REPORTS ON CLUB SOCIAL EVENTS
REPORTS ON CLUB SOCIAL EVENTS

The Nomads 55th Anniversary Celebration Weekend away, Friday, 30th April 2021 to Sunday, 2nd May 2021 at the St. Helena Bay  Hotel. St Helena Bay. Report by Ian Sinclair.

Five years since we went away to celebrate the clubs 50th Anniversary at Pinnacle point, Mossel Bay. The good old saying; “Time and tide waits for no man” [This should read: Time and tide waits for no person] we have to include the fairer sex in all comments/sayings nowadays. End of that discussion.
For those of us who could get the Friday off and the pensioners, we were to meet at the Total service station on the West coast road opposite Melkbosstrand to leave at 13h00.
Upon my arrival at abovementioned meeting point. The following were there already. Ian and Hayley Peters, Glen Kotze, Bernie Poulter, who had driven down from Port Elizabeth a few days earlier. Soon other members arrived and at 13h15 we left the service station heading for St. Helena Bay.
Luderick and Helewese had gone to fetch the pre ordered celebratory golf shirts at the manufacturer in Ndabeni. He had said to me that we must not wait for him as he would catch up to us. Which he did manage to do. The golf shirts are another story.
Out onto the R27, West coast road, and once we were past the nuclear power station, the traffic got less and those vehicles in front of us moved into the left shoulder of the roadway and we were able to pass them safely.
Riding up a slight incline and without warning we were upon the turn off to St. Helena Bay. I quickly indicated with my left hand to those following me to turn left, which they did manage to do. Except for myself and Glen. Both of us had overshot the turn off. A minor mishap, which was quickly sorted out by being able to make a U turn and joining the group again. Riding through the group I realised that Luderick and Helewese were now in front and they took over and led us safely into St. Helena Bay and to the Hotel.
Upon arrival at the hotel, there were already some members who had left a whole lot earlier and had made a day of riding to get to St. Helena Bay.
Other members arrived during the afternoon, leaving after work. First place to check in was the bar and only later did we check into our respective rooms and then settle down for the evening.
I am sure the members have their own stories to tell, or it might be a case of” what happens in St. Helena Bay stays in St. Helena Bay”
Thank you to the members and their visitors for supporting the club’s 55th anniversary celebration.
Another 5 years and we will be celebrating the club’s 60th anniversary.
There were 31 members, 5 visitors, 18 bikes and 4 cars that had made their way to St. Helena Bay.

REPORT ON THE CLUB’S PALMIET WEEK END AWAY  30 November to 2 DECEMBER 2018 – By Sue Hair

All arrived safely on the Friday. Members and visitors setting up tents on our designated sites.

Once set up, off to meet and greet. A very chilled Friday evening with everyone sitting around fires having chit chats, the wee ones running around having fun.

Saturday arrived and the buzz was POTJIE, POTJIE, POTJIE, the chirping started before 9 a.m.

I took the wee ones down to the beach to swim before our games started.

The children and adults had fun with tyre throwing and sack races. wow are the adults so Competitive! The children kept themselves busy with the box full of play things, the highlight for them was spraying their hair with the funky colour hair spray, receiving goody bags and the glow in the dark sticks.

The potjie contestants started prepping for the countdown. I walked the campsite to find outside judges, how lucky I was to find an ex-chef (Kim) and 2 males from the crayfish club.

So, the competition started, chirping each other, Michael, I might add, fire almost died as he was so busy sending the children off to be spies, so cute to see them hiding in the bushes and running back to report to Major Mike.

The contestants were so focused, welcome to our first timers, Kevin and Liewe Heksie, Rob and Nikki, Cheryl Taylor, Sean Anderson and Michael, whilst the Jacoby’s, Koorsen’s and Sinclair Clan, looking on pretty amused (lots of laughter from that corner).

The judging was over, and prize-giving began. The winners were as follows:

3rd Prize – R500 Cash   –   Winners: Kevin and Liewe Heksie    –   Sponsor: The Taylors

2nd Prize R1 500 voucher for a stay at a luxury self-catering B&B  – Winners: The Tay    lors  – Sponsor: The Hairs

1st Prize Prize – R2 000 Cash – Winners: The Andersons – Sponsors: Kevin Farrow & Sean & Carey Anderson.

The infamous spoon for the most chirping was handed over to Cheryl Taylor.
Pots were shared out for tasting, thanks to all the contestants who entered making it a successful day.
Sunday up early, all packed and ready for a safe trip home. Thank you for supporting our Palmiet week end away.
Sue – Social Secretary.

REPORT ON THE CLUB’S PALMIET WEEK END AWAY 1-3 DECEMBER 2017 – By Sue Hair

Our Second last fun social sleep over from the 1 to the 3rd December 2017.
So, we all arrived safely on the Friday some mid-morning some afternoon and the rest evening.
Greetings then braaiing, sitting around the fire and chatting the night away.

Saturday was extremely hot, so I decided to take the Wee ones to the lagoon. The wind decided to appear and gave Michael and Sean a chance to fly their kite.
Giving lessons to the little ones too. Our games started at 14h30 for the children, changed that and got the adults involved.
Our tyre throw for adults, let’s say no more, it was more like let’s see how many trees we can hit.
The sack race was a good laugh too with some injuries I might add, Sean’s foot still not right thanks to certain contestants.

