I am making the most of the South African Lifestyle and hope with my blog to share some of the adventures my husband and I are having in our retirement. We live at the Southern Tip of Africa in the small coastal town of Struisbaai. Earl and I have a Gecko off-road caravan and we travel around South Africa frequently. We are bird and wildlife enthusiasts so are often in game reserves.
It’s the second May Bank Holiday here in the UK and the kids are on half term break. In your country, do schools have a ‘Half Term’ break? I’m not familiar with the concept of a half-term break. In South Africa, the school year is divided into four terms, each lasting approximately 9 to 12 weeks.
After the first summer term, students get a break of 10 days to two weeks, depending on whether it aligns with the Easter weekend. The second term (Autumn) concludes with a three-week winter holiday, spanning the last week of June and the first two weeks of July. The third term (Winter) is followed by a 10-day spring break.
The final term (Spring/Summer) runs from late September to mid-December, after which schools close for a six-week summer holiday. The academic year officially begins in mid-January.
Education methods have changed a lot since I left school in 1972. Would you like to be learning in a classroom of today? Teaching methods in this country have evolved significantly, though some changes can be frustrating for traditional educators. The quality of government schools varies widely—some maintain strong standards, while others, particularly township schools, face severe challenges. Access to quality education often depends on geographical location, with disparities rooted in insufficient government support, undervaluing of teachers, and high student-to-teacher ratios.
Imagine the difficulties of teaching in an under-resourced township school, where classrooms hold 50 to 60 students and children share desks designed for two. I have witnessed schools where students squeezed in four to a single desk—an unfortunate reality in many areas.
I would have loved to teach in a school like the one my grandchildren attended, where I also once taught. It was truly child-centered, providing a safe and nurturing environment where every student felt valued and heard. Seeing my grandchildren thrive in such a setting brought me immense joy.
Did you leave school as soon as you could, or did you go on to study for a degree or other higher education? Looking back, I didn’t fully grasp how fortunate I was. I attended a prestigious Teacher Training College for three years, followed by an additional year at a university where I specialised in the education of children with speech and hearing impairments.
When you entered the working world, did your job require ‘qualifications’ or did you learn on the job? My training was exceptional, equipping me with a clear understanding of workplace expectations from the start. Naturally, I continued to learn and grow, and the support of incredible colleagues played a key role in refining my teaching skills.
I was fortunate to work at an excellent institution that embraced modern educational practices and regularly conducted workshops to enhance staff proficiency.
As my experience deepened, I had the privilege of mentoring younger colleagues later in my career, helping to guide and support their professional development.
I started a job at a mirror factory today – I have no experience but I can see myself learning on the job! ( AI Generated}
Gratitude
My hubby and I have both worked hard at careers that we loved. We supported each other and together overcame glitches along the way. Now in our retirement, we are grateful to embrace our golden years with relative comfort and good health, even though it’s with less financial security than we would have liked. But, hey, enough is a good as a feast!
It’s been a while since I’ve shared my thoughts about the place I call home. As winter gradually makes its presence felt in the southern hemisphere, we’re still fortunate to enjoy a few crisp yet sunny days. On Saturday afternoon, while the men set off to sea in hopes of a good catch, we ladies – Wise Wine Warriors—spent a lovely afternoon at Struisbaai Harbour Café. In that moment, surrounded by the beauty of the harbour, I paused to take it all in and truly appreciate where I was. Then, on Sunday evening, as we all gathered for a sunset braai, I was once again struck by the undeniable charm of this little gem in the deep south of my country. In this vast world, fate has placed me at the southernmost tip of Africa—and I must say, I couldn’t be happier.
Some of our group – Wise Wine Warriors
It is often mistakenly believed that the southern tip of Africa is Cape Point, near Cape Town, and quite close to where I grew up. Some also claim that this is where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. It’s good for tourism to go along with this myth! But in fact, the two oceans meet at Cape Agulhas, and it is also the most southerly point of Africa.
