The Iris Magazine 2012

Netball

Netball 110 years

NETBALL U19A (1ST TEAM)
Back Row (L-R): Kirsty Pepworth, Onida Peter, Elizabeth Biggs, Zenande Booi, Boipelo Nyatlo
Front Row (L-R): Casey de Beer, Ofentse Moropa, Mrs R Matthyse, Caily Jonck, Stacey Hassen

The Netball season this year has definitely been one to wished for. It was an honour working and playing next to
remember. It was Girls High’s first time in ‘The big girls’ you on court. Last, but not least, to the parents, for your
league’. We experienced some tough competition and endless support and encouragement. We could not have
were able to grow a lot as a school. The First Team had achieved all that we did without you cheering us on from
a tough, but very successful season. Our first tournament the side of the court. Congratulations to Atandiwe Booi for
was held in Johannesburg, where we attended the 2012 St being the only player who received (U15) Provincial Colours
Andrew’s Netball Festival. We came third out of twenty- this year! You are an inspiration to us all.
seven schools. We then attended the All Girls’ Festival held My hope is that Netball continues to grow
in Potchefstroom and we ended up sixth out of nineteen and improve at our beautiful school. Our love
schools that participated there. Although our league for the game and sportsmanship are what set
matches didn’t go as smoothly, the girls never once gave up us apart from the rest. To the future captains
and always played with Girls’ High pride and sportsmanship. of this sport: enjoy the experience and lead your
Thanks are due to Ms Dorlas, Mrs Matthyse, our coaches and
liaisons for all their hard work and constant encouragement. teams with pride and honour.
To the girls who fought until the end and kept their heads ‘Never let the fear of striking
held high, I thank you. Thank you to the First Team for all out, keep you from playing the
the memories, friendships and commitment. To Ofentse, game.’ – A Cinderella story.
thank you for being the best vice captain that I could have Caily Jonck
Captain

99The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Netball

110 years

NETBALL U19B (2ND TEAM) NETBALL U19C TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Tisetso Petje, Natasha Keenan, Tiisetso Mathole, Absent: Anele Manana
Khanyisa Mlati, Kathrin Gioia Back Row (L-R): Thandos Nxiweni, Stephanie Baker, Itumeleng Nkoana,
Front Row (L-R): Boitshoko Mopedi, Kayla Greger, Siya Nokele
Mrs T Janse van Rensburg, Mahlatse Masimini, Kayla Harvey Front Row (L-R): Julia Valente, Ms Dorlas, Lehlohonolo Moche

NETBALL U17A TEAM NETBALL U17B
Back Row (L-R): Kelsey McFarlane, Courtney Theys, Danielle Bolink, Back Row (L-R): Bianca van der Walt, Cynthia van der Walt, Nina
Tselane Ramothata Salmon, Angel Janse van Rensburg, Ceinwen Rikkers, Phindile Sibeko
Front Row (L-R): Paige Sharman, Tshegofatso Tleane, Mrs L Stellaard, Front Row (L-R): Fiona Pikirayi, Andile Moale, Mrs L Stellaard,
Setsoaki Matubatuba, Kristen Ellington Bonolo Kgorong, Gretchen Tsotetsi

NETBALL U16A TEAM NETBALL U16B
Absent: Charlotte Angel Absent: Palesa Molefe
Back Row (L-R): Alecia Pinto, Alexia Doeg, Alexa Gioia, Melby Back Row (L-R): Simone Gair, Tsholofelo Mamogale, Savanna Gair,
Mhuruyegwe Lebo Malala
Front Row (L-R): Awande Lugokolo, Melanie Ngoako, Mrs M Ford, Front Row (L-R): Nadia de Caires, Mrs M Ford, Michaela Campbell
Palesa Moshia, Ashley Rosa

100 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Netball

110 years

NETBALL U16C TEAM NETBALL U15A TEAM
Absent: Karabo Mmego, Omphemetse Malebye Back Row (L-R): Lexi Botha, Serah-May Smedsrud, Lorraine Dippenaar
Back Row (L-R): Amogelang Kolokoto, Masego Mahlatjie, Front Row (L-R): Jeanique Strydom, Tyla Grobler, Mrs R Matthyse,
Letsobana Ledwaba Sharon Munyai, Athi Booi
Front Row (L-R): Dineo Mogale, Mrs S Ntuli, Samantha Buckland

NETBALL U15B TEAM NETBALL U15C
Absent: Mekayla Swart Absent: Lara van Zyl, Nthabiseng Mokotedi, Neo Mekgwe,
Back Row (L-R): Simone Baptista Rosa, Princess Ndala, Ruby McGregor-Langley
Alex Hadjinicolaides Back Row (L-R): EAritobi Akintoye, Tabo Mwila, Johanna Makhobane,
Front Row (L-R): Hlolo Khalena, Mona-Lisa Gqwede, Mrs R Matthyse, Nemesia Tau
Bronwyn Adams, Sasha Anthony Middle Row (L-R): Nicole Kleynhans, Natalie Tsaku, Zozo Makaula,
Marie Malan, Avalon Smith
Front Row (L-R): Karabo Mokoena, Daphney Maponya, Mr F Pretorius,
Camerodene Buys, Kgali Ratsoana

101The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Netball

110 years

NETBALL U14A TEAM NETBALL U14B TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Nkhensani Biko, Nthabiseng Mabapa, Deirdré van Back Row (L-R): Courtney Donaldson, Savanah Hayward,
Niekerk, Jodi Steytler, Thandiwe Ndlovu Bronwin Sebonka, Samantha Howard
Front Row (L-R): Mametse Moropyane, Regina Maepa, Front Row (L-R): Micaela Rodrigues, Dominique Rossi,
Miss B Grover, Kristen-Lee van der Merwe,Vanessa Arcanjo Miss B Grover, Nicole Nortman, Sheryl Lepedi

NETBALL U14C TEAM NETBALL U14D TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Basetsana Mamogale, Leigh Gibson, Absent: Jade Theys, Courtney Donaldson, Mokgadi Ngwepe
Demi van Straaten, Hayley Cooke Back Row (L-R): Cydney Liebenberg, Talia Moodley,
Front Row (L-R): Obakeng Moropa, Shanique Parker, Caitlin Manley, Lili Smit
Ms L Moss, Qukeza Nokele, Mmopi Nkuma Front Row (L-R): Aretha Zamundu, Lelethu Nokele,
Ms L Moss, Aisling Groenewald, Naledi Pooe

102 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Squash

110 years

SQUASH 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Lauren Pijper, Siobhan Hall, Sarah Heuer
Front Row (L-R): Tamsyn Stanley, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser), Megan Page

2012 has been an extremely successful and exciting year we are today.
for the Girls High Squash girls, with some of the best Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has made my
results yet. I would like to congratulate all our school Squash journey at this school one which I will never forget.
teams on their great achievements in the leagues. The To Mwansa Chilese and Mrs de Sousa, thank you for the
results are as follows: endless smiles, motivation and time spent to get us where
A league: PHSG A 1st we are. We appreciate every moment and thank you for
B league: PHSG B 3rd creating a happy Squash environment in which we could
PHSG C 7th all enjoy the sport we love.
C league: PHSG E 3rd To my Top Schools and Girls’ Festival Teams, you girls all
A special mention must go to all the girls who were hold a special place in my heart and although I am sad that
selected to represent Gauteng North at the Inter- our journey has come to an end, we have memories to last
Provincial tournaments for 2012. Girls High was a lifetime.
represented by five girls. These included Alexia Doeg Best of luck to all the players for the years ahead. We
(U16A), Shannon Pullock (U16A), Isa van Zyl (U16A), know you will make us proud!
Sarah Heuer (U19A) and Megan Page (U19A). Megan Page
Our First Team has been incredible this year, yielding very Captain
pleasing results. We represented the school at the FNB
All Girls’ Schools’ Festival, where we were overjoyed to
end first thus winning the festival. We were later selected
as the number one girls’ school in the Northern Gauteng
District and were invited to participate in the Top Schools
Squash Tournament in Pietermaritzburg. After a lot of
hard work and a nail-biting final, we unfortunately lost to
the host school, Epworth Girls High and ended second
overall. This was a remarkable achievement
as we improved our position from last
year by two places, making us the
second best girls squash school
in South Africa. I am so proud
of each one of the girls who
participated and would
like to thank them all for
their effort and hard SA TOP SCHOOLS’ SQUASH
work to get us where (L-R): Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser), Tamsyn Stanley, Lauren Pijper,
Megan Page, Sarah Heuer, Siobhan Hall, Caily Jonck
103
The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Squash

110 years

SQUASH 2ND TEAM SQUASH C TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Tania Lagoa, Alexia Doeg, Isa van Zyl Back Row (L-R): Mignon van Zyl, Ashleigh Chapman, Samantha de Hart
Front Row (L-R): Shannon Pullock, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser), Caily Jonck Front Row (L-R): Brigitte Winterstein, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser),
Rachel Glass

SQUASH D TEAM SQUASH E TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Niharika Bhardwaj, Alexandra Pashkin, Back Row (L-R): Cindy Cherry, Samantha Black
Taryn Gerber Front Row (L-R): Holly-Anne Thompson, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser),
Front Row (L-R): Teagan Mouton, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser), Monica Esterhuizen
Caldi Roberts

SQUASH F TEAM SQUASH BEGINNERS
Back Row (L-R): Kaitlin Studer, Tina van der Breggen Back Row (L-R): Marcail Wragg, Courtney Donaldson, Karen Collins
Front Row (L-R): Tiffany McAlister, Mrs J de Sousa (Organiser), Middle Row (L-R): Jennifer da Silva, Jessica Colley, Justine King,
Canzonette Malherbe Kayla Wait
Front Row (L-R): Mathika Ras, Josephine Martin, Mrs J de Sousa
104 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris (Organiser), Dominique Rossi, Khanysile Hlalethoa

Swimming

Swi,mming 110 years

Take your marks … BANG! That bang is the end of does deserve a gold medal for the best swimming coach.
hoping and the beginning of success! Our swimmers are not bought; they swim for the love of
Our gala season was different this year, starting with the the sport. Thank you to the 2012 Swimming team forl
Girls’ National Aquatics Festival hosted by St Mary’s their determination and perseverance. I wish you all the
Kloof at the prestigious Kings Park Aquatics Centre. We best in the pool!
swam our way to a pleasing eighth. I would like to thank 2012 Inter High Swimming results are as follows:
Mrs McNair, Mrs du Toit and supporters for coming all Pretoria A Inter-High
the way to Durban to support us. 1. AHMP
The Pretoria A League Inter-High Gala was on Valentine’s 2. Menlopark A
Day this year. The day was full of love for the water, 3. Crawford
passion for our school, supporting our team mates and 4. PHSG A
true happiness for our personal bests, medals and first 5. Cornwall
positions. We came fourth but I award Girls’ High a first 6. DSG
place because of our true determination and love for 7. Hatfield Christian School
swimming for our school and not for themselves. Girls’ 8. Garsfontein
High’s B Team and C Team both swam in the Pretoria 9. Willowridge
Inter-High B League Gala and did well – the B Team Pretoria B Inter-High
placing third and the C Team placing eighth. 1. AHM B
Our first championship with PBHS was, as always, very 2. Woodhill A
lady-like with all the supporters wearing bashers and 3. PHSG B
starting the gala with the national anthem. The girls did 4. Menlopark B
well and came sixth. 5. Oos Moot A
Thank you to Monique Barnard for her wonderful smile 6. Overkruin A
and all her support as vice. Thank you to Mrs Albertyn 7. Montana A
for all her warm-up sessions in the pool, accompanying 8. PHSG C
the girls to all their galas and for her support and calm, 9. Sutherland A
soothing voice that makes any tense girl relaxed. Ms Dorlas Rouam Matcham
has been a true inspiration to us all. She has always put all Captain
her time and effort into making every swimming season a
memorable one for the First Team swimmers. She truly

105The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Swimming

110 years

SWIMMING A TEAM
Absent: Alexa Gioia, Michelle Swanepoel
Back Row (L-R): Taryn Kotze, Deidré van Niekerk, Alexia Doeg, Melissa Langley, Stephanie van Zyl
4th Row (L-R): Muniek Swart, Kelsy Taljaard, Caela Gauché, Kirsten Coetzee, Alexa Robinson, Chelsea Hayes, Kristen Ellis, Kirsty Gibson
3rd Row (L-R): Lucy da Costa, Danica Wolfaardt, Michelle Beverley, Hayley Elcombe, Kelsey Langley, Leigh Gibson, Jemimah Smith
2nd Row (L-R): Courtney van Biljon, Cassandra Kastner, Franki-May Tooley, Lauren McAlister, Jade Nel, Sasha Lordan, Caitlin Manley
Front Row (L-R): Mariska van Rensburg, Danielle Moulton, Rouam Matcham (Captain), Ms S Dorlas, Monique Barnard, Kayla Greger,
Sasha-Lee Gush

106 SWIMMING B AND C TEAMS
Absent: Sophie Hinitt
Back Row (L-R): Jennifer Meyer, Chandré Jooste, Alex Gioia, Jodi Steytler, Emma Dives, Serah-May Smedsrud, Kaylah Mascini, Devin Oelofsen,
Laura Russell
5th Row (L-R): Sam Black, Annie Oppler, Lulu Tooley, Roxy Yasbek, Michelle Revolta, Micaela Cox, Ashley van Zyl, Paige Sharman
4th Row (L-R): Nicole van Zyl, Sidé Ntsaluba, Melby Mhuyvrengwe, Tiffany van der Merwe, Saskia Retter, Marié Malan, Eyna Mohamed
3rd Row (L-R): Samantha Howard, Robyn Murphy, Brogan Black, Kristen Ellington, Sinead Vaughan, Michaela Rodrigues, Amy Chapman,
Abigail Smit
2nd Row (L-R): Jenica de Encarnacao, Tyler Grobler, Hannae Meyer, Mckyle Clarke, Ariami Joubert, Lisa Lastrucci, Danielle Fröhling
Front Row (L-R): Robin Roux, Kathrin Gioia, Mrs M Albertyn, Monique Barnard, Rouam Matcham, Ms S Dorlas, Roxanne Bräsler, Sinead Mackrell

PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Table Tennis

Table Tennis 110 years

TABLE TENNIS
Back Row (L-R): Loudia Rogers, Isabella Chela, Jordan Netherlands, Stephanie van Zyl, Ashley Lotter, Saarah Begg, Marlise van Tonder
Middle Row (L-R): Angelique Smith, Nicky Murugan, Maxine Janse van Rensburg, Warindi Kebera, Kgomotso Adams, Maudie Loffstadt
Front Row (L-R): Tshepang Mabuela, Mirielle Wacal, Ms A Swanepoel, Sharon Ellman, Ms D Cooper, Mishka Devchand, Olive Olusegun
Table Tennis was introduced to our school at the beginning of the year due to a PBHS
father who was keen to include girls in the Pretoria league. We now have eighteen
players who are dedicated to the game and we practise twice a week. Angelique Smith
received her Gauteng North Colours and we are very proud of her.
We joined the Pretoria Table Tennis A and B leagues, playing a total of eight schools.
Although we did not do well, we look forward to future seasons.
Ms A Swanepoel
Liaison Teacher

107The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Tennis

Tennis

110 years

TENNIS 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Michelle Roux, Chantel van Vuuren
Front Row (L-R): Kiara Maher, Tarryn Terblanche, Bergen Massyn

I believe that Tennis at Pretoria High School for Girls has Schools’ Tennis Team. She went to Scotland and London
the potential to be the ‘Ivan Lendl’ of our time and it has with the SA Schools’ Tennis Team during the June/July
been a colossal privilege and honour for me to serve as the holidays to compete against the Scotland National Team
captain of such a fine sport this year whilst watching the and attend a London Tennis Academy. For two days, they
growth and potential of Tennis at our school. It was an went to Wimbledon and were privileged to meet famous
absolute pleasure ending the school day on Monday and players such as Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal.
Thursday and knowing that at 14h15, one could expect With so many talented girls in our team, I believe that our
to find oneself in the company of many on a tennis tennis will continue to blossom toward its full capacity
court who share the same passion and love for the sport even more in the years to come. Tennis at our school
as I do. However, the possibility of describing the exact strives – and we will continue striving toward our goal of
experiences and emotions that we had on the tennis courts greatness through both perseverance and hope – qualities
are simply impossible. The experience of those warm, which many of us live by. Former tennis world number
summer afternoons! The endless nagging for water breaks one, Rafael Nadal, once said: ‘Losing is not my enemy; fear
every two minutes or wishing that tennis had been a water of losing is my enemy.’
sport instead or those frosty winter afternoons when After a great year of fun, hard work and dedication with
cold air froze our lungs, and being commanded by Ms Ms Terblanche and the girls, it is safe to say that Tennis at
Terblanche to ‘keep our feet moving and run for the ball’ our school is on its way toward becoming extraordinary in
will remain treasured memories. The true feeling of being its own way.
in a team and playing your heart out is a feeling worth Nadine Hetzler (Captain) and Bergen Massyn (Vice Captain)
working for. Moreover, being part of a group of such TENNIS 2ND TEAM
gifted Tennis players and girls is indescribable. To scrape
the surface of the tennis events of 2012, a few of the many Back Row (L-R): Kirsty Pepworth, Krisanka Redelinghuys
highlights of this year included: our traditional Valentine’s Front Row (L-R): Lauren Barnes, Tarryn Terblanche, Nadine Hetzler
Tennis match that we have each year with PBHS, the Junior
and Senior Tennis league which were played in the first
and second terms, the Liezel Huber Tennis Tournament
where the Junior Team ended fourth out of the eight
schools that played and which was a major improvement
from the year before and the Menlo Tennis Tournament.
Matches were tough and games were narrowly lost placing
us in the second last position, but the perseverance and
courage of our team members held our school’s name
high, both on and off the court. Kiara Maher, a member
of the school’s First Team since Grade 10 and our school’s
number one, took part in a tennis tournament which was
played by our nine provinces, where she was selected to
represent Gauteng North. This was soon followed by a
letter stating that she had made it to the South African