I then handed out the goodie bags with headlights as gifts. Thank you, Nomads.

The Potjiekos Competition
We only had 3 contestants Len Murphy, a day visitor, Cheryl Taylor and Sean Anderson

Thank you to the Judges.
The results of the competition were as follows;
3rd Place went to Len Murphy and 2nd Place to Cheryl Taylor (both received a baby Potjie Pot, a triangle for the Pot and a bottle of Hanepoot
The Winner, Sean Anderson won a baby Potjie Pot, a lifter and triangle for the Pot including a bottle of Hanepoot.

The Stirring Spoon went to none other than Cheryl Taylor, chirping the whole weekend.

Sean and Kevin made an offer that next year every effort be made to get 10 Pots entered for the competition and that they would put up R1 000 as 1st Prize money.

Congratulations to the winners, thank you to all day visitors and those who took part in the games.

32 Adults and 9 Children attended the event.

REPORT ON THE NOMADS DINNER DANCE AND PRIZE-GIVING HELD AT THE KELVIN GROVE, SPORTS PAVILION, CLAREMONT  ON 27 MAY  2017  – BY SUE HAIR

Thank you all for the support. 64 Attended which was amazing.

A huge thank you to my hubby Michael, Lizl and Robert for helping me set up.

Clumsy me dropping the mirrors and needing 2 more mirrors, thank you Clinton and Caile delivering another 2 mirrors for me .
Mr D.J. – music on request, great idea, really kept the floor rocking.

The Chefs needed a huge applause for accommodating me like they did. Menu’s changed up to the afternoon of our function.
Apologies to Yvonne to getting her menu mixed up. Not sure what happened regarding the tea for you and John Lee.
Thank you also for the lovely e-mails received regarding the event from some members, it’s greatly appreciated.

The awards were presented to our menbers – thank you John v d Spuy for doing the honours and Yvonne for taking the photo’s.

RECIPIENTS OF THE 2016 AWARDS

1. ROAD RACING TROPHY
FOR HIS ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE MOTORCYCLE RACING SEASON. BEING AWARDED FOR THE SEVENTH YEAR.

     RAYMOND ALEXANDER

2. ON THE ROAD TROPHY
AWARDED TO TWO MEMBERS WHO ATTENDED 85% OF THE CLUB RIDES ORGANISED IN 2016 ON THEIR BIKES.

MICHAEL MEIRING & ROBERT TODD

3. MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR TROPHY
AWARDED TO FOUR MEMBERS WHO MOTORCYCLED FROM CAPE TOWN TO LUDERITZ WHERE THEY REPRESENTED THE      CLUB AT THE SCHUTZ TRUPPE RALLY, THEN CONTINUING ON TO WINDHOEK, SWAKOPMUND, WALVIS BAY, THE       ETOSHA, CAPRIVI, THROUGH BOTSWANA TO THE VICTORIA FALLS. THEN RETURNING VIA BOTSWANA TO CAPE TOWN COVERING A DISTANCE OF 7100KMS.

    DAVID & TRACEY, LUDERICK & HELEWESE JACOBY

4. TRIALS TROPHIES
AWARDED TO THE TOP POINTS SCORERS IN THE TRIAL SECTION IN 2016

MASTERS CATEGORY – MICHAEL KRAUSE

EXPERTS CATEGORY – BRIAN BARSON

INTERMEDIATES CATEGORY – STEVE SHEARER

CLUBMAN CATEGORY – WILL GOULD

5. NOMADS PILLION RIDER TROPHY
AWARDED TO THE LADY PILLION RIDER WHO ATTENDED THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF CLUB RIDES IN 2016.

    JENNIFER MEIRING

6. WINNERS OF THE ECONOMY RIDE IN 2016

  • IN THE 0 – 1000cc SOLO CLASS – KEVIN FARROW – 21,1KM/L ON A SUZUKI V-STROM 650

  • IN THE 1000cc AND UPWARD SOLO CLASS – EDDIE DUNCAN – 20,41KM/L ON A SUZUKI HYABUSA

  • IN THE 0 – 1200cc PILLION CLASS – ROBERT & LIZL TODD – 17,2KM/L ON A BMW 1200GS

7. OVERALL WINNER OF THE ECONOMY RIDE IN 2016

            KEVIN FARROW (21,1KM/L ON A SUZUKI 650 V-STROM)

8. “MOTORCYCLE OF THE YEAR” TROPHY
FOR THE BEST TURNED OUT BIKE ON THE MAJORITY OF RIDES.

              MICHAEL MEIRING (1998 HONDA BLACKBIRD)

9. EGON MENDEL TROPHY
AWARDED TO A MEMBER FOR ENORMOUS EFFORT AND OUTSTANDING ASSISTANCE SINCE JOINING THE CLUB IN 2014.
OVER THE PAST 2+ YEARS THIS MEMBER HAS ASSISTED WITH EVERY SPRINGBOK AND BUFFALO RALLY DURING THAT     TIME. NOT BACKWARD IN COMING FORWARD TO ASSIST WITH WHATEVER IS REQUIRED AND IS A MEMBER THAT THE  CLUB CAN RELY ON TO DO WHATEVER IS ASKED OF HER. AN ASSET TO NOMADS.