The Earl and Me at the Southern Tip of Africa
When I was a child, I was keen to stand on the very tip of Africa. I asked my parents if we could visit. But they did not share my adventurous spirit and thought that it was hardly worth the visit. “It’s very remote and there nothing there,” my mother declared. And she was right – my first visit was in 1982, and the area didn’t even have electricity! Of course, it’s quite different now, and this formerly tiny district is attracting more and more permanent residents. But its natural beauty still abounds. Sometimes I take a moment and let it all sink in that I am at the southernmost tip of “Darkest Africa.” Cape Agulhas and Struisbaai boast a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The Agulhas National Park hosts over 2,000 native plant species. The fauna in the region is also fascinating. The wetlands provide refuge for birds and amphibians, including the African Black Oystercatcher, Damara Tern, and Southern Right Whales, which migrate through the area. Our harbour welcomes short-tailed stingrays that swim in to enjoy some delicious pickings thrown into the water by the local fishermen cleaning their catch. We even have Cape Clawless otters frolicking in the shallows from time to time. Click on the link to see a video.
The coastline is also notorious for the number of sailing ships wrecked in its stormy seas. The Cape Agulhas Lighthouse was built in 1849 and is now a historic landmark, still warning seafarers of the treacherous waters
On November 16, 1982, the Meisho Marul ran aground near the southernmost point of Africa due to a storm. Fortunately, all 17 crew members managed to swim to safety. The wreck has since become an iconic sight. Over the years, the wreck has eroded significantly, with only the bow section remaining visible above the waves.
I try to get in a daily walk, and whether it’s just around the village, along the coast road from home to Agulhas or along our very long white beach, I never tire of the beauty around me. Hardly a day goes by that I do not ‘maak ‘n draai by die hawe’ (pop in at the harbour) and it always takes my breath away.
A while ago, I met two young Frenchmen at our local harbour café. They asked if I was local and we got chatting, They expressed how much they loved this part of South Africa. “But surely it can’t beat the French Riviera,” I said.
“Oh but it is so very much better!” they declared.
I thought they were being polite, but then I really looked and thought, “Well, yes – it’s still so natural and quaint and simple. It’s not glitzy and busy like the top destinations of the world. We are indeed lucky to enjoy this little piece of paradise.”
Don’t get me wrong. When we’re having the foulest weather, I curse the wind, the rain, the flooding and the cold. But when the sun comes out – well – all is forgiven and forgotten.
To end, allow me to share some photographs from the sunset braai we enjoyed with the lovely friends we have made here at the southern tip. Thanks to Sonja for catering the delicious starters and dessert, and to Sharon who insisted we all gather at this stunning site right at the southern tip, overlooking the wreck. Where in the world can you safely picnic outdoors without paying an entrance fee or having guards to ensure your safety? It was exquisite and yes, we did make sure the fire was completely dead before we left.
Do you exercise regularly? Over the years, my approach to staying active has evolved and I have adapted my routine according to my changing circumstances. At one point, I ran regularly with a friend, but when our schedules no longer aligned, I continued running on my own. Eventually, when running was no longer an option, I transitioned to aerobics and walking. There have been times when I made excuses to skip exercise, but I always found my way back after a few months. Now, in my later years, I maintain a balanced routine of yoga, aerobics, and walking. I follow Yoga with Adrienne for yoga sessions Walk at Home for an active aerobic workout.
AI generated
Have you ever belonged to/visited a gym? For years, I was a member of a gym, though I rarely joined the group classes. Instead, I followed my own personalized routine, focusing on the treadmill, rowing machine, and weight training circuit. A decade before relocating to Struisbaai, I experienced a slipped disc—an injury that nearly required surgery. Thankfully, it didn’t come to that. Instead weeks of rest and then working with a personal trainer twice a week, played a significant role in my recovery. I continued training with him until we moved.
Ai Generated
When it comes to diet, what is your greatest weakness? Well – food in general. When I am hungry, I tend to grab anything that’s easy to get down my throat. In the bad old days when I was on a yet another miracle weight reducing diet, I would endure the hunger until the deliciousness that surrounded me could not be resisted and binge on chocolate! I used to have huge problems sticking to diets. They all made me hungry. But then I discovered Banting and I have not looked back. I have maintained my perfect weight for ten years. Some people believe that if you exercise sufficiently, you will not gain weight. This is not true. You can be fat and fit. However, even if you don’t exercise, you will maintain a healthy weight if you eat correctly. Yes, exercise helps, but the most important thing is to watch what you put in your mouth.
Do you know your waist size? I do not know the exact measurement. I could check but then I would have to find a tape measure!
Gratitude
Once again, Di’s Meme resonated with me this week. I have recently been taking a moment to drink in my surroundings and really feel the appreciation for them. It is so easy to take the beauty of the southern tip of Africa for granted.