108 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Tennis

110 years

TENNIS 3RD TEAM TENNIS 4TH TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Kaylee Benkenstein, Saskia Redelinghuys Back Row (L-R): Olivia Lofthouse, Tamra Golob, Meeghan Scheffer,
Front Row (L-R): Rebecca Harle, Tarryn Terblanche, Amy Hatton Jennifer Mimbulu
Front Row (L-R): Sharon Ellman, Tarryn Terblanche, Arantxa Blecher

TENNIS U15A TEAM TENNIS U15B TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Isabella Chela, Brittani Korb Back Row (L-R): Antonia Chela, Lucy da Costa
Front Row (L-R): Meeghan Klopm, Tarryn Terblanche, Annebelle Bettman Front Row (L-R): Jessica Heath, Tarryn Terblanche, Marlise van Tonder

TENNIS U15C TEAM TENNIS U15D AND RESERVE TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Chané Theron, Danica Wolfaardt Back Row (L-R): Sinazo Magadlela, Megan Pieterse,
Front Row (L-R): Ashley Wilson, Tarryn Terblanche, Ariami Joubert Megan du Preez, Ashlee Lotter, Marcail Wragg
Front Row (L-R): Courtney Anderson, Tarryn Terblanche, Claudia de Kok

109The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Volleyball

110 years Volleyball

VOLLEYBALL U19A/1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Bernadette Lowe, El-Jean du Preez, Kelly Johnson, Joseline Nkhoma
Middle Row (L-R): Mapula Maponya, Tanya Ludik, Tshegofatso Pooe, Folake Olukunle, Tlami Matshego
Front Row (L-R): Nthabiseng Chabedi, Ms B Cass, Monique Smalley, Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach),
Andressa Rodrigues

‘I repeat, it is thanks to my team mates’ - Lionel Messi U14 tournament at AISJ. This was a very exciting yet scary
The Volleyball season started with a bang, with our first thing for them as they had never played a game against
tournament being one of the biggest tournaments in the other teams before. The tournament was a learning curve
school league. This tournament took place at the American for both teams, with the U14A Team winning one of four
International School of Johannesburg (AIJJ) and was a games in the Round-Robin. Our U14A Team managed to
challenge for the PHSG teams as we were newly selected. get through the knockout stages winning their Quarter-Final
Our teams put in their best efforts and played their hearts game and going through to the Semi-Final. In a nail-biting
out. Our First Team went undefeated throughout the match, which almost led to many heart attacks, our U14
Round-Robin matches and made it through to the semi- Team lost by two points in the third set to Heron Bridge.
finals where we were placed head-to-head with our greatest This was a great learning experience for our Grade 8s and
competition – Fourways. Unfortunately, we weren’t able contributed to their love for and knowledge of the game.
to carry on the winning streak, and lost two sets to one to In August, our First and Second Teams made their way
place third overall. It was at this tournament where the to Mafikeng to compete in the annual ISSA Volleyball
passion and love for Volleyball and our school was shown Festival. Teams from around South Africa and other
by our younger grades, supporting us throughout the day. African countries were invited, making it a very tough
During 2012, no league was played but many tournaments festival. Many hours were spent training during exams
were held. Most of these tournaments were held at and after school, preparing for the best. True talent
various schools in Johannesburg and required early was displayed and our girls played with determination.
morning bus drives and long, hot days in the sun. During PHSG’s First Team won three out of four of their Round-
the first term we made trips to Heron Bridge, Fourways Robin games and went on to play an excellent quarter-final
and Jeppe with only one thing on our minds: first place. game. We then faced Eagle’s, the defending champions,
With hard work and dedication, our First Team managed who unfortunately knocked us out of the tournament in
to beat Jeppe in both the finals, taking first place at two out a 2-0 win. They went on to win the tournament for the
of three tournaments. Unfortunately, the First Team was third year in a row. Our Second Team showed true passion
defeated 2-0 by Fourways in the semi-final of the second but were not able to get through to the knock-out stages.
tournament. Our U16 A Team did us proud, making it to I would like to thank Ms Cass and Coach Charlotte for all
the quarter-finals. the time they have given to Volleyball. Without you we
In April 2012, we held our third Volleyball camp which wouldn’t have had the success that we had. Lastly, to my
provided an opportunity for our Grade 8s to get to know lovely Volleyball ladies - it has been an honour to be your
everyone, for everyone to get to know our First Team, and captain. You all have a very special place in my heart. I have
for our Volleyball sisterhood to form. Games were played never met girls who have so much passion and love, and I
with the aim to build a bond between teams and a clinic thank you for everything you have done. We have made
was held to improve skills. Many memories were made and memories which will go with me for the rest of my life.
friendships which will never be forgotten were formed. Monique Smalley
In June, our Grade 8s were invited to attend a special Captain

110 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Volleyball

110 years

VOLLEYBALL U19B/2ND TEAM VOLLEYBALL U19C/3RD TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Raquel dos Santos, Leenette Hadebe, Caileen Back Row (L-R): Sabrina Colley, May Khalaf, Angela Dick
Lubbe, Emnmanuella Aihoon, Khutso Letsoalo, Andrea du Toit Middle Row (L-R): Clemmie Sepeng, Melissa Muregerera,
Front Row (L-R): Cassandra Kastner, Ms B Cass, Caldi Roberts, Crystal Dick, Araliya Aaron
Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Naledi Mokone Front Row (L-R): ThandoDwango, Ms B Cass, Bontle Moatshe,
Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Renilwe Motlana

VOLLEYBALL U16A TEAM VOLLEYBALL U16B TEAM
Absent: Teboho Molelekeng Back Row (L-R): Leigh Sardie, Leigh Charman, Anna-mart
Back Row (L-R): Magali Kiabilua, Amy-Leigh Goldman, Potgieter, Candice Gunn, Vhoni Radzilani
Anastasya Papavarnavas, Priyanka Ramnath, Lavita Nuvunga Middle Row (L-R): Angelique de Kock, Sydney Kemp,
Middle Row (L-R): Nadia Rossouw, Ofentse Pheme, Lilita Leroto Thabane, Danielle Yasbek, Leandra Tavares, Kgali Ratsoana
Gcwabe, Tumi Letebele, Paballo Mangala Front Row (L-R): Shocky Shai, Mrs A van Stormbroek,
Front Row (L-R): Vhuiwa Neluvha, Mrs A van Stormbroek, Kristin Ellis, Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Merveille Luis
Tina Kondouli, Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Vuyiswa Modisane

VOLLEYBALL U14A TEAM VOLLEYBALL U14B TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Odette le Grange, Ashton Flowerday, Back Row (L-R): Dominique Martin, Sam Scott, Claire Jurisch,
Amanda Kwele Ferroudja Menhouk
Middle Row (L-R): Mahlatse Motitswe, Bianca Caldeira de Middle Row (L-R): Zara Prew, Louisse Burdett, Jesse Bule,
Aguiar, Benita Kiabilua, Danielle Renier, Vaschel Naidoo Masego Ramabu, Boitumelo Dibakoane
Front Row (L-R): Khanyisile Hlalethoa, Ms C Park, Front Row (L-R): Ayanda Zikalala, Ms C Park,
Maryam Sanatkaran, Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Mokgadi Letsoalo Anastatia Nkhuna, Charlotte Mdletshe (Coach), Jordan Lowe

The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012 111

Water Polo

110 years Water Polo

WATER POLO 1ST TEAM
Back Row (L-R): Shael van Greunen, Sam Chamberlain, Roxanne Bräsler, Rachel Blew
Middle Row (L-R): Kathrin Gioia, Stephanie Fichardt, Bergen Massyn, Jade Ashmore, Alexa Gioia, Chelsea Hayes
Front Row (L-R): Eyna Mohamed, Courtney Jordaan, Ms L Austin, Kayla Greger, Michaela Cox

The 2012 Water Polo season definitely started off on an St Peter’s Water Polo Festival and the Roedean School
exciting note, with everyone excited and in anticipation Old Mutual Water Polo Prestige Cup. These were
of the season that lay ahead of us. enjoyed by everyone and gave us all the opportunity to
The First Team knew it would be a difficult season, grow both as a team and as individuals. We are very
dedicating almost every Saturday to represent our school proud of Samantha Chamberlain who was chosen as a
and show our love and passion for this incredible sport. member of the Old Mututal Prestige Cup Tournament
Despite all the challenges that we were faced with, we Team.
stayed a close, positive team, reaching new heights and A big thank you to all the teachers, parents, coaches and
constantly surprising ourselves and others with what we players for the support and for making this season a
were truly capable of. memorable one.
Our four major tournaments this season were the St Kayla Greger
Stithians Festival, the National Girls’ Aquatics Festival, Captain

112 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Water Polo

110 years

WATER POLO 2ND TEAM WATER POLO U16
Absent: Catherine Kennard Back Row (L-R): Carmen Colyn, Gabby Schoeman, Ashleigh
Back Row (L-R): Chandré Jooste, Stephanie Baker, Andrea Hattingh, Bakker
Sinéad Mackrell Middle Row (L-R): Hayley Elcombe, Alexandrea Pallikarides,
Middle Row (L-R): Samantha Cowan, Katy Godfrey, Kristin Ellington, Robin Reader, Kayleigh Moyes, Tayla Wagner, Kirsten Harvey
Sevi Floudiotis Front Row (L-R): Robyn Bezuidenhout, Keina Jooste,
Front Row (L-R): Mmabatho Mashiane, Robyn Steyn, Ms L Austin, Mr F Pretorius, Tara-Leigh Clancy, Andrea Fortuin
Devin Oelofsen, Kayla Harvey

WATER POLO U15 WATER POLO U14
Back Row (L-R): Alexa Robinson, Lexi Botha, Kirsten Coetzee Absent: Daniella Da Cunha
Middle Row (L-R): Monica Esterhuizen, Danielle Roux, Back Row (L-R): Savanna Primmer, Dierdré van Niekerk,
Jemimah Smith, Ashleigh Connell Janie Mouton, Kelsey Langley, Franki-May Tooley
Front Row (L-R): Shannon Henry, Brittani Korb, Middle Row (L-R): Tia Dupuy, Caitlin Manley, Lindi Naudé,
Miss Greenwood, Kendal Cole, Michelle Swanepoel Abigail Smit, Hayley Cooke, Lorraine Shuttleworth
Front Row (L-R): Hannaé Meyer, Jodi Steytler, Ms L Leslie,
Jénica de Encarnacao, Meeghan Klomp

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110 years Cultural Highlights

Cultural Highlights

Choir Tour to Italy

This year the Senior Choir had the privilege of to be had because we had an eight day sight-seeing
participating in a choir festival in Italy. More specifically, expedition planned. We started in Venice where we
Val Pusteria. We were accompanied by Mrs Groenewald, saw all the main attractions such as the Doge’s Palace,
Mrs McNair, Mrs Sprüyt and our competent conductor, Bridge of Sighs, and what is Venice without a ride on
Ms Botha. The teachers definitely came back with a few a gondola with a handsome man, singing as he slowly
more grey hairs because of trying to keep track of us all pushes one down the canals? Florence was next on
but I’m sure they enjoyed the experience just as much our list and it was definitely a highlight for most of
as we did. us because of the markets that lined the streets. At
The tour lasted 12 days of which zour were taken up these we were able to bargain for the best price for our
by the festival. It was beautiful in Val Pusteria and we ‘Italian hoodie’ or leather handbag. Some of us were
always performed in magnificent chapels, churches or more successful than others with our bargaining skills.
outside where we were surrounded by mountains or This tour most certainly created stronger bonds within
old historic buildings. Many friends were made with the our Choir and it created memories that none of us will
different choirs from all over the world that participated. ever forget and that we will treasure for a lifetime.
After the festival was over, there was lots of fun still Meghan Pike

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Music

Senior Choir 110 years

SENIOR CHOIR
Back Row (L-R): Ursula Makibelo, Dineo More, Megan Napier, Ellen Heydenrych, Maxine le Roux, Nicci Lombard, Malebo Mamaregane, Kika Paris,
Chloé Erasmus, Nicole Patrick, Ailyn Nienaber
3rd Row (L-R): Sarah Seo, Denise Onen, Ikgomotseng Sekwala, Kholeka Khuzwayo, Saneh Memela, Kathleen Goss, Tiiso Maluleke, Sharuth Milton,
Kristin Milton, Ashleigh September, Megan van der Zwan, Claudia Summers, Jodi Carelsen
2nd Row (L-R): Daniella Correia, Sunny Yang, Azile Mdleleni, Grace Luposo, Hope Mkanda, Meisie Modiga, Murunwa Masibigiri, Rebecca Ewang,
Charlotte Dube, Melissa Repton, Kgothatso Magoro, Thabiso Moloto, Felicia Ntsitsi, Micaela Cox
Front Row (L-R): Didi Mathibe, Portia Firnhaber, Kgolagano Maimane, Mrs A Groenewald, Meghan Pike, Ms C Botha, Aimée Thompson, Mrs R Sprüyt,
Kganya Molefe, Kagiso Mphuthi, Mbali Sebokedi

The Senior Choir consists of forty-six members who are Girls, Pretoria Boys High School, Afrikaans Hoër
more of a family than just a cultural group. We have Meisieskool and Afrikaans Hoër Seunskool) come
a very extensive repertoire which ranges from African together to perform as a combined Choir and Orchestra.
music to more technical pieces by composers from all Each school’s Choir and Orchestra performs one piece
over the world, some of which include female composers and then the concert ends off with a performance
(we are proud to say). by five mass items that range from classical music to
2012 has been a very exciting year for us because we African music to pop music. This year’s Four Schools’
had the fantastic opportunity to participate in a Choir Concert was as successful as always and all of the four
Festival that was held in Val Pusteria, Italy. However, performances were sold out. It was a time that everyone
that was not the only exciting experience of the year. looked forward to and a highlight for all.
We also performed at many concerts with some of the This year has definitely been one of the best and most
top choirs in Gauteng such as the UP Youth Choir and memorable years for the Senior Choir. It was memorable
Pretoria Boys High Choir amongst others. We were very because of the members in the Choir as well as Mrs
privileged to have been invited to sing in the beautiful Groenewald and Mrs Spruyt who helped us in so many
St Alban’s Chapel for the Queen’s Jubilee which was ways and who will always have a special place in our hearts.
celebrated on 17 April. After our performance we were Of course there were many rehearsals and Choir
able to meet Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, which camps that were held so that we could prepare for our
was a great thrill for us all. performances and we have an amazing conductor, Ms
In May this year, the Choir entered the Pretoria Eistoddfod Charlotte Botha, who has put her all into making the
where we participated in two different categories for Senior Choir the success that it is.
which we received A++ for both and were awarded a 2012 is a year that none of us will ever be able to forget.
trophy for the best Female Choir in the eisteddfod. Meghan Pike
Every year all four schools (Pretoria High School for Head

115The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

110 years Music

Junior Choir

JUNIOR CHOIR
Absent: Kia Monyokolo, Tshepang Mabuela, Leago Mangolele, Thandiwe Ndlovo
Back Row (L-R): Phumzile Mukhari, Lungile Mahlangu, Ruby McGregor Langley, Jodi Steytler, Phumzile Gubanca, Angela van Rooyen, Keabetswe Tsebe
3rd Row (L-R): Mrs V Venter, Hae-rak Lee, Thabang Ajigina, Naline Boketsu, Amy Gouws, Ponahalo Ma, Kutlwano Malete, Lelethu Nokele, Ms C Botha
2nd Row (L-R): Olivia de Kok, Naledi Tsokolibare, Chiara Wheatley, Claudia de Kok, Joy Michaels, Hee jin Jung, Qukeza Nokele, Jeni Lee Lawrence,
Phuki Modiba, Sarah Mirkin
Front Row (L-R): Olive Olusegun, Noko Makhatu, Moshoto Tsagae, Lesedi Moerane, Thile Mphunti, Kea Pooe, Mathabo Mahlo, Laurentia Bopela,
Naa Shida Mills

