There had been a suggestion that maybe the neighbourhood dinner dance should be given a miss this year. The recession was biting, neighbourhood watch had experienced a few ups and downs in its management structure and perhaps members were tiring of the event itself.
Despite these negatives, there were plenty of positives too and why listen to a few naysayers? A team of enthusiastic planners was put together and it was full steam ahead.
The decision was a good one. Sure, the numbers were down on 2009 but over 160 guests enjoyed the delights of Suikerbossie and the warm welcome received from our hosts David and Micki Smith. The fact that the dance floor was never empty once the DJ turned up the volume was a good indication that the revellers did not miss the customary auction and raffles.
In her brief welcoming speech, co-chair Julie Banham said “ In previous years the emphasis had been on raising funds by means of auctions and raffles, but times were tight…and we thought that instead of raising funds, we’d raise awareness that neighbourhood watch was alive and well in Hout Bay.”
It was good to be amongst friends and neighbours who share our interest in the future of the Watch. It was also a great opportunity to say thank you to loyal members, many of whom are considered stalwarts of the Watch.
Generous prizes donated.
We were bowled over by the generosity of those who donated prizes for our lucky ticket draw. They were: Hout Bay Manor Hotel, Tintswalo Atlantic, Bellavista Country Place in Stanford, Hout Bay View Guest House, Riverside Estates, EarthWorx Garden World, Cape Coin Exchange and The Manor Cottage & Tranquillity Base.
Hout Bay Insurance Brokers sponsored the welcome drinks and Woolworths provided flowers for the tables.
Special thanks to Kronenzicht member Keith Bull – who was also master of ceremonies for the evening - and his enthusiastic team for organising the event, namely Meryl Butt, Lindy Nauta, Gill Becks, Janet McKenna and Julie Banham.
“The Bruce Taylor Award"
Bruce was a member of neighbourhood watch and was tragically killed in a motorbike accident in 2007. He had been an in-house DJ at Suikerbossie for a number of years, and Micki and David had an award trophy designed and made, which they donated in his memory.
Each year, nominations are invited for those who have made a significant contribution to HBNW. The person with the most nominations this year and therefore the fourth recipient of this award, was Rob Paterson.
Site Last Updated: 22 May 2013
Membership is for Hout Bay residents only
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