This is the internet version of The Thistle's new letter and will assist in keeping those interested in the activities of the Association. We also list contact names of active THISTLE organisers in each area, so that you may contact them with regard to anything to do with the Association in that area. They will pass any interesting activity on to us so that it may be published on this page.

On the 31st October 1998, about 40 Old Boys, with Wives and families, gathered at the Footloose Trout Farm, which is just of the R511, near to the Krugersdorp/Pretoria Highway.

The occasion was organised by Tony Murgatroyd, as a prelude to the November 1998 reunion in Durban (see Up Coming Events) and was a resounding success. Unfortunately, the Proprietor, one Mr. Alan Kendall (Northlea) and his son Ian (CBC), did not anticipate the amount of drinking that Hamiltonians are capable of. The Barman was under pressure from the start and even the introduction of a 2nd Barman could not stem the tide of bodies clambering for a drink. We of course understand and forgive them, because they have never really been exposed to the Power of Hamiltonians before.

We had a minor incursion from 3 Ex-Giffordians, who attempted to display some form of a side show, but unfortunately failed miserably, even with the strong vocal support of one solitary Plumtree Lad, who some wanted to throw in the nearby dam.

The Rugby (Curie Cup Final), offered some lighthearted banter amongst the lads. We were truly amazed at the number of Western Province Supporters, who screamed for their team.

Our thanks go to Tony for his organisational skills, Dave Ellinger, who graced us with his presence, flying in from Durban especially for the event, and of course Alan and Ian Kendall, for allowing us to hold the event at his place. We have unanimously voted the Footloose Trout Farm, the official watering hole of the Gauteng Hamilton Old Boys Association. (provided of course the Barman is more experienced the next time).

Of the ex- Hamiltonians there, 35 are definately going to be in Durban on the 21st November 1998.

Some Photo's of the event are reflected below:-

Fresh life has been rekindled in the ashes of the "Informal" association of Hamilton Old Boys - and at long last you may be muttering! Now we have some plans for the future that we hope will involve you personally and bring you to one or maybe all of the Hamilton Reunion Gatherings.

The first gathering for sometime was held at the Footloose Trout Farm in Gauteng and very well supported by those in the nearby vicinity, and all were eager to get to the next one in Durban.

Your good ladies and families are invited to the next Hamilton Old Boys Reunion, which will be held in Durban on 21st November 1998. This will be a bring and share Braai and will be held at the Westville Scout Bowl, Westville, Durban. It will start at 11.00 am and end when the fires go out.

We will supply the fires, you bring the food and drinks (Dop 'n Chop). A small cover charge, or donation, will be requested, to cover the cost of the venue, braai wood, Charcoal, etc. This will be kept to a minium.

DIRECTIONS:-

Approaching Durban on the N3 Highway from Johannesburg or Pietermaritzburg, take the EXIT for WESTVILLE and the PAVILION Shopping Centre. Then TURN LEFT at first traffic lights towards Westville (NOT right turn which is downhill and towards the Pavilion). Proceed uphill along ST. JAMES AVENUE for about two kilometres northwards and then TURN LEFT at the second traffic lights into BUCKINGHAM TERRACE. TURN LEFT AGAIN ALMOST IMMEDIATELY and the WESTVILLE CIVIC CENTRE is right ahead and the SCOUT BOWL is in the valley visible to the right. They are very close together and there is lots of parking.

If you know of any Old Hamiltonian, or Montrose student, who has not received this invitation, please make sure that they know about the reunion and GET THEM THERE! We already have well over 150 families would will be attending, as well as old Teachers, Headmasters and Deputy Heads.

This page is always under construction.