MEMBERS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA YOUTH CHOIR
Back Row (L-R): Dineo More, Nadja Kelfkens, Rebecca Harle
Front Row (L-R): Sarah Seo, Chloé Erasmus, Bronwyn Rodda, Murunwa Masibigiri

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Orchestra 110 years

PHSG ORCHESTRA
Absent: Jung Ha Kim, Hema Sita, Jennica Marais
Back Row (L-R): Nicole Keeling, Ishara Wheatley, Ailyn Nienaber, Tinyiko Manganye, Tsholo Mamogale, Sam Black, Karina de Kock,
Deidre van Niekerk, Ye-Seul Cho, Yeogyeong Kim, Jessica ???, Rebecca Harle, Shirna Beharrie, Yuri Bhaga
3rd Row (L-R): Kelly Glover, So-Jung La, Helen Wu, Purcell Suen, Shaaiqah du Toit, Denise Onen, Caylin Nell, Erika Braune, Yi Lei, Tatiana Blecher,
Monnica Germishuizen, Sarah Mirkin, TAKE-OUT
2nd Row (L-R): Leigh Cruywagen, Chiara Wheatley, Firdaus Salie, Vanessa Reiss, Kagiso Mphuthu, Nicole Patrick, Abigail Bloem, Tamryn Thomaz,
Callia Nicolaides, Raquel de Almeida, Kganya Molefe
Front Row (L-R): Dharshana Yengopal, Kirsten Sprenger de Rover, Sarah Lee, Aviva Hoekstra (Deputy), Mrs V Hohls, Caitlin Cameron (Head),
Nicole Keeting, Morgan Miskin, Esther Park

Under the superb baton of Mrs Hohls, the PHSG tours in the future, it was an enormous success. The
Orchestra has been a tremendous success this year. To date Orchestra performed Les ‘ Misérables’ at the annual
we have fifty-three talented members in our Orchestra, Four Schools’ Concert which was thoroughly enjoyed by
including two double bass players which is a first for is. We all. This was followed by ending the year on a glamorous
managed to maintain our repertoire from previous years and high note at ‘The Night at the Proms’. A big thank
as well as learn new pieces such as Paradise by Coldplay, ‘ you goes to Mrs Hohls and
The Final Countdown and Les Misérables’. We performed Mrs Ford for making
at the annual Mothers’ Day concert which was very well everything that
attended by the girls and parents alike. We also performed happened this
at St Dominics in preparation for our tour to Cape Town. year possible.
The Orchestra tour to Cape Town was definitely the Caitlin Cameron
highlight of the year. Being the first of hopefully many Head

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Orchestra Tour to Cape Town

The incredible six-day journey had a rocky start the concerts we had many activities including
at OR Tambo airport but soon everything took cheese tasting, a music history tour of Solms-Delta
a turn for the best as we arrived in Stellenbosch. wine farm, a walk in the Kirstenbosch Botanical
Our first concert was at Volkskerk which was a gardens as well as the privilege of attending the
great success and we received a standing ovation. Cape Philharmonic Orchestra concert. Through
We had five days left and seven more concerts to the dedication of Mr and Mrs Hohls, Ms Ford and
play. The crowning performance was definitely Mrs Racionzer, the girls were given the opportunity
at Springfield Convent for Girls. The girls really to become better musicians and truly bond as an
played their hearts out, followed by two mass items orchestra.
with Springfield’s orchestra and choir. In between Caitlin Cameron

118 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

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Night at the Proms 110 years

Mothers’ Day

119The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

110 years Music

Woodwind Ensemble

Back Row (L-R): Yeo-Gyeong Kim, Ye-seul Cho, Tsholo Mamogale, Purcell Suen
Front Row (L-R): So Jung La, Shirna Beharrie, Mrs N van Wyk, Tatiana Blecher, Ailyn Nienaber

Blue Tie Ensemble

Back Row (L-R): Kirsten Sprenger de Rover, Mrs A Racionzer, Abigail Bloem, Karina de Kock
Front Row (L-R): Cristina Valente, Dharshona Yengopal, Ashleigh September, Chéree Janse van Rensburg,
Caylin Nell

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Music

Rhythmony

110 years

Back Row (L-R): Obakeng Makoloi, Melissa Muregerera, Andrea Le Goabe, Koketso Tjiane, Nokwazi Kola, Tsegofatso Tleane, Grace Luposo
Middle Row (L-R): Mrs I Maas, Kholeka Khuzwayo, Meisie Modiga, Obamelang Tongoane, Azile Mdleleni, Charné Kirkwood, Mr M Ndlovu
Front Row (L-R): Thabiso Moloto, Keorapetse Baholo, Mbali Sebokedi, Didi Mathibe, Lihle Sibiya, Kitso Mokfokeng, Hope Mkanda

Rhythmony has bloomed into something extraordinary of it being one of our most successful and enjoyable
this year. There was a new-found confidence in the performances this year. It was quite a memorable and
girls that made them eager to explore the amazing magical occasion. This year the school celebrated its
capabilities of their voices. We sang genres of music 110th birthday and Rhythmony was excited to be part
that were certainly foreign to the usual rhythmical and of the celebration. We performed alongside the Senior
soulful pieces that Rhythmony has become known and Choir and Orchestra to entertain everyone who came to
loved for. This illustrates the immense growth of this join the birthday celebration fun. It has been a wonderful
spectacular ensemble. A definite highlight this year was year with the wisdom of Mrs Maas and the artistry of
the Mother and Daughter Tea in which we were asked to Mr Ndlovu - Rhythmony has certainly had a successful
participate. This marked the first time in the history of year. May this inspirational group of ladies achieve all
Rhythmony that our conductor, Mr Ndlovu, sang a solo they strive for on their journeys yet to come.
during a song. He charmed the ladies in the audience Didi Mathibe
with his talent and elevated the performance to the point Head

121The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Clubs and Societies

Clubs and Societies

110 years

HEADS: CLUBS AND SOCIETIES
Absent: Irene Mpofu (Debating)
Back Row (L-R): Yin-Ting Yen (First Aid), Gizelle Kotzé (Go Green), Karianna Riekert (Science Club), Lindie Botes (Peer Counsellors), Rebekah Joubert
(Pottery), Bryna Wilding (Art), Ria Abraham (Peer Tutors), Meghan Boyd (House Tutors)
Middle Row (L-R): Megan Marshall (Contact Club), Kieran Byrch (Bridge), Megan Hardwick (Drama Seniors), Caitlin Cameron (Orchestra),
Ramaredi Koikanyang (Museum), Jennifer da Costa (Drama Juniors), Siya Mbatha (Public Speaking), Aye-Chan Htun (Photography)
Front Row (L-R): Didintle Mathibe (Rhythmony), Lindiwe Mlambo (SICC), Geraldine Maila (Poetry), Mrs D McCusker, Christi Meletakos
(Amnesty International), Ayanda Mbonani (SCA), Bobo Molomo (Sound and Lighting)

Amnesty International Art

The Amnesty International Society at Pretoria High School In 2012, the members of the Art Club steadily grew. We
for Girls is part of a global movement of more than three enjoyed learning about pop art, linocut prints, jewellery
million supporters, members and activists in more than making, fashion design and various drawing techniques
150 countries and territories that campaign to end grave in different mediums. It was a pleasure to watch the
abuses of human rights. Our vision is for every person to improvement of skills and the uncovering of talents in
enjoy all the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration 2012. Each girl in Art Club showed her creative talents
of Human Rights and other international human rights in a different way. A special thanks to Mrs Leslie for
standards. This year we have had presentations that varied giving guidance and for her encouragement and for her
from understanding the Hindu religion to the Russian enthusiastic involvement. Also, thanks to Carina Garrett
protection of human rights. We also spent some time and Janine Engelbrecht for their enthusiastic support,
watching ‘The Green Mile’, a movie about the death dedication and the fun spirit they brought to Art Club.
penalty in America. Lastly, thanks to all the girls for their dedicated attendance
This year we had an opportunity to take part in the and their willingness to learn. Thank you to everyone
Amnesty International Film Festival where a variety of involved in Art Club 2012. The memories will never be
films showcasing how human rights are abused all over the forgotten.
world were screened at Brooklyn’s Cinema Nouveau. We Bryna Wilding
are very excited about 2013 because we are going to have Head
another visit from Amnesty International South Africa
soon and hope that they will equip us with what we need Bridge
to grow as a society. Thank you to all Amnesty members
for their presentations and support this year. However, Walking into Room 57 on a Tuesday afternoon, one might
running the society would not be possible without the think one had stumbled upon a secret Grade 9 gathering
proficient help of Mrs Bloem and the passion that Christi but no, it’s just the PHSG Bridge Team. The Bridge Club
has shown and we are grateful to them. has grown in popularity this year, sometimes requiring
Morategi Kale that we steal chairs from the surrounding classrooms.
Head This year we played two friendly matches.

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110 years

Absent: Micaela Cox, Faith Tarigha, Amy Ferreira, Robyn Steyn, understand more about autism and it has taught us to
Kajil Narandath interact with handicapped people.
Back Row (L-R): Megan du Preez, Ruby McGregor Langley, As a club averaging about fifteen members each year,
Johanna Makgobane, Alex Pashkin we all have the opportunity to grow close and become a
Middle Row (L-R): Lorraine Shuttleworth, Gwen Viljoen, Linette Kotze, family. Between the trips we have taken to deliver items,
Caitlin Perfect, Naline Boketsu Wenge, Sharon Eagle we have collected donations and given them to various
Front Row (L-R): Thobekani Mabasa, Katy Godfrey, Mrs J Cowan, charities. We also supported the Unica Christmas Market
Kieran Byrch, Bianca Dicker and made AIDS ribbons as a group.
Something new and exciting that the club embarked on
The first one was against Boys High where we were this year was making Valentine cards and delivering them
welcomed with platters and platters of food. The match to the residences at a home for the aged and hopefully
was extremely successful as some of our girls came out on we spread a little love to the aged in our community. We
top. The second friendly match was against St Albans. We treated them to a few verses of ‘Let there be love shared
all had a good laugh and probably weren’t concentrating as among us’ as well as our school song, which brought back
hard as we should have. I would like to thank Mrs Cowan memories to some VERY old girls!
for all her help and support and I’d like to thank all the girls We have grown together and made warm friendships that
for their commitment. It has been a truly memorable year. will hopefully last as long as the difference we have made.
Kieran Byrch As a matric, it is always sad to say goodbye but we all have
Head full faith that the Contact Club legacy will continue along
with the great reputation of Girls High.
Contact Club Megan Marshall
Head
The Contact Club spent much of 2012 taking on many
new projects such as food drives for the SPCA, donating
stationery to underprivileged schools and helping with Debating
homework at an orphanage in Silverton. We often take
for granted how much we have, and the Contact Club has 2012 has been a year of growth and many lessons in the
focused on giving back as much as possible. This year we PHSG Debating Society.
also paid a visit to Lethabo Lekutso Home for Adults with The year began with an overwhelming interest from the
Autism to check up on the vegetable garden we started juniors in Debating. We participated in the annual Girls’
back in 2009. Since then, the garden has thrived and a Schools’ Festival where we came 5th out of 26 schools.
second one has been started due to the success of the The festival saw the ‘Dream Team’, also known as the
first! Being exposed to autistic individuals has helped us First Team, cry, laugh and grow, which prepared us for the
rest of a very challenging year. Irene Mpofu entered the
National Moot Court competition and at the last minute,
she was accompanied by Mia van Schalkwyk. The team
was awarded a special mention for the Heads of Argument
Submissions. We were very grateful for the help of Madame
Bloem and advocates Mullins, Veldsman and Grotepass.
The year saw us competing in more and more Model
UN competitions which served as a tremendous learning
curve for all teams that participated. Sthembile Soko
was awarded a Gold Certificate as Best Speaker in the
Syria Debate. In September we competed in the Sacee
Provincial Finals which saw us come 10th in Gauteng,
just missing the Quarter Final spot. We also participated
in the Environmental Sustainability Project where we

123The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

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110 years

THE DEBATING SOCIETY DEBATING COMPETING TEAMS
Back Row (L-R): Shannon Wardlaw, Lufuno Sigwadi, Sinazo Magadlela, Absent: Cameron Perumal
Niharika Bhardwaj, Genevieve Lupke, Elif Yilmaz, Nkhensani Biko, Back Row (L-R): Rebecca Ewang, Karina de Kock, Lufuno Sigwadi
Rebecca Ewang, Ponahalo Mojapelo Middle Row (L-R): Morategi Kale, Sthembile Soko, Shannon Wardlow,
Middle Row (L-R): Aisling Groenewald, Mona-Lisa Gqwede, Mona-Lisa Gqwede. Lehlohonolo Moche, Mathabo Mahalo
Gama Mashigo, Khanya Petje, Tina Mabugu, Helen Wu, Avril Denation, Front Row (L-R): Mr P Mungondo (Adjudicator), Mrs J Cÿrus,
Firdaus Salie, Sthembile Soko, Shikara Balkishun Irene Mpofu, Ms J Swanepoel (Coach), Mr C Hojem (Coach)
Front Row (L-R): Mathaba Mahlo, Morategi Kale, Mrs J Cÿrus,
Mr C Hojem, Irene Mpofu, Ms J Swanepoel, Mr P Mangondo, Morategi Kale is one of the learners who met Deputy Minister of
Karina de Kock, Lehlohonolo Moche International Relations and Cooperation at a SAIIA lecture.
made it to the finals but sadly didn’t place. Our Old Girls joined us at our birhtday celebration.
A first this year, was the debate against the Old Girls
at the school’s annual celebration around 10 October.
It was a delight opposing the Old Girls, Janet Jobson,
Shanna Nienaber and Carina Marais (née Wiechers) on
a motion of their choice and we sincerely hope that this
will become just as eagerly anticipated an event, as the
clash on the hockey field.
Debating at PHSG would have not been possible if
it weren’t for the wealth of knowledge and gentle
guidance of Christopher Hojem, the newly appointed
First Team Coach and Jolandi Swanepoel who is an
Old Girl and who unselfishly coached the ‘babies’ of
Debating. As always, we enjoyed the close association
of the TUKS Debating Union and Mr Paida Mangondo,
who organised all the rounds for the Sacee Competition.
We are fortunate to be able to draw on their specialised
skills and expertise. A special word of thanks goes to
Kyra Cÿrus who assisted the team in organising an
amazing presentation and lastly, but most importantly,
to Mrs Cÿrus who never gave up making Debating
worth it and providing us with a solid foundation on
which to build 2013.
We have adjusted and adjusted again as teams and
coaches and adjudicators changed. All of this has
been formative and exhilarating. The willingness and
commitment of all girls involved, give us hope that 2013
will be a successful year.
Irene Mpofu
Head

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Drama all the hunching to remove them. We have once again 110 years
managed to produce carrots, strawberries, spinach and
It has been a fun-filled year at Drama Club this year. There even unplanned potatoes! The soil has improved with our
was such a great turnout at our first session that we had to fresh delivery of chicken poop and Ms Cass and Mrs Van
hold auditions to narrow the group down! Heerden’s consumer class left-over compost mixture which
Each member of the group has grown so much in the matrics lovingly left to the two Grade 9s to handle. We
confidence due to the activities that they participated in. can now officially boast with earth worms in our soil! We
We do a new and exciting activity each week and the girls have also managed to keep our tea bag supply for the Hout
thoroughly enjoy them. Some of the activities include Bay community. We planted Lavender bushes and managed
improvisation, a stage make-up course, animal movement, to pick the flowers near the tuck shop and all this with
advertisements, fight scenes and many more. The girls five ladies and two amazing teachers. So here’s a quote to
work in groups that are chosen at random by the senior inspire more PHSG ladies to come and join the fun, to get
girls. This is to encourage all girls to get to know each some dirt under their nails, to drag paper until they can’t
other, and so develop a strong bond. breathe and to make our school greener than green: ‘Earth
It is wonderful to see and enhance the many talents provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs but not every
available and to grow in confidence as a Drama group. It man gives enough back for her to continue to be green’.
is especially delightful to see the faces of the girls light up Gizelle Kotzé
as they walk on stage. Head
We would like to thank Ms Russell for providing such
an encouraging environment where our talents can be First Aid
cultivated.
Megan Hardwick and Jenny da Costa Absent: Hlogi Mohale, Ishara Wheatley, Bernadette Louw, Michelle Roux,
Heads of Seniors and Juniors Kgaladi Moropyane, Andrea du Toit
Back Row (L-R): Meghan Boyd, Tsholo Mamogale, Mia van Schalkwyk,
Go Green Andrea Hattingh, Charlene Ferns, Zoe Kalbskopf, Robyn Mill
Middle Row (L-R): Kgothatso Kgosana, Keabetswe Tsebe,
The Go Green Club has flourished this year in spite of the Vhoni Radzilani, Angela Gemeliaris, Katy Godfrey, Claudia van Rooyen,
fact that our numbers have dwindled from a whopping 30 Tatiana de Aveiro, Veruzka Lategan
at the beginning of the year to five green-fingered. Apart Front Row (L-R): Hulisani Nefale,Lebo Motollo, Yin-Ting Yen,
from our mission to recycle, we also now constantly tend Sr T Shenfield-Schwartz, Emma Alimohammadi, Asha Das,
to our North Lodge vegetable garden – weeds are killers, Tiisetso Mathibedi
if not to our precious veggies, then to our calves from
First Aiders are seldom noticed, stationed alongside the
fields, eagerly waiting to jump into action. First Aid extends 125
beyond simply being on duty once a week. It includes
weekend duties, bonding with the team one is First Aiding
for as well as making use of one’s skills whenever they are
called for, be it in the classrooms and along the corridors too.
Many who have visited the clinic would have noticed that
there is less space available on the sick bed. Patches, the First
Aid mascot, has been employed to give strength to the weak
and to offer hugs when needed!
Inter-House Athletics is an important event. This is an
opportunity for us to work together as a group, acquire
numerous new techniques and skills from the paramedics
and also a time for us to unfold our talents.
Under the wings of Sister Tanya, we have all become
more competent. Sister Tanya has always been supportive