It is Di’s birthday, so this week’s questions revolve around this theme. Here are my answers to the Share Your World Challenge of 12 May 2025.
Do you celebrate your birthday, or is it just another day? Not celebrate my birthday – no chance of getting away with that where I live. My dear friends would insist we party! And really – why not? Life is short and people care so go ahead and celebrate! Gifts are not compulsory – The real gift is another trip around the sun, surrounded by laughter, good company, and a proper excuse to eat cake!
AI Generated
Did you have birthday parties as a child? Oh, birthdays back in the day were a well-oiled machine, weren’t they? A strict guest limit, identical party setups, and a very structured sugar rush—jelly first, then an array of cupcakes, sweets, and fizzy drinks. The candles would twinkle, we’d huff and puff them out, and then the classic birthday anthem would commence—sometimes with the alternative zoo-themed remix Happy Birthday to you, You were born in the zoo, You look like a monkey and act like one too! Games, ice cream, a slice of cake, and a balloon to take home rounded off the festivities—simple, predictable, and absolutely unforgettable.
AI generated
Were there any special ‘traditions’ for the birthday person in your household? Not really. Usually, the birthday kid would wake everyone up at ridiculous o’clock and then the present opening would be done in pajamas on Granny and Grandpa’s bed!
Birthday Boy (6) on the left – Big Brother (7) just as excited. (2004)
Of course, there would be a celebration but not like the ones I enjoyed as a child. We helped raise our oldest daughter’s two boys, and they would choose what type of celebration they would like. There was that one time when a sake-man showed up, bringing along a collection of wriggling reptiles. The little boys were absolutely thrilled—but Gran? She wisely maintained a safe distance from all the slithering excitement!
That’s my grandson on the left.
What was the worst birthday you had? Turning 70 was a rollercoaster! First, a fantastic surprise weekend away with the whole family—ten of us celebrating properly a month early, which turned out to be a good thing because a week before my actual birthday, I ended up in the hospital while visiting our kids in Plettenberg Bay, Back home for the big day, the grand home celebration had to be scaled down, but we still managed a lovely gathering at the Harbour Café for drinks and snacks, so not all was lost! And while my much-anticipated breakfast with my girlfriends in Cape Town had to take a little rain check, it eventually happened two months later. So, have I had a worst birthday? Not a chance! Every celebration was brilliant—even if some came a little late!
My three grandsons helping me celebrate! (2022)
Gratitude: The same thing that landed me in the hospital just before my 70th decided to pay me yet another visit. I am grateful that this attack of Diverticulitis did not mean a trip to the hospital but it’s not fun, especially when the last attack was just four months ago! But I am grateful that I do not suffer from anything terminal and that I am well on the way to recovery,
I just love Di’s Gratitude Meme for this week because it really resonates with me.
What season are you in where you live, and what time is it? Down here in the Southern Hemisphere, we’re basking in the golden glow of Autumn. In the Western Cape, South Africa, it’s affectionately known as the Secret Season—a time when the weather seems to strike a perfect balance. No scorching heat, no icy chills, the winds take a well-earned break, and the rains aren’t quite ready to make an entrance. Unlike some parts of the world, daylight saving doesn’t exist in the South African Standard Time (SAST) zone. With our clocks fixed two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), I find myself happily typing away as the clock strikes 16:00—right in the heart of a secret-season afternoon!
Autumn Sunset after a balmy day in Struisbaai yesterday.
What is your favourite season of the year? Autumn/Fall/Secret Season is my favourite time of year. See above.
Autumn is my favourite season (AI generated)
Can you ski or ice skate? Back in 1993, Verbier welcomed me to the snowy slopes of the Alps. Skiing was fun and we had a good instructor but I was not exactly the most graceful lady on skis. I was the one careening out of control down the slopes. It’s a small miracle I emerged without a collection of casts and crutches! Ice skating, on the other hand, was a breeze. Having spent my childhood zooming around on roller skates, gliding across the ice felt like second nature—though thankfully with fewer driveway tumbles!
January 1993 – Our patient instructor, Me, The Earl on the slopes of the Alps in Verbier, Switzerland.
When was the last time you built a snowman? I’ve never had the pleasure of building a snowman—South Africa’s general shortage of snowflakes is the reason for this! My grandchildren, on the other hand, got lucky. Kokstad, where they grew up, occasionally served up some snowfall as a rare treat. I visited Kokstad a few times during winter but never when the snow decided to bless the kids with a day or two off from school!
