As this year draws to a close, it is important to reflect on the past year.

We, as a union, can celebrate many fine achievements by ODs across all spheres. Without detracting from the various fantastic accomplishments, I wish to highlight those ODs who have excelled on the national sporting stage. ODs represented South Africa in the Olympics (in hockey and rugby sevens), for the Springboks on the rugby field, and four ODs will soon represent South Africa in the water polo pool.

There have been numerous OD functions, gatherings, and events held at Bishops, the Mitre, and further afield.

The Founders’ Day sporting events were well supported by both the school and ODs alike.

• Kelvin Grove was overflowing with ODs at the annual dinner. Next year’s dinner promises to be another wonderful occasion, again at Kelvin Grove, with Oscar Chalupsky confirmed as the guest speaker.
• Gauteng hosted its first dinner in many years, with Rohan Vos as the guest speaker, and it was well attended.
• The UK, under the careful stewardship of Charles McGregor (1979,O) and his committee, hosted numerous functions and events, culminating in their own OD dinner, which demonstrates that there is indeed life after Nicky Bicket (whose tireless contributions remain a testament to his passion for ODs).
• Several other functions and events have been held in Australia, the US, and the Middle East.
• Over the past year, there have been book launches, cultural events, and the customary reunions at Bishops.

The IOFF art and wine event, supported by fantastic OD artists and winemakers, raised critical funds to assist young ODs.

I am pleased to confirm that the ODU and the IOFF have focused on a long-term strategy to align more closely, which will ultimately benefit ODs, particularly the younger generation. It remains important for us, as ODs, to continue to engage with one another as much as possible.

This year has also marked the long-awaited 175th anniversary celebrations. Many school events enjoyed significant OD involvement. The OD contribution (led by the UK branch) towards the stained glass window project was exceptional.

My heartfelt thanks to all ODs who have engaged with the Union, shared their news, and attended reunions and events. Your continued involvement with the school and the Union is encouraged and remains crucial for the ODU’s ongoing relevance.

It is important for us as ODs to uphold our values and to engage with respect and decorum when interacting with each other, the school, and the broader community. My thanks also go to our staff, including the OD Ambassador, who has worked tirelessly to organise events and foster engagement, and to Lynn and Dedry for their often thankless attention to detail, ensuring the smooth running of the ODU’s various operations.

In the new year, there needs to be a renewed focus on the outputs that ODs require and the Union’s priorities. It is a time for reflection, introspection, and reinvigoration, enabling us to chart a clear path forward. Key areas of focus will include connection, mentorship, engagement, and networking. Critically, we must also address the financial viability of the ODU, as there is an urgent need for additional funding. This will be a priority for the next committee.

I urge ODs to consider how each of them can contribute to the ODU, however small that contribution may be - whether by volunteering time, attending events, or supporting in other ways. I encourage members to make themselves available to serve on the committee next year, to attend the AGM in early March, and to participate in Founders’ Day events and the Annual Dinner.

Finally, may I wish you a peaceful and restful festive season. For those who celebrate Christmas, I extend my best wishes for a joyous Christmas.