The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Clubs and Societies

110 years and understanding and without her, there would not be a the sub-editor, Naazneen Saib and I will work hard to
platform for us to give back to our school. We are proud to make ‘In the Limelight’ even better in 2013.
announce that there are eleven new members to the family. Tegan Mouton
Each and every member is passionate and dedicated. Head
Next time you have an injury, no matter how big or small,
we are there for you. Libraray
Yin-Ting Yen
Head Thanks to a team of loyal librarians, the service in the
Library ran smoothly this year. Book issues went up from
House Tutoring 2011 and the librarians handled up to 59 books on one
day, which is the highest for 2012. This shows that the
Belief in the girls they tutor is the best a tutee can hope readers of our school appreciate and enjoy the privilege
for and the House Tutors of 2012, I believe, have had of reading from our library. Our top readers for 2012
that belief that they could make a difference. The year were Camille Samson (73 books), Kelebogile Malefo
has brought many challenges but with the help of Ms (71 books), Lufuno Sigwadi (59 books) and Kgalalelo
Turpin and the tutors themselves, we as a family have Ratsoana (54 books).
overcome many of these challenges. Seeing our tutees Mrs A Muller
reach new heights in academics is the reason we tutor. Librarian
There is a feeling of fulfilment that accompanies the
tutee’s successes. The House Tutor family of forty tutors Museum
has all given selflessly of their time to help other learners,
specifically Grade 8s who struggle with the Girls High
workload. Many thanks to all our House Tutors for their
dedication in helping others and to Ms Turpin and Mrs K
du Toit, without whom the House Tutoring programme
would not exist.
Meghan Boyd
Head

In The Limelight

Back Row (L-R): Oratile Mosiane, Solange de Freitas, Keitu Salagae,
Zozo Makaula, Dharshani Naidoo
Middle Row (L-R): Celia Yeung, Precious Majwafi, Lekoetse Mahoo,
Daphney Maponya, Claudia de Almeida van der Walt, Masego Raseroka
Front Row (L-R): Shalom Maclean, Mrs A Campbell-Atkins,
Ramaredi Koikanyong, Ms D Dugmore, Shirneen Madhoo

Back Row (L-R): Naazneen Saib, Abigail du Preez, Simoné van der I am happy to report that this year was filled with moments
Merwe, Mrs J Cÿrus of continuous laughter and hard work from all involved in
Front Row (L-R): Shannon Wardlaw, Kgomotso Adams, Tegan Mouton, the museum.
Boitumelo Moloto, Siya Mbatha Our most significant project was the school’s birthday
bash celebration, for which information was gathered into
2012 saw many new and eager faces join the Limelight a successful slide show for the school. The museum was
crew and help publish a new edition at least once a term.
Our weekly Monday meetings were filled with stories,
laughter and chatter that were often completely irrelevant
to the task at hand. The newspaper would not have been
possible if it were not for the guidance of Mrs Cÿrus and
Mrs Manley and the skills and passion of the reporters
themselves. The newspaper might not be the most
glamorous or well-known club, but all of the hard work
is worth it to see the PHSG girls eagerly rip open the new
editions to try and spot and read about their school and
themselves. I am honoured to have been the editor, and

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popular and many girls viewed the school’s history and in making this a successful programme at PHSG. This
entertaining displays on this day. programme would not run smoothly without the guidance
I am grateful to the ladies for their ever-present and leadership of Ms Turpin and therefore I would like
enthusiasm and service to the museum and to my Vice, to thank her for her invaluable support. Yin-Ting Yen
Shalom Maclean, and of course our two teacher heads, and Yolande Tshimbombo, thank you for your support
Ms Dugmore and Mrs Campbell-Atkins. and assistance as the Deputy-Heads of this programme. I
Ramaredi Koikanyang also urge and encourage all learners from Grades 10 – 12
Head who are interested in becoming a tutor, to join our club,
as helping a fellow peer brings joy to every tutor’s heart.
Peer Counsellors Ria Abraham
Head
Peer Counsellors are girls who work diligently behind
the scenes to provide a backbone of support for their Photography Club
peers.
This year, new Peer Counsellors attended a course and As is the case every year, Photography Club was immensely
learnt practical skills to apply in their counselling sessions popular and at the beginning of the year many girls were
as well as outside of the club. Mrs Godfrey, Kaylasha, eager to join but unfortunately the space in the club is
Madelize and I also received what felt like billions of limited to twenty members. Even though space was limited,
inspiring essays from aspiring Peer Counsellors. It’s any girls interested in photography were invited to an open
lovely to see what a caring school we are and I am session at the beginning of the first term to encourage them
excited at the thought of such an enthusiastic group of in their pursuit of photography. At this session the raw
new counsellors. basics of photography were explained and new members
In terms of our activities this year, we had a picnic to got a taste of what lay ahead for the year.
welcome new girls and spent an afternoon handing out I was privileged enough to be part of a Photography Club
cupcakes to students who were still on the property late made up of committed members, new and old, ready to
in the afternoon. delve into the deep waters of the photographic world. We
Although we seem to be an ‘undercover group’, Peer aim to teach the technical and creative aspects, the very
Counsellors are vital for the school and I am proud of essence, of photography, to spark enough curiosity so that
those who counselled and helped this year. I wish the girls may practise their skills even outside of the club. For
Peer Counsellors and the Executives of 2013 all the best many this is a learning curve that sheds light on photographic
in the coming year. mysteries and gets them thinking of more possibilities.
Lindie Botes
Head This year, the members of the club worked on various
tasks ranging from taking creative portraits and editing their
Peer Tutor Programme photographs to building pinhole cameras and working in a
traditional darkroom. Working in the darkroom is always a
‘In learning you will teach and in teaching you will learn’ highlight for all the girls as it gives them a glimpse into how
– Phil Collins. photography began and produces a greater appreciation for
2012 has been a busy year for the members of the Peer photography as a skill and as an art form. The spring outing
Tutor Programme. Approximately 120 girls are members to Freedom Park was an opportunity for the girls to put
of this club. Each tutor is willing to sacrifice her valuable into practise what they had learnt, while overlooking the city
time and she puts in an immense effort to help her fellow from a hilltop. It has been a great year for the Photography
peers. This year we introduced a new system whereby Club because contrary to popular belief, we aren’t just
the tutors were notified through Irismail as to who their a group of girls taking pictures. Learning so much from
tutees were. New tutors have also been trained to replace each other, we grew close, and shared memories and were
the matric tutors who will leave at the end of this year. brought together by our growing passion for photography.
I would like to express my sincere thanks to every tutor, Aye Chan Htun
TLC member and TLC Executive who has assisted me Head

127The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Clubs and Societies

110 years Pottery

Pottery Club 2012, has been a huge success. Every becomes the playground for our future (mad) scientists
Thursday afternoon has been eventful and cheerful, with and as Isaac Asimov summed it up ‘The most exciting
girls from all grades forming friendships. The absolutely phrase to hear in science and the one that heralds new
relaxing atmosphere in the pottery centre would not have discoveries, is not ‘Eureka’! (I found it), but ‘That’s funny
been possible if it were not for my wonderful deputy, …’. Finally, a huge thanks to our small family of ‘Little
Nicole Esterhuizen, and Mrs Greenberg who made all of Curies’ and the committed, understanding and enthusiastic
this possible. I am confident that the Pottery Club will teachers who have made Science Club more interesting
continue to grow and prosper in the years ahead. than the Discovery Channel. 2012 has been a new age
Rebekah Joubert of discovering vast adventures that I will never forget and
Head 2013 will definitely have more excitement in store with
new training scientists in the equation. Good luck!
Public Speaking Kariana Riekert
Head
Absent: Erin Humphries, Isa van Zyl, Nthabiseng Makotedi,
Masego Ramalau Students’ Christian Association Committee
Back Row (L-R): Lesego Mmatli, Rebecca Harle, Mia van Schalkwyk,
Unathi Nkhoma, Kagiso Monyai
Middle Row (L-R): Pooja Pundit, Lerato Phatudi, Tabo Mwila,
Keamogetswe Rakolle, Mishka Cassim, Anastatia Nkhuna
Front Row (L-R): Boitumelo Dibakoane, Bakang Mlangeni,
Mrs R Manley, Siya Mbatha, Tshimollo Mnisi

Science Club Absent: Kirsten Jordaan, Caylin Nell
Back Row (L-R): Emmanuella Aihoon, Thobekani Mabasa,
From heart-racing, edge-of-the-seat action-movie days Andrea Hattingh, Pungi Ledwaba
in Mrs Rahman’s classroom to explosive fun-filled Middle Row (L-R): Geraldine Maila, Ramaredi Koikanyang,
adventures in Lab 33, Science Club is the ‘IT’ place to be Masego Masoanganye, Cynthia van der Walt, Sandra Collins, Kayla Harvey
every Tuesday afternoon. With the usual suspects (Mrs Front Row (L-R): Tiisetso Matlebyane, Masego Raseroka, Ms J de Kock,
Mjadu, Mrs Rahman, Marilie and myself - all right, Lizzy Ayanda Mbonani, Mr P Tshabalala, Rachel Blew, Claudia Casieri
and Leah too) and many inquisitive and new students,
Science Club has become the norm. With experiments
in hand, lab coats on and a sense of curiosity, Lab 33

Jeremiah 29:11: ‘For I know the plans I have for you,
declares the Lord, plans for good and not for evil, to give
you a future and a hope.’
2012 has been a year of new beginnings with the heads,
Ms de Kock and Mr Tshabalala, who are gradually fulfilling
the legacy that Mrs Harbour left at SCA. We have been
incredibly blessed to have them as our new Heads. Their

128 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Clubs and Societies

effortless dedication, level of compassion and devotion have enjoyed the front row seats to many exclusive shows. 110 years
have led SCA to bigger and greater heights. The Sound group has grown in size and the exclusivity
SCA continues to grow in numbers and our afternoon of the group continues to increase as the equipment gets
sessions have included praise and worship, cell group time more advanced and technical. We have learnt to deal with
and talks by the girls, old girls and international and local much more advanced technical problems and have handled
guest speakers. We had an amazing small and intimate those situations like real professionals mostly.
camp this year which took place at school. It would not The support and help that the Sound girls have received
have been possible without the help of the mothers whose from Ms de Kock and Mrs B du Toit have been invaluable.
daughters attended SCA this year. We deeply appreciate Bobo Molomo
their help and support. We have been privileged to attend Head
outside events such as Unity at DSG and Praise and
Worship at Boys High and St John’s College. It has been Students’ Inter Cultural Club (S I C C)
amazing to see God work in the hearts and lives of the
girls who have attended SCA this year. We have forged In the SICC Club we are given the opportunity to learn
friendships with the girls and we shared memories that we about different cultures which adds to the creativity
will cherish dearly. A huge thanks to the committee for when it comes to the planning of our annual show that
their immeasurable service to SCA. They have selflessly gets every girl talking - the SICC show where girls from
served the girls by praying with them, giving them guidance different cultural backgrounds showcase their talents such
or just doing simple tasks with humility. Our experience at as singing, dancing or reciting poems. It always turns out
SCA is one to remember. to be a huge success every year.
We trust God will continue doing the commendable work SICC is not just a club – we are a family. Being Head of
He has done in the past. We are convinced that God has SICC has been a great privilege but it came with a great
great plans for SCA at Girls High in the future. We wish deal of responsibilities and challenges. This year has been
the new committee all the best for 2013. Your will be in quite an incredible year for SICC with new themes and
our thoughts and prayers. approaches. I will never forget the SICC for what it has
Ayanda Mbonani and Rachel Blew taught me since I was in Grade 8.
Head and Deputy Head I would like to leave you with this: be passionate about
what you do and don’t waste your talent. I will miss SICC
Sound and Lighting and it will always have a special place in my heart.
There is truly unity in diversity.
Lindiwe Mlambo
Head

Absent: Ikomotseng Sekwala
Back Row (L-R): Stephanie Fichardt, Natasha Keenan, Lesego Mmatli,
Abbi du Preez, Shirna Beharrie
Middle Row (L-R): Sevi Floudiotis, Mmabatha Mashiane, Resego Matshe-
go, Kate Radebe, Obakeng Makoloi, Irene Mpofu
Front Row (L-R): Gontse Letsapa, Seithati Legodi, Katy Godfrey, Ms J de
Kock, Simbongile Molomo, Denise Kabugujjo, Masego Raseroka

What a super and busy year for the girls responsible for the
sound in the hall. Can we forget the sound of ‘Set Fire to
the Rain’?
At the ‘secret’ play presented by the teachers at the school’s
birthday celebration and the fantastic trip taken through
the universe by the ladies of the Spring Fair Fashion show,
Sound and Lighting girls have played a pivotal role in
presenting shows. With a track record like this the Sound
group has become extremely popular and our Sound girls

129The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Clubs and Societies

110 years

Acade,mic Highlight

Inter-provincial Gauteng North Maths Olympiad candidates
who came second.

GAUTENG NORTH MATHS OLYMPIAD
Back Row (L-R): Heejin Jung, Lucy da Costa, Marlise van Tonder,
Amy Gouws
Front Row (L-R): Isa van Zyl, Sharon Ellman, Dominique Rossi

130 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

110 years

The Darkest Day We were thrown out onto our backs and the tormented
screams started again. The horror in others’ cries
The day started out as any other day. I woke up early to mirrored the horror in my heart. I lay motionless, taking
clean the house and tend to my rice plantation. I thought in the havoc. My skin was suddenly burning and my body
of my children who were fifty kilometres away with their twitched and convulsed in pain. A shrieking noise escaped
grandfather and hoped they would have a better life. I my throat. Some people tried to get up and stumbled past
thought of my husband who had recently passed away, me, but the damage had already been done; they couldn’t
claimed by the never-ending World War Two. I drowned get away from it.
out my grief with my daily tasks. I cried and clung to the last moments of the life I had left.
I realised I needed to buy vegetables, so I walked down to All the light in the world seemed to shatter. War … What
the local market. The journey was familiar. I listened to was it good for? It only brought pain and death. Was
the crunch each step made on the dirt road; I breathed in there a good reason for any deaths?
the fresh air deeply. The sound of the birds singing lifted Melissa Repton
my spirits. Grade 12
I had almost reached my destination when my body froze at
the sound of the piercing sirens going off at the army camp. My Country, South Africa
The enemy had intruded. I looked up at the sky, polluted
by American planes flying overhead. Time seemed to stop An ordinary day in August. Friday night. Hilbrow,
that very moment. My body trembled and shook. Johannesburg Central Business District. Year: 1993.
There was a great frenzy around me. People were running They met, intoxicated – few words passed: empty,
and screaming, trying to escape their terrible fate. One nothing mistaken for sweet somethings. One thing led
plane released a large bomb which slowly fell to the ground to another whilst the fallopian tube led sperm to the egg
only a small distance away. A searing light flashed before – and number one million, four thousand, eight hundred
our eyes as the bomb touched our land. A thick, black and seventy-six wins! SOLD, to the quickest bidder.
cloud grew and towered over us, resembling a deadly Fertilisation.
mushroom. An eerie silence seemed to fall upon us - only Conception.
for a few moments until the wave hit us. The birds no You see, nine months will pass and with time a youthful
longer had a reason to sing. life will have to be forgotten; a father figure will become
a fake memory made true by regular episodes of seventh
Annie Oppler Gr. 10 heaven. Those sweet nothings will become an empty
something born into a cacophony of questions that will
never be answered, and ushered into this place we call
Mother Earth by breaths of confusion, despair, hate and
fear belonging to a young girl who knows not who she is
or even was – a whirlpool of roots covered in westernised
practices.
This empty something will be a child whose problems
began way before her teenage parents’ bodies even met; way
before the department of Home Affairs named her 940504
0236 083. Her mother will rush off to a beauty spa in
Houghton; her dad will be with some sloozy in Sunnyside;
her grandparents will return from exile knowing nothing
about her and she will watch her aunt paint away the blue
mark under her eye with Revlon’s New and Improved Matt
Foundation whilst her uncle shuts the door and breathes his
54%-alcohol-breath down her throat.