My granddaughter with her little snowman – Kokstad 2004
Gratitude
As a snow-starved South African, in my youth I imagined snow to be nothing but fun! Now that I am older and wiser, I am ever so grateful to be blessed to live in a warmer climate where the hazards of extreme weather are things I only read about! I can’t imagine having to get a kid into layers of clothing or a snowsuit before leaving the house. My grandsons would head off to school barefoot all year round. Their winter wardrobe was refreshingly simple: a fleece and tracksuit pants were all they needed to tackle the chilly mornings!
Have you had any Easter Eggs this weekend? We are spending the Easter Weekend with our family in Plettenberg Bay—a lovely time, though these days we’ve traded egg hunts for a more laid-back celebration. Small children aren’t in the picture anymore, so no frenzied races for hidden treasures. Or so I thought.
Easter Sunday, bright and early, 7:30 a.m.—a casual bathroom trip turned into the ultimate plot twist: the bunny had struck! There, glistening in their glory, were two Lindt Easter Eggs just waiting to be discovered. I mean, avoiding chocolate is one thing, but on Easter Sunday? That’s sacrilege.
Is today a holiday in your country? Yes, Easter Monday is now called ‘Family Day’. This change was made in 1994 to create a more inclusive holiday that could be celebrated by everyone, regardless of religious beliefs
Are you familiar with Cadbury Creme Eggs, and if so, which is your favourite? These eggs are available in South Africa, and although I would kill to try them, they do not make their way into my shopping basket. I am a recovering chocoholic so I limit myself to Lindt dark chocolate only. My favourite flavours are ‘touch of salt, ‘chilly’ and ‘mint’.
Do you prefer a bar of chocolate, a box of chocolates, or something with chocolate flavouring (ice cream, cake, etc). All of the above in my chocoholic days. Breakfast? That was often a slab of chocolate, paired with coffee for balance. Bad day? Chocolate to the rescue! Hungry? Chocolate! Not hungry? Still chocolate. Supermarket queues were a nightmare with those chocolates begging to be popped into the shopping basket. Many a time I couldn’t resist and one would be half-eaten by the time I reached the check-out.
Chocolate-coated peanuts became my therapist—every packet a session, every bite a revelation. And when I found myself neck-deep in peanuts for three months, I decided drastic action was required. I quit my job. A bold move, but hey, a chocoholic knows when to take a stand (and when to sit back with some chocolate cake).
Now that I am older, wiser, and digestively humbled my chocolate cravings have been tamed. I now enjoy petite, polite portions of dark Lindt chocolate —just a square or two to enjoy with that cup of Nespresso. This maintains a semblance of sanity and provides a sweeter life without overdoing the sweetness.
Gratitude:-
On this Family Day, I am grateful that I am part of an awesome extended family. Even though we are scattered around the country and the world, we are always there for each other and always have a fabulous time when we are together.
Enjoying Braaied Yellow-tail with our Plett Family
The day finally arrived for us to bid farewell to our beloved Gecko Caravan. Two months ago, we completed the paperwork and braced ourselves for the fact that the Gecko was no longer ours. We waited for Eben and Mara, the lovely new owners, to come and fetch it during their Western Cape visit.
We’re overflowing with gratitude for the incredible years and adventures we enjoyed with our trusty little home on wheels. But alas, every season has its time, and our camping escapades have reached their grand finale.
On the bright side, we couldn’t have asked for a more wonderful couple than Eben and Mara from Pretoria to inherit Gecko 81. They’ve given it a fitting new identity with the name “Geitjie,” the Afrikaans word for gecko. Let’s face it, with a name like that, this caravan’s bound to stay cheeky and full of charm for years to come! 🦎
Note: To view the group of photographs, click on the first one to enlarge it. Use the arrows to navigate the slideshow. Press ‘escape’ to return to the blog post. On your phone, swipe to view each photo and tap the ‘x’ to return to the blog post. You may also need to tap the information icon to view the captions.
CS plate off Gauteng plate about to be put onDiscussing the procedureEben at workQuality controller We were gifted with fire-lighters made by EbenThe handover – Champers and a card from us to themGoodbye Gecko – – Eben and Mara may you have many fabulous adventures with Geitjie
It’s been a while since I’ve participated in this challenge, but today, I am jumping back in to join Di’s Share Your World.