MANDY KOORSEN

10. COG-UP OF THE MONTH AWARDS

FEBRUARY 2016 – KROG POTGIETER – received the award for taking the wrong turn on the ride to Seafood Lapa Restaurant and who tried                                       his very best to pin one on Henry Morrison.

APRIL 2016 – MARK PRINGLE – Yvonne nominated Mark as he had erred on the wording for the Dinner Dance. Mark also briefly relayed                               an incident on his travel to the Buff
MAY 2016 – Yvonne wanted to reassure every one of the Pinnacle Points tight security by nominating MARK again for leaving his keys in the                         ignition the entire weekend. Mark again modestly accepted
JUNE 2016 – IAN PETERS – for taking a wrong turn on the ride to Simonstown Country Club.

AUGUST 2016 – JOHN LEE – when his bike toppled over and he graciously slipped underneath to prevent damage

SEPTEMBER 2016 – MANDY KOORSEN – who used the wrong hand signal on the club ride to Swartland Fisheries

NOVEMBER 2016 – RAY BERGMAN – for driving up the wrong way to the 38th Eatery Restaurant

11. COG-UP OF THE YEAR TROPHY
AWARDED TO MARK PRINGLE FOR THE NUMEROUS BUNGLES OF THE YEAR

REPORT ON THE CLUB’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY RIDE TO THE PINNACLE POINT ESTATE, MOSSEL BAY, 30 APRIL TO 2 MAY 2016 – BY HAYLEY PETERS

It was a nippy but bearable Saturday morning when we gathered at the False Bay Engen 1-Stop, for a quick coffee and fill-up. At 09h00 or just after, with Luderick our captain for the weekend and Kevin acting as tail-end Charlie we set off. Our route, the N2 to Mossel Bay. There ain’t much to describe along the route that many have not seen but having crossed Sir Lowry’s Pass and a quick look, I noted our dams still need much rain BUT a silent prayer I said … just not this weekend Lord …

When False Bay fades from sight, the road snakes through the mountains past the edge of Grabouw, passing Caledon and beyond that the next 160 kilometers or so were fields in various shades of dust and patches of hopeful crops.

Our first stretch and tinkle break was at Riversonderend then skirting the edge of Swellendam. Our brunch stop Heidelberg. The Wimpy and a lekker breakfast and coffee break. Soos hulle sê …maagies vol …we travelled past Riversdale and Albertina

Continuing on the N2 to Mossel Bay and our destination for the weekend … The Pinnacle Point Beach and Golf Estate.

We were housed in the Golf Lodges and this epitomised what I could only term as Retirement Heaven. Luxurious comfort – the beautiful units lends itself to an idyllic stay. Everything our brochure depicted and as can be seen from Yvonne and Helewes’ pictures on the club’s Facebook page. After unpacking and checking our respective “homes”, a few went into town to purchase some eats and drinks at the local shops.

An afternoon of lazing around and checking out the scenic views and other houses it was time to be shuttled to the club house. This was situated on the cliffs edge with panoramic sea and golf course views. We sat sipping wines, drinking beers or just soaking up the rich lifestyle. A scrumptious braai dinner beckoned with many having seconds … and thirds. Malva pudding enjoyed by all.

Later the evening our shuttle took us back to our respective lodges and we set out watches for early morning. Sunday morning breakfast was another treat and then off to Mossel Bay harbour and on a boat trip organized by Kevin.

We sailed past Seal Island or as Portia pointed out Robbe Eiland. On our return to the harbour we passed a vessel with people doing shark cage diving and also witnessed the frenzied attempt of a small great white attempting to get a chunk of tuna … at least that’s what I think they were chumming …

We were invited to the Sea Gypsy restaurant for champagne and Helewese made a very short toast. At this stage John, John, John, Robbie, Mahoney and 2 spouses set off to Knysna for the vintage car show which they told us later was awesome. Ian and Mandy went to visit friends in Groot Brak and the rest of us went back to the lodges, some visiting the casino, a few sleeping in the full sun, a couple reading their newspapers on the porch and catching some winters sun, the rest chatting. Now some were watching telly and I very innocently asked to change to the food channel and almost caused Luderick, Roy and Helewese severe whiplash … lesson learnt Hayley … never ask these bikers a silly question when they watching a motorcycle race.

Our supper the evening was roast beef and gammon, savoury rice, veggies, salads, and a chocolate tart for dessert. Mandy had secretly organized a canvas board on which we signed our names and presented this to Luderick and John vdS. This will be framed and mounted at the Jaggers Bowling Club.

Monday yielded all too quickly and a rude awakening that reality is about to set in. Breakfast, a final walk around the club house, a group photo whereafter we returned to the homes to pack up and head back to Cape Town.

We set off and stopped at Albertina for biltong, jams, honey and sweets and continued our journey in reverse direction as far as the Swellendam turnoff. We continued through the green mountains ranges, into Ashton where there is still major road works taking place and lots of stop-‘n-go’s, through the quiet town of Robertson and along the N1 past Worcester. We made a final stop at the Shell Ultra on the N1 and after about 20 minutes we headed for Du Toitskloof Pass, a few opted for the ride through the [in]toxicated tunnel and others for the scenic route over the pass. At last Table Mountain beckoned on the horizon of the N1 and I knew we were home … back to reality.

Thank you to Luderick and Kevin for organizing the weekend and boat trip respectively.

Thank you to our fellow riders for an awesome weekend of pretending to be rich and famous.