131The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Viewpoint

110 years

Amy Hatton Gr. 11

She will have *‘milk too diluted – one scoop instead of four’: Tonight
Woolworths Full Cream milk instead of Nestlé’s trusted
baby formula and she will inherit her mother’s painful Tonight, I dance.
breasts – unsucked nipples that are engorged from a non- I will dance for no one else but myself. Not for the boy
existent latch. Love will not be her armour but her enemy, who stole my heart or the woman who crushed my dreams.
an enemy that her boyfriend urges her to keep closer by Only for me - to release what dwells within.
manipulating and mistreating her confused almost-woman The floorboards creak under my bare feet and the icy,
body. midnight air catches me through an open window. It’s
Post-1994 will show her and teach her about the world and dark.
that the land owes her nothing and she will land up feeling as “Begin.”
though she is in a body not her own. This girl who became I imagine the eyes as I spread my arms Always watching.
an adult on the day of her conception will only know what The eyes wait as I spin and spin … And then I CRASH.
she was taught at school – nothing about her heritage or Spying. The eyes are always spying as I play out the story
about the soft ebony baThembu-clan hips that bore her into of my life for their entertainment.
this world. She will know nothing about the rich royal blood But now, my life is for my entertainment. Dance is the
that flows through her veins under her caramel skin that was expression of our instinctive emotions. It is the physical
given to her by her coloured great-grandmother. led by the emotional. It is pure. It is beautiful. I am
Instead she will know about her curly, kroes hair that needs beautiful tonight. I’ve trained myself to hold back, be
to be chemically straightened every week. She will know calm and not to let them see. I’m always biting my tongue,
about the sun and how it ruins her complexion. She will tensing my muscles, telling myself, “Stop, breathe, move
know that deep inside she knows nothing about herself on.” It gets old. Pretending gets old.
and she will forget about the Book of Luke she read with Not anymore.
the nun at the convent that tells her that God knows every Tonight, I explode.
single hair on her head – she will make earthly things her Rage! Move! Crash! Writhe to the rhythm of my emotion.
God. This is me showing you my raw feelings. With every jagged
She will not live up to her name, Lebone – seSotho for ‘light movement, I am asking you to recognise me for what I am
of the world’. Instead she will be a dark representation of and what I can be. Listen when my body speaks. “Please!”
the numbers, 940504 0236 083 on her ID – a fresh produce And when it is all over, and I lie alone again, none of it will
of South Africa post 1994. matter. I gave you the grace of my honest expressions. I
‘*milk too diluted – one scoop, instead of four quoted from showed you the beating of my heart and, yet, you give me
the novel Spilt Milk by Kopano Matlwa nothing in return.
Simeme Mthembu You will never dance with me and share what I feel because
Grade 12 you fear honesty.

132 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

wouldn’t follow me around any longer. In the stomach 110 years
of the black abyss I would find the secrets that the ocean
had been keeping… The sea could not outsmart me any
longer.
Like a freezing silver blade the cold water cut through my
flesh. My eyes burned from the salt (which felt more like
acid right now) and my voice tore in half as I screamed,
pleased for death to just take me with him. For the last
time I saw the pink sky, the silver clouds and the green
faces of my peers. I smiled, knowing that they were better
off now, probably with the angels in a state of bliss.
I swallowed a lump of what tasted like pure salt. My limbs
went numb and the coldness, the burn, the taste, and the
pain were all gone. The sky turned from grey to white to
silver to pure gold and the faces of my loved ones, death
and the angels smiled down at me. I silently, peacefully
entered their warm embrace. The war against fear and the
jealous green eyes of my liquid enemy had won.
Janine Engelbrecht
Grade 12

Savannah Netherlands Gr. 11 Flight

Tonight, nothing changes. Sheer quickening cadence of wings strums the air
Aye Chan Htun A tempered guitar
Grade 12 Slipping by into the ravages of eternity
In the awareness of life infinity lies
Green In the thrum of the wings that beat.

Ever since I was born, a lingering fear of the majestic power Lofty and soaring
of the ocean has consumed me. Those green eyes which are Unafraid
forever following me, just waiting to stroke and to suck me Of winds
into its deep black abyss. Those silent waters, holding in it And falls
the secrets of mankind, lying to us. deceiving us … And lightning strikes
Today the earth shook, provoking the sea, creating a six- In the shelter of mortality
storey tall green monster; a solid wall of water raging
towards a small coastal town. The stench of fear and Jewel-bright
panic hung in the air, like a thick, black cloud of toxic Damask-grey
smoke, poisoning the peaceful village. From the rooftop Coal-black
of my humble home, I watched as people became animals, They leap as one into the everlasting sky
forgetting all human dignity as they fled from the violent Suffused in a light of deepest blue
claws of the Green Monster. Regarded as one by us below
The air turned grey and the horizon glowed red, as if hell We live our lives
itself paid what was once a beautiful Mother Earth, an Continue on our way
unexpected visit. Thick, grey clouds swallowed the air, Not understanding what it means
spitting big drops of rain, tilting the skyline diagonally. To soar.
The rain felt like butane on my skin and my innocent Katy Godfrey
childhood memories of the place I call home, now stolen Grade 12
from my bloodshot eyes. Where were the angels? Why
was fear winning this war? Autumn
The Green Monster was coming close; it was my turn
now. The green bodies of my loved ones drifted past me; Fire-Red
so matter-of-factly as if they embraced death. They were Pumpkin-Orange
free from their human suffering now, from the ice cold Golden-Yellow
water piercing their lungs. Leaves fall
I swallowed my fear for the Monster. Those green eyes Not freezing
Not blistering
A season of calm
Not extreme.
The sunlight stipples the leaves
Painting the world golden and dusky

133The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

110 years Viewpoint “No, thanks. Sorry for wasting your time. Goodbye then.”
I paused momentarily before leaving, long enough to hear
In shades of warm and glorious being. Judith restarting her speech to another bespectacled girl
High up of about my age.
In tall trees To criticise the development of technology is displaying
On not-quite-bare branches ignorance. To appreciate and acknowledge the wonders
Half-green half-dry leaves cling to twigs of the elements and raw earth is integral. To accept both
by the edges of their crumbling fingertips is revolutionary... do not get carried away. Do not lose
Not quite ready to fall perspective.
To join their siblings and dance on gusts of wind in pure Rebecca Harle
unadulterated joy Grade 11
They remember the spring, the new life
Soon Less is More
The cold will come
And fallen leaves will dissolve into dust, into mere leaf- I’m sitting in class, hoping the teacher doesn’t notice my
pieces of before incomplete homework. I pull the oldest trick in the book
Making space for new leaves and place my arm over the empty lined page. I can feel my
New life heart beat faster and faster, the sound of her footsteps is
And new being. getting louder and louder. Thump, thump, thump.
Katy Godfrey Hello, I’m Steph and lately my life is just one big juggling
Grade 12 act. I’m going through life trying to juggle as many balls
as I can without stopping or dropping the balls. I’m
Perspective waiting for my act to end.
“Ladies and Gentlemen! Boys and Girls! Please welcome
‘-cast from aviation alloy and the top of its range.’ the great, Steph!” I walk into the centre of the ring. Iit’s
Distracted from what she was saying because of her a new year and a new chance to do well. I reach my
unnaturally white teeth, I only heard fractions of what she pocket and grab two balls labelled ‘diving’ and ‘hockey’.
said and comprehended even less. I’m not too worried about these balls - granted they’re
“It’s remarkably compact,” she went on, “and we are so heavy and require a lot of practise, but they’re not too
confident about this product that should it malfunction hard to juggle.
within the first year of purchase, we will replace it, no I reach into my pocket again and grab another ball
questions asked.” labelled ‘Water Polo’. This ball is easy to juggle by itself
After several more parrot-like recitals about why this but together with ‘diving’ and ‘hockey’ it’s a nightmare. I
appliance would be both life-altering and, in the long am going strong. I take in the atmosphere, the smell of
run, beneficial to the planet, the saleswoman had lost me popcorn lingering in the air, the wet saw-dust beneath my
completely. Her friendliness and efficiency were flawless feet squishes and squashes as I move around the circle. I
yet I still doubted whether she even believed or cared about can hear the feint cry of a baby in the back which helped
the information she was relaying to an unenthusiastic to drown out my heartbeat. I decided to add another ball.
client. Into my pocket I reach and out comes a ball labelled
Surrounded by an abundance of neatly stacked and ‘hostel’. This ball is impossible to juggle. It has to be
packaged plugs, chargers, and plasma screens, not to juggled a certain way or else I’m in for a load of trouble.
mention the various gadgets which were foreign to me, I take out the infamous ‘academics’ ball. The crowd
I thought, quite simply, about the sky - a vast expanse of becomes quiet and my parents in the first row stand
air preceded by the rest of the universe. The universe, up. I throw the ball up into the air as hard as I possibly
regularly mentioned yet another concept too unparalleled could. It is a very heavy and slippery ball to juggle and
for one’s mind to grasp fully. I can definitely feel the difference between it and my
‘Judith’, as printed on her sparkling name-badge attached sport balls. Still caught in the act of trying to catch the
to the front of her blue frock, cleared her throat loudly and ‘hostel’ ball I forget about the ‘academics’ ball. I hear
unnecessarily. My blank expression was obviously revealing a gasp from the crowd as the ball hurtles towards the
my disinterest in her as a result of the wanderings of my soggy sawdust beneath my feet. I bend my knees until
thoughts. they hurt and manage to grasp the ball. A simultaneous
“If you order it today, we’ll throw in three free services and sigh is let out from the crowd and I know that all eyes are
you’ll receive this complimentary, hand-crafted coffee mug.” on me to do well. Time to pull out my favourite ball, I
All of these materialistic items seemed increasingly thought: sleep.
insignificant the more Judith promoted them. I was I reach into my pocket and to my disbelief all I can feel
tempted to make a sarcastic remark after her last statement are the bits of thread coming loose from the seams of
but that would hardly be fair as she was only doing her my pocket. I have to keep the crowd happy, I am to keep
job. She had not forced me into the store. The pressure going. ‘Sleep’ ball or not, I am going to complete my act.
of society and giving in to doing what, according to It feels as if I’ll never stop.
international companies, I should do, had forced me into Stephanie Fichardt
the store. I seek purity and nature. I have had enough. Grade 11
“Ma’am, would you like a demonstration of ...”

134 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

110 years

Rhanii Fondse Gr. 10 Rebecca Harle Gr. 11

Broken at him and noted his dark, tired eyes and the way his voice
jack-knifed, as if he were a teenager again. It was a long
He sat with his chin resting on his knuckles, settled in an time before she spoke.
ugly plastic chair. The white room smelled of disinfectant “Why?”
and disease. There was no sound in the room apart from a He couldn’t quite meet her eyes. “You … We had an
constant beeping. It rang in his ears and made his head hurt. accident. You’re okay now.” She was silent as she grasped
His eyes felt heavy and his body ached from exhaustion, but his word’s meaning. It was another two minutes before
he didn’t dare leave. He didn’t dare leave his wife. she moved the thick blanket down to her hips. Her
Her chest rose and fell in a slow and steady rhythm, like magnificent five-month swollen belly was now disgustingly
waves on a beach: pushing and pulling. Her grey eyes were flat. She looked at her husband again. He said nothing,
closed and were the only part of her heart-shaped face that and she followed the silence as the heart monitor’s echoing
wasn’t marked with a bruise or cut. She looked… broken. beeps seemed to weep for them.
There was no other word to describe it. An image of her Gemma Priest
a few hours before flashed in his mind, but he pushed it Grade 11
away furiously and stood up.
As he walked to the window he realised the rain had The Adventures of Tommy and Lefty
stopped, and the stars could now be seen in the cloudless
jet black sky. His first instinct was to say, “Come and see, Thomas Anderson sat up in bed and rubbed his eyes.
the stars are out.” But he caught himself in time. He Sleepily, he eyed his room’s other inhabitant, Lefty, the
could see his reflection in the window. In that instant one-eyed bear. He was Tommy’s sidekick. Lefty lost his
he was filled with a wave of self-loathing. He wanted to eye in battle and he’d rather not talk about it if you don’t
scream at himself. He knew it was his fault. Everyone mind.
knew it was his fault. Her parents hadn’t said anything, but With sudden zeal, Tommy vaulted out of bed, grabbed
he could see the hate in their eyes as the doctors informed Lefty’s paw and twirled about the room – whooping as
them of how many lives he had destroyed. He knew what the walls gyrated around him. Tommy came to a sudden
they were thinking: “Why should our daughter have to halt, swaying a little as he firmly held the bear in his arms.
suffer this because of his mistake?” Chortling, Tommy got dressed and – with extra special
It should have been him, and he knew it. He also knew care – he secured his comforter around his neck like a
that right now he should be thanking whichever God was cape.
listening that she was still alive. But his head was filled with Tommy inspected his and Lefty’s image in the mirror.
thoughts of someone who wasn’t alive. Who’d never get “What fine super-heroes we will be someday!” he
the chance to see the stars his beautiful mother loved so. beamed. “Come on, Lefty! Heroes need breakfast!” He
A small groan made him spin around. Her eyes were open. ran downstairs, towing Lefty behind him like a kite.
He stared for a moment, not quite believing if this was “Good morning, Mommy!” He hugged his mother,
real. When his legs finally worked he moved to her side. burrowing his little face into her leg. He sat down in his seat
Gripping her hand, he knelt down to her level. Her face after helping Lefty onto the windowsill. The Andersons
was a master of confusion. had pancakes for breakfast (Tommy ate Lefty’s, as he
“Where am I?” she asked. Her voice sounded like wasn’t feeling too well). After breakfast Tommy helped
sandpaper. He swallowed. his mom with the dishes while his dad read the morning
“You’re in the hospital, Charlie,” was his reply. She looked paper. Suddenly, the telephone rang. Tommy’s dad got up

135The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

110 years Viewpoint

to answer, “Anderso- Yes, I understand. I’m on my way.” Shanagh van der Westhuizen Gr. 11
Without another word, he put the phone down and went
upstairs. Moments later, he returned in his policeman’s
uniform. “That was the Chief, he said, “there’s been a
robbery at the bank. I’ll be home soon.” He kissed his
family and was out of the door before Tommy could run
after him. He realised that his mother was shaking. “He’ll
be okay, Mommy.” She smiled down at him and told him
to go and play outside.
Tommy ran right to his secret tree-house (no girls allowed)
and unceremoniously flung Lefty through the hatch before
haphazardly clambering up the tree, singing his theme song
tunelessly but wholeheartedly as he went. “Da! Da da da
di-daaa! Don’t be afraid! Tommy will save you! With a
little help from Lefty the bear-oo!”
Finally, he hauled himself up into the fort. Laughter erupted
out of him when he saw poor Lefty. He had knocked over a
pile of comics and was currently stuck headfirst in a bucket
that had also toppled over. The rain water it was collecting
had pooled around the now-drenched bear. Tommy figured
he should leave him there – Lefty was in desperate need of a
bath! He had just started to put the comics back into order
when his favourite, special-edition ‘Captain Super versus
The Fly’ caught his eye …
With a contented smile, Tommy closed the book and was
about to put it back on the pile when he heard a car pull
into the driveway. His smile widened. Hastily, he grabbed
the soggy Lefty and made his way down the tree and into
the house. He heard voices coming from the living room
and he followed them. To his surprise, the uniformed man
on the couch was not his father. He had seen this man
before; it was father’s partner. He looked at his mother
who looked as if she had been crying. Fresh tears welled
over when she saw her son. Suddenly, Tommy was being
hugged tighter than ever before as his mother sobbed
on his tiny shoulder. The man got up and put a hat on
Tommy’s head. It smelled of his dad … Hugging his
mother even tighter, careful not to allow his vice to break,
Thomas whispered in her ear, “I will always be your super-
hero, Mom.”
Grethen de Waal
Grade 10