Are you ticklish? Yes, I am.When we were kids, my siblings and I absolutely adored tickle-time with Dad. We’d try our best to tickle him back, but it was no use—he wasn’t the slightest bit ticklish!
What colour are your eyes? Hazel/green
Do you wear glasses/contact lenses? I’m 72 years old and I have been seeing the world through lenses since my early 40s. Back in my teaching days, my little learners would excitedly shove their work right up to my nose. I couldn’t fathom why they all thought I needed such an up-close inspection! Naturally, I’d grab the book and extend it out to arm’s length, marveling at the newfound clarity—until the day my arms officially ran out of real estate. That’s when the penny (and the specs) dropped. At first, it was just a cozy relationship with reading glasses. But by 45, I was introduced to the marvel of varifocals, and oh, what a game-changer! No more juggling frames like a magician with a clumsy assistant—my glasses stayed put, and life came back into focus. Finally, the age of short arms was over! From that point onward, I actually started enjoying wearing glasses. They cater to all my needs—long distance, middle distance, and close-up. Plus, they’re coated for everything: working on the computer, braving the sunshine, and even night driving. I have no idea how one pair of specs manages to do it all, but I absolutely adore them!
Gratitude:
This is the Meme that Di posted for this week’s SYW
These stories come directly from the anglers themselves with just the odd edit from me. The accompanying photographs are snapshots from cellphone videos, captured while the fish was in motion and the boat swayed with the waves so please forgive their less-than-perfect quality
Team Indigo, who caught the first marlin of the competition were the second prize winners. Crew – Gawie Bruwer (Skipper) Peté (Jannie) Kotze, Werner Kotze,Lourens Odendal, Craig Jenkerson
Monday 3 March 2025
Chasing Dreams: My Journey in the Two Oceans Marlin Tournament
By
Peté (Jannie) Kotze
For six years, I have attempted to catch my first marlin in the Two Oceans Marlin Tournament. Would 2025 be the year my unfulfilled dream comes true?
Above all, I participate in this tournament for the fun and camaraderie, yet the desire to catch the elusive fish remains strong. Last year, I almost caught one, but it got away, and the sting of losing it was still sorely felt, especially as the crew did not let me forget it!
On the first fishing day of the tournament, we were finalizing the Cona position when the back-line went off. The skipper spotted a single working bird, and putting our lines out early paid off. We were close to the 45s, a bank 45 miles due south of Struisbaai. We got distracted on the way with a good-sized dorado at Halfway House, not expecting a strike just then.
We were unsure. It was too soon, and the pull was not so strong. Then the 80’ ‘Alutecnos started shrieking, and we were in business. What followed were majestic aerial displays, excitement, anxiety, and adrenaline, all keeping me fighting through the deep burn in my arms! May this be my first TOMT marlin, I prayed! Don’t let this be a repeat of last year’s loss! The fear of a recurrence kept me going.
Jannie working through the burn in his arms
The forty-nine minutes felt like an eternity. At last, Werner pulled in the leader. However, this black marlin had the final say. It kicked under the boat before we could properly remove the hooks. It swam off in the wake, released by the engine, still towing our precious pink and blue Cona!
Spot the bill of the marlin
My marlin bogey is off my back, but I already dream of the next and the next marlin. “Is this normal?” my wife asked. I nodded affirmatively.
My heartfelt thanks to my Indigo crew mates, Gawie (skipper), Werner, Lourens, and Craig. This one is for our dear friend Eugene, who passed away suddenly in January. His spirit was with us all the way on the boat.
Indigo flying the marlin flag
Team Dory, won first prize for measuring and releasing two marlin.
Crew Dudley Rosslee (Skipper), Emile le Roux, Chris Gillit, Andrew (Davy) Davidson, Johan van der Walt
Tuesday 4 March 2025
Dory’s First Marlin of the Tournament
By
Andrew Davidson
On the 4th of March 2025, Dory left Struisbaai harbour at around 06:50 and headed out to the Halfway House area. This is a well-known fishing spot en route to the famous Alphard Banks, about 40 nautical miles east of Struisbaai.
Sea conditions were close to perfect, with a light swell and nearly no wind. Upon reaching the area, the team had their coffee and a light breakfast.
We had just started trawling and settling down for the day’s fishing, talking about how fortunate we are to have been a crew for the past nine years when we saw a black marlin coming from the port side.
