2006 - SAMVOA National Formal Mess Dinner

Toorak RSL Services Club

27th May 2006

Guest of Honour

Veteran Tom Robinson MC

SA Corps of Engineers

SAMVOA Formal Dinner

27th May 2006

Toorak RSL Services Club

On Saturday 27th May 2006, the National Executive of SAMVOA proudly hosted its first formal mess dinner at the gracious Toorak Services Club in Melbourne. A club steeped in military history and fine tradition.

The ethos was to combine the traditions and splendour of a formal mess dinner, with a few of our own new variations, to form the unique fabric of a SAMVOA formal dinner.

Guest of Honour

Veteran Cliff Everton

The (Royal) Natal Carbineers

The evening began at 19:30 with the arrival of the 36 guests and honoured guests, in their finest attire, who assembled for pre dinner drinks at the main bar, complete with a roaring fireplace, and displays of Proteas. A special mention to Garth Pienaar, WA Chairman and his wife Julie, who travelled all the way from Perth for the occasion.

Mike Black, our National Vice Chairman was the consummate Dinner President, and served KWV sherry to the guests, before our Piper, Walter Skilton piped everyone to their appointed seats at the elegant dining table.

Tony Macquet, the National Chairman and host for the evening, welcomed everyone, and this was followed by Grace from Steve Addison, the Dinner Vice President, before everyone sat down to a most enjoyable and delicious three course dinner.

The menu was excellent with an Entrée of Durban Style Tandoori Chicken Skewers, followed by a Main of Karoo Style Baby Racks of Lamb, Desert of Hazelnut and chocolate Torte, finishing with Coffee or Tea.

Towards the end of dinner, Mike Black introduced our two esteemed guests; namely Tom Robinson MC, and Cliff Everton and his wife Josie. Tom and Cliff are our World War II veterans, who shared with us stories from their war days, some sad, some amusing, but all interesting.

This was followed by the passing of the port decanters, which contained a fine 1997 Allesverloren Port. Three toasts were made:

1. South Africa, the Mother Country, wishing her peace

2. Australia, our new home, may we be worthy citizens

3. Fallen Servicemen & Women, Lest we Forget

Tony Macquet concluded the evening with the following awards:

 Medal certificates to Chris van der Spuy, Ben van Niekerk and Steve Addison

 Trophy- Best Performing Region 2004 to Mike Black, Victoria Chairman

 Trophy- Best Performing Region 2005 to Garth Pienaar, WA Chairman

 Award plaques for meritorious services to: Mike Black, Garth Pienaar; Mike Doyle and Steve Addison.

All in all, a most enjoyable and memorable evening and a big thank you to all those who attended, we look forward to seeing you again soon.

Attended by:

Steve and Helen Addison.