The Little Park Catherine Smith Gr. 10
head. Although more than a month has passed since my
They call this place, with its curved posts and barbed curling brunette tresses were shorn, I feel almost as if they
wire, Majdanek. As they forced me out of the boxcar, are still there.
screaming, I noticed two sentry boxes with the swastika Something terrible is going to happen today. I can feel the
painted on the sides. I wondered then if maybe I was just evil hovering around the fences. The smell of cinder and
dreaming. The government was good. They didn’t haul
136 people away from their homes in the dead of night. At
least that was what I used to think.
Now as I sit here beside some recently sawn planks that
are going to be used for the next barracks, I am not so
sure. Madjanek means ‘little park’ although how they came
up with such a name is beyond me. This place is the polar
opposite of the beautiful parks in Lublin. But if I look
past the wire fence I imagine myself running through the
lush grass, my feet whispering over the ground like a friend
telling a secret only she know.s Dirt cakes my trembling
hands as I reach them out once again to stroke my shaven

PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

ashes as well as an odour that makes my stomach attempt There was not a thing in sight. 110 years
to heave, permeates my nose. Whatever it is, it comes She swung her legs over her horse and proceeded on
from the ominous looking buildings on the other side of her way, through the ghostly night. The wind whipped
the park. The curling black smoke swirling out of the her hair across her face, causing her vision to become
chimneys is caught on the breeze and as it blows towards blurred. She turned to look behind and saw something,
me I feel a chill go down my spine. or someone trudging through the swampy sludge. She
Suddenly a harsh voice shouts out, ‘Barracks 38!’. I jump shrieked with terror and urged her steed to a gallop.
immediately, frightened, as I attempt to brush blown She slowly, almost lethargically twisted around, but she
sawdust off my pants. I had forgotten. Today my group observed nothing. Attempting to calm herself and to
is to be allowed to shower! One of the young soldiers prevent the adrenaline from coursing through her body,
told us that we were going to have a shower so that we she slowed her horse to a trot. She knew that she was
could return home that night. I’ve grown to be rather nearing her destination and if she could just make it to
cynical and distrustful while I’ve been here, because all I the front door, she would be out of harm’s reach. The
have done here is work and work with little food in my mere thought lulled her into a sense of security and
belly, but today I am grateful! By tonight I shall see my peace.
family! Mary was closing the gap between herself and the door,
I quickly run towards the man who gave the command and when, before she could enter, she heard the familiar sound
get into the bustling line of about twenty people. We are of trudging shoes on moist mud. She turned to face
then led into a room that looks strangely like a reception her shadow and summoned all the strength and courage
office where we hastily submit to an authoritative voice which she possessed. But there was, once again, nothing
that tells us to take off our clothes. We are then pushed to be seen. Mary Magdalene lowered her head and saw...
into another room that has a ‘Brausebad’ sign painted It couldn’t be! It was almost unbelievable. What Mary
over the door. As we enter I notice something strange had perceived as a living nightmare, was not. It was so
- something that shouldn’t have been there. A glass- blindingly obvious that she chastised herself for not
covered peephole. realising the enlightened truth sooner.
Suddenly the door behind us is sealed shut and the room Mary loosened, then dropped her grasp on her horse’s reins
becomes very dark. As people scramble to pry the door and flew to embrace the furry, woolly, dirt-covered creature.
open I hear terrible screaming. Instead of water pelting Cameron Permual
down from the showerheads come strange white pellets. Grade 9
They say that as you die your life flashes before your eyes
but instead I see what should have been my life. I see my My ride in a taxi
hopes and dreams flicker as my lungs cry out in agony. I
see my family, my parents and my siblings and Majdanek, At last, school is over! Time to wait for a taxi to fetch
and what really happened to them. I see my potential to me. Fifteen minutes later it arrived in the blazing heat: a
live (now only 14 years old) the husband I should have brightly painted taxi with a bright green giant-like object
met and the children I should have had, disappear as my hanging from the rear-view mirror and the words ‘speed
eyes slide closed. And then all I see is blackness. of light’ painted on the side in bright yellow letters. Little
‘Rachel Naomi Glaskowitz. did I know what I was getting myself into!
Born 7 October 1927, Lvov, Poland. Died 18 September My ride in a taxi is usually as calm as the ocean on a spring
1942, Majdanek, 14 years old.’ morning but this time it was as fast as Sonic the hedgehog!
Rachel Glass The driver was crazy - as if he had a mental condition!
Grade 9 He took nail-biting turns and swerves, drove in death-
defying backwards motion, and shouting curse words at
The Dark Night innocent bystanders (all illegal)! The sights of Pretoria
whizzed by in a blur with the background thumping and
On a gloomy, downcast Sunday evening, Mary Magdalene pumping out tunes of South African artists with a big bass
was manoeuvring her horse-drawn carriage. This carriage beat at a volume so loud that thunder itself would quail.
was weather-beaten and a fragile, antique object. The The other passengers had to hold on to a seat in front of
horse’s hooves created a ‘clickety-clack’ sound as it passed them or they would have been tossed around like rag dolls.
over the cobbled, now deserted streets. The wind was People were screaming in fear or laughing like hyenas
howling ferociously and the trees swayed ominously from because this ‘reminded them of the time they rode on a
side to side. Little did Mary know that this was only the roller coaster at Gold Reef City’. I must admit, the sight
beginning of a frightful night... of classy businessmen and women in their perfectly ironed
“Shh, it’s all right,” said Mary soothingly, trying in vain to business suits, shouting for help, was pretty amusing and
comfort her horse. the builders throwing their hands in the air, saying that they
“There is not a single living soul around.” hadn’t had so much fun in years was even more amusing.
Suddenly there was as a sound which resembled the While I was screaming my lungs out because I was sitting
crunching of feet on rustling leaves. Mary thought she in the passenger seat in front, the little boy sitting behind
saw a silhouette out of the corner of her eye. She spun me was positively ecstatic.
around hastily, tripping over her thick amethyst cloak. The driver was laughing the whole time as if he had just
watched a Trevor Noah comedy routine! I tried to ask him

137The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

110 years Viewpoint I remember running. Trying to get away from
everything. I ran to the only place I knew I wouldn’t
above the noise the passengers made, if he knew how to be disturbed - Miguel’s and my secret hideout. I heard
steer this tin can? He just laughed and said “That’s right!” footsteps after me. It was Miguel. I waited for him
and took an impossible 390 degree turn right in the middle to come close, for him to take me into his arms. He
of an intersection! didn’t. He just walked past me. I walked towards him.
We were coming up to my house soon enough and when He pulled out something from under a cave. A raft. A
we finally got there, we experienced a halt so hard that the raft filled with a food supply that would last one for
taxi tilted forward at about 89 degrees! I got out of this months. I kept asking him where we were going as he
glorified roller coaster and waved goodbye. My knees were walked around to get baskets. Why does he have all this
knocking so badly, one would think a clock was ticking ready and packed? I got silence in return every time.
super fast and super loud! Oh well, I will really miss I tried to get on the raft but he pushed me away. He
that old rust bucket, and at least this experience got me pushed the raft into the waves and jumped on as the
prepared for something even more dangerous that makes waves dragged him further and further away from me.
Dart Vader seem like an angel: telling my mom why I Then he shouted, “The day I come back it will be as the
received 31 % for my English test! man you deserve. It is a promise. Wait for me on a night
Vasalya Moodley like this. A night when the sea is calm and the tide is full.
Grade 9 A night when the moon illuminates your beautiful face.”
I promised him. What else could I do - I loved him.
The sea is calm tonight “Here you are Rose! We were looking everywhere for you.
All at once the life returned to my body and my eyes
“Wait for me on these very rocks, on this very coast. flashed open. I quickly got up and wiped my tears. I
When the sea is calm and the tide is full. When the moon tried to hide my pain with a smile but Meera saw right
illuminates your beautiful face.” through it. When Miguel left I built a small hut on our
Those words echo through my mind. Pictures of his face beach. That was my home from then onwards. Meera
are embedded in my mind. My eyes close softly as they try was one of many people who were found almost dead on
to savour my last memory of him. I need to let go. our beaches. She happened to land on my beach instead
The wild waves around me danced. The wind played a of the main beach. I took care of her and she became
beautiful melody. I became light-headed. my friend.
I remember us playing hide and seek on this coast. We She noticed I had been crying.
called it our secret hideout since not many people came “Rose, honey are you okay? Everyone is waiting for you.
here. When he counted he would always mumble the What’s a wedding without the bride?”
numbers he didn’t know. We were only six. I tried to smile at the attempt to cheer me up but I
I let out a small chuckle. My eyes opened slowly. I filled couldn’t.
my lungs with salty air. I went back to my thoughts.
He would always find me, no matter how good my hiding Carina Garett Gr .12
place was. I would then say he cheated and walk off to a
nearby rock to sulk. He would always feel bad and would
claim he had cheated even though he didn’t. Miguel was
my best friend. My only friend. The other parents told
their children not to go near a person who had no mother
and an alcoholic as a father. Miguel was the only one who
didn’t care about what others had to say. He always stood
up for me. He helped me get through the twelve years. I
wiped the tear which slid down my cheek. I took another
deep breath. I could smell wedding food in the distance.
The fragrance of the curry and the dancing waves created
an intoxicating feeling. I went completely numb.
Things took a turn for the worst when my father passed
away of liver failure. I needed a guardian or I would have
been thrown out of our village. The horror I felt inside
when no one volunteered to take me was indescribable;
still is. Miguel pleaded with his parents to take me under
their wing. It was all in vain. I was on the floor now,
cradling my body. Tears were streaming down my face.
Get up Rose, you are stronger than this. You promised
yourself you wouldn’t break down like this. You need to
let go of this once and for all.

138 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

“Give me five minutes Meera, please.” Viewpoint 110 years
She looked at me wanting to argue but my tears changed
her mind. She walked away. This was it. This was the ‘In this world I have your friends. Play the game and if
end. I needed to let go of Miguel before I started a new you win, a piece of the puzzle you will earn. Where your
life. I took one last deep breath, savoured my last memory friends are, you will learn.’
of him and then let my breath out at a slow steady pace I pluck up the courage and put one foot into the pool, and
and with it the last memory of Miguel faded away. then the other. The arid orange sand and blazing sun soon
Mishka Devchand disappear and in its place, a room full of golden goblets
Grade 9 and silver candlesticks on purple table cloth appears.
“I see you accepted my note.”
Puzzles I turn around so fast that I knock off one of the silver
candlesticks. Standing in front of me is a man. He has
It’s been two whole days in the orange sand of the Persian dark brown hair and eyes. He is wearing a white suit, a
deserts. The sun, firing invisible missiles at every moving purple bowtie and a pullover.
target, strikes with a burst of fire, licking the skin, turning “Uh … yes?” I stutter.
it red. At the beginning of my trek there were five of us. “Come with me,” he says, showing me down a hallway.
But each night two of my friends disappeared. Now it’s I follow.
only me! I’ve been two days without food or water, and He leads me to a room that only has a table and a chair so
I can feel I’m losing my mind. I see something ahead I sit down.
of me. It looks like a square of separate blue circles in “What is the one thing we humans can’t live without?” he
the sand. I think I’m imagining it. It’s getting closer and asks.
closer. I notice that the little circles are actually pools of “Um!” I say, “Water?”
blue water. I walk to the edge of one of the pools. There He waves his hand and a goblet and plate appear on the
are coins in it. But why? table – both empty. I look at him.
I can’t see any forms of life for miles. Just orange sand. “What can be a faithful servant, but also an evil master?”
I have thirteen coins in the bag on my shoulder. The That makes me think.
coins must be there for a reason. I reach into the bag “Fire?” I answer.
and take out one coin. I flick it into the air and it lands He waves his hand again and food and water appear.
in the water. Nothing happens. I wait. Still, nothing. “Eat,” he says.
This is ridiculous! I plunged my hand into the water to When I am finished he leads me into a room. It is
retrieve my coin. But as it entered it disappeared from completely black.
sight. I quickly pull it out - it was still there. That’s odd, “This is the first of your challenges. You have to complete
I thought. I plunge my hand back into it again and move the puzzle in each room. Get through every challenge and
it around in the water and I feel something being put in you will get your friends back.” I just nod and he backs out
my hand and I quickly pull it out only to find a piece of of the room.
paper in my hand. I open it and read: “Your game begins in 3…2…1.”
‘Step into the pool and you will live. Stay outside and The lights go on and in the centre of the room is a table.
death will pursue.’ I walk towards it and find that it has ten squares on it. The
I turn the note over and back again - the writing now reads: first five have Monday to Friday on them and the others
have from March to August. Under the squares is a riddle:

Lauren Venter Gr. 12 Ellen Heydenrych Gr. 11

139The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Viewpoint

110 years ‘Up above you, see ten squares each, with a day or a
month - 4:25 is the right door. Choose the others and
you’ll be lunch.’ Kaylin O’Brien Gr. 10
4:25. What does that mean? Not time. It must have
something to do with days and months. I say it over and in their lives! (Usually to become more conscious of one’s
over in my head. Some sort of code maybe? Fourth day health and to improve it.) Unfortunately, some take it a bit
of the week? Thursday. 25? The twenty-fifth week. That’s too far! Many of the women who suffer from anorexia
in July. I look at the doors. All ten of them. There it is. and bulimia have been forced into their sickly states by the
The one Thursday has July on it. harsh words of society.
I put my hand on the doorknob and open the door. Little do these women realise that true beauty comes from
“You passed the first puzzle, mind. Now you enter in the greatness within that has been given a chance to shine
body,”, says a voice and I look around the room. There through. All women are gorgeous But it is the woman
are silhouettes of people all around the room. Six in total. who has a strong enough mind who is truly stunning, for
Written on the ground in gold is: she can withstand the penetrating judgements from society
‘Figure out what these things spell and the rest of your and still excel.
journey will go well. Spell the word by making the shapes. coffee and smokes
Get it wrong and you will be attacked by people in capes.’ and cold diet cokes
The shapes are letters. I just have to figure out what they that’s what foolish girls are made of.
mean. There are two S’s, an E, a U, an N and a T. Sun … Amy Marais
tes? No wait! Sunset. I form the word. On the ‘ T’ the Grade 8
walls begin to spin and then stop to form a doorway through
which I walk. There is a ball in the room. A clear ball. You think you know me
‘ Touch the ball and follow your heart. One more challenge
till you depart. Clear your mind and the right answer will You think you know me
come but think of something and you’ll be stuck.’ You assume who I am
I cleared my mind and touched the ball. But your bibliography on me
“To night,” it said and a door appeared. is a total scam
“Password?” I am quiet
“To night,” I say and open it. You think it’s because I’m scared
“Your final challenge is upon you. Work your answers into It’s not
the map and you’ll have your friends back.” 4:25. Sunset. I’m just listening to what’s being said
Tonight. Something at sunset tonight. Maybe four hours I am sometimes alone
and twenty-five minutes past sunset tonight? The huge You think it’s because I’m friendless
magnifying glass moves to the place of my answer and the It’s not
map falls away. The moon moves and the light shines on Solitude is just my zone
the glass. It lights up the room and blinds me.
There, standing in the glare of the moon are my friends.
“Well done!” says a voice as the orange sand and hot sun
appear. Now we’re ready for our journey ahead…
Jamie Wills
Grade 8

What Pretty Girls are Made of

coffee and smokes
and cold diet cokes
that’s what pretty girls are made of.
Society has led women to believe that they are things that
they are not. Too fat, too skinny, too smart, too outgoing.
Thus society has forced women to become those things.
Many young girls are led to believe that they cannot be
beautiful if they are not absolutely as thin as a piece of
wire or have the curves of a goddess. This has corrupted
minds worldwide.
Society has filled our heads with smoke, literally! Girls
everywhere find refuge in a pack of cigarettes, hoping to
lose a kilo as they take a drag from a death stick.
And there are dieters …extreme dieters! From juice-fasts
to starvation diets. All have been on a diet at some point

140 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

110 years

Courtney McDonald Gr. 11

I read many books Before the moon’s at its fullest
You think it’s because I have nothing better to do Over the pouring rains
It’s not Before the phoenix bursts to flame
I just read more than you Before it is reborn,
I am not always in the new Before the rivers run red with blood
You think it’s because I don’t care And before all hearts get torn.
It’s not Take a moment of your busy life
I’m always one step ahead To stop … relax … and think
I am me Of all the tiny, amazing things
You think it’s because I have no choice In the world you miss whenever you blink
It’s not So watch the stars appear in the sky
It’s the way I choose to be And watch the glistening moon.
So don’t think you know me Watch the leaves fall to the ground
When you don’t know the half And watch the sun at noon.
Because no one knows me better Watch the patterns of the waves
than I do myself. And the bubbles on the sand.
Méja Schoeman Watch the lovers on the beach,
Grade 8 Walking hand in hand.
Watch a bird lift its head
Before it’s gone And watch the snow fall
Because if you don’t take time to watch and wait …
Before the children close their eyes It’ll be over at the rooster’s call …
And enter a land of dreams, Jamie Wills
Before the feather hits the ground, Grade 8
One from a golden bird’s wing,
Before the sun’s an orange sliver 141The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012
Above the African plains,