REPORT ON THE NOMADS DINNER DANCE AND PRIZE GIVING HELD AT THE RONDEBOSCH GOLF CLUB ON 9 APRIL 2016 – BY SUE HAIR

Thanks to the 58 members for making the Dance a great success.

I might add how amazing you all looked. Krog I never thought I would see you in a suit and tie (James Bond 007 – Watch Out)

At 20h15 Luderick gave the welcome speech, then handed over to John van der Spuy to present the RECIPIENTS AWARDS.

RECIPIENTS OF THE 2015 AWARDS WERE.

ROAD RACING TROPHY – Raymond Alexander

ON THE ROAD TROPHY – Luderick Jacoby

MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR TROPHY  – Ian Sinclair & Mandy Koorsen

NOMADS PILLION RIDER TROPHY – Jenny  Meiring 

TRIALS TROPHIES: Mary Barson assisted John van der Spuy with the presentation of the following trophies.

Masters Category – Michael Krause

Experts Category – Brian Barson

Intermediates Category – Sean Pretorius

Clubmans Category – Stephen Shearer

WINNERS OF THE ECONOMY RIDE IN 2015

IN THE 0 – 950cc CLASS – Kevin Farrow – 21,32 KM/L on a SUZUKI V– STROM 650.

IN THE 951cc AND UPWARD SOLO CLASS – Peter Beldekeno – 22,27 KM/L on a KTM Adventure 1190.

IN THE 0 – 950cc PILLION CLASS – David & Tracy Jacoby – 19,33 KM/L on a  BMW 800 GS.

IN THE 951cc AND UPWARD PILLION CLASS – Luderick & Helewese Jacoby – 15,67 KM/L on a BMW 1200 GS Adventure

OVERALL WINNER OF THE 2015 ECONOMY RIDE – Peter Beldekeno – 22,27 KM/L on a KTM Adventure 1190.

MOTORCYCLE OF THE YEAR TROPHY – Michael Meiring’s 1998 Honda Blackbird.

EGON MENDEL TROPHY – Glen Kotze

COG UP OF THE MONTH AWARDS

MARCH – Raymond Alexander

MAY – Henry Morrison

JUNE – Paul Barber

SEPTEMBER – John Lee

COG UP OF THE YEAR TROPHY – John Lee

Luderick and Helewese opened the dance floor then we danced the night away.
At midnight all cheers went to Jean and Krog celebrating their 35th Wedding Anniversary.
A Huge Thank You and Appreciation to the following People:
Brian Barson for motivating so many trials members and families to fill two tables.
Luderick and Helewese for giving up their riding time to meet up with us at the venue.
Zelda for the chocolate truffels so beautifully packed and tasted like more, really yummy.
Megan – Paul and Cornelia’s daughter for the gold dusted Oscar biscuits – fine in detail, and perfectly wrapped.
Ashley Taylor – Michael and Cheryl’s daughter for designing the stars on the red carpet with all our names on them, for the lovely banner, and posters.
Yvonne and Mark for the welcome cards, Mark for welcoming all the Oscar nominees, and Yvonne for taking the photographs.
John Lee for taking the cash at the door.
To the team that gave it all and more:
Lizl & Robert, Cornelia & Paul, Michael, Samuel (Michaels worker)
I cannot thank you all enough for the work and stunning results transforming the venue to glitz and glam.
To Jean and Krog who were my right and left hands. Thank you for running from shop to shop – collecting candle lights/fairy lights…. Cutting all the stars from small to huge, spending endless hours spraying them – making holes and pulling ribbons through and much more
TO ALL THE MEMBERS THANK YOU FOR THE SUPPORT, IDEAS AND HELP OFFERED.

REPORT ON YEAR END SOCIAL EVENT HELD AT JAGGERS BOWLING CLUB 12 DECEMBER 2015 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY- DELRAE MAYER 

It is hard to believe that the end of the year is almost here, this year has really flown by. Even more unbelievable is that I have been Social Secretary for a whole year! Well we had our last social for the year last night at Jagger’s which was attended by 36 adults and 4 kids and it went off quite well.  James and I were at the hall at about 2pm to prepare the Table settings and decorate the Hall.

Then rushed home at 5pm to make ourselves look respectable and were back at 6pm to welcome the first guests who was of course Glen Kotze (alias top cop) and his friend Cary-Ann. I should have carried out a body search on our top cop to check for weapons! Lol

Gavin of Karoo Caterings team outdone themselves once again as the food was absolutely fantastic, a few of us went for seconds. The menu was lamb, ribs, chicken with baby potatoes, pasta salad, green salad and a bean salad with garlic loaves, not to be forgotten, a mint sauce as well.  After supper we did the spot prizes, which involved popping a balloon to see if they were lucky enough to have a piece of paper with a number in order to claim a prize. The queues were long! Lol. In the end we handed out the excess prizes so everyone ended up getting something.  Thank you to Danni for assisting me with the prizes and to Ian Sinclair for bringing the Nomads flag to the hall.

Then the party began, lights were dimmed and the first song played by James, our resident DJ was “Kaptein” by Kurt Darren which was quite a hit. Helewese was one of the first to be on the dance floor. After seeing James and myself “Lang arm” Tracey Jacoby asked James to show her how to also dance like us which James then gave her a quick lesson. We later saw Tracey and David “Lang arm” on the side-line, maybe next time on the dance floor! They seemed to be enjoying themselves which was all that mattered. Yvonne was the resident photographer and took as many photos as she could.  About 10pm we served ice-cream and chocolate sauce, thanks to Annari for doing the dishing up so that Danni and I could play waitress to the guests.

