On 15 March 2018, 260 ODs and their partners gathered at Kelvin Grove for the 2018 Annual OD Dinner.

Cocktails on the lawn were accompanied by the dulcet tones of an enchanting marimba band. The presence of ODs who had travelled from all corners of the globe to came together to catch up on bygone times, was particularly pleasing.

A great, big brass bell summoned the guests to dine at beautifully-set tables, graced with the inaugural issue of The Old Diocesan, the official OD magazine and indigenous flora kindly donated by Gus Allen (1982F). The Master of Ceremonies, OD Secretary, WP van Zyl (1997K), called the guests to order. The ensuing silence was interrupted by the renowned Bishops a capella group, Simply Blue, who took to the stage. Their voices filled the room as they performed songs such as Budapest by George Ezra.

With the singers dispatched with thanks, Brian de Kock (1952/3O) said Grace, reminding us to keep those less fortunate, who were without food or shelter, in mind.

After being energised by starters, WP welcomed the guest speakers to the stage. Prof Haroon Bhorat (1986G) and Magda Wierzycka presented a fascinating insight into state capture and what it means for South Africa. Their presentation, a dialogue, was ably facilitated by Timothy Richman (1995B), who could not get a word in edgeways, such was the enthusiasm of Prof Bhorat and Ms Wierzycka regarding the subject matter of their talk. Our guest speakers received a standing ovation.

Chairman of the OD Union, Adam Pike (1992O) gave the reply, and thanking the guest speakers for their riveting insights, and introduced Samantha Petersen (Chairlady of the Bishops Trust), who took the opportunity to invite the guests to remain mindful of the Trust's 175 initiative.

The OD Union President, Raymond Ackerman (1948S), said the Loyal Toast thereafter where glasses were raised to Bishops and South Africa. Bonfire Hill Extreme Vineyards, Villiera, Alheit Vineyards and De Grendel kept the evenings' goings on lubricated.

The mood of the evening is reflected in Nic Santrucet photos of the evening (see below).