Viewpoint

110 years

Die Afrikaanse Departement is baie trots op al die Afrikaans – Ekspo deelnemers

In 2012 het 54 leerders, vanaf gr 8 – gr 12 aan verskeie katogorieë deelgeneem. Uit hierdie getal deelnemers het
29 deurgedruk tot Nasionale vlak.
Dis met genoegdoening dat ons aankondig dat vier leerders Nasionale wenners is en dat Girls High vir die
tweede agtereenvolgende jaar as Wenskool in die Eerste Addisionele – Groot Skole – kategorie aangewys is.
Baie geluk aan:
Anastasya Papavarnavas - Junior Redenaars
Nadine Hetzler - Senior Redenaars
Nina van Graan - Senior Redenaars
Monica Blignaut - Senior Skryfkuns

Dit is die einde Die hemel is pikdonker. Die lugbesoedeling is so dik dat
geen sonlig deur kan skyn nie. Partykeer, wanneer ek ver
My oupa se oupa se oupa ... (ek weet nie hoeveel generasies van die beskawing is, weet ek nie of dit dag of nag is nie.
terug nie) se ervarings word deur die familie oorgedra. Daar is nog steeds ʼn paar siek bome wat staan; die grond is
Sover ek weet, het die probleem eintlik lank gelede begin hard en geen wurmpies kan in die aarde leef nie. Kos is nou
– om presies te wees, dit was toe mense op hierdie aarde skaars. My longe is swak. Ek weet nie wanneer hulle gaan
verskyn het. Van daardie oomblik af het die beeste, wat op ingee nie, maar ek is gereed.
twee bene geloop het, met Natuur gestry. Dié oorlog het Ek wil dit nie verder verduur nie. Hoe gouer hulle ophou
nog nooit opgehou nie ... om te swel en saam te trek, hoe gouer kan ek weer by my
Die grootste verandering, volgens my grootoupa se storie, ouers wees. Ek mis hulle. In die nag kan ek nie meer opkyk
was toe fabrieke en groot geboue ontwikkel het. Die en sterre sien nie … hulle is nie meer daar nie. Dit is asof
vierkantige geboue het asvaal rook en chemikalieë by hulle, soos my ouers, my hier gelos het om alleen te ly. Ek
die dakke uitgespuit. Dit het baie van my grootoupa se verlang na die groen velde. Ek betreur die tye toe ek kos
familielede vermoor. Hulle longe kon dit nie hanteer nie, gemors het, die tye toe ek gewens het dat ons ‘n groter
maar bo en behalwe dit, het die diewe ons boompie gesteel! boompie gehad het om ‘n groter nessie te kon bou. Nou
Toe ek nog jonk was, het ek en my ouers in ʼn lewendige moet ek elke dag Dood in die oë staar.
park gewoon. Elke oggend wanneer ek by die nes uitgekyk Die een ding wat die aarde nou baie het, is soutwater. Al die
het, het ek die grasgroen aarde gesien en wanneer ek ysberge het gesmelt. Al die diere, mense inkluis, en die wat
opgekyk het, kon ek die potblou hemel sien – party dae was nog lewendig is, baklei vir die bietjie land wat oorgebly het.
daar geen wolke nie. Daar was die gelag van onskuldige Meeste van die land het verdwyn. Daar is nie meer ʼn Afrika
kinders, die geluid van spattende water en die geraas van om in Desember na te verhuis nie. Europa is ook onder die
ons bure se babatjies. Ek onthou die gawe mense wat in water. Waar is Noag en sy ark? Is hy nie aangestel om die
die park piekniek gehou het. Hulle het altyd krummels vir diere te kom red sodat die wêreld van vooraf kan begin nie?
ons voëls gelos. Daar was meer as genoeg kos vir die hele Dalk verdien ons dit nie hierdie keer nie ...
gemeenskap... Ying Ting Yen
..., maar nou is dinge anders. Graad 12
My ouers is doodgery. Ek onthou dit nog duidelik asof
dit gister gebeur het. Ek het die dood van my ouers Kinders van die Wind
aanskou. Dit was een van die weelderige motors wat die
straat afgejaag het. Dit was een van die duiwels wat nie vir Dit is ʼn koue nag, dit reën hard buite die kar. Ek het
Natuur omgee nie, maar ek weet dat hy eendag daarvoor tot laat by my vriendin se huis vir die eksamen gestudeer.
gaan betaal. Ek is nou alleen. Ek is doodmoeg. My kop is seer van al die werk wat ek

142 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

Viewpoint

moet onthou. Ek wil nou net huis toe gaan. Ek is veilig vir Oom dat ek seker is dat my Volla gisteraand op die 110 years
in my kar terwyl ek deur die nat strate ry. Die reën val spoorlyn gestop het. Die mis het die vensters van my kar
harder tot ek nie meer die karradio kan hoor nie. Die is ʼn bedek. Ek loop nader na my kar en ek kan nie glo wat my
onverwagte reënbui op hierdie vuurwarm somersdag. Die oë sien nie. Daar is afdrukke van klein handjies orals aan
strate is pikdonker en ek kry baie koud en is honger. die agterkant van my kar. Ek hoor weer ʼn gegiggel en
Ek verlang na Ma en die geur van die kos wanneer sy in die die voetstappe wat ek gisteraand gehoor het. Die gee my
kombuis is. Ek verlang na die gelukkige dae saam met Pa. hoendervleis ...
Voor die motorongeluk gebeur het, was alles net perfek. Alles wat daardie nag gebeur het, draai weer en weer in my
Die kombuis sal egter silwerskoon wees. Ma is weer weg kop. Wat was dit? Ek moet uitvind.
op ʼn besigheidsreis na China. Sy is deesdae baie besig. Ek Ek soek deur al die webwerwe op die internet. Die spoorlyn
is dankbaar vir hierdie Volla wat ek by Ma geërf het. Dit is is vyftig jaar gelede gebou. Intussen het daar oor die jare
oud en onbetroubaar, maar ek ry dit nogtans. dertig motorongelukke op die spoorlyn plaasgevind. Niks
Ek is amper by die huis. Ek sien die spoorlyn voor my. Die kan verduidelik wat daardie aand met my gebeur het nie.
ou Volla ry al hoe stadiger en stadiger. Skielik stop die kar Maar dan ontdek ek ʼn artikel. Die titel staan groot op
op die spoorlyn. My hart klop vinniger. Die valhek sal enige die skerm uit. “Die grootste en tragieste motorongeluk.
oomblik sluit. Ek probeer weer en weer om die kar aan te Ek hou aan met lees. ʼn Laerskool-bus is tien jaar gelede
skakel. Dit werk nie! My hande bewe. Ek raak paniekerig. op dieselfde plek deur ʼn trein gestamp. Al die kinders en
Klim uit! Ek moet nou uitklim! Ek spring blitsvinnig uit die die busbestuurder het gesterf. Van daardie dag af was daar
kar uit. Die reën het lankal opgehou. Die koue wind waai in nooit weer treinongelukke nie.
my gesig. Die blare ritsel in die bome. Ek is nie alleen nie. Ek ry na die spoorlyn toe. Die son skyn deur die wolke.
Ek is nou doodbang. Ek begin hardloop en hardloop tot ek Ek sit ʼn bos blomme op die spoorlyn neer en ʼn koue wind
nie meer my voete kan voel nie. waai teen my gesig en fluister saggies in my oor. Die blare
Ek is verlig om weer by die huis te wees. Ek bel vir oom ritsel soos kinders wat sing.
Koos maar hy tel nie sy foon op nie. Al het ek niemand Wendy Tsai
gesien nie, het ek iets gevoel. Ek het voetstappe agter Graad 12
my gehoor en die dowwe gegiggel gehoor toe ek begin
hardloop het. Nou sit ek ongemaklik op die rusbank Vryheid
met die foon in my hand. Ek kan nie meer dink nie en is
uitgeput. Ek raak aan die slaap. Voel jy die meeste van die tyd oorspanne en uitgestres
Dit is vyfuur in die oggend toe die foon my wakker lui. Dit oor al die dinge wat in jou lewe aangaan? As dit nie ons
is oom Koos. Hy het my boodskap gekry. Gelukkig was take is wat ons probeer klaar kry nie, is dit die twee toetse
daar gister ‘n treinstaking. Ons ry weer na die treinspoor waarvoor ons moet voorberei wat op dieselfde dag geskryf
waar my Volla is. Ek is verbaas! My kar is nie meer op moet word. En natuurlik is daar ook ons sosiale lewens
die spoorlyn nie, dit staan nou langs die spoorlyn. Ek sê waarvoor ons ook moet sorg. In ons vrye tyd, verkies
ons soms om eerder by die huis te bly en te slaap in plaas
Lunga Mkhatshwa Gr. 12 daarvan om saam met vriende uit te gaan of net lekker
te lê en lees, want ons is besig om van “lees” ‘n weeskind
te maak!
Ek bied nou hierdie weeskind van ons ‘n sterk koppie koffie
aan want, dames en here, ek dink ons almal stem saam dat
hierdie rowwe jaar baie stresvol is. Wat dan, mag ek vra, is
die oplossing vir te veel spanning? Volgens ‘n studie wat die
neuropsigoloog van British Psychologist Society Dr David
Lewis gemaak het, verlaag stap stres met 41%. Selfs as ʼn
mens net ʼn koppie koffie of tee drink, daal jou stresvlakte
met 52%. Om na musiek te luister, verlaag die met 61%.
Maar die beste manier om stres te verminder is om te lees.
Lees verminder stres met ʼn groot 68%.
Maar lees is nie net die deur na vryheid vir ons gespanne
matrieks nie. Lees is ook die deur na vryheid in ons wêreld.
Hierdie weeskind van ons kort nou klere om armoede af
te weer. Volgens die CIA World Sourcebook kan 18% van
die wêreld se populasie nie lees nie. Dit beteken dat ʼn
beraamde 1 biljoen mense nie ʼn sms kan stuur nie, nie
ʼn buskaartjie verstaan nie of nooit in hulle hele lewe ʼn
boek gelees het nie. Dit is die hoogste persentasie mense
in die geskiedenis van die mensdom wat nie kan lees nie.
Dit, glo ek, is een van die grootste faktore wat na armoede
lei. Arm mense in arm gemeenskappe kan hulself nie
bemagtig om ʼn beter lewe vir hulself te skep nie. Sonder
lees is daar geen manier om op skool te slaag nie. Sonder

143The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

Viewpoint

110 years skool is daar geen manier om na ʼn universiteit toe te gaan se hart te oorwin nie? Lees leer ons hoe om die krag wat
nie. Sonder ʼn graad wat behaal is, kan ʼn mens nie veel in binne ons is, self te vind en om die struikelblokke in ons
die lewe doen nie. Sonder om te kan lees, is die kanse om lewe te oorkom. Ook hoe om ʼn bietjie humor in moeilike
ʼn werk te kry dus baie skraal. tye te vind. Helen Exley het dan juis gesê dat boeke baie
Nou pluk ek ʼn handvol sterre vir ons weeskind. gevaarlik is en dat die beste boeke ‘n etiket het wat sê: “Dit
Lees in die sleutel wat ons op die pad na ons drome en kan jou lewe verander.”
suksesse lei. Alles begin met lees. Die Kaiser Family Ek blaai nou om na die hoofstuk oor geletterdheid.
Foundation het in ʼn onlangse studie, wat in Amerika Alhoewel dit alles so eenvoudig en maklik klink, is daar
plaasgevind het, bevind dat kinders onder die ouderdom in Suid-Afrika nog steeds gemeenskappe waar boeke,
van twee gemiddeld twee keer meer televisie kyk as om letterlik, ʼn mite is. Volgens myfundi.co.za is daar ses
saam met hulle ouers ʼn boek te lees. Een uit drie van tot vyftien miljoen Suid-Afrikaners wat ongeletterd
hierdie kinders het al ʼn televisie in hulle kamers en Suid is. Die ongeletterdes word gedurig vergelyk met mense
Afrikaanse kinders is nie ver agter nie! wat gestremd is, omdat hulle denkwyse nie op dieselfde
Baie van die wêreld se probleme kan deur lees opgelos vlak is as ander wat die geleentheid het om na goeie
word. Richard Knight, ʼn lid van Housing in South Africa, onderriginstellings te gaan nie. Sommige mense sal
het gevind dat 7,5 miljoen mense in ons wêreld nog nie sommer hulle ettiketeer as iemand wat nie wil leer nie. Tog
in huise woon nie, grotendeels omdat hulle werkloos is. verstaan ons nie die situasie waar hulle vandaan kom nie en
Ek glo dat lees die oplossing van ons armoede in Suid- wat die geleentheid na basiese onderrig bied nie.
Afrika is aangesien die meeste professies vereis dat mens Omdat die meerderheid van die Suid-Afrikaners
moet kan lees! Dink net aan al die voordele daarvan as ons ongeletterd is, staar ons land werkloosheid, armoede en
hierdie agtien persent ongeletterdheid kan omswaai na ʼn misdaad in die gesig. Hoe kan Suid-Afrika verwag om
hoër persentasie mense wat wel kan lees! ekonomies te groei, wanneer ons nie eers kan verseker dat
Minder stres, minder armoede, gelukkiger mensdom: daar gelyke geleenthede vir almal is nie. Om te lees en te
klink dalk na frases wat ons nie meer in ons hedendaagse leer, verseker ons van nuwe tegnieke en vaardighede - en
woordeskat ken nie, maar as lees stres verminder, werk juis dit laat ʼn mens wonder of vandag se jeug wel dankbaar
beskikbaar maak en mens oor die algemeen laat ontspan, is vir die geleenthede wat vir hulle gebied word.
is hierdie vierletter woordjie nie dalk daarop geregtig om My boek val nou oop by die laaste hoofstuk oor
met meer respek behandel te word nie? gemeenskapdiens.
Dames en Here, ek is oortuig daarvan dat jy hierdie Gemeenskapsprojekte en fondse maak dit veral
weeskind sopas as jou eie aangeneem het. Laat hom nou moontlik vir die informele sektor om geleenthede te
toe om die sleutel te wees om jou deur na ʼn wêreld van kry om hul vaardighede te ontwikkel. Daar is volgens
verwondering en kennis oop te sluit ... die tydskrif, Solidariteit, ‘n Helpende Hand - fonds wat
Nadine Hetzler (Nasionale Redenaarswenner –EKSPO 2012) minderbevoorregtes finansieël help met o.a beurse vir
Graad 12 tersiêre studies. Selfs die grootste nasionale televisie
network, MNet, reik uit met ’n helpende hand deur projekte
Lees is die deur na vryheid soos die MNet Naledi Children’s Literacy project. Volgens
mnetcorporation.co.za is hierdie werkswinkels ontwikkel
Kan jy jouself verbeel jy is in ʼn verafgeleë land waar om laerskool leerders se luister- en taalvaardighede te
probleme iets van die verlede is en vir elke slegte situasie ontwikkel. Om kinders al van ‘n jong ouderdom aan te
daar ʼn goeie uitkoms is en waar ʼn mens se soete drome moedig om te lees, verseker ons van ‘n kreatiewe toekoms.
ʼn werklikheid is? Weet jy wat, lees is die deur na die klein Dames en Here, lees leer ons waardevolle lewenslesse,
teatertjie waar al hierdie verhale afspeel. dit maak ons geletterd en bied ‘n groot geleentheid vir
Dames en Here, alhoewel lees baie vervelig klink, het gemeenskapsdiens. Moenie toelaat dat jy ‘n gevangene in
dit vele voordele. Volgens inewsindia.com, is lees ʼn jou eie lewe word nie. Sorg eerder dat lees jou deur na
positiewe aktiewe oefening vir die mens se brein wat die vryheid is!
inligting beredeneer en verwerk. Dit verbeter ʼn mens se Kariana Riekert
woordeskat, gee kennis oor ander kulture en leer mens Graad 12
ook hoe om komplekse lewensproblems op te los. Hoe
meer ʼn mens lees, hoe beter word ʼn mens se dissipline, Hermanus
selfvertroue, kennis en ʼn mens oefen die geheue-spiere
wat ʼn siekte soos Alzheimer’s kan verhoed. Lees is die Elke dorp het twee kante.
beste manier om onderwerpe te kry waaroor ʼn mens met Hermanus het ‘n kant wat vir al die vakansiegangers sigbaar
ander kan gesels en deel oor wat jy geleer het. En hier’s die is. Die mooi kant waar die dorp perfek en skoon is en wat
geheim: wanneer jy verveeld is en vasgevang is in die sirkel sekermaak dat mense sê: „Hermanus is die mooiste dorp!
van luiheid en ʼn kreatiwiteitlose lewe – tel net ʼn boek op Ons kom weer!“ Dit is die pragtigste strande en die berge
en begin lees. wat om die dorp lê wat dit so mooi maak.
Ek maak my boek oop by die hoofstuk oor lewenslesse. Maar ... dit is net die een kant van die dorp.
Volgens Rufus Fears, ‘n professor aan die universiteit Hermanus hét ‘n ligte kant – dit is ‘n helder plek – dit is veilig
van Harvard in Engeland, het boeke tydlose lewenslesse en spesiaal, maar wat gebeur wanneer die maan snags sy
wat ons in ons lewe kan gebruik . Deur watter moeite en kop optel? Die skitterende saffierblou water word gitswart
gevaar het Romeo nie gegaan om die liefde van sy lewe wanneer die golwe bewerig op die wit strande breek.