The dancing continued until about 11.30pm when most folk decided to call it a night. Thanks to James for the great music, and to Helewese and everyone else who pitched in to clear the tables at the end of the night. All in all I think everyone had a great evening, plenty to eat, good music and good company.

This is my last report as Social Secretary for 2015, so all that’s left for me to say is have a wonderful Christmas, be safe and the very best for 2016.

Delrae

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REPORT ON THE CAMPING WEEKEND HELD AT THE PALMIET CARAVAN RESORT, KLEINMOND FROM 4 TO 6 DECEMBER 2015 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY- DELRAE MAYER 

The weather certainly played along this year, extremely hot during the day, nice and cool in the evening.

We had a small turn-out this year compared to most Palmiet Camping weekends. We had a total of 35 adults and 11 kids but although a small group of people we still had a great time. Everyone enjoying their braais, socialising with each other, swimming at the beach and of course the sun lovers getting a nice tan to brag about, myself included. A very happy crowd of people indeed. Andre and Annarie Heyliger went ahead of James and myself and made sure we had our usual camping spot. I don’t think anyone wanted to challenge Andre about the camping spot lol. On arrival we found a few Nomads already set up and enjoying a few drinks and on setting up our tent, had a few comments from the peanut gallery but no help offered! Lol. Thanks to Annari for her help and between her and James the tent and the gazebo’s were up very quickly. Wayne and Elretia Filby arrived shortly after us and set up their tent as well. We all had our usual braai, Johnathan came over for a visit and kept us entertained with his hilarious stories.

Saturday morning the Heyliger’s, Filby’s, James and myself decided to go to Kleinmond for lunch, Annari and Elretia enjoyed browsing in the shops first and then we had lunch. On returning to the camp all the kids had decided to go swimming at the beach and were away for quite some time and as it was very hot we left the games and later on I handed out their party packs. We had some big kids who also asked for party packs but I won’t name and shame them lol. At about 3pm the potjiekos entrants started making their food and at 5pm the Judges, Pietie, Helewese and Danni started their judging. I of course just tagged along for the free food! The pots entered and results were as follows:

James Mayer      Lamb neck pot                                               1st place

Billy Wells            Ocean view beef green beans pot              2nd place

Katie Erasmus     Curry and rootie pot                                      3rd place

Andre Heyliger   Braai curry pot                                                4th place

Mike Hair             Chicken chutney pot                                      5th place

Needless to say all the pots we really good and of a high standard. I am so glad I wasn’t a judge as I was told afterwards it was a very difficult decision, 7pm was prize-giving.

I must say that James was very surprised that he won first place but I suppose perseverance wins in the end and, after being a Nomad for 5 years it was well deserved.

Sunday arrived too soon and then it was time to pack up and go home.

Till next time be safe

Delrae

REPORT ON THE NOMADS CLUB SOCIAL AT JAGGER’S BOWLING CLUB, 27 JUNE 2015 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY, DELRAE MAYER

We had our last social for the year at Jagger’s in the form of a spit braai, veggies and salads supplied by Gavin of Karoo Catering. I can happily report we had a great social with almost forty people attending, good food and music playing in the background, thanks to my other half, James.

Gavin was already at Jagger’s, the meat already on the spit when James and I arrived at about 1.15pm, nice and early so that we could decorate the tables and set up the music. Glen and Christina were the first to arrive and then the rest of Nomads and friends started arriving a short while later. Some Nomads only arrived at about 3pm/3.30pm having first watched their favourite sport, but in time to eat the divine food, which consisted of lamb, chicken, potatoes, onions, butternut and cream spinach.

All too soon it was time to go home which was at about 6pm.

Thanks Nomads and friends alike for a great afternoon.

Stay warm and safe

DELRAE

REPORT ON THE NOMADS ANNUAL DINNER DANCE AT KELVIN GROVE, 11 APRIL 2015 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY, DELRAE MAYER

It was finally the day of the Dinner/Dance, exciting I am sure for those new members who had not attended a Nomad’s dance. We arrived at Kelvin Grove at 10am to set up the tables, Errol of Kelvin Grove was already there and was a great help to us, obviously having been doing this for many years. We did the basic setting up of the tables, Mandy with her blue, gold and orange table centre pieces, candles and James with his gold printed table cards and each individual name card for each person, made for a beautiful table setting along with a printed menu courtesy of Kelvin Grove. We arrived back at the venue at 5.30pm to meet our DJ, Jeff of Subway Entertainment, who arrived at about 6pm to set up his equipment. The first guests started arriving at about 6.45pm and the rest a little later on, background music making it a very relaxed atmosphere. The smokers were directed to the patio which in itself has such a lovely view of the well-kept grounds. At 8.20pm we had Starters, and in John van der Spuy’s absence, Luderick made the necessary speech and I assisted him in handing out the trophies. John Lee seemed to be the bad boy of the last few months receiving quite a few Cog- up awards and a huge Cog-up Award for the whole year Lol. After the Awards the lights were dimmed and the dance floor was open and the main course and desserts were served. The food was outstanding as were the Kelvin Grove staff, professional in every way. Jeff had music to suit everyone and also took requests as well, the music must have been really good for even Kevin Farrow danced! Lol. James took a photo of Kevin dancing as well just in case we thought we were hallucinating!
The evening was festive and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves, the evening ended at 12pm.
Thank you to everyone who attended and to those who couldn’t make it you missed a great party!
Delrae