It hit the short cona, then immediately moved to the starboard side long cona, striking it as well. The marlin then struck the long port side cona and moved away. During this, we continued trawling at about 8.5 knots, hoping to go “vas,” but it did not happen. The entire crew was happy to have had these strikes, but the marlin was not on yet.
We all thought the marlin had left us when the “Hongkong” cona was struck with a huge hit by the marlin. It was game on. I was on the rod and got into the fighting chair and the fight started. We had the privilege to view a black marlin jumping out of the water and giving us an unforgettable show of its power and survival skills. The fish was about 350 meters from the boat at the back, fighting me with all its power to escape and get the cona out of its mouth.
After about 30 minutes, I retrieved most of the line the marlin took and we could see it behind our boat. My thoughts were that the fight was over, but the marlin had other ideas. As I got the marlin closer to the boat, it decided to take a deep dive straight down into the sea next to the boat. After taking line again, I managed to turn it around, and the retrieving process started again. This happened another two times before I managed to get the marlin next to the boat. Emile managed to get hold of the leader line and pulled the marlin next to the boat. Chris was the video operator, and Dudley kept the boat on course next to the marlin.
As the marlin was next to the boat, Emile and I managed to remove both hooks on the cona from the its mouth without any injuries to the fish. The black marlin was measured, and according to the tape, it was about 181 kg. We released it in good condition. We watched it dive under our boat towards the starboard side, and we had the pleasure of seeing it swim away.
The fish alongside the boat Orange band was assigned to this boat when they called in
This was the second black marlin I have caught at a Two Oceans Marlin Tournament, , but the feeling of absolute respect, power, and beauty of such a fish will never leave me. It is an indescribable feeling to have one of the fastest fish in the sea fighting you. The best feeling of catching marlin is releasing it and seeing the fish swim away uninjured and in good shape.
Dory flying the marlin flag
Thursday 6 March 2025
Dory’s Second Marlin of the Tournament
By
Chris Gillit
As a team we felt jubilant that Andrew (Davy), on Day 2 of the tournament had caught and released a 180kg Black Marlin. What were the chances that we could get a second one? Nobody had caught on Day three, but when Day Four greeted us with fantastic conditions, we decided we to go to our old hunting ground, the 12-mile bank, where we have had great success in the past. We reached the 100m contour and found shoals of mackerel like never seen before. We were convinced there would be a marlin in the area. With no luck by early afternoon, we decided to go shallower and work some structure. This decision paid off! At 14:00, the Japan elastic broke, but alas, there was no hookup. We continued trolling and could see a marlin lit up and following the Japan, after two passes, the Captain Morgan lure was engulfed and we were on. This fish was angry and was jumping continuously as it headed for the horizon. It was my turn in the chair. I have been trying for 14 years to catch a marlin and to say I was nervous is an understatement. My teammates were fantastic and with their encouragement the fight began. Again, with an 80 wide nearly empty I knew this was going to be a tough task.
The fish alongside – yellow band was assigned to this boat when they called in a hook-up
Fifty-five minutes later, we brought the fish to the leader. After a quick measurement, the tape showed she weighed around 220kg. We carefully removed the hooks and released her, watching as this magnificent fish swam gracefully away.
Friday 7 March 2025 Today provided the last chance for the anglers to catch the elusive marlin but although one or two were sighted, nobody managed a hook-up today. The weather was beginning to change and the wind picked up towards midday so lines-up was called at 12 noon.
I am posting a few photographs taken at sea during the week. Thanks to the anglers who allowed me to post them here. But before I do that I would like to share a sea shanty dedicated to the Boat Gee Spot. During the week Gee Spot went out quite a distance and radio contact with her was lost. A few jokes about this were cracked on the airwaves but a certain friend of the club who was listening to the goings on got AI to write this ballad about the missing G-Spot. It is, I think, rather clever! The Ballad of the Lost G-Spot Oh, the sun it rose on the deep blue sea, With lines cast out so hopefully, But the fish won’t bite, no marlin play, And the crew all cursed this wretched day! (Chorus) Oh, G-Spot, G-Spot, where have ye gone? We call on the radio, all day long! On channel 82, no voice comes through, Lost on the waves with a drunken crew! (Verse 2) The ladies sigh and roll their eyes, They say, “Come find it, no surprise!” But the signal’s weak, the call won’t land, Like a ghostly ship on shifting sand! (Chorus) Oh, G-Spot, G-Spot, where have ye gone? We call on the radio, all day long! On channel 82, no voice comes through, Lost on the waves with a drunken crew! (Verse 3) The captain swears and checks his gear, But his rod’s too short, that much is clear! “No game to play, no fight to win, I fear we’ll ne’er set the hooks again!” (Chorus) Oh, G-Spot, G-Spot, where have ye gone? We call on the radio, all day long! On channel 82, no voice comes through, Lost on the waves with a drunken crew! (Verse 4) So here we drift in the salty mist, With empty hooks and shaken fists, A lesson learned, a fate unkind, Ye can’t catch fish if ye can’t first find… (Final Chorus – Slower) Oh, G-Spot, G-Spot, never been found… We searched high seas and the depths profound… On channel 82, we called in vain… Adrift forever in the angler’s pain!