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110 years

Rebecca Harle Gr. 11

Dit is die donker kant van Hermanus ... waar die Bergies Jy staan op om met haar te praat en dan sien jy hoe wit sy
in die kinders se speelgronde slaap en die pienk, blou en is, so wit soos ‘n laken. Sy steek haar arms na jou toe uit,
geel geverfde huisies, die swaarkry van gesinne wat sukkel asof sy wil hê dat jy haar moet help. Jy weet nie of jy nader
om aan die lewe te bly, wegsteek. Dit is daar waar die moet gaan of moet weghardloop nie, maar jy weet jy moet
begrafplaas aan die agterkant van die dorp weggesteek is, iets doen. Jy raak paniekerig en wanneer jy jou bene kan kry
waar die wind nie eers waai nie en dit tjoepstil is asof die om te begin hardloop, kruip die maan moedswillig agter ‘n
lug self te bang is om asem to haal. wolk weg. Dit word stikdonker en die kind verdwyn.
Dit is hier in die “Tuin van die dood en Vergete name”, Jy hardloop verskrik weg en hou aan met hardloop. Jou
waar die maan blekerig op die grafstene van mense, wat al voete het ‘n wil van hulle eie. Uiteindelik, wanneer jy jou
lank reeds weg is, skyn. Alhoewel die mure laag is en dit huis bereik, die deur uitasem toeslaan en neerval, weet
maklik is om oor die hek te klim, sal jy nooit ‘n Bergie daar jy met sekerheid – ‘n mens speel nie met Hermanus se
vind nie. Dit is die plek waar mense wat in die see verdrink donker kant nie ...
het, en mense wat so oud was dat hulle nie eers hulle eie Monica Blignaut
name kon onthout nie, rus. Graad 11
Die pad na die begrafplaas is lank en stil. ‘n Mens loop
by klimrame, skoolgronde en klein kerkies verby. Buite Digvlinder
kan ‘n mens niks hoor nie, maar wanneer jy jou ore teen
die hekkie sit en hard luister, kan jy dit hoor. In die begin skryf ‘n gedig
is dit ‘n sagte klank – amper soos ‘n lag, maar sonder die skryf ‘n gedig sonder diep simboliek
warmte van geluk. Dit is ‘n koue klank wat die hare op jou of ‘n rympatroon
arms laat regop staan. Wanneer die klank verdwyn, volg ‘n vergeet van leestekens
skielike gil en deins jy terug en struikel. en hoofletters
Die grond onder jou hande is koud en ‘n mens kan jou vergeet van hierdie web wat om die vlinder gespin word
hart in jou ore hoor klop. Die maan rys hoër en hoër in en die lewe uit hom wurg
die soel aandlug. Die dorp is grafstil en selfs die apies is los die diep-donker betekenis vir anderdag se dink
huiwerig om uit te kom. Die vyftien minute wat jy gestap skryf ‘n kaalvoet gedig
het, voel en lyk nou vir ‘n ewigheid. maar moenie vergeet om
Dan hoor jy weer iets. Jy staan steeds ver weg van die die kinderlag
hekkie in die pad en jy kan amper vir jouself sê dat jy die die lewensgenot
gedroom het, maar dan word die stilte verbreek deur die die onskuld
sagte huil van ‘n kindjie. Sy staan in die middel van die neer te pen nie
paadjie. Die trane rol teen haar klein gesiggie af. Sy kyk
bang rond.

145The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

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110 years

Mpufxelelo Makhubele Gr. 10 Vishanka Naidoo Gr. 11

skryf die gedig versigtig neer boom, so twingtig meter voor haar, was toe meteens
en bere hom op ‘n veilige plek groen met geel kolle. Sy kom toe nader, maar die kleure
haal die kosbare juweel uit verdwyn en ‘n ander boom op ‘n ander plek is pienk en
wanneer onweer tref pers. So het dit aangegaan totdat sy by haar pa se kasteel
se voordeur gestaan het.
en laat die digvlinder Uiteindelik was hierdie aaklige nagmerrie verby. Sy was tuis!
vlieg Sharon Ellman
Louise van Tonder Graad 10
Huistaal
Graad 11 Geld kan jou nie gelukkig maak nie –
of kan dit?
Towerkuns
Geld kan jou nie gelukkig maak nie – of kan dit?
Prinses Leia van de Republiek van Alagäesia het op ‘n dag Navorsing, gepubliseer deur die internasionale organisasie
in die Woud van Verlore Siele verdwaal. Sy het ‘n vreemde, vir ekonomiese samewerking en ontwikkeling in Mei 2012,
ou kasteel in die verte gesien en het besluit om nader wys dat ryker lande moontlik ook gelukkiger lande is.
daaraan te gaan. Die deure was uit pragtige hout gemaak. Maar soos Coco Chanel eens gesê het: “Daar is mense
Sy het besluit om in te gaan. Skielik het die deure met ‘n wat geld het en dan is daar mense wat ryk is.” Sy het
harde geluid agter haar topegesluit. Sy het begin rondkyk bedoel een is nie direk gekoppel aan die ander nie. Maar
om te sien wat daar in die kasteel was. is dit so? Kan geld jou werklik gelukkig maak?
Skielik, voor sy ‘n geluid kon uiter, het ‘n man so bleek soos Kom ons veronderstel ons staan in ‘n gang met drie deure,
die dood, met rooi hare en lippe voor haar verskyn. Hy drie opsies. Agter die eerste deur is geld wat geluk kan
het in ‘n vreemde taal begin praat. Sy kon nie haar voete koop, Agter deur nommer twee is geluk, maar geen geld.
beweeg nie. Die man was die towenaar, Durza, waaroor sy Deur nommer drie het gelyke hoeveelhede geluk en geld.
en haar pa baie gepraat het en hy het towerkuns gebruik Watter een sal jy kies?
om haar sy slaaf te maak. Die logiese persoon sal eers dink om deur nommer een
Sy het geweet dat sy ‘n plan moes ontwikkel om die donker te kies. Die Internasionale Organisasie vir Ekonomiese
kasteel te verlaat, maar sy moes eers Durza se geheime Samewerking en Ontwikkeling het bevind dat mense wat
leerken. Daardie aand het sy Durza se towerkuns gelees finansieël sterker is, ook gelukkiger is, in ‘n studie wat
terwyl hy aan die slaap was. Sy het die korrekte bladsy hierdie jaar plaasgevind het onder verbruikers wêreldwyd.
gevind en die stuk hardop gelees. Die kasteel se voordeur Volgens die studie is ook gevind dat mense wat hul eie
het skielik oopgegaan en sy het vinnig daarby uitgehardloop. besighede het, gelukkiger is as ander en het ‘n groter sin
Sy was nou vry van Durza en sy aaklige kasteel. van self-tevredenheid en persoonlike geluk. Dis logies om
Sy het vir ‘n paar uur in die Woud van Verlore Siele te dink dat werkloosheid jou dus ongelukkig maak, soos
rondgedwaal voordat sy besef het dat sy alweer verdwaal hierdie studie ook gevind het.
het. Sy was besig om onder ‘n kremetartboom te staan toe Geld speel tog ‘n rol in ‘n mens se geluk en kan ‘n
sy ’n vreemde, hoë stem hoor praat. Dit het vir haar gesê: slegte dag ‘n bietjie sonniger maak. Ons almal was al
“Volg die seine ...” in hierdie posisie. Verlede jaar het ek ‘n wiskunde toets
Toe sy omdraai, was die kremetartboom skielik rooi met gedruip waarvoor ek baie hard studeer het. Ek het baie
blou kolle. Sy het haar hand uitgestrek, maar die boom teneergedruk gevoel, maar stukke beter toe ek ‘n nuwe
se asemrowende kleure het weer verdwyn. En ‘n ander paar stewels daardie selfde dag by Rage gekoop het. So

146 PHSG 1902–2012 • The Iris

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110 years

Cayla Hayward Gr. 11 Amba Bernardi Gr. 10

miskien is ‘n bietjie „retail therapy“ nie so sleg nie. En eerder Kyalami toe gevat vir die dag en ons het wonderlike
miskien is dit bietjie vroom om te dink dat geld jou nou herinneringe opgebou. So het ek geld gebruik om iets te
bietjie gelukkiger kan maak nie. Dis tog baie lekkerder kry wat ewigheidswaarde het. Die miskien die beste van
om in ‘n Ferrari te huil as in ‘n ou, gekrokte Ford Cortina. beide wêrelde.
Dit bring ons nou by deur nommer twee. Soos ons almal So watter deur kies jy? Een, twee of drie? Wil jy net
weet, kan geld nie AL die geluk in die wêreld koop nie, geld hê en hoop dit maak jou gelukkig? Mooi karre,
al kan die jou bietjie beter oor jou situasie laat voel. My spoggerige klere en duur horlosies. Wil jy dit alles los en
gunsteling niggie het een keer vir my ‘n pragtige halsnoer eerder sonder geld klaarkom en daardeur ware vreugde
gegee voor sy oorsee gaan studeer het. Ek het dit verloor soek? Of sal jy die beste van beide wêrelde kies, die geld
toe ons na ‘n nuwe huis toe getrek het en tot vandag toe EN die geluk in een pakket. Dis jou keuse. Ek wag vir
is die sentimentele waarde van daardie halsnoer baie meer jou agter deur nommer drie.
werd as enige ander een wat ek in die wêreld kon koop. Anastasya Papavarnavas (Nasionale Redenaarswenner
Dit was die sentiment agter die geskenk wat dit kosbaar EKSPO 2012)
gemaak het. Graad 9
Sonder liefde en vriendskap sal enige voorwerp nutteloos
wees. Volgens Sonja Lyubomirsky se artikel in die My Pa
Amerikaanse nuusblad, The Scientific American, kan
liefde nie aan ‘n prys gekoppel word nie. Haar artikel praat Informele Toespraak:
van ‘n studie gedoen deur die Universiteit van Minnesota Goeie naand my familie en vriende. Vandag, vyftig jaar
waar sielkundiges bevind het dat Amerikaners wat $300 gelede, is ‘n man van wysheid, ‘n man van guns en ‘n
000 per jaar verdien, slegs 4% van hierdie geld aan ander man van krag gebore. Ek het geen idée wie die man is nie,
mense bestee. Die studie het die gevolgtrekking gemaak maar my pa is toevallig op dieselfde dag gebore.
dat mense selfsugtiger word hoe meer geld hulle het. ‘n Pa is ‘n baie belangrike persoon in ‘n mens se lewe.
‘n Soortgelyke studie gepubliseer deur Jordi Quoidbach Hy is ‘n seun se eerste held en ‘n dogtertjie se eerste
in die Psychological Science Journal, het gevind dat liefde. Pa, dit is moeilik om te glo dat jy vandag vyftig
respondente met meer geld, meer daarmee sukkel om jaar oud is. Vir my sal jy altyd jonk wees. Die energie wat
hulle geld te geniet. jy het en die entoesiasme wat jy van dag tot dag bewys,
Dit bring ons by deur nommer drie Die vraag: “Kan jy die is iets wat ek bewonder. Ek moet erken dat daar tye is
beste van beide wêrelde hê? Kan jy geld en geluk hê en wanneer ek werklik jammer vir jou voel. Dit is nie altyd
miskien gelukkig genog wees om dit te geniet?” maklik om drie dogters, met hulle verskillende buie, te
In die boek Money can buy happiness deur MP Dunleavey, hanteer nie.
‘n voormalige joernalis van die New York Times, sê dit Jy het ‘n spesiale manier wat dit so maklik laat lyk. Jou
dat geld jou gelukkig maak as jy dit spandeer aan dinge geduld, positiwiteit en wysheid is eienskappe wat ek
wat ewigheidswaarde. Agter deur nommer drie is ‘n waardeer. Die laat nagte wat jy my met my huiswerk
wenkompromie – geld wat geluk bring wat nie geloop kan gehelp het, is iets wat ek nooit sal vergeet nie.
word nie. Jy kan jou geld aan jou gesondheid spandeer of Sonder jou sou ek nie die persoon wees wat ek vandag is
om ander te help om gesond te word. Jy kan jou geld vir nie. Dus wil ek nou my pa, my rolmodel, my held en my
iemand in nood gee en daardeur ‘n lewenslange vriend of vriend ‘n baie spesiale gelukkige verjaarsdag toewens. Ek
vriendin maak. is lief vir Pa.
Toe my broer verlede maand verjaar het, was die logiese Sejal Jivan
ding om vir hom ‘n duur persent te koop. Ek het hom Graad 10

147The Iris • PHSG 1902–2012

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110 years

Ke Nako Na, se ke seo lefase le tlilego go ba sona?
Le a kgotlelela ebile le a hlokomela,
Gopola morago mola maswika a sa le boleta. Gopola Sa rena ke go senya,
o gopole gabotse. Gopola lefase lela mengwaga ye Tshwarelo e le : “Re swerwe ke tša bophelo”
masomeseswai ya go feta. O le lesea la ditete ka mapayeng. Dienywa
Ba go kakatletše o ka re o galase ya mabonwa, ge a ka Bophelo
thubega lefase le tla tekateka. Yeo nako e jelwe ke magotlo. Tshepo
Tšwela pele go gopola. Gopola letšatši la gago la mathomo
sekolong sa tlase. O itlhamile ka sekhethana le mokotlana Kgafetšakgafetša re kgetha go lahla dimpho tša Gagwe,
wa go lekanela. Yeo nako e fetile le yona. Letšatši la Eupsa ga a fele pelo.
mathomo sekolong se phagameng la goroga. O sa re o Go reng re lesa lefase la rena le senyega?
tlwaetše bjale tša go tlaba. Wa katakata le tšona go fihla Le a lla. Ga go motho yo a bonago?
lehono. Le a re kopantšha:
Malapa – lesego – dikeledi
Bjale sebaka se fihlile. Ke nako bjale. Lehlabile letšatši, Eupsa nako yela e fetile.
motsotso o fihlile. Le le hlabetše lena bana ba Marematlou. Ga go se re ka se fetolago.
Binang moropa wa lena o a lla. Binang ke nako ya go Lefase le a fela...
itšhikinya. Se dumelele sebaka se se go phonyokga, Le rena re a fela.
ditlamorago tša gona ditanta la go rothiša ditete. Mapula Maponya
Bogologolo bo boletše ba re, la go hlabela o le orele. Le Grade 12
orele le sa go hlabetše ka gore ka moso le hlabela bangwe.
Emelela wena morutwana. Thintha lerole nako e fihlile. Gare ga mpa ya bošego
Katakata o ragela pele. Wena moithuti wa Marematlou.
Phafoga maseng a marega. Tsoga dipuleng tša selemo. Gare ga mpa ya bošego
Bala maswiswing a bošego. Kodumela moepathutse ga go O be a mo goga
lehuma leo le tšwago kgauswi. Morago ke mo re tšwago O be a ragaraga, a elwa, a hlaka
pele ke mo re yago. A mo gogoiša, a tiišitše le mešifa
Wo motsotso o a feta. Kokotletša o kgone go ipetha kgara Lentšu la gagwe le le makgwakgwa
ka boikgantšho bja go swana le phikoko. Kgotlelela, mabati Le bitša mantšu a go hloka serithi
a makgonthe a kgodiakgokgo a bulege. Ke nako ya go Ka kgopolo ya gore:
bontšha lefase ka bophara gore thuto ke sehlare se a alafa. Ngwana yo a sa lleng, o hwela tharing,
Morutwana apara thuto nako e fihlile. Mekgolokwane go A goeletša, le dithaba di araba sello sa gagwe se se hlabago
lla ya šatee sebaka sa lena se gorogile. Gare ga mpa ya bošego
Thato Ramahuta Bjalo ka lefšega
Grade12 Ke hloletše ka letsikangope
Ke dutše fela
Nnete Ya Bophelo Ke lebeletše
Gare ga mpa ya bošego
Re phela lefaseng la go fokola,
Phošo ke ya rena.
Re tšea mathata a Gagwe ga bonolo,
Re swana le mamogašwa ,o gakilwe ke tsela.

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