Prizes for 2014 were awarded as follows:

ROAD RACING CHAMPION 
FOR HIS ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE MOTORCYCLE RACING SEASONBEING AWARDED FOR THE FOURTH YEAR IN SUCCESSION

RAYMOND ALEXANDER

ON THE ROAD AWARD
AWARDED TO THE MEMBER WHO BESIDES THE CLUB CAPTAIN ATTENDED ALL OF THE CLUB RIDES IN 2014

KROG POTGIETER

 TRIALS TROPHIES
AWARDED TO THE TOP POINTS SCORERS IN THE TRIALS SECTION

MICHAEL KRAUSE (MASTERS CATEGORY)

 BRIAN BARSON (EXPERTS CATEGORY)

 MARK SHEARER (INTERMEDIATES CATEGORY)

STEPHEN SHEARER (CLUBMANS CATEGORY)

 NOMADS PILLION RIDER TROPHY
AWARDED TO THE LADY PILLION RIDER WHO ATTENDED THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF CLUB RIDES IN 2014

HELEWESE JACOBY

 EGON MENDEL TROPHY
AWARDED TO A MEMBER FOR BEST EFFORT FOR THE NOMADS CLUB

WALLY BRANDT

  MOTORCYCLE OF THE YEAR TROPHY
FOR THE BEST TURNED OUT BIKE ON THE MAJORITY OF RIDES

MICHAEL MEIRING (1998 HONDA BLACKBIRD)

 MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR
FOR AN OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT. this year awarded to three gentleman who traveled from Cape Town through Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland and then home.

ALEX VAN RENSBURG

ANDRE HEYLIGER

WILLIE WILLEMSE

OVERALL ECONOMY RIDE WINNER

SUSAN JAMES (21,99KM/L ON A SUZUKI GSXR 1000)

 COG-UP OF THE YEAR
AWARDED FOR RECEIVING THE MONTHLY AWARD THREE TIMES IN 2014

JOHN LEE

EX COMMITTEE MEMBERS WERE ALSO PRESENTED WITH SMALL GIFTS AS A TOKEN OF THE CLUB’S APPRECIATION FOR THE HARD WORK & EFFORT THEY PUT IN TOWARDS THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CLUB.

LIZL TODD – SOCIAL SECRETARY 2006 to 2014

ANDRE HEYLIGER – CLUB CAPTAIN 2013 to 2014

REPORT ON THE CLUB SOCIAL AT THE PIRATES RESTAURANT, MAIN RD, PLUMSTEAD ON SATURDAY 28 FEBRUARY 2015 – BY DELRAE MAYER

Our first social of the year had a reasonably good turnout of twenty one people including a guest and his family who is very keen to join our club. The restaurant filled up pretty quickly and we also had live music, the female singer who serenaded us really had a beautiful voice and sang mostly older songs, obviously catering to the older crowd which we all enjoyed. The atmosphere was relaxed and chilled. The food in general was really good, although one or two nomads said they were unhappy with their food. Most of the nomads ordered steaks, I myself ordered calamari, baked potato and vegetables which was really good. The service was very good, the waitresses being very friendly and professional. The “smokers” were able to go and smoke in the bar, and there were even Grand Slot machines for the gamblers also near the bar area. I would definitely recommend Pirates.
Hope to see more of you at our next social.
Until then Delrae.

REPORT ON THE NOMADS ANNUAL DINNER DANCE AT THE ROYAL CAPE YACHT CLUB, 12 APRIL 2014 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY, LIZL TODD

This was the first year in a long time that we did not have a General Meeting prior to the Dinner Dance, after getting back from the Buff.  Thank goodness for technology.  All arrangements were made via email, facebook and telephone – this was with members and the RCYC.

The décor, which was decided via email, was stunning and everything looked really great.  Black, orange and plenty of mirrors, glass & crystals made the venue look glamorous.

 Prizes for 2013 were awarded as follows:

ROAD RACING CHAMPION 
FOR HIS ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE MOTORCYCLE RACING SEASONBEING AWARDED FOR THE THIRD YEAR IN SUCCESSION

RAYMOND ALEXANDER

ON THE ROAD AWARD
AWARDED TO THE MEMBERS WHO BESIDES THE CLUB CAPTAIN ATTENDED ALL OF THE CLUB RIDES IN 2013

JAMES MAYER

LUDERICK JACOBY

SIMON JEFFERIES

KROG POTGIETER

 TRIALS TROPHIES
AWARDED TO THE TOP POINTS SCORERS IN THE TRIALS SECTION

MICHAEL KRAUSE (MASTERS)

 BRIAN BARSON (EXPERTS)

 MARK SHEARER (CLUBMANS)

