Johannesburg in March. He is survived by his partner Khethiwe and sons Mlungisi and Nkululeko.
Another loss to the community is Stephen Donald (1976), one of the country’s finest athletes, who also passed away in March. Stephen, a household name during his time, excelled in track, cross country, and road running. He holds the school record for the fastest marathon runner, completing the Peninsula Marathon in 1983 in just 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 48 seconds. In 1985, he clinched the SA Universities Marathon championship and achieved five consecutive gold medal finishes in the Two Oceans ultra-marathon. Stephen represented Western Province in over 50 running events. To many Old Boys, Stephen was a true legend and a genuine ‘mensch’. He is survived by his wife, Meg, and his brother, John (1973), who was also a top long-distance runner.
Professor Gerhard Karl Hans Tötemeyer (1955) will be remembered as an astute student and resident at Prima Quarters. His impact transcended academia as he played a crucial role in shaping Namibia’s political landscape. He served as the Director of Elections from 1992 to 1998 and later assumed the role of Deputy Minister of Local and Regional Government and Housing when Namibia gained independence.
Our deepest condolences to the family and classmates of Willie van Zyl (1959), Hentie Wiese (1955), Willie Mostert, (1977), Johannes ‘Coen’ Steytler (1980), Johan Neethling (Head Boy 1963), Reindert Kelder (1959) and Louis Christoffel Matthys Fourie (1959), who sadly also have passed away.
Art and Culture
The literary achievements of the Old Boys continue to grow, and it was delightful to witness Tom Dreyer’s involvement at the Stilbaai Book Festival, where he shared the stage with Antjie Krog and Bibi Slippers. Tom’s book Nou in infrarooi is set to enter its third printing, marking a significant milestone for any South African author.
Meanwhile, among the authors, Jan Hendrik “Portchie” Viljoen (1981) has unveiled his latest book, From Gemini to Trafalgar Square.This captivating work combines Portchie’s inspiring narrative with photographs, anecdotes, and even recipes.
Meanwhile, Nic de Jager (1958) is back in action, having recently joined the cast of the first original locally produced Afrikaans series on e.tv called “Elders Van Geheime”.
Kobus van der Merwe (1998), an Old Boy and the chef-owner of Wolfgat restaurant, is featured in a captivating Daily Maverick article. In it, he fearlessly challenges centuries-old traditions by sharing his recipe for traditional Easter pickled fish, or “piekelvis”. Kobus remains a prominent commentator on culinary matters in the country, and we extend our best wishes to him for continued success with Wolfgat.
Actor, director, screenwriter, and musician, Beer Adriaanse (2003), also recently featured in the media and Sarie magazine ran an article on his passion for music and travel.
In other news, congratulations are in order for Robert Bolton (1997), a singer, songwriter, and paramedic, who has recently released his new alternative single titled “Fly too close to the sun.” This achievement has landed him in the top five of the singing competition, The Contract 2.
While I’m uncertain if the following story fits within this section, I’d like to share a story about Dr. Justin Hendriksz (1990), the sole remaining practice partner at a surgery in Cornwall, who played a crucial role in launching an initiative to hire a new general practitioner. Justin collaborated with 500 residents of Lostwithiel, located south of Bodmin, to create a pop video titled “The Lostwithiel Needs a Doctor”. As a result, the town successfully attracted a new doctor. Many congratulations, Justin!
Business
We are delighted to share some thrilling developments in the business world. Firstly, congratulations to Michael J Venter (1980) on his appointment as the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Australian telecommunication giant, Optus.
Furthermore, Julius Oosthuizen (1983) deserves commendation for his recent transition to SanlamAllianz, where he now serves as the Group Executive: M&A and Legal.
In addition, Andrew Rogers (1986) has assumed the role of CEO at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club and the VOGO Golf Resort & Spa in Abu Dhabi. With his wealth of experience, Andrew aims to enhance the golfing experience at these esteemed venues.
We also extend our congratulations to Schalk (1970) and his son Bertho van der Westhuizen (1998) of Alto Wine Farm for earning the 2015 Icon distinction with Top of the World status.