A good sea shanty should always be a little bawdy, a little tragic, and a whole lot of fun—just like the hunt for the elusive G-Spot!
Needless to say – Gee Spot was the last boat home that day!
And after you’ve stopped giggling – take a look at what happens out at sea!
What a stunning yellowtail caught on Gee Spot – Thanks for the photograph, KoosThank you Jo Verwey – Soo JaThanks for the photo Kabous – NerinaCaught on Nerina A fabulous Dorado caught on Eclipse – Thanks for the photo Hentie
One understands why anglers love to go to sea when they experience scenes like the one seen below.
Sunrise while at sea taken from Gee Spot
The last event of the tournament was of course, the Prize-Giving. The clear winner was Team Dory with their two amazing marlin. Second Prize went to Indigo.
Spit-roast lamb was served for dinner – Thanks to all the catering staff for a wonderful feast,Team Indigo – Peté Kotze,(with proud grandson), Gawie Bruwer (skipper), Grant van der Westerhuzen (Tournament Director), Craig Jenkerson, Lourens Odendal, Werner KotzePeté and proud skipper, GawieJohan VD Walt, Dudley Rosslee (skipper), Andrew Davidson, Emil Le Roux, Chris Gillit, Grant van der Westhuyzen (tournament director)The Winning Team Dory with the Coveted Trophy – Johan, Davy, Dudley, Chris, Emil
After the very successful wine auction that was held during the week, there were still some bottles left and a few other items also went under the hammer this evening.
Some items up for auction were a beautiful painting and a pair of Mercury Outboard Motors What should we bid?Who will bid the most?Estian happy that his bid won the painting
To keep the fun going, a few strafdops and sniffs of snuff were handed out. It was entertaining to watch the reactions of the offenders as they embraced the consequences of their actions.
It was truly heartwarming to read the messages from the competitors on the TOMT WhatsApp group, expressing their enjoyment of the tournament. Their words reflected a genuine sense of camaraderie, appreciation, and fond memories that were created during the event. It’s moments like these that remind us of the joy and spirit of competition, and how an event like this goes beyond just the sport of fishing. It brings people together.
Knowing that everyone had such a positive experience reaffirms all the effort the organisers put into making the tournament a success. A heartfelt thank you goes out to Marinda and her incredible team of catering staff and bar ladies for their outstanding hard work and dedication. You tirelessly ensured that everyone was well taken care of, with delicious food and exceptional service. From the warm smiles at the bar to the seamless coordination behind the scenes, your commitment did not go unnoticed. A huge thank you goes out to the incredible individuals who worked tirelessly to ensure that everything ran smoothly and ensured the success of the tournament. Dahlene, your meticulous record-keeping and handling of the finances were invaluable in keeping everything running smoothly. Grant, as the tournament director, and Dudley as Club Captain, your leadership and coordination were truly remarkable. Andrew, your dedication as the safety officer ensured that everything was conducted responsibly and safely, and your spirited contributions to the auction and the fun meting out of strafdoppe and snuff sniffs added a unique touch of entertainment. Each of you brought your own expertise and energy to the table, and the event would not have been the same without you. A big thank you too, to Trevor (Spotter One) who is always ready to respond to radio calls from the anglers at sea. Your contribution to this event is hugely appreciated.
Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our sponsors for their incredible support in making this tournament a resounding success. Your generous contributions have not only enhanced the experience for participants and attendees but have also helped us achieve our goals and bring this event to life. It is through partnerships like yours that we can create memorable and impactful moments. Thank you for believing in us and for being an invaluable part of this journey!
This is not the last TOMT post for 2025 as the heroes who caught the marlin are still working on their stories which I will publish here soon along with photographs if possible!
Adventuring into Retirement 