 NOMADS PILLION RIDER TROPHY
AWARDED TO THE LADY PILLION RIDER WHO ATTENDED THE HIGHEST NUMBER OF CLUB RIDES IN 2013

DELRAE MAYER

 EGON MENDEL TROPHY
AWARDED TO A MEMBER FOR BEST EFFORT FOR THE NOMADS CLUB

JONATHAN ERASMUS

 CHARLES LARMUTH TROPHY
AWARDED TO THE LADY RIDER WHO ATTENDED AT LEAST 60% OF THE CLUB RIDES IN 2013

SUSAN JAMES

 MOTORCYCLE OF THE YEAR TROPHY
FOR THE BEST TURNED OUT BIKE ON THE MAJORITY OF RIDES

JAMES MAYER (HONDA BLACKBIRD)

 MOTORCYCLIST OF THE YEAR
FOR AN OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT. this year awarded to a gentleman who traveled around South Africa on a scooter. He also attended the 2013 springbok rally on the same scooter when he did most of his traveling at night

NEVILLE HERMAN

OVERALL ECONOMY RIDE WINNER

SUSAN JAMES (21,99KM/L ON A SUZUKI GSXR 1000)

 COG-UP OF THE YEAR
AWARDED IN DECEMBER 2013, FOR DEPARTING FROM PALMIET CAMP SITE WITHOUT PAYING

IAN SINCLAIR

 Unfortunately all prize recipients did not attend, but were mentioned during prize giving and most were present at the General Meeting on the 14th April to collect their trophies.
After the formalities we got down to some serious eating & dancing.

The meal consisted of Greek Salad & Rolls on the table and Butter-nut Soup as starters.  Main course was Roast Gammon, Sweet Chili Chicken, Grilled Chicken and Deep Fried Hake, served with Savoury Rice, Mediterranean Roast Veggies and Roast Potatoes. Desert was Mini Cheese Cakes and Crème Brule.

This year we had 53 people attend the Dinner Dance, with a request for 4 Vegetarian meals. One vegetarian meal was not to the person’s liking, but was rectified by the staff & Chef at RCYC and a suitable replacement meal was provided.  Anyone leaving hungry, had only themselves to blame, as the caterers provided more than enough food and I personally saw people dish seconds and thirds…

Ivan again supplied fantastic music, as the majority of the Nomads’ ladies were on the dance floor all evening.

We could not have asked for better weather.  It was superb on the “deck”, with not a breath of wind and a view to die for.  I must admit that it was the most non-smokers I’d ever seen in a designated smoking area, without any complaints…

Thanks to everyone who attended and all who assisted with the organisation, without you it would never have been the success it was!!

Thanks again

Lizl

REPORT ON THE CAMPING WEEKEND HELD AT THE PALMIET CARAVAN RESORT, KLEINMOND FROM 6 TO 8 DECEMBER 2013 – BY THE SOCIAL SECRETARY- LIZL TODD

This was our first Palmiet weekend with no waiting for school to break up. Rob & I both had leave the Friday and the packing was sorted out during the week, so we could get on the road early. On arrival we were welcomed by James & Delrae – lady of leisure – tanning & reading her book. It made me jealous to see their whole camp site sorted and ours was still inside the trailer…

Tents were pitched in no time – quite an achievement for people who only do this once a year. The sense of achievement was very short lived though, Mark & Yvonne arrived with a stunning, huge, brand new tent.  Since I know all about pitching tents, I offered to help.  Ja right, the colour coded poles had me colour blind, ‘cause they didn’t use the same colours on the poles as were stated on the instructions. Mark sorted them by lengths and this got us going in the right direction. Wesley arrived just in time to help clip the high poles in. Some great Nomads’ team work.

With everything ready for the first cold drink, it was time to get ice to get that drink cold. Rob & Wesley went to town with a shopping list (a mental one) and arrived back with only their purchases. Later the afternoon I hitched a ride with Yvonne and uncle Nick and got the rest of the forgottens from town.

I’m not sure of the order, but before long a host of campers started arriving, Roy & Denise, Arthur, Michelle & kids, Luderick & Glen, Jonathan, Kate & family, Paul, Marcelle & girls, Kevin, Alex, Susan, Tracey, Grant J & friends, André & Annari and Ian. When I looked again, nearly everyone was there.  The Hattingh family arrived a bit later than they usually do.

There was a bit of site confusion, but nothing a couple of trips to the office couldn’t fix. I swopped, changed, moved and everyone was happy!

I came across a very teary Chelsea, who had no friends at Palmiet.  No problem when you’re out with the Nomads.  I took her across to Katelynne, Jody and Amy.  The girls immediately welcomed Chelsea and they were together for the rest of the weekend.

We had to be careful with the fires, as the wind was blowing a gale. Everytime I thought the wind had died down, it would come back with a vengance. Although I complained about the wind, it was probably our saving grace – we may have died of the heat if it didn’t blow.

Friday night was the usual chats from one camp site to the next, catching up with those not seen for a while.  Although Helewese didn’t join us this year, her absence was in body only. You only needed to look at Luderick & Glen’s camp site to see who packed and prepared everything for them – I did miss the table cloth though guys!

We were up early on Saturday and I started getting all the games and party packs ready for the kids.  What a sticky story – some of the red fizzers decided to melt in the trailer and oozed out of their wrappers.    I managed to salvage enough party packs for all the kids.

The games with the kids were great. Katelynne helped me spray hair, paint faces and play games. It was so nice to see that some of the kids “invented” their own games. Give them a bat, ball & a few traffic cones and they come up with their own rules and decide what they want to play, without it involving a tv, playstation, computer or cell phone.