Moreover, Jaco Human (1987), CEO of the Industrial Gas Users Association of Southern Africa, recently featured on the Peter Bruce podcast series, where he discussed Sasol’s decision to halt gas supplies from its Mozambique fields in 2026 and its implications for South African businesses.
Lastly, a highlight in the business landscape this year was the acquisition of the Stormers professional rugby team by the Red Disa consortium, led by Johan le Roux (1996). We anticipate that this partnership will continue to yield successful outcomes, further strengthening the bond between the school and the rugby team.
Sport
Congratulations to Edwill van der Merwe (2014) for making history as the first South African player to score 20 tries in the Vodacom URC. We also express our appreciation to former national hockey player, Eric Rose-Innes (1999), for providing new playing kit to the PRG’s hockey team during an exclusive capping ceremony.
Congratulations to Nicol Loftie-Eaton (2018) for achieving the fastest century in T20I history, with a remarkable knock of 101 off just 36 deliveries, including 11 fours and eight sixes at an astonishing strike rate of 280.55!
Additionally, Petrus Truter (2021), the current captain of South Africa’s swimming team, showcased exceptional talent by clinching three gold medals – two individual and one relay – at the Region 5 Youth Games in Lilongwe, Malawi. Petrus’ remarkable achievements are a true inspiration, and we are incredibly proud of him.
The PRG Classic Golf Day, held on Thursday, March 14, 2024, was once again a resounding success, with clear sunny skies and breathtaking pink and purple mountains providing a stunning backdrop. The highlight of the day was the 4-Ball Better Ball Stableford competition, won by Old Boys Francois and Andreas Derksen, with Morné Potgieter and Howick Oosthuizen coming in a close second. Sune Botha and Liezet Basson took first place in the ladies’ team category. Mark van Niekerk, Dale Good, Wilhelm Kruger, and Morné Potgieter were the winners of the Nearest to the Pin competition, while Antonie Jacobs and Hugo Fourie claimed victory in the Longest Drive competition on Tee 5 and Tee 12, respectively. Cyril Camara walked away with the PRG Classic Golf Day hamper. Our heartfelt thanks go to our sponsors and players, whose support and generosity made the day possible.
Congratulations to former students Corne Weilbach (2020), Juan Mostert (2018), Matthew van Schalkwyk (2021) and Aydon Topley (2016) who all appeared for the Maties rugby team during the Varisty Cup 2024.
A special thank you to the Old Boys who came out of rugby retirement to participate in the friendly match against a team of Affies’ former pupils in Pretoria on March 22, 2024. This match was part of the annual North-South rugby tournament, and the Old Boys made a significant impression on the Affies fans and our 1st Rugby Team. Well done the big effort to the team under manager Louis van Wyk.
Not to be outdone by the rugby players, the PRG Old Boys Cricket Festival was held at the PRG Oval on March 8-9, 2024, organized by Paul Schaeffer (1996). This inaugural event was a tremendous success, and we eagerly anticipate next year’s edition. Be sure to secure your spot early, as it may sell out quickly if you’re keen to enter a team.
Other
The cherished tradition of familial ties at Paul Roos Gymnasium continues, and we warmly welcome all the new Grade 8 boys who have family members in the Old Boys Union.
A special acknowledgment goes to the following new boys: Ben Nicolaas de Wet (Grandfather, Father, Uncle), Edwin Dirk Hertzog (Grandfather, Father, Uncle), Markus Thobé Kuipers (Grandfather, Father, Uncle), Joel Oliver Neethling (Grandfather, Father, Uncle), Willem-Lukas Briedenhann (Grandfather, Father, Uncle, Brother), Lucas Francois Krynauw (Great Grandfather, Father), Lian Theo Winckler (Great-Grandfather, Grandfather, Father, Uncle), and Jacob Adrian Louw Basson (Great-Grandfather, Grandfather, Father, Uncle, Brother).
Additionally, I would like to personally extend heartfelt congratulations to the Vice-Chairman of the Old Boys Union, Niel Roode (2010), and his wife Yvonne on the joyous occasion of the birth of their first child, Daniel Barend Roode.
Finally, we look forward to seeing everyone at the Annual General Meeting later this month.
Kind regards
Chairman, Old Boys’ Union
Nils Flaatten (1987)
