Religious Studies
It was soon after my testicles descended that I began to doubt the existence of God, and well before my voice broke, I became a convicted atheist.
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A Dilettante’s Interest in Heraldry
When, in my late teens, I encountered the word 'dilettante' I assumed it to be mildly derogatory.
Memory Project: Caught in the Act
There were two travelling circuses that visited Gwelo. One was Boswell's and the other Wilkie's.
No Power, No Water
The township of Pearly Beach was established some 50 years ago.
Memory Project: Boys’ Brigade
My parents had survived the Second World War, in which unspeakable atrocities had been committed on a grand scale, and they were convinced that Good had triumphed over Evil.
Island Bread and Vetkoek
As Medic, I was responsible for the health of the entire population of the island. I did not let this weigh on me too heavily.
Memory Project: Pise de terre
My father must have taken this photo some time in 1958.
The Dockyard
I was employed as a civilian in the Simon's Town naval dockyard on two occasions.
Memory Project: The Crib That Became A Laundr...
This wickerwork crib was probably bought from the Civilian Blind in Salt River. It was used to transport my baby sister on the train trip from Cape Town to Bulawayo, and later served for many years as the family laundry basket.
On the Beach: Avian Flu
Suspected avian flu outbreak kills hundreds of birds.
Memory Project: Cecil John Rhodes
Rhodes was born in 1853 and died at the age of 48 in 1902. His short life was packed with achievement, much of them being of a dubious ethical nature.
Airborne Arrival and Departure
Forty years ago, Gough 26 was the last team to arrive on the island by crane and the first to leave in a chopper.