After the kids games, I set out to find our potjie entrants. We had five pots entered and then I needed judges.  This year I didn’t even have to look – Annari and Delrae volunteered their services and we added Rob for the male perspective. Yvonne was our photographer.

Roy & Patty arrived in the afternoon to join us for the rest of the weekend, just as Ian left to attend a function on Saturday evening.  We again had a number of day visitors, André Riggs & Antoinette, Willem Smith & Sandra, Shorty & Laura, Paul Bothma & friend.

Thanks to Ludy for doing the prize giving for us.  Thanks to Nomads for sponsoring the prizes for the potjie entrants and judges.

The results of the potjie competition:

1st        Denise Pretorius – Seafood pot

2nd        Marcelle Bauermeister – Seafood pot

3rd        Nico Sider – Beef & Veg pot

4th        Susan James – Mustard Chicken & Veg pot

5th        Allan Gruneberg – Roast Chicken, Roast Potatoes & Veg pot

I discovered sparklers at home from a couple of Palmiet weekends ago. These were dished out to the kids at prize giving, and oh boy, did they have fun.  Even Wesley had fun with this at home. Since I couldn’t remember exactly how old they were, we had to ‘test drive’ one or two to see if they still worked.

Wind swept and tired, it was time to head home again. Packing up seemed to go quicker as well this time.  While I was settling the bill in the office, Rob & Wesley finished packing up and then fetched me at the gate.

Wow, I just couldn’t believe that another Palmiet weekend had come to an end.  After planning and organising for so long before the time, it seems asif I blinked and it was over.

Lizl

REPORT ON THE CAMPING WEEKEND HELD AT THE PALMIET CARAVAN RESORT, KLEINMOND FROM 6 TO 8 DECEMBER 2013 – BY DELRAE MAYER

James and I were ready and packed and left home just after 6am Friday morning en route to Palmiet.  Arrival at Palmiet was about 7.45am, with only one pit stop! We of course were the first eager Nomads and started setting up the tenting equipment.

The sun was really starting to get hot, I, of course took full advantage of the sun and decided to try and get my first tan of the season and also managed to finish my book.  Just before 10am Rob, Lizl and Wesley Todd arrived.

During the day more Nomads and friends arrived. We missed Aunty Helewese this year who chose to stay at home this year due to her foot operation. I am happy to report that Luderick and Glen were well behaved Aunty Helewese and they also made sure that all the pots etc. were put on the mat you sent up with them!  Last to arrive were André and Annari, but due to good organising (lol) their tent was ready and waiting for them. For the first time Denise and Roy Pretorius along with their daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Arthur and their children Chelsea and Jarryd also joined us. I took Jarryd and Chelsea down to the beach and the river, this being their first time at Palmiet so they were very eager to see what there was to see.  Oom Nic, our Country Member from George also joined us for the weekend.

The wind played around a bit and there was a chill in the air, but of course nothing puts the Nomads off and fires were lit late into the night and there was lots of laughter and good camaraderie. Glen Kotze of course kept us entertained of course. Luderick also joined us at our fire but later when we looked for Luderick he had disappeared and went to sleep!

Saturday was also another hot day and of course a few more Nomads and friends arrived. My Kombi, being the kombi that jack built! (Lol) battery was flat due to our Cooler box drawing current from the battery for the whole of Friday.  Kevin Farrow came to our rescue with his battery pack and we were able to at least go into town for supplies, thank you Kevin.  Willem Smith was a very brave Nomad and cycled to join us, wind and all.  As everyone knows by now, Saturday at Palmiet is always potjie competition day.  The entrants started their fires at a reasonable time in the afternoon and at 5pm it was time to do the judging.  Rob, Annari and myself had the privilege of judging the potjies which in itself was great fun.

The results were as follows:

1st Denise Pretorius – seafood with a tomato base

2nd Marcelle Bauermeister – seafood with a creamy base

3rd Nico Sider – beef and vegetable

4th Susan James – chicken and mustard

5th Alan Gruneberg – roast chicken, roast potatoes, cauliflower and beer bread.

All the pots were delicious and a lot of effort was put into them and none of the competitors went away empty handed.  James and Captain H also made a curried lamb potjie which was really great but had decided earlier on already that they weren’t going to enter the competition.

The weather started changing, the sky had these weird pink clouds and we heard that it was storming in Cape Town. Annari and I decided it a good idea to pack a few things in our vehicles just in case it rained.  Capt. H and James of course thought that we were stark raving mad.  A little while later a few big raindrops fell and Capt. H turned into Capt. Lightening!  He jumped so high that he almost knocked the gazebo out of the ground!  Annari and I were hysterical with laughter.  I have to mention though that this is the same gazebo that Capt. Fearless (alias Glen Kotze) seemed intent on holding onto Friday evening! Need I say more….. Lol.   Surprisingly enough it didn’t rain, the clouds soon disappeared but it was quite chilly.

Sunday morning it was time to pack up and head home.  As Kevin Farrow was about to leave he was called back to help Jonathan Erasmus get his Bakkie started, the kids had been charging their cell phones the night before.  Jonathan had to call the AA eventually but whilst waiting for them he managed to get his Van started.

This year there was no need for name and shame, I am sure the Palmiet cleaning staff were ever so grateful as well!!!

All in all a great weekend, thank you Nomads and friends alike.

Till next time

Be